Why a wonder: Part of the World Surfing Reserves since 2011, the Surf Sanctuary of Ericeira, the first created in Europe, and one of only 12 around the world, offers a unique hunting ground for photographers, from exciting surfing action to fantastic coastal sceneries that will take your breath away. This unique mix of action and a landscape that seems as if chiseled by a mad sculptor offers unique opportunities for those who love action but also the quiet side of photography.
Where: Ericeira is a fishing town, some 30 minutes drive from Portugal’s capital, Lisbon.
When: Ericeira’s best surf season is from Fall-Spring (October-May), but if you’re after the landscape, all year round is good, although the period above may offer the most dramatic changes in light. Early morning and late afternoon are best, but it mostly works the whole day.
Photography: a wide lens for landscape and a long lens (a 100-400mm zoom or similar is best) for surfers are essential. Seven specific places within the “sanctuary of surf” attract surfers, but the landscape is both exciting and pristine along the whole area covered. A 4-wheel drive is a fast way to move between some of these places for unique photo opportunities, but even using public transportation to Ribeira d’Ilhas beach, the main hub, and walking from there along the coastline you’ll get great views from where to capture surfers and landscape.
More: find more information about the area here: https://www.savethewaves.org/ericeira/
Jose Antunes - Writer, photographer and tour leader