The coast north of town at Buarcos delivers consistent Atlantic surf, making it one of the more reliable breaks in central Portugal. The beach here is narrower and wilder than the main town beach, with the swell arriving more directly from the Atlantic and less sheltered by the river mouth geography to the south.
Several surf schools and board hire operations run from Buarcos, making it accessible for beginners and intermediates. More experienced surfers appreciate the consistency of the point break. The village itself — a small traditional fishing settlement — has retained more character than the main resort, with a handful of casual cafes and a fishing harbour.