Beach break · Açores · Santa Maria · Beginner → Advanced
Forecast for Monday 31 August
Intermediate : The wind wrecked it. Not today.
Today's score by level (at the day's best, out of 100)
One of the best spots in the Azores for south swells — fairly rare in the archipelago. A sandy beach that comes alive on S/SW swells with consistent, rideable waves for all levels.
Autumn is the queen season. Winter brings the big sessions, spring stays very quality.
Good level required. You can stand, paddle and read a peak. When it fires, better know what you're doing.
Easy beach access, parking usually nearby. Ask locally about seasonal currents.
Wear an appropriate wetsuit. Scout the currents before you paddle out. Respect the locals and right-of-way. Check weather and tides.
Praia Formosa is rather recommended for intermediate surfers. If you're a beginner, prefer a surf school, a small swell and a suitable tide, or look for a more sheltered nearby spot.
The ideal wind at Praia Formosa comes broadly from East: it's offshore, which helps shape and hold the waves. A strong onshore wind generally degrades conditions.
Around Praia Formosa, you can also check conditions at Santa Bárbara, Praia da Vitória, Paúl do Mar. Compare the scores, wind and swell direction before choosing where to surf.