The Nazaré coast, the submarine canyon and the giant waves : a synthesis

Abstract

The topic of this work is the coastal zone of Nazaré (located in central western mainland Portugal) and adjacent offshore, in particular the submarine canyon, summarizing and organizing available information in order to be used by a wide public. The physical characterization, mainly focused on the geomorphology and coastal dynamics, is based on previously published works but also on new data. The information here provided aims to help tourists not familiar with the region, namely those involved in surfing practices, in order to understand the peculiar setting and the expected waves. An explanation for the genesis of the Nazaré giant waves is also provided.