The Surf Window

Ponta Pequena

Southwest Coast, Madeira

Reef breakAdvanced

A quality right-hand reef break on Madeira's southwest tip, Ponta Pequena has a powerful, walling right that fires when the same Atlantic swells lighting up the famous left-handers wrap around the headland.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)

Wind

NE

Offshore

Tide

mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

January

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Right

Bottom

Rock reef

Shape

Solid, walling right, less hollow than the nearby lefts but powerful and consistent on quality NW swells

Length

80–200m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Advanced
  • •Why: Rocky reef, powerful Atlantic swell, and Madeira's exposed southwest coastline demand experience.

Hazards

  • •Rock reef throughout
  • •Strong current near the headland
  • •Limited access and facilities

Local Tips

  • •Ponta Pequena is a good call when the famous nearby lefts are too big, the right wraps around the headland and is often more manageable.
  • •Madeira's southwest coast road has extraordinary views, drive it all the way from Calheta to Ponta do Pargo for the full perspective.

Location

Map showing the location of Ponta Pequena in Southwest Coast, Madeira

32.7603, -17.2244