Coxos
Coxos is arguably Portugal's best wave—a heavy, hollow right-hand reef/point break in Ericeira's World Surfing Reserve. The wave produces thick, grinding barrels over a rocky bottom, demanding commitment and skill. Entry and exit are challenging over slippery rocks, and the locals can be protective when conditions are prime. But when it's on, Coxos delivers some of Europe's most intense barrels. Portugal's hardcore crown jewel.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- WNW (290°)
- Direction range
- 270° - 320°
- Size range
- 1.5m - 4.5m
- Ideal size
- 3.6m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 45° - 135°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.5m
- Danger below
- 0.3m
Water temp
15°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
8/10
Crowd level
8/10
👥 Summer Holidays (Jun 20 – Sep 13) — expect extra crowds
Access: Park at the top of the cliff and walk down.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Coxos?
Coxos works best on a low to mid tide, ideally between 0.5m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window. Below 0.3m it gets dangerously shallow.
What wind direction is offshore at Coxos?
Offshore wind at Coxos blows from the E (90°). Anything in the 45° to 135° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Coxos?
Coxos wants WNW swell (270° to 320°) between 1.5m and 4.5m, with a period of 16s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf Coxos?
The main season at Coxos is Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Sep, Apr. Winter months receive the most consistent NW swells.
How do I get to Coxos?
Fly into LIS, then allow about 45 minutes by road. Park at the top of the cliff and walk down.
What kind of wave is Coxos?
Coxos is a reef break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 8/10.
Best Season
Peak: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Sep, Apr
Winter months receive the most consistent NW swells.
Getting There
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