Oct 1 – Mar 22 | 1st edition
Wave of the Winter
by Swellnest
Join us for the very first edition of Wave of the Winter, a celebration of surfing, community, and the raw power of the Atlantic. Hosted in Ericeira — World Surfing Reserve, this months-long competition will showcase surfers riding the most powerful waves of the season, bringing together ocean lovers from around the globe.
In partnership with:
About the Competition
Winter in Ericeira means heavy swells, deep barrels, and fearless surfers. The Wave of the Winter by Swellnest was created to honor that spirit and crown the best wave of the season in Europe’s only World Surfing Reserve.
How it works
Surfers capture their best winter waves in Ericeira, Portugal, a World Surfing Reserve.
Submit your video to wow@theswellnest.com (include your name and date).
A panel of three local judges will select:
Top 10 in Best Wave
Top 3 in Most Commitment
Top 3 in Worst Wipeout
Top 3 in Grom of the Winter (U18)
These nominees will then move on to public voting on our website.
The community votes to decide the winner in each category.
It all wraps up at the Award Ceremony & Viewing Party.
How to Enter
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1st step
Surf the Ericeira World Surfing Reserve (between Oct 1 – Mar 22).
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2nd step
Record your wave on video.
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3rd step
Email your submission to wow@theswellnest.com (include your name and date).
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4th step
Post your video as a Reel on Instagram and tag @theswellnest (excluding worst wipeout).
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5th step
If you make the Top 10, your wave goes to the final jury round.
Prizes
1000 € Cash (Roark x Swellnest)
2 nights at the Swellnest - Luxury Villa
(breakfast included)
Suntribe Pack
Best wave
Videographer of the Best Wave scores a €100 prize.
350 € Olukai
Suntribe Pack
50% off 2 nights at the Swellnest - Luxury Villa
(breakfast included)
Most Commitment
150€
Suntribe Pack
Worst Wipe Out
Grom of the Winter (U18)
Roark & Olukai gear
Suntribe Pack
Meet the Judges
Vasco Fortes
Growing up in Ericeira, Vasco found his passion in surfing from a young age, building a deep bond with the ocean. Today, as surf coach and owner of Surfin Ericeira, he is one of the most respected locals. Having spent decades challenging Ericeira’s powerful winter swells, Vasco brings the knowledge, experience, and authenticity that make him one of the best suited judges for the Wave of the Winter.
Pedro Gramanha
Back in 1994, Pedro “Gramanha” shaped his very first surfboard — a challenge that turned into a lifelong craft. For 30 years, he has been creating boards for beginners and pros alike, always chasing the “magic board” that elevates performance. With deep local roots and decades of experience, Pedro brings unmatched authenticity as a judge for the Wave of the Winter.
Pedro Góis
With over 45 years in the surf, Pedro Góis is a true Ericeira icon. Known for his vintage boards, classic cars, and timeless style, he blends art and surf culture like few can. Through his work at BlackDog Studio, he has collaborated with major surf brands, always bringing design and soul. With deep roots and a sharp eye, Pedro adds a unique perspective as a judge for the Wave of the Winter.
Public Jury
The community votes to choose the winner on our website.
Judging Criteria
Waves will be scored based on:
Wave Size
Commitment & Difficulty
Performance & Control
Innovation & Progression
Speed, Power & Flow
Scale
Score
Rating
0-1.9
Poor
2-3.9
Weak
4-5.9
Average
6 7.9
Good
8-10
Excelent
One Wave.
One Winter.
One Legend.
Official Partners
Brands and institutions that share our passion for the ocean, surfing, and community.
Award Ceremony & Viewing Party
May–July 2026, Ericeira
Let’s celebrate surf, community, and the champions of the Wave of the Winter.
Screening of the Top Waves from All Event Categories.
Official award ceremony with the jury.
Sunset celebration with music, drinks, and partner activations.
