Formosa

Pointed out as the best wave of Santa Maria, Formosa is a right-hand point break that breaks over a rocky bottom, right in front of the “castle” located west of the beach. The take-off is very fast and the wave face remains good all the way to the inside, which justifies the spot’s top quality rating. Both entry and exit from the water are made directly from the beach itself.

The best conditions occur with low or mid tide, swell from south to southwest and wind from north to nordeste, with the wave working well between 1 and 2 metres. Above 2 metres it loses its fit on the rocky bottom: the pico shifts eastward and the wave becomes fuller, with a greater tendency to close out. Since it depends on southern swells that reach the islands, it’s not one of the most consistent waves of the year, and summer tends to be the most reliable time to catch it working.

It’s not a spot for beginners: it’s suited for intermediate and experienced surfers. Access is by car and, as it’s a highly sought-after wave, it’s normal to find quite a few people in the water on good days.