The partnership proposal, which will be formalized through a memorandum of understanding, “is based on strong affinities between Nazaré (in the Leiria district) and Half Moon Bay (in the United States): two coastal communities of similar size, with strong ties to the sea and maritime traditions, tourism-driven economies, and international recognition as big-wave surfing destinations,” the Nazaré City Council announced.

The partnership aims to “bring the two communities closer together and create new opportunities for cooperation in areas of mutual interest,” the municipality explained.

“This partnership makes sense because it stems from genuine affinities between two communities,” stated Nazaré Mayor Serafim António (PSD), as quoted in the press release.

According to Serafim António, Nazaré and Half Moon Bay, the latter of which is home to a community of Portuguese origin and institutions dedicated to preserving cultural heritage, are communities “that have gained international stature through the sea and surfing, with Praia do Norte and Mavericks serving as global landmarks, yet maintain strong ties to their roots, traditions, and local communities.”

The local official believes there is “great potential to bring together young people, institutions, associations, and professionals, and to share experiences and knowledge in areas important to both localities.”

The memorandum of understanding to be formalised between the two municipalities outlines joint initiatives in culture and heritage, education and youth, surfing and maritime safety, the environment and coastal management, public art, local governance, tourism, and economic development.

Identified possibilities include cultural and youth exchanges, initiatives related to maritime heritage and surfing, knowledge sharing on water safety and marine ecology, and the development of cultural and artistic projects, the statement adds.

The proposal also envisions creating a Half Moon Bay–Nazaré Sister City Committee, involving Portuguese cultural organisations, surfing communities, educational institutions, youth organisations, and civic groups from both localities.

According to the municipality, the initiative to move forward with the sister-city proposal was also driven by interest expressed by the Portuguese-descendant community in Half Moon Bay; it has received support from the Consul General of Portugal in San Francisco (USA) and Portugal’s Secretary of State for the Economy, João Rui Ferreira, as well as from the local leaders of both towns.

On 21 July, the Half Moon Bay City Council unanimously approved the resolution authorising the signing of the memorandum of understanding with the Municipality of Nazaré.

The sister-city proposal, which will have an initial, renewable five-year term, will be submitted to the Nazaré Municipal Assembly for consideration.