Ribeira de Ilhas

Surf Guide

To view the Ribeira de Ilhas live HD surf cam, CLICK HERE. Often compared to Bells Beach, Riberia de Ilhas is one of Ericiera's most consistent and varied high-performance waves. Situated inside a large bay between the Reef and Coxos, Riberia is made up of a series of flat rock shelves that jut out into the middle of the bay and pick up most any swell the Atlantic has to offer. The fact that it's slightly protected by the cliffs on either side means it stays relatively glassy when other spots are blown out, though it receives slightly less swell than places like Coxos. Riberia has been home to more contests than any other beach in Portugal, and for good reason. When it's small, swells come in and peak up in different parts of the reef, allowing for a broad takeoff zone. As it gets bigger, the rights reel down in a manner that's been called a cross between Bells and third point Malibu. Once it's 6 foot, you could theoretically hit the lip more than a dozen times all the way to shore. It just keeps magically setting up in front of you and is especially fun going backside. Add the fairly dramatic, amphitheater-like surrounding beach, and you've got a contest promoter's wet dream.