Espinho

Espinho is a beach break located on Portugal's northern Atlantic coast, facing northwest toward open ocean. The spot features a sandy bottom with visible sandbars and rip current channels. The urban beach setting with dense residential development directly behind the shoreline presents both logistical convenience and environmental considerations. Conditions are modest with average waves of 1.69m and relatively low wind reliability at 4.5%, indicating this is a fair-weather spot. Northeast winds (45°) provide the ideal side-shore angle for kitesurfing. Water temperatures average 16.2°C, requiring a wetsuit year-round. The spot suits beginners due to gentle wave heights and sandy bottom, though consistency is limited. Primary concerns include crowded beach conditions during daylight hours, variable wind patterns typical of Atlantic Portugal, and the proximity of urban runoff. Best sessions occur during autumn and winter swells with favorable wind windows. The shallow sandbars create relatively forgiving conditions for progression but can shift seasonally.