Supertubos fires up for the MEO Pro Portugal 2024
The MEO Pro Portugal is the 3rd stop on the new 2024 Championship Tour Season and the only stop in Europe.
The government in Portugal has played a huge role in elevating surfing as a serious contributor to the country’s tourism industry. For awhile they were offering a deal where they guaranteed that you’d score or your next trip was free. Unfortunately, that deal’s no longer floating around out there, but there are still plenty of reasons to go tromping around Peniche.
Jordy Smith waiting to paddle out
Conditions at the MEO Pro Portugal
First, there seems to be limitless swell thanks to the Atlantic wave machine. With a plethora of nooks and crannies to explore, if one spot is flat chances are good you’ll find somewhere to surf if you just keep driving.
The wave at Supertubos is an ever-changing sandbar that can serve up some seriously heavy barrels (as its name indicates). For those that reckon themselves big-wave hellmen, Nazare is as big and scary as waves get.
With all the surf, be sure to slow yourself down and enjoy the Old World culture. Coastal Portugal rules. Sardines and fresh seafood are everywhere, and so is the locally crafted wine. When the MEO Pro Portugal comes to town the weather can be a bit dodgy at times, but that’s all part of the adventure.
Kanoa Igarashi taking to the air at Supertubos
How to get to Peniche
By air – Fly to Lisbon Portela Airport which is approximately one hour and 15 minutes drive north to Peniche (97 km’s). Alternatively you can fly to Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport in Porto with is 2 and a half hours north of Peniche.
By coach: Rede-Expressos offers 11 coaches a day leaving from Lisbon’s Sete Rios bus terminal. It’s 8.50 euros one way and takes 90 minutes.
Around the corner at Praia do Baleal
Where to stay in Peniche
There are loads of surf camps, lodges, guest houses, apartments and hostels in Peniche to choose from. Head to the map below to find the best deals in town.
MEO Pro Portugal 2024 Dates
The MEO Pro takes place on March 6-16, 2024.
Do you want to know more about the World Surf League?
Joe Turpel is a Sportscaster from Hawaii and commentator for the World Surf League (WSL). Rad Season Founder Oli Russell-Cowan chats to him about his favorite spots on tour, the World Surf League and the WCT format.
