Surfing in Portugal

Clean lines, offshore winds, and minimal flat spells — the ingredients for an unforgettable surf trip in Portugal. Add to that stunning landscapes and surf camps tailored to your needs, and you've got a destination that ticks all the boxes.

Portugal can be divided into three main surf regions: the north around Porto, the central coast with Peniche, Ericeira, and Lisbon, and the south — the sunny Algarve. Each region offers unique conditions. Whether you're a total beginner or seasoned pro, you’ll find your perfect wave.

Northern Portugal is wilder and less crowded, with cities like Porto offering a more rugged vibe. Winter here can be windy and wet, but when the swell lines up, the surf is world-class. Central Portugal — home to Peniche, Ericeira, and Lisbon — features some of the country’s best-known and most consistent spots. Down south, the Algarve stays sunny and mellow even in winter, making it ideal for beginners and anyone chasing warmer water and relaxed vibes.

Here’s a breakdown of our favorite spots from south to north — plus tips for the best surf camps in each region.

The Algarve’s warm climate — sometimes even t-shirt weather in winter — and its relatively untouched coastline make it a magnet for sun lovers, nature fans, and surfers alike. With countless surf spots along both west and south-facing coasts, the Algarve is perfect for beginners, intermediates, and advanced surfers.

When autumn and winter swells become too big for the exposed west coast, the southern spots start to fire. Between Odeceixe and Lagos, you’ll find nearly 50 surf spots suitable for all levels — all reachable within 30 minutes from Sagres.

While the south coast is a bit more touristy and lined with scenic bays, the west coast is all about endless beaches and top-tier breaks like Amado, Arrifana, and Carrapateira. The Algarve is made for those who love surf and nature. Many visitors explore the coastline in campervans, discovering remote, unspoiled beaches.

Spot Highlights:

• Albufeira: This is the local beach of the namesake town and ideal for surf lessons — though most of the year it’s more of a swimming beach. Still, with strong SW or S swells, the beach break offers mellow lefts and rights over mixed bottom (coral, rock, sand).
• Burgau: A quiet right-hand beach break over sand and stone, best at mid tide. It starts working at around 3 ft with south or solid west swells. Great for beginners thanks to low crowds.
• Zavial: A picturesque bay with one of the best beach breaks on the southern Algarve. Fast, punchy peaks break near a small river mouth, especially during southern or strong western swells.
• Ingrina: Just next to Zavial, this right-hand point break only works on big south or southwest swells. Well sheltered from wind, but due to the rocky bottom it's more suited for advanced surfers chasing barrels. On smaller days, beginners can also paddle out. It's the home spot of Surflodge Portugal — just a 10-minute walk away.
• Mareta: One of Sagres’ main beaches, with multiple peaks offering lefts and rights for all levels. Because it’s south-facing, it needs south swells (Jul–Sep) or solid west swells to work.
• Tonel: A world-class spot on Sagres’ west coast. Heavy lefts and rights that can close out quickly, best at low to mid tide. The wave breaks over rock and is best for intermediates and up. Needs a solid south or west swell to turn on.
• Beliche: Sagres’ go-to when other spots are maxed out. Hallow, fast waves close to shore, over stone — better suited for intermediates, especially at mid to high tide. Can get crowded.
• Amado: One of Portugal’s most consistent year-round beach breaks. With strong currents and north winds, you’ll find powerful waves, but also beginner-friendly zones. The wide, untouched beach hosts Surflodge Portugal’s beginner surf lessons. Other nearby spots like Praia da Castelejo and Praia da Cordoama also deliver excellent waves.
• Vale de Figueiras: Located deep in a nature reserve, this remote beach requires a car and some patience on dirt roads. But it’s worth it — a swell magnet with stunning scenery and great conditions even on small summer swells. Best surfed with offshore or no wind.
• Arrifana: One of the Algarve’s gems. Less crowded than many other spots, especially in the morning. Offers point break conditions for all levels, although winter swells favor more experienced surfers. The nearby town of Aljezur has great restaurants and a bustling local market for post-surf recovery.

Got limited time, crave some city vibes, but don’t want to miss out on surfing? Lisbon is your go-to! The Portuguese capital is the perfect blend of surf lifestyle and urban energy, offering world-class waves right outside the city.

Often called the "San Francisco of Europe," Lisbon’s famous Ponte 25 de Abril bridge resembles the Golden Gate — and yes, they share the same architect! Lisbon’s relaxed vibe, tram-lined hills, and endless miradouros (viewpoints) make it a surfer’s dream base.

One of the best-known surf zones near Lisbon is Costa da Caparica — just 20 minutes from the city center across the iconic bridge. Here you’ll find 30 kilometers of sandy beach, dotted with laid-back beach bars and untouched stretches.

When winter swells get too heavy for the open coast, the south-facing beaches at the mouth of the Tejo River come alive with clean, rideable waves.

• Costa da Caparica: Just south of the Tejo River, this stretch of coastline boasts a long chain of beach breaks, many separated by jetties. Conditions here are consistent and varied. While powerful peaks like Cova do Vapor cater to advanced surfers, beginners will love the mellow waves between the jetties. During big swells, head to Fonte da Telha at the southern end — also home to the Beachfront Surfcamp Caparica — for beginner- and intermediate-friendly conditions. Depending on swell and wind, lessons might also run at Paraíso or São João beaches, where the line-ups are quiet and beachside restaurants await. Located right at Praia do Tarquínio-Paraíso, Surfhouse Caparica offers the perfect spot to jump straight into the waves
• Praia de Carcavelos: Known as the birthplace of Portuguese surfing, Carcavelos is one of the country's most popular beach breaks. Great for beginners, especially in summer, and more powerful in fall and winter for intermediates. It’s also a favorite for families and beachgoers thanks to clean water, beach sports, cafés, and full facilities. A perfect surf day trip from Lisbon.
• Guincho: This west-facing beach near Cascais is known for its power and wind. While it gets great swells and is loved by advanced surfers and wind/kite surfers alike, strong winds (especially June–August) and currents make it tricky for beginners. Not ideal for summer learners, but worth watching from the cliffs above.
• Praia Grande: Just north of Cabo da Roca, Europe’s westernmost point, Praia Grande offers exposure to consistent W/NW swells and good wind protection from the cliffs. This results in clean surf even when other spots are blown out. The south end has popular peaks like Da Piscina, Do Meio, and Da Esquerda Morto, particularly good in summer.

Just 30 minutes from Lisbon on Portugal’s west coast, Ericeira is arguably the country’s coolest surf town — and it holds a special title: the only World Surfing Reserve in Europe. Stretching across 4 kilometers of coastline, this surf mecca offers world-class waves for every level. With its typical Portuguese charm, Ericeira is one of the most picturesque surf destinations in the country. The old town with its narrow cobblestone streets and iconic blue-and-white tiles is pure Portugal vibes.

Sitting above the cliffs, the village boasts stunning sea views and high-quality reef breaks. It’s the ideal place for anyone wanting to soak up surf and skate culture, meet like-minded people, and enjoy an authentic surf experience. One major plus: if you stay in a surf camp here, many top spots are within walking distance from the center. Especially in the off-season, Ericeira’s beaches are blissfully empty — perfect for catching waves away from the crowds.

The southern beaches are best for beginners, while further north you’ll find more challenging waves for advanced surfers. At São Lourenço, for instance, you’ll score powerful surf with easterly or southeasterly winds and a demanding reef setup. A bit further south, Coxos delivers long, fast rides — often hailed as the best waves in the country. At Praia do Sul, just a short walk from town, there’s another reef break that’s beginner-friendly when the swell is smaller. Foz do Lizandro is another standout for surf newbies.

Spot Highlights:

• Sao Juliao: A wide, open beach break with multiple peaks left and right. A true swell magnet, it’s very consistent — even in summer. Works on all tides and swell directions, making it perfect for beginners. When the sandbanks align, advanced surfers can score great waves too.
• Foz do Lizandro: One of the best beach breaks around Ericeira and ideal for first-timers in Portugal. While it can barrel on good days, it’s mostly a mellow spot suitable for beginners and intermediates. Multiple lefts and rights spread out across the beach, so there’s always space to catch your own wave. After your session, relax at one of the many beach bars lining the wide sandy shore.
• Praia do Sul: A gorgeous beach just south of town. Waves here only really break with a solid swell. Two options: a right-hand point/reef for advanced surfers and a beach/reef break that’s beginner-friendly on smaller days.
• Ribeira D’Ilhas: Ericeira’s most iconic reef break, located north of town. Backed by scenic cliffs, this long right-hand wave starts working on small NW swells and stays clean even in heavy winter conditions. Due to its reputation, it attracts a lot of surfers — but you can also score inside waves when the main peak is busy. You can park right by the spot and chill at the surf bar after your session.
• Coxos: Considered one of Portugal’s best waves — but strictly for advanced surfers. This powerful right-hand point break reels into a small bay over sharp reef. Avoid it at high tide, when the waves crash straight into the rocks.

Peniche and Baleal aren’t just hotspots for first-time surf travelers — they’re legendary among wave chasers of all levels. Located just north of Ericeira and easily accessible from Lisbon by bus, these towns are connected by a crescent-shaped bay that’s tailor-made for surfing.

Peniche is one of the most reliable surf destinations in Portugal, offering surfable conditions in nearly all wind and weather scenarios. No matter the swell, there’s always a wave to ride. The area is surrounded by an incredible variety of breaks — which is why the World Surf League makes an annual tour stop here each October.

If you like to combine your surf trip with a bit of partying and social vibes, Peniche and Baleal are perfect. In summer and fall, the beach bars here regularly host lively parties, making this a favorite for solo travelers and groups alike.

Known as the cradle of Portuguese surf culture, Peniche offers year-round surf. Summer is ideal for beginners thanks to the mellow waves, while autumn brings more punch — and near-guaranteed action. Whether you're paddling out yourself or watching the pros up close, Peniche is the place to be.

Spot Highlights:

• Praia dos Supertubos: Nicknamed the “European Pipeline,” Supertubos is Peniche’s most iconic beach. Expect powerful barrels and waves from all directions — this world-class break works nearly year-round.
• Prainha & Praia do Baleal: The beaches of Peniche and Baleal offer something for every level. For beginners, Prainha — a beach break right next to the Baleal peninsula — is the top pick. The ends of Praia do Baleal are more sheltered from direct swells, making them more manageable for intermediates.
• Praia do Norte, Nazaré: Not for the faint of heart! This beach, stretching along the scenic fishing village of Nazaré, is famous for its mind-blowing big waves. Home to the largest wave ever surfed (24.38 meters by Rodrigo Koxa), it’s a must-see for surf fans. But unless you’re a pro, stick to watching from the clifftop cafés or beachside bars — surfing here is seriously dangerous.

Often overlooked by holidaymakers, Northern Portugal is home to stunning beaches and excellent beach breaks — especially between Porto and Moledo. Even better: the line-ups are often delightfully empty! Porto itself is always worth a stop, offering delicious food, buzzing bars, rich culture, and of course, world-famous port wine.

The region around Porto is perfect for nature lovers looking to surf uncrowded waves far from tourist crowds — or for anyone wanting to mix their surf trip with a city break.

Spot Highlights:

• Praia do Cabedelo, Figueira da Foz: This all-rounder of a beach is popular with surfers, windsurfers, and bodyboarders. Depending on your level, you can choose between beginner-friendly and more advanced sections. The harbor jetty offers the best surf, while the southern end is perfect for jumping and playing. Surrounded by dunes and pine forest, it's one of the region’s top beaches. Non-surfers can enjoy SUP sessions or hang out at one of the many beach bars.
• Esmoriz: About 30 km south of Porto, Esmoriz is a laid-back surf town known for its consistent waves. Easily reachable by train, it offers a variety of conditions thanks to the jetties reaching into the ocean. Beginners and experienced surfers alike will find their perfect peak — either beside the jetties or a bit further out on the open beach.
• Espinho: While the main beach gets busy in summer, this 17 km stretch always offers space to escape the crowds. It's ideal for those who want to combine surfing with a Porto city tour — just 20 km south and accessible by train or bus. West-facing and wave-rich, Espinho delivers — but beware: the water stays chilly even in summer, so bring a solid wetsuit.
• Praia International (Porto): Want to stay in the heart of the city and still catch waves? This busy urban beach sits at the end of Avenida da Boavista, right in front of the Parque da Cidade. You’ll find reliable surf just a short ride from downtown Porto.
• Afife: Praia da Arda in Afife is one of the north’s most popular surf beaches. While it’s exposed to wind and can have strong currents, it still offers great waves on many days. West-facing and open, it works well even with smaller summer swells and delivers peaks for every level.

São Miguel, the main island of the Azores, sits in the middle of the Atlantic and is a true insider tip for surfers and adventure travelers. The island's volcanic origins are visible everywhere — from crater lakes in the highlands to natural hot springs and lush jungle trails.

Go whale or dolphin watching by boat, soak in thermal pools, or surf world-class waves no matter your level. Like the Canary Islands, the Azores enjoy consistent swell year-round, often cycling in every two days — perfect for trying out different conditions and breaks in a short time.

One of the biggest draws for surfers: the line-ups are still blissfully uncrowded. On São Miguel, you’ll find everything from mellow beach breaks to serious big-wave reefs — all within 30 minutes by car.

Spot Highlights:

• Mosteiros: On the island’s northwest coast near the fishing village of the same name, you'll find three distinct waves — a rocky beach break and both a left and right-hander in the harbor. The scenery is unreal, with ancient volcanic stacks rising from the sea. Sunsets here are nothing short of legendary.
• Santa Iria: Arguably the island’s most beautiful break. After a 30-minute hike, you’ll arrive at a secluded beach with a mostly empty left-hand point break. Heads up: at high tide, the trail down is blocked — so plan your timing wisely.
• Populo: Located near the capital city, Populo is the busiest surf spot in the south. Multiple peaks stretch across the beach, offering something for every taste and skill level.

From the north near Porto to the central coasts of Peniche, Ericeira, and Lisbon, and down south to the Algarve — Portugal offers ideal surf conditions for every level. But if you’re just starting out, some spots are particularly well-suited to learning the basics and building confidence.

We’ve selected a few beginner-friendly beaches with gentle, rolling waves, sandy bottoms, and plenty of surf schools ready to get you standing on your board in no time.

Top Beginner Surf Spots in Portugal:

• Costa da Caparica (near Lisbon): Just 20 minutes from Lisbon, this beach break offers numerous peaks and soft, consistent waves formed over sandbanks. Great for getting started with minimal crowds.
• Arrifana (Algarve): A beautiful, protected bay where waves tend to be smaller and cleaner — perfect for learning. The middle of the bay is especially beginner-friendly.
• Baleal (Peniche): Known as the surf capital of Europe, Peniche is packed with beginner options. Baleal’s curved coastline ensures you’ll always find a sheltered side with manageable waves. Plenty of surf schools available.
• Figueira da Foz (North): This long sandy beach has gentle, long-rolling waves and extended whitewater sections — ideal for practicing take-offs. Plus, less current than other exposed spots.
• Amado (Algarve): A consistent beach break that’s also a favorite for surf schools. Soft, forgiving waves and a sandy bottom make it a top pick for beginners. Plus, epic views while you ride!

These spots offer the perfect mix of safe conditions and supportive environments — so you can focus on progressing and having fun in the water.

Small summer swells for beginners, heavy autumn barrels for pros — Portugal is home to Europe’s most wave-reliable coastline, stretching from Moledo in the north to Sagres in the south.

Thanks to Portugal’s mild climate, surfable conditions exist year-round — even in winter! While much of Europe is cold and grey, here you can still stroll in a t-shirt and score quality waves. The best time to go depends on your experience level, personal preferences, and the region you choose.

Spring & Autumn: These are the golden seasons to learn to surf in Portugal. With fewer crowds post-holiday season and warm air and water temperatures, it’s ideal for progression. The south still sees days up to 25°C, and the rest of the coast remains pleasantly warm.

Summer: Great for surf newbies and sun lovers. Book a surf course at one of our partner camps and you’ll always find a wave to learn on. From Porto to the Algarve, expect stunning weather — with the Algarve being the hottest and most stable, often hitting 30°C. You might even catch a session without a wetsuit!

Winter: Between Sagres and Faro, southern Portugal really shines. Plenty of sunshine and surprisingly great waves turn this region into a winter escape. Advanced surfers especially get their money’s worth, but even beginners will find suitable spots. And if you’re lucky, you’ll witness Nazaré’s big wave season — one of the world’s most spectacular surf shows.

South (Algarve): Even in February, water temps stay around 16°C — so a quality 3/2mm wetsuit will do. Between August and October, with temps over 21°C, you might just surf in boardshorts or a bikini.

North (Porto region): Cooler and more variable. Even in summer, temps rarely climb above 18°C. A 4/3mm wetsuit is recommended until late spring. No wetsuit? No problem — rental options are available at most surf camps.

Solo mission, couples retreat, or family surf holiday? Portugal’s diverse coastline has something for every type of surfer — and just as many surf camp styles to match.

If you love being surrounded by nature, head to the Algarve in southern Portugal. Want to relax and soak up the sun between sessions? The Surflodge Portugal is ideal.

Craving a mix of surf and city buzz? The surf spots near Lisbon are perfect. The Surfhouse Caparica offers urban comfort just steps from the waves.

Prefer a rugged vibe? Northern Portugal, from Porto down to Lisbon, features some of Europe’s best surf spots — including the surf haven of Ericeira. You’ll love the easygoing atmosphere at the Sunset Surflodge Ericeira.

When choosing the right surf camp, think about what matters most to you:

• Are you here to focus on surf, yoga, and relaxing?
• Is sustainability a priority?
• Do you want to meet people and go out at night?
• Prefer comfort or are you fine with tent life?

Whether you're taking a surf course or surfing solo, there’s a perfect place for you in Portugal. Here’s a quick overview of top surf accommodations:

• Surflodge Portugal (Algarve): Set above a nature reserve, this lodge boasts a sunny terrace, pool, and sea views. Ingrina and Zavial beaches are just a 10-minute walk away. Great for swimming, relaxing, or catching waves when southern swells roll in.
• Surfcamp Algarve: Also in Raposeira, this camp is perched on a hill with a pool and green terrace. Stay in comfy wooden cabins or shared/double rooms. You can even book horseback rides from the camp.
• Surfhouse Caparica: Brand-new rooms, an outdoor bar, a yoga space with ocean views — and just 150 meters from the beach and local breaks.
• Eco Surflodge Caparica: Only 150 m from the beach, this eco-inspired house offers bright rooms with wooden furniture, hammocks, and a pool to cool off in summer.
• Beachfront Surfcamp Caparica: Right at the beach! Private, shared, and triple rooms, a modern kitchen, social lounge, and daily breakfast to fuel your surf sessions.
• Sunset Surflodge Ericeira: Surrounded by nature with sea views and a relaxed vibe. Enjoy the large garden, pool, and access to epic nearby breaks.
• Surflodge Santa Cruz: Located in Portugal’s wave-rich heartland, this newly renovated lodge offers peace, premium surf lessons, and a garden with pool.
• Surfhouse Azores: Based on São Miguel’s lush south coast, this cozy house has a garden, pool, yoga deck, and surf guiding to secret island spots.

Portugal is about 2,500 km from Germany — and the quickest way to get there is by plane. Thanks to budget airlines and frequent flight connections, flying is usually also the most affordable option. Many airlines offer direct routes from major German airports. Flight time is around 3 hours.

From north to south, Portugal stretches over 650 km — so once you’ve chosen your surf region and camp, be sure to pick the right arrival airport:

• Faro for the Algarve (South)
• Lisbon for central Portugal
• Porto for the north

If you’re in the mood for adventure, consider a road trip by car or campervan. The highways are well developed and you’ll pass fascinating landscapes and cities along the way — from southern France and the Pyrenees to coastal cliffs and Spain’s semi-deserts.

The drive from the German-French border to Lisbon is about 2,200 km and takes roughly 23–25 hours of pure driving time. If you’re going straight through, plan for at least 2 full days on the road.