Terceira · Portugal
Surfing Quatro Ribeiras
A left point in Terceira, Portugal, for advanced and pro surfers.
- TypeLeft Point
- LevelAdvanced / Pro
- Size3-10 ft
- Best monthsOct-Apr
- Crowd1/5
The wave
A powerful, challenging left off deepwater reef on Terceira's north coast, holding a long lefthand pointbreak that can run hard and fast when swell wraps in correctly. Quatro Ribeiras needs the right NW-N direction and offers real length when it lines up.
The wave demands respect for its power and the deep water close to the reef. Wait for a well-aligned swell, and treat it as one of Terceira's more serious, committed options for experienced surfers.
38.79, -27.18 · Well-aligned NW-N swell · Open in Google Maps
When to surf Quatro Ribeiras
Quatro Ribeiras is at its best from October to April. Conditions it likes: Well-aligned NW-N swell. This is how the year looks across Azores:
| Months | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| October to March | Prime | Biggest, most consistent Atlantic swell, wet and cool |
| April to June | Good | More settled weather, still decent swell |
| July to August | Quiet | Smaller swell, best weather for sightseeing |
In season: January · February · March · October · November · December
Waves near Quatro Ribeiras
| Wave | Area | Type | Level | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Praia da Vitória (Vietnam) | Terceira | Beach Break | Beginner / Intermediate | 12 km |
| Porto Martins | Terceira | Right Point | Intermediate / Advanced | 12 km |
| Vila Nova | Terceira | Reef (Bombora) | Pro | 14 km |
| Santa Catarina | Terceira | Reef (Bombora) | Pro | 15 km |
| Ribeira Grande | São Miguel | Rivermouth/Beach | Intermediate / Advanced | 180 km |
| Populo | São Miguel | Beach Break | Beginner / Intermediate | 181 km |
Straight-line distances. By road it is usually further.
Getting there and staying around Terceira
Transport, costs and the rest of the waves in the area are in the Terceira surf guide →
A week here costs from about $630 with flights from Europe, or around $1,322 travelling comfortably. See other surf trips under $1,000 →
Quatro Ribeiras: common questions
When is the best time to surf Quatro Ribeiras?
Quatro Ribeiras works best from October to April. Ideal conditions: Well-aligned NW-N swell.
Is Quatro Ribeiras good for beginners?
No. Quatro Ribeiras is a wave for advanced and pro surfers. The closest beginner-friendly spot we cover is Praia da Vitória (Vietnam) in Terceira, about 12 km away.
How crowded is Quatro Ribeiras?
Quatro Ribeiras is usually empty: 1 out of 5 on our crowd scale.
Where is Quatro Ribeiras?
Quatro Ribeiras is in Terceira, in the Azores region of Portugal (38.79, -27.18). The nearest wave we cover is Praia da Vitória (Vietnam), about 12 km away.
Last updated October 2026. Seasons, costs and conditions change, so check the details before you book.
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