Visit Nazaré Lighthouse to enjoy breathtaking sunsets and sweeping vistas along a dramatic shoreline. The lighthouse is perched on a craggy promontory above the thundering Atlantic waves of Portugal’s eastern coastline.Gaze in awe as surfers ride some of the largest waves on the planet. Learn about the area’s geology via museum exhibitions.
The lighthouse stands on the rooftop of Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo. King Sebastian I established the fortress in 1577 to protect the village of Nazaré. The lighthouse arrived in 1903 following a request by fishermen to guide them along a treacherous stretch of coastline. It’s a simple 26-feet (8-meter) tall red lantern crowned by a weathervane.
Views from the lighthouse reach over the sweeping golden sands of Nazaré Beach and Norte Beach. Norte Beach is famous for waves that reach imposing heights of up to 100 feet (30 meters). Spot brave surfers as they are towed in by Jet Ski and attempt to ride the face of the wave. Steps lead down the cliff face to viewing platforms close to the water’s edge, where you can experience the force of the waves.
Inside the rooms of the fort is the Nazaré Canyon Interpretive Center. Oceanographic and meteorological exhibits explain how activity in the Nazaré Canyon creates the giant waves. Find a display about the deliberate sinking of the German World War II submarine U-963. See a hall of fame of surfers that have successfully surfed at Norte Beach.
The lighthouse is about 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) from central Nazaré and the easiest way to get here is by car and taxi. Free parking is available at the entrance to the fortress. Stop at the nearby Miradouro do Subcero lookout for more magnificent views.
Nazare Lighthouse and the museum are open daily and there’s an entrance fee. Visit from October through March for the best chance to observe the big waves.
