Praia do Amado is a very beautiful beach in the west coast of the Algarve, that can offer consistent surf all year around. The spot is also known as Carrapateira, is somehow famous in Portugal, and surf is so consistent that sometimes this spot has held portuguese national surf competitions. Amado beach has multiple peaks and big crowds are rare, since there’s space for everyone and waves for all levels.
Description of Amado beach
Since the beach is surrounded by cliffs, it is somehow protected from the big north swells that can hit the portuguese coast in winter. Also, on its north side and about 3 km in straight line there is a short cape (the cape of Carrapateira) that gives some protection to the bay from those swells. In summer it is a hot spot for tourists that want to enjoy a beach day and because Amado is a such a big beach, can hold thousands of people.
Talking about surf, the best and most consistent waves come during winter months (October till March). However, Amado can hold surf during the whole year if there’s enough swell, and peaks change depending on how the sandbanks move around every season. Amado works best around mid tide.
Even though Amado is a beach break, there a few rocks that appear when the tide goes down, so be careful with that. If you are not sure where to surf, just ask a local.
Video: Surfing at Amado
Check this video from Portugal Surf TV featuring some surfers at Amado beach:
Surroundings
The area around Amado beach is not urbanized, making it a very beautiful beach surrounded by nice hills and a totally natural environment. In the beach there are two beach bars that offer drinks and food. The access to the beach is made through different places and there are a couple sightseeing areas to contemplate the bay a bit from above.
Access to the spot
The nearest town is Carrapateira, and you can arrive to the spot from the main road, driving about 5 minutes. There are two big parkings.
