The world's biggest wave, explained
Vox・2 minutes read
Nazaré has transformed into a big wave surfing hotspot, attracting surfers seeking record-breaking waves despite the risks, impacting its traditional fishing industry and cultural heritage. The unique underwater canyon off its coast generates massive waves, leading to a surge in tourism and challenges such as rising property prices, but locals believe their culture will endure alongside this new surfing tradition.
Insights
- The lighthouse in Nazaré marks a pivotal spot between the city and Praia do Norte, renowned for hosting the world's largest wave, attracting surfers seeking record-breaking feats.
- Nazaré's evolution from a tranquil fishing village to a global big wave surfing mecca has reshaped its identity, erasing much of its historical roots while embracing a new era of extreme sports and tourism.
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Recent questions
What is the significance of Nazaré in Portugal?
Nazaré is a coastal town known for hosting the biggest wave in the world and becoming a hub for big wave surfing, attracting surfers seeking world records despite the risks involved.
Who set a world record by surfing a 78-foot wave in Nazaré?
Garrett McNamara achieved a world record by surfing a 78-foot wave, taller than a 7-story building, off the coast of Portugal in Nazaré.
How did Nazaré transition from a fishing village to a surfing capital?
Nazaré transformed from a quiet fishing village to a big wave surfing capital, erasing much of its history and memory, as surfers sought larger waves globally, eventually leading them to Nazaré.
What role does the underwater canyon off Nazaré's coast play?
The unique underwater canyon off Nazaré's coast splits and amplifies swells, generating massive waves that attract big wave surfers to the area.
What challenges has Nazaré faced due to the surge in tourism?
Nazaré has experienced rising property prices and cultural changes due to the surge in tourism driven by big wave surfing, posing challenges to the local community.
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