There are certain moments in life where timing, place, and people line up just right and my time in Nazaré with Anthony “Sully” Sullivan was one of them. What started through a mutual connection quickly turned into an unforgettable experience in one of the most legendary surf towns on the planet.
I met Sully through big wave surfer and friend Andrew Cotton. Andrew has a way of bringing good people together, and Sully is definitely one of them. The two share a real bond, and Sully loves to surf with Andrew and the rest of the crew. Being around that dynamic in Nazaré gave me a front row seat to a friendship built on respect, adrenaline, and a shared love of the ocean.
Nazaré itself is a place that doesn’t just look dramatic, it feels dramatic. The cliffs, the lighthouse, and the constant rumble of the Atlantic create a natural stage for big personalities and even bigger waves. And Sully fits right in.
Most people know Anthony Sullivan as the legendary pitchman behind some of the most recognizable products on TV. But in person, he’s even more animated, genuine, hilarious, and full of stories. Morning, noon, or night, he carries that pitchman spark with him. At one point, I kept joking with him to do quick OxiClean style pitches throughout the day, and he delivered every single time. Whether we were grabbing coffee, walking through town, or watching the surf, Sully could flip that switch instantly, classic pitch delivery, booming energy, and that signature Sullivan charm. It was impossible not to laugh.
Between the jokes and the big wave atmosphere, we hung out around the lighthouse, watched surfers prep for the giant swells, and spent time talking about work, life, storytelling, and the kind of risk taking that defines Nazaré. Hearing Sully’s perspective, especially in the same space as someone like Andrew Cotton, made the whole experience feel layered and special.
We wandered through the tight streets, met locals, grabbed food, and soaked in the culture. Nothing was overly planned or staged, just good company in a place that amplifies every moment.
What stood out most was Sully’s openness, positivity, and genuine curiosity. He’s someone who has accomplished so much, yet he approaches every interaction and adventure with fresh enthusiasm. Being around that kind of energy in a place as iconic as Nazaré made the whole trip memorable.
Looking back, hanging out with Anthony Sullivan thanks to Andrew Cotton’s introduction was more than just a cool link up. It was one of those experiences that remind you how fun and meaningful unexpected connections can be. And in a town built on legendary waves and larger than life stories, it all felt perfectly fitting.
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