The first reference to the place appears in 1258: in Petra Aguzadoira que est in termino de Nabaes.
The inhabitants had a difficult time settling in the area, and it was only constituted by sand dunes that were constantly blown by the wind.
The parish is home to Póvoa de Varzim Horticulture Association - the Horpozim.
The parish is divided in seven hamlets: Santo André, Granjeiro, Caturela, Fieiro, Areosa, Aldeia, and Codicheira.
The main beach is also considered to be one of the top surf sites along the Portuguese coastline according to some sources.