Viana do Castelo
Viana do Castelo, Portugal
Viana Do Castelo is a long peninsula beach at the mouth of the Lima river in northern Portugal. The reliable N wind and Atlantic swell produce excellent wave wingfoil conditions, and the river mouth creates interesting tidal effects. The beach faces directly north into the prevailing wind, making it very consistent.
Best months: May, June, July, August, September
Wind directions: N, NE, SE, S, NW
Water: Waves, Chop
Bottom: Sand
Sports: Wingfoil
Local tips
The sandbar at the river mouth can break heavily — respect the surf zone. The ferry from Viana do Castelo to Cabedelo is a scenic way to arrive (5-minute crossing). Several wingfoil and kite schools operate here in summer.