** Riding the Monster Waves of Supertubos: A Beginner's Guide to this Ultimate Surf Destination**

Located in the northwestern tip of Portugal, the Atlantic coast of Nazaré is known as Supertubos (meaning "supertubes" in Portuguese). This small fishing village on the Atlantic Ocean has become a mecca for professional surfers and enthusiasts alike, offering some of the most consistent and powerful waves in the world. As a beginner surfer, riding the monster waves at Supertubos can be intimidating, but with this guide, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the challenge.

The Wave: A Perfect Storm

To understand why Supertubos is considered one of the best surf destinations on the planet, it's essential to grasp the unique characteristics of its massive waves. These waves are formed by a combination of wind-driven swells and ocean currents that create an ideal environment for high-performance surfing.

In January 2014, David Colturi, a professional surfer from New Zealand, rode one of the biggest waves in recorded history at Supertubos. This wave reached an incredible 23 feet (7 meters) high, with a face speed of over 40 knots (74 km/h). While we don't have exact measurements for every wave, experts estimate that Supertubos produces waves ranging from 15 to 20 feet (4.5 to 6 meters) in height, with faces speeds reaching up to 25 knots (46 km/h).

Scenarios and Tips for Beginners

To prepare yourself for the ultimate surfing experience at Supertubos, consider the following scenarios:

1. The Big Day: If you're lucky enough to score a spot on a wave, make sure to arrive early to secure a parking spot or shuttle service. Wear warm, quick-drying clothing and be prepared for chilly ocean water.
2. The Setup: As you wait for your turn, observe the waves from a safe distance, looking for signs of breaking or a gentle swell. This will give you an idea of when to paddle out and ride the wave.
3. The Paddle Out: When it's time to get in the water, position yourself on your board so that the leash is securely attached to your ankle. Focus on finding a spot near the nose or chest section of the wave, where the breaking zone tends to be more consistent.

Riding the Monster Waves

Once you're out in the lineup, it's essential to remember that riding Supertubos requires mental toughness and physical endurance. Here are some tips to help you navigate these incredible waves:

1. Stay Relaxed: Keep your knees bent, weight centered over the board, and focus on maintaining a smooth, flowing motion.
2. Timing is Everything: Look for the moment when the wave begins to lift up onto the lip and starts to break – this is usually around 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) out from the beach.
3. Cutback or Speed Up: If you're in a position to do so, try cutting back towards the shore to maintain speed or quickly speeding up to catch more air.

Conclusion

Riding waves at Supertubos requires an incredible amount of skill, experience, and physical fitness. While it's impossible for anyone to ride these massive waves on their first attempt, with persistence, dedication, and the right guidance, you can master the skills necessary to conquer this ultimate surf destination. So, if you're ready to take your surfing skills to new heights – or should we say, depths? – Nazaré and Supertubos are waiting for you. Here's a comparison of the provided information in a table format:

Please note that this table is not exhaustive, but it highlights some key points from the provided guide. If you have any further questions or would like to add other information, feel free to ask!

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