This big wave surf mecca, on the central coast of Portugal, in the near past was almost exclusively identified with fishing. Fishing was practiced by local families, yet evolved commercially and industrially, simultaneously more and more local families abandoned this activity for safer and more stable economic activities mostly in the tourism sector. If sustainable fishing is possible here, it is possible anywhere in the world!

Big wave surfers believe in the spiritual power of Nazaré – its ancient religious roots ring true with surfer’s fascination and dedication to the town’s amazing waves. The beauty and power of the waves, now understood by science to be created by a giant underwater canyon less than a kilometer from Praia do Norte (beach north of Sitio) coastline, magnifies the spectacle. A Nazaré Hope Zone by design will be exemplary in its positive and sustainable relationship with the local fishing industry, so as to create better career prospects for the youth wanting to carve a living locally from the sea. Nazaré’s natural conditions for huge surf communicate and strongly support ocean conservation matters.