Âncora

Âncora is a beach break located on Portugal's northwestern coast near the mouth of the Âncora River estuary. The spot faces northwest into the Atlantic, with sandy beach backed by residential development and forested headlands. The presence of visible sandbars, river mouth dynamics, and estuary features create variable conditions typical of this coast type. Wind reliability at 6.2% and average wind of 6.4 knots indicate this is a marginal spot that requires specific weather patterns. Average waves of 1.69m suggest modest swell; Atlantic exposure means larger swells arrive during storms. Rocky structures and a breakwater on the northern side pose hazards during sessions. The estuary creates tidal currents that affect water movement. Best conditions require northeast to east winds (side-shore) combined with Atlantic swell events. The spot suits intermediate kiters comfortable with variable conditions, estuary dynamics, and rough water. Low wind reliability makes this a backup location rather than primary destination. Summer offers calmer conditions; winter brings larger swells but stronger storms.