Surfing in Portugal: Your Complete Surf Travel Guide
Portugal may not be the typical surf destination, but if you plan your trip right, catching waves here can be an absolute dream.
Think endless coastline, some world-class waves, and that laid-back vibe we all chase. Plus, the food, wine, and sunsets aren’t half bad either.
If you’re after the ultimate surf holiday, blending some European charm with epic waves, then Portugal is the place to do it.
So grab your board and let’s dive into everything you need to know to plan the perfect surf trip to Portugal.
What’s Special About Surfing in Portugal?
Surfing in Portugal is special because of its unmatched variety and consistency. You’ll find every type of wave here – beach breaks, point breaks, and reef breaks – all along a coastline that feels like it was made for surfers.
Winter brings big, challenging swells, but you can find clean, manageable waves any time of the year. The diversity means there’s always a spot for every level, whether you’re a beginner surfer or chasing barrels as a seasoned pro.
The surf culture is just as incredible as the waves. Locals are friendly, the vibe is relaxed, and the scenery is stunning.
Even if you’re new to the area, the welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to settle in.
The water can be chilly, so pack a wetsuit (3/2 or 4/3, depending on the season), and don’t forget sunscreen – the Portuguese sun is no joke!
Where to Surf in Portugal: An Overview
Portugal’s coastline offers seven distinct regions, each one providing something for every wave rider. Each area has its own personality, from rugged northern shores to sunny southern beaches.
Here’s an overview to help you plan your trip.
1. Costa Verde (Green Coast)
This northern stretch, near Porto, is known for its cooler waters and lush landscapes. It’s great for those looking for uncrowded breaks and a mix of sandy and rocky beaches.
The vibe here is laid-back, with charming fishing villages and a strong connection to nature.
2. Costa de Prata (Silver Coast)
The Silver Coast stretches from south of Porto to north of Lisbon and is home to Portugal’s most famous surf landmarks. It offers consistent swells and diverse waves, including the world-renowned big waves of Nazaré.
This region is perfect for those seeking variety and adventure.
3. Ericeira (The Surfing Capital)
Ericeira is the crown jewel of Portugal’s surf scene and Europe’s only World Surfing Reserve.
With a compact area packed with world-class waves, it’s ideal for surfers of all levels. Beyond the breaks, it offers a charming town, great food, and a buzzing surf culture.
4. Lisbon Coast
Close to the capital city, the Lisbon Coast is perfect for surfers who want to mix urban exploration with beach time.
The area includes accessible breaks like Carcavelos and Guincho, offering consistent surf year-round. It’s a great spot for quick trips or first-time visitors.
5. Alentejo Coast
South of Lisbon, the Alentejo Coast feels untouched and serene. Known for its dramatic cliffs, empty beaches, and long rides, this region is perfect for surfers seeking a slower pace.
Pair your sessions with amazing food and wine for the full experience.
6. Algarve Coast
The Algarve is a sunny paradise with warm water and waves for all skill levels. The west coast gets reliable swells, while the south coast offers smaller, beginner-friendly waves.
This region is a favourite for its mix of surf and holiday vibes.
7. The Islands – Azores and Madeira
For a unique surf trip, venture to the Azores or Madeira.
These islands offer volcanic landscapes, powerful waves, and minimal crowds. The Azores have consistent breaks like Ribeira Grande, while Madeira is known for expert-level surf at spots like Paul do Mar.
16 Best Surf Spots in Portugal
Now, let’s zoom into that coastline in a bit more detail. Here are our top picks of the best surf spots in Portugal.
Sagres: Hidden Gems on Portugal’s Southern Tip
Conditions: Sagres offers something for everyone, with a mix of reef, point, and beach breaks. Beliche Beach serves up powerful barreling wedges, best suited for experienced surfers under a direct southern swell. Mareta Beach, on the other hand, is a mellow beach break that’s perfect for beginners and longboarders, especially during the winter months.
Best Time to Surf: Winter for consistent swells, though Mareta can work year-round.
Vibe: Sagres has a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere. Locals are friendly, and while Beliche can get crowded when it’s firing, Mareta has a more open and beginner-friendly vibe.
Getting There: Sagres is at the western tip of the Algarve. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Faro, with plenty of parking near the beaches.
Peniche: The Surf Capital of Portugal
Conditions: Peniche is a wave playground with over 10 breaks. Supertubos is the crown jewel, offering fast, heavy barrels that mimic Hawaii’s Pipeline. This break thrives in winter and south swells but is strictly for advanced surfers. Gigi, by contrast, is a mellow longboarding spot with peeling lefts and rights, working best on a rising tide and southeast winds.
Best Time to Surf: October to March for Supertubos; Gigi is reliable most of the year.
Vibe: Supertubos attracts pros and a competitive crowd, especially during the Rip Curl Pro. Gigi is more relaxed, ideal for surfers looking for a casual session.
Getting There: Peniche is about 1.5 hours from Lisbon. You can drive or take a bus directly to the town, and most breaks are within walking or biking distance.
Nazaré: Home of the Giants
Conditions: Nazaré is world-famous for its colossal waves at Praia do Norte, which come alive from October to April. These monsters can reach over 80 feet, thanks to an underwater canyon funnelling swells. While Praia do Norte is strictly for big-wave surfers, other breaks nearby, like Praia da Vila, are more approachable for intermediates.
Best Time to Surf: October to April for big wave season.
Vibe: When the waves are on, Nazaré buzzes with energy. Expect pros, photographers, and spectators flocking to the iconic lighthouse to witness history in the making.
Getting There: Nazaré is about 1.5 hours north of Lisbon by car. Once in town, follow signs to the lighthouse for the best views of Praia do Norte.
Cascais: Surfing Meets City Life
Conditions: Cascais is a diverse surf zone close to Lisbon. Carcavelos is a punchy beach break with hollow lefts and rights, best from October to March. For those seeking fewer crowds, Praia de Guincho offers powerful waves during south swells, suitable for intermediates and up.
Best Time to Surf: October to March for Carcavelos; summer for longboarding at Praia de Guincho.
Vibe: Carcavelos can be busy and competitive, while Praia de Guincho offers a more relaxed experience. Both spots are lively, with plenty of surf schools and cafés nearby.
Getting There: Cascais is just 30 minutes from Lisbon by car or train. Both Carcavelos and Praia de Guincho are well-marked and easily accessible.
Ericeira: Portugal’s Surfing Mecca
Conditions: Ericeira has an incredible variety of waves. Ribeira D’Ilhas, a right-hand reef break, is famous for its reliability and clean rides, even in summer. Sao Juliao, a sandy beach break, offers consistent waves for beginners during quieter months.
Best Time to Surf: Year-round, with peak consistency from October to March.
Vibe: The town is a surf haven with a mix of hardcore locals and relaxed travellers. Ribeira D’Ilhas can be crowded during competitions, while Sao Juliao is quieter and beginner-friendly.
Getting There: Ericeira is about 45 minutes from Lisbon. Renting a car is the best option for exploring the area’s many breaks.
Coxos: A World-Class Right in Ericeira
Conditions: Coxos delivers fast, hollow right-handers over a rocky reef. Best at low tide with a north or northwest swell, it’s often considered one of Europe’s best waves. Not for beginners – this wave demands experience and confidence.
Best Time to Surf: Autumn and winter for prime conditions.
Vibe: Locals hold Coxos in high regard, and it can be fiercely competitive. Respect the lineup and don’t drop in if you’re unsure.
Getting There: Located in Ericeira, it’s accessible via a dirt path and a short walk over rocks.
Figueira da Foz: Long Rides at Buarcos
Conditions: Buarcos is known for Portugal’s longest wave. This right-hand point break offers rides over 200 meters at high tide. While it lacks heavy barrels, the long walls are perfect for carving.
Best Time to Surf: Spring and autumn for optimal swell and weather.
Vibe: Buarcos is uncrowded compared to other spots, with a chill, small-town vibe.
Getting There: Figueira da Foz is halfway between Lisbon and Porto. Drive or take a train to the town, and Buarcos is a short ride away.
Praia do Amado: A Versatile Favorite
Conditions: Located on the Algarve’s stunning west coast, Praia do Amado is a super versatile spot that caters to all skill levels. This beach break offers consistent waves year-round, with multiple peaks that work on both lefts and rights. The sandy bottom makes it beginner-friendly, but during winter swells, it transforms into a playground for intermediates and even advanced surfers.
Best Time to Surf: Works well year-round, but winter swells (October to March) bring in more challenging waves.
Vibe: The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming. Surfers of all nationalities come here, creating a friendly lineup. There are surf schools and board rentals right on the beach, so it’s perfect if you’re just getting started.
Getting There: Amado is about 30 minutes from Lagos by car. Parking is available right by the beach, and there are a few small cafés nearby for post-surf snacks.
Praia da Rocha: A Wave for Everyone
Conditions: Praia da Rocha is a stunning beach in Portimão, Algarve. It’s a classic beach break with peaks that cater to surfers of all levels. Beginners will love the smaller inside waves, while intermediates can enjoy fun, punchy peaks when the swell is bigger.
Best Time to Surf: Works best in autumn and winter, though it can have fun waves in summer when the swell is up.
Vibe: The beach is touristy, but the surf scene is chill. You’ll find surf schools, rental shops, and plenty of après-surf options.
Getting There: Praia da Rocha is easily accessible by car, bus, or even walking from Portimão town centre. Parking is available.
Foz do Lizandro: A Beginner’s Paradise
Conditions: Located just south of Ericeira, Foz do Lizandro is a mellow beach break perfect for beginners and longboarders. The waves here are soft and forgiving, making it a favourite for surf schools.
Best Time to Surf: Works well year-round, but summer is the most beginner-friendly.
Vibe: Super relaxed and family-friendly. The beach has a broad sandy expanse, and there are a couple of bars and restaurants where you can chill out after your session.
Getting There: It’s a short drive from Ericeira, with plenty of parking available.
Praia do Norte: The Big Wave Beast
Conditions: Known for the infamous Nazaré giants, Praia do Norte is a big-wave mecca. Only experienced surfers with jet ski assistance take on the monstrous waves that form here. For everyone else, it’s a mesmerising spot to watch the spectacle of Mother Nature at her most powerful.
Best Time to Surf: October to March for the biggest swells.
Vibe: Spectators, surf photographers, and pros dominate the scene. It’s a high-energy spot with a buzz in the air when the swell hits.
Getting There: Praia do Norte is a short walk from Nazaré’s town centre. Follow signs to the lighthouse for the best viewing point.
Arrifana: The Algarve Gem
Conditions: This crescent-shaped bay on the west coast of the Algarve is as picturesque as it is fun to surf. Arrifana offers a mix of beach and point break waves, making it suitable for beginners to advanced surfers.
Best Time to Surf: Autumn and winter bring in the most consistent swells.
Vibe: It’s a peaceful spot with a small, tight-knit surf community. There are a few cafés and restaurants nearby, giving it a relaxed village vibe.
Getting There: Arrifana is about a 30-minute drive from Lagos. There’s parking available, but it can fill up quickly during busy periods.
Guincho: The Windy Wonderland
Conditions: Praia do Guincho, near Cascais, is known for its strong winds and powerful waves. While the wind can be a challenge, the beach offers solid surf for intermediates and advanced riders when conditions align.
Best Time to Surf: Autumn and spring are ideal when the winds are more manageable.
Vibe: The winds bring in kite surfers and windsurfers, so it’s a mix of water sports enthusiasts. Despite the challenging conditions, it has a cool and adventurous vibe.
Getting There: Guincho is a 30-minute drive from Lisbon. Public transport options are limited, so driving is your best bet.
Viana do Castelo: A Northern Escape
Conditions: This lesser-known gem in northern Portugal is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. The area has several beach breaks, with Cabedelo Beach being the most popular. The waves are consistent and work for all skill levels.
Best Time to Surf: Autumn and winter offer the best conditions.
Vibe: Quiet and peaceful. The area is still under the radar, so you won’t find packed lineups here.
Getting There: Viana do Castelo is about an hour’s drive from Porto. The beach has parking and some nearby amenities.
Praia de Monte Clérigo: A Relaxed Retreat
Conditions: This beach near Aljezur offers mellow waves ideal for beginners and intermediates. The sandy bottom and gentle waves make it a go-to spot for surf lessons.
Best Time to Surf: Works year-round, with the best waves during autumn and winter swells.
Vibe: It’s a tranquil, uncrowded spot with a handful of charming cafés nearby.
Getting There: Monte Clérigo is a 10-minute drive from Aljezur. There’s plenty of parking available.
Espinho: A Reliable Right-Hander
Conditions: Espinho, near Porto, is known for its long, peeling right-handers. The main break works best on a northwest swell and low tide, offering clean, rippable walls.
Best Time to Surf: Autumn and winter bring in the best swells.
Vibe: A mix of local and visiting surfers. The vibe is generally friendly, but the better waves can attract competitive crowds.
Getting There: Espinho is a 30-minute drive from Porto or easily accessible by train.
Best Time of Year to Surf in Portugal
Portugal offers surfable waves all year, but the best time depends on your skill level.
Summer (June to August) is ideal for beginners, with small, manageable waves averaging 3–5 feet. The water’s warmer, but beaches can get crowded near Lisbon and the Algarve.
Autumn (September to November) is the sweet spot for intermediates and pros, with consistent swells and fewer crowds. Waves grow to 5–10 feet, and the weather’s still pleasant.
Winter (December to February) is for advanced surfers chasing big swells, especially at famous spots like Nazaré and Supertubos. Waves can reach 15 feet or more, and you’ll need a thick wetsuit.
Spring (March to May) is a balanced season – powerful but forgiving waves make it great for all levels, and the sun is out. Whenever you go, check the surf forecast and pick a spot that suits your ability
Local Tips for Surfing in Portugal
- Pack the Right Wetsuit: The water in Portugal stays cold, even in summer. Bring a 3/2mm wetsuit for warmer months and a 4/3mm with booties for winter. If you’re heading out to spots like Nazaré in December, consider adding a hood to your setup.
- Timing Matters: Avoid the crowds by hitting the water early, especially in popular spots like Ericeira or Peniche. The mornings often have cleaner conditions with lighter winds, plus you’ll snag waves before the surf schools fill up the lineup.
- Know the Local Etiquette: Portuguese surfers are friendly, but respect is key. Wait your turn in the lineup, and don’t drop in. A smile and a “Bom dia!” go a long way in building good vibes with the locals.
- Keep an Eye on the Tides: Some breaks, like Supertubos or Coxos, work best at specific tides. Do your homework on the spot and check the tide charts. High tide can kill the surf at some places, while low tide can turn others into perfection.
- Explore Beyond the Famous Spots: Big names like Nazaré and Ericeira get the hype, but Portugal’s coast is full of lesser-known gems. Drive along the Alentejo or northern beaches for fewer crowds and epic waves. Just keep a board waxed and ready – you never know what you’ll find.
- Be Ready for Wind: Portugal’s coastal winds can pick up fast. Bring a backup plan for windier afternoons, like finding sheltered breaks or smaller beach coves.
- Parking is Tight: In places like Carcavelos or Guincho, parking fills up fast. Get there early or look for spots further from the main breaks to save yourself the hassle. Some towns have free public transport that’ll drop you closer to the action.
Travelling to Portugal for a Surf Trip
Portugal is an awesome place to travel to, whether you’re catching waves or not.
To make the most of your surf trip, here are some things to keep in mind.
Country Overview
Portugal, tucked on the western edge of Europe, is a dream for surfers. Its 1,793 km of coastline hugs the Atlantic, creating an endless playground of beach breaks, reef breaks, and massive waves like those at Nazaré.
The country enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making it surfable year-round.
From lively cities like Lisbon and Porto to sleepy fishing villages and untouched cliffs, Portugal offers a mix of culture, history, and incredible surf vibes.
Getting to Portugal for a Surf Trip
Getting here is easy. Fly into Lisbon (LIS) or Porto (OPO), both well-connected to Europe and North America.
If you’re driving from Spain, the highways are smooth, and train or bus options within Portugal are reliable.
Once you arrive, renting a car is the best way to explore the coast, giving you the freedom to chase swells and discover hidden gems.
Portugal Travel Attractions
When you’re not surfing, Portugal is packed with adventure.
Visit Lisbon’s historic neighbourhoods, climb the castles of Sintra, or sip port wine in Porto’s cellars.
The Algarve offers hiking and kayaking along dramatic cliffs, while the Douro Valley showcases world-class vineyards.
Whether you’re into exploring vibrant cities or relaxing in nature, there’s something for everyone.
Food in Portugal
The food here is next-level.
Start your day with a pastel de nata (custard tart) and fresh espresso. After a surf session, feast on seafood – grilled sardines, octopus rice, or a hearty bowl of cataplana.
Don’t miss the local wines or a glass of ginjinha, Portugal’s signature cherry liqueur.
Surf Resorts and Hotels: Where to Stay
Portugal has surf-friendly stays for every budget. For an all-in-one experience, check out surf houses like Laneez Ericeira Surf House. If you want a bit more luxury, the Memmo Baleeira Hotel or Martinhal Sagres Beach Resort offer stunning ocean views and high-end amenities.
Prefer a quieter vibe? Explore charming guesthouses in Alentejo or the northern beaches. Wherever you stay, you’re never far from epic waves.
Surfing in Portugal: FAQs
Where in Portugal has the best surfing?
Ericeira and Peniche are the top spots, offering world-class waves for all skill levels. The Algarve is great for beginners, while Nazaré is famous for its monster waves.
What is the best time of year to surf in Portugal?
The best time is from September to November when the waves are consistent, and the winds are offshore. Beginners might prefer summer for smaller, friendlier waves.
Where are the big surfing waves in Portugal?
Nazaré is the place to be for big waves, especially at Praia do Norte, where record-breaking giants roll in during winter.
What is the surf capital of Portugal?
Ericeira is officially the surf capital of Portugal and is also a World Surfing Reserve.
Where can I surf cheap in Portugal?
Peniche and Ericeira have affordable surf camps, hostels, and budget-friendly rentals. Alentejo’s less crowded beaches are also a great option for cheap surf trips.
Is it better to surf in Lisbon or Porto?
Lisbon offers better access to prime surf spots like Cascais and Ericeira. Porto is less crowded and closer to northern waves but requires more travel for variety.
What is the best month to surf in Porto?
October is ideal, with consistent waves, fewer crowds, and mild weather.
Do you need a wetsuit to surf in Portugal?
Yes, a wetsuit is essential year-round. A 3/2mm is fine in summer, but in winter, you’ll need a thicker 4/3mm or even a 5/4mm for the colder north.
Conclusion
Surfing in Portugal isn’t just about the waves – it’s the whole experience. From the epic breaks to the chilled-out locals and killer seafood, this place has everything a surf trip should.
Whether you’re paddling into your first wave or chasing barrels, Portugal’s got your back. So pack your wetsuit, bring your stoke, and get ready for a trip you’ll be talking about long after the wax melts off your board.
