A candy-colored wonderland of striped beach houses lines the sandy shores of Costa Nova, where traditional fishing culture meets world-class surf breaks and laid-back beach life. Just south of Aveiro on Portugal’s Silver Coast, this picturesque village transforms its working harbor into an irresistible seaside escape. The iconic palheiros – wooden houses painted in bold vertical stripes – create what might be Portugal’s most photographable coastal scene.

The waves

Costa Nova’s wild Atlantic coastline serves up waves for every skill level, with the main beach break offering consistent year-round conditions perfect for beginners and intermediates. 

The peak season runs from September to April, when clean, powerful swells roll in from the northwest to create the perfect A-frame peaks and occasional barrels. Meanwhile, Barra beach, just a short walk north, delivers more challenging waves over a sandbar that shifts with the seasons, attracting experienced surfers with its powerful lefts and rights.

The area’s surf infrastructure has grown steadily over the past decade, with several well-established surf schools now calling Costa Nova home. Praia Surf School and Nova Onda offer lessons in multiple languages, while surf shops like Atlantic Board House provide rentals ranging from beginner-friendly foam boards to high-performance shortboards. 

The water temperature varies dramatically through the year, but local schools provide all necessary gear, including winter wetsuits during the colder months.

Beyond the surf

There’s plenty to do in Costa Nova when you’re not serving, from local, instagram-worthy sites to alternative water activities. 

A village frozen in time

Costa Nova’s instantly recognizable palheiros date back to the 19th century, when local fishermen built these wooden houses on stilts to store equipment above the shifting sands. Originally painted with leftover boat paint, these striped beauties now wear their blue, red, and green bands like badges of honor. While many have been converted into holiday homes, they remain a testament to the village’s deep-rooted fishing heritage.

Market life and maritime flavors

The heart of Costa Nova beats strongest at its bustling fish market, where the daily catch arrives before dawn. Here, weathered hands sort through fresh seafood as they have for generations, while locals and chefs haggle over the day’s best offerings. The market building itself, with its distinctive architecture and timeless atmosphere, provides a glimpse into Portugal’s enduring maritime culture.

Beyond the break

When the waves aren’t calling, Costa Nova offers plenty of alternative water activities. Stand-up paddleboarding in the calmer lagoon waters provides a different perspective on the village, while kitesurfing has gained popularity thanks to the reliable afternoon winds. The long stretch of golden sand becomes a playground for beach sports, and the wooden boardwalk that runs the length of the village provides the perfect sunset stroll.

Where to stay and eat

Accommodation options in Costa Nova range from cozy surf hostels to renovated palheiros that offer a uniquely local experience. Surf House Costa Nova combines dormitory-style rooms with private suites, all featuring stunning ocean views and easy access to the breaks. 

For a more traditional stay, Casa da Praia offers beautifully restored striped houses with modern amenities, while maintaining their historic charm. Most accommodations include board storage and some offer bike rentals for exploring the area.

The local dining scene revolves around supremely fresh seafood, with restaurants like Mareado and Costa Nova Baixa serving up the catch of the day in traditional Portuguese style. 

For casual dining, Beach Bar Nova provides post-surf sustenance with excellent burgers and açaí bowls, while Café Surf Point has become the go-to spot for morning coffee and breakfast. 

As the sun sets, surfers gather at Costa Bar for cold beers and live music, making it the perfect spot to share wave stories and plan the next day’s sessions.

Getting there and around

Costa Nova sits just 85 kilometers south of Porto, making it easily accessible for international visitors. The nearest airport is Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, from where you can catch a direct bus to Aveiro and then a local connection to Costa Nova. 

Alternatively, rental cars are readily available at the airport, offering the freedom to explore the surrounding coastline and nearby surf spots. The drive takes approximately one hour along well-maintained highways.

Once in Costa Nova, most surf spots are within walking distance, and many visitors rent bikes to explore the area. The local bus service connects Costa Nova to Aveiro and other nearby beaches, running regularly throughout the day. 

During peak season (July-August), parking can be challenging near the main beach, so many surfers prefer to stay within walking distance of their favorite breaks or use the extensive network of wooden boardwalks that connect different parts of the village.

Practical tips worth knowing

Knowing the local conditions and etiquette is important for making the most of your Costa Nova surf experience. The local surf community is welcoming but expects visitors to respect basic lineup rules and show consideration for fellow surfers.

Essential tips for visiting surfers:

Beyond the main breaks, adventurous surfers can explore nearby spots like Vagueira to the south and São Jacinto to the north. These less-crowded waves offer different challenges and often provide alternatives when conditions aren’t ideal at Costa Nova. Local surf shops can provide detailed information about these spots and current conditions.

Surfing in Costa Nova

Costa Nova delivers a perfect blend of surf culture, traditional Portuguese life, and natural beauty. Whether you’re catching your first wave or searching for uncrowded peaks, this colorful coastal village offers an authentic surf experience away from Portugal’s more famous breaks. Pack your board, bring your camera, and prepare to fall in love with one of Portugal’s most charming surf destinations.

Dreaming of exploring Portugal’s vibrant cities? Check out our guide to Portugal and everything you need to know about surfing here