The Surf Window

Porto Pim

Faial, Azores

Beach breakIntermediate

On Faial island in the Azores, Porto Pim is a sheltered bay beside the famous Horta marina where the whale-watching capital of the world occasionally produces surfable swells in a setting of extraordinary maritime history and natural beauty.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalN (0°)
WindowW–E (270°–90°)
Size–W 1–2m at 12–16s

Wind

N

Light to NE under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Oct–Mar

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Small peaks in the protected bay

Length

30–60m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginner to intermediate
  • •Why: Sheltered bay reduces swell power, accessible for most surfers

Hazards

  • •Rocks at the bay edges
  • •Boat traffic from Horta marina
  • •Faial is a mid-Atlantic island, weather is extremely variable

Local Tips

  • •Horta Marina is one of the world's most famous yacht stops, the walls are covered in murals by passing sailors
  • •Peter Café Sport in Horta has been serving sailors and travelers since 1918, a legendary port bar
  • •Faial's caldera and the Capelinhos volcanic landscape (still active since 1957) are extraordinary

Location

Map showing the location of Porto Pim in Faial, Azores

38.5224, -28.6317