The best (free) spots to watch the big waves

The lighthouse fort, the cliff trail north, and the one spot locals avoid. Plus practical tips on parking and timing.

Placeholder body. The clifftop platform at Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo is the iconic free viewing spot — almost directly above the takeoff zone.

Arrive before 10am on a forecast big day. Parking in Sítio fills up fast, and the headland gets shoulder-to-shoulder on event days.

Bring a windproof layer even in summer — the cliff is exposed.