Baixa de Santana — Surf spot

Baixa de Santana, also known as Baixio de Santana, is the outer reef that definitively put the Azores on the global big wave surfing map. Located offshore from the north coast of Ribeira Grande, roughly one kilometre from the beach where professional surf competitions are held, this bombie hiding in plain sight went unsurfed for decades until it was discovered by the EDP Mar Sem Fim project, led by Portuguese big wave surfer João de Macedo. The first expedition, which also included Eric Rebiere, Marco Medeiros, Joana Andrade and local surfer Garoupinha, revealed to the world a massive right-hander breaking over volcanic reef in the open ocean, with a power and scale that rival the best big wave spots on the planet.

The spot works as an offshore bombie, meaning waves form in deep water and break suddenly over a shallow rocky platform, creating vertical walls of enormous force. The right is the main wave, with powerful and occasionally tubular sections that attract only the most prepared and courageous surfers. The ideal swell arrives from the north to northwest with a long period, and offshore winds blow from the south to southeast, keeping the face clean. Mid tide generally offers the best compromise between shape and depth over the reef. When the swell exceeds paddle-in limits, tow-in becomes essential, and it was precisely during a tow-in session that Lucas Chumbo Chianca caught one of the best waves ever surfed in the Azores here.

The nomination of a wave surfed at Baixa de Santana for the WSL Big Wave Awards, in the Ride of the Year and Tube of the Year categories in 2017, was a historic milestone for Azorean surfing. It was the first time the Azores appeared in this prestigious competition, alongside destinations like Nazare, Hawaii, Ireland, Fiji and Australia. This recognition opened the world's eyes to the potential of Azorean waves and attracted a new generation of big wave surfers to the archipelago.

This is a spot exclusively for professionals and highly experienced big wave surfers. The distance from shore, variable reef depth, ocean currents and the absence of natural protection make Baixa de Santana one of the most demanding and dangerous spots on São Miguel. Jet ski support, a safety crew and the highest level of physical and mental preparation are mandatory. Access is by sea, usually from the harbour of Rabo de Peixe.