While those looking for their big wave kicks have their attention on the El Nino-fuelled shores of Hawaii and America's west coast, Europe has been simmering away with mid-range swells big enough to satisfy those on the ground but not big enough to warrant an international flight.

Photographer Tim Bonython, plus WA surfers Mick Corbett and Jarryd Foster, have holed themselves up in Nazare taking advantage of the uncrowded conditions. A couple of locals plus devoted Pom Andrew Cotton (red wetsuit) were also in the water.

Photos Tim Bonython