Nazaré Beach

Nazaré is one of the Silver Coast's most popular seaside resorts (Costa de Prata). The fishing port of Nazaré, which has long been known for its traditional charm, is endowed with a wonderful beach that attracts sun worshippers to this lively town in central Portugal. With its warm climate and natural beauty, Nazaré Beach is home to one of Portugal's oldest fishing traditions. The town's sea front, which is also a long sandy half-moon shaped beach, is recognized for its grandeur and the vividly colored awnings that decorate the white sandy beaches, which contrast with the blue of the water.

This is the beach in Portugal where the more colorful fishing traditions are still alive and well, and it's not uncommon to see fishmongers dressed in the customary seven skirts. During the summer months, sit on the seawall at the end of the afternoon on Saturdays to see the spectacular "Arte Xávega" (Drag Nets) show, in which women yell out their items for sale as nets packed with fish arrive from the sea. Don't worry if you don't understand the language; they often utilize codes that only they comprehend.

Garrett McNamara, an American big-wave surfer who rode a monstrous 30-meter (100-foot) wave here and surfed straight into the record books, is one of the most well-known visitors. That was off the coast of Praia do Norte, over the Nazaré Canyon. The Nazaré Beach, a magnificent stretch of sand that hugs the town's wide, mosaic-patterned promenade, is preferred by most surfers and tourists. Sunbathers coexist with fishermen on Praia da Nazaré, who can be seen mending nets or drying mackerel and sardines on wire racks. The charm of the past is palpable. Meanwhile, there are numerous authentic seafood restaurants along the esplanade, as well as shopping and tourist opportunities.

Location: Nazaré, Portugal