Portugal has some of the best surfing beaches in Europe. With endless coastlines, breathtaking waves and a laid-back surf culture, the country has become one of the most popular destinations for surfers from all over the world. It is not only the world famous Praia do Norte in Nazaré, accessible to only the boldest big wave surfers, but endless more like Ribeira d’Ilhas in Ericeira, the Praia de Medão Grande known as “Supertubos” in Peniche, Praia do Guincho near Cascais and Praia da Arrifana on the Algarve coast just to name a few. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, grab your board and dive into the thrilling world of surfing in Portugal!
Praia do Cabedelo - Viana do Castelo:
Surrounded by dunes and pine forests it is an ideal spot for surfers of all levels. Regularly strong winds also make it a preferred spot for wind and kite surfers.
Praia do Norte – Nazaré:
Mostly known for its big wave events in the winter months, the Praia do Norte is also a great surfing spot on normal days.
Ribeira d’Ilhas, Coxos and Foz do Lizandro – Ericeira:
Ericeira is probably the place with most good surf spots in Portugal. There are 11 of them around this charming town, some world class. In Ribeira d’Ilhas, surrounded by beautiful cliffs the rocky underground of the bay allows the right breaking waves to run beautifully towards the beach. Foz do Lizandro is good at low and medium tide as currents can get strong in high tide. Coxos is the preferred spot for many of the locals.
Praia do Medão “Supertubos” – Peniche:
Famous for its consistency of good waves, this spot, although not ideal for beginners, can be surfed all year round. “Supertubos” also hosts the Meo Rip Curl championship, a stage of the World Surf League.
Praia do Guincho – Cascais:
Due to its changing wave sizes and sometimes strong north-easterly winds it is not as constant as some other surfing spots, but on a good day, the natural setting of this wonderful beach make surfinh here an unforgettable expeience
Praia da Arrifana – Aljezur:
Set in a beautiful natural setting and benefitting from usually warmer weather and water than the spots in the north, the Arrifana bay, due to its sandy underground, is ideal for surfers of all levels. Only in the winter months, the waves are reserved for the more experienced surfers.
Best surfing spots to learn surfing in Portugal?
Praia do Tonel – Sagres:
The Praia do Tonel, just outside of the town of Sagres might be one of the best beaches to learn how to surf. There are plenty of surf schools and the beach is big enough to accommodate them all. The waves are usually fairly small, ideal for beginners. Having a number of restaurants and bars in nearby Sagres is another benefit of this spot.
Praia do Amado – Carrapateira, Aljezur
A bit further north along the western coast, lies the Praia do Amado, whose consistent waves are not affected by the tide, a big benefit for those who want to learn surfing. The water is also warmer than in many of the other surf spots on the west coast. The beach is quite remote with Carrapateira being the nearest village. You definitely need a car.
Praia da Arrifana – Aljezur (see also above)
One of the most beautiful surf beaches in Portugal and also ideal for beginners is the Praia da Arrifana, west of Aljezur. It can be a bit crowded in summer, but the location of the beach make it always worthwhile. It is also protected from the wind by the surrounding cliffs making it a good option on windy days. Please note that there is quite a steep walk down to the beach and back up at the end of the day.
Costa da Caparica – Caparica, Almada (Lisbon)
Just a short drive south of Lisbon, across the Tagus river, is a long stretch of beach with golden sand called Costa da Caparica. Besides being a great spot to learn how to surf it is also known for its lively beach bars and restaurants. Waves are usually consistent and mellow and there are plenty of surf schools to choose from along the beach.
Guincho – Cascais
Also not far from Lisbon at the foot of the Sintra mountains, lies one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, the Guincho beach. Although it has a tendency to be windy and can have big waves at times, it is a good spot to learn surfing with a number of schools offering surf classes. Just check out Windguru before you go.
Foz do Lizandro – Ericeira
Located on the southern stretch of the Ericeira coast, the Foz do Lizandro beach with its sandy bottom and consistent waves make it an ideal spot for professional surfers and beginners alike. Intermediate tide is the best time for those who want to learn. The nearby lively town of Ericeira is an extra benefit for an enjoyable stay, although it is pricier than other surf spots along the coast.
Cantinho da Baia - Peniche
Peniche on the central coast of Portugal is one of the most famous surf spots in this beautiful country. Its “Supertubos” beach break is part of the World Surf League championship tour. But one of its beaches, the Cantinho da Baia, is also one of the best places to learn how to surf. Peniche itself is a small fishing town with lots of excellent fish and seafood restaurants where you can gain strength after a long day in the water.
Figueira da Foz, Coimbra
Far from the tourist masses, the Praia do Cabedelo in Figueira da Foz is an authentic option to spend a surfing holiday. The stronger waves are broken by a pier allowing beginners to enjoy the spot as much as the more experienced surfers who catch the waves a bit further out.
Praia da Torreira, Murtosa
About 40 km south of Porto the Praia da Murtosa offers excellent right as well as left breaks whose size is perfect for those who want to start using shorter boards.
Matosinhos, Porto
When visiting Porto you can opt for a surf school or surf camp in the nearby town of Matosinhos, just northwest of Porto. The mellow beach break offers ideal conditions for beginners. And it can be reached by metro.
Where to stay for your next surf holiday in Portugal?
Take a look at our favourite surf hotels and guest houses near some of the best surfing beaches in Portugal.
If you want, you can also take a look at our surf hotels all over Europe, Africa and South America!
Noah Surf House, Santa Cruz
Noah Surf House in Santa Cruz, Portugal, is a true paradise for surfers and nature lovers. This modern beach resort not only offers comfortable accommodations but also top-notch waves right outside your front door. Here you can take surf lessons, relax in the infinity pool, or enjoy fresh seafood at the on-site restaurant. Noah Surf House's sustainable philosophy adds to the magical atmosphere.
Noah Surf House, Santa Cruz
Book your stay at Noah Surf House in Santa Cruz
FeelViana Hotel, Viana do Castelo
FeelViana Hotel in Viana do Castelo is the perfect place for surf enthusiasts who want to explore the beauty of the northern coast of Portugal. This modern and stylish hotel offers not only luxurious rooms and excellent service, but also direct access to one of the best surfing locations in the country. After a day on the waves, you can relax in the hotel's spa area or experience the local culture in the historic town of Viana do Castelo.
FeelViana Hotel, Viana do Castelo
Book your stay at FeelViana Hotel in Viana do Castelo
Seaya Family Surf Houses, Cascais
Seaya Surf Houses in Cascais is the ideal retreat for surfers and families. Consisting of three independent cottages and each villa has spacious, sunny terraces and is just 2 km from the famous Guincho Beach. The perfect place for surfing enthusiasts to enjoy water sports and other fun beach activities near Lisbon. The owners of Sea'Ya Family Surf House can organize surf lessons for beginners and young children to ensure that all family members get the most out of their stay.
Seaya Family Surf Houses, Cascais
Book your stay at Seaya Family Surf Houses in Cascais
Aldeia da Pedralva, Vila do Bispo
Aldeia da Pedralva in Vila do Bispo is a charming Portuguese village transformed into unique holiday homes. This place is perfect for surfers who want to explore the wild and secluded beaches of the Algarve. The accommodations are rustic and cozy, and the hotel restaurant serves delicious regional Portuguese dishes. Aldeia da Pedralva offers an authentic experience amid stunning scenery.
Aldeia da Pedravla, Vila do Bispo
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Casa do Covo, Costa Vicentina, Alentejo
Casa do Covo in Porto Covo is a small, family-run surf house with a relaxed atmosphere. The accommodation is rustic and simple but comfortable, and the beach is just a short walk away. Here you can experience the spectacular sunsets on the west coast of Portugal, surf, and experience the owner’s hospitality. It accommodates surfers, adventurers and travelers who want to experience the relaxed surf culture and the natural splendour of the coast.
Casa do Covo, Costa Vicentina, Alentejo
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Immerso
Immerso is an elegant and relaxing retreat in Ericeira. The concept of Immerso is to be inspired by nature. Therefore, they appreciate the surrounding nature and incorporate it into their hotel. Whether it is the minimalist design of the rooms using natural materials, the restaurants inspired by local recipes and using local products, or their commitment to reducing carbon emissions as much as possible. Part of the appreciation of the surrounding landscape is that Immerso offers surfing lessons and equipment hire so that every guest can enjoy this unique World Surfing Reserve.
Immerso, Ericeira
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Aethos Ericeira
Are you looking for a special luxury hotel for your surf trip in Portugal? Then Aethos Ericeira is the hotel for you. It is a modern design hotel, very secluded on top of a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This is definitely THE view of Portugal's Silver Coast. In addition to luxurious wellness and getting in touch with the surrounding nature through various activities, Ericeira is known as the surfing mecca of Portugal. This is why Aethos Ericeira is the perfect place for your surf holiday.
Aethos Ericeira, Ericeira
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Areias do Seixo
Areias do Seixo offers hotel rooms as well as villas and a townhouse. Here you will find the perfect accommodation for your type of surfing holiday in Portugal. This modern boutique hotel will spoil you with great design interiors, elegant decor, gourmet meals and a fantastic spa by the sea with dunes and nature as a backdrop. Perfect for the whole family. Explore the family village, vegetable garden, yoga classes and of course... surfing with the whole family.
Areias do Seixo, Torres Vedras
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Monte do Papa-Léguas
What better place to stay than in a natural park? Monto do Papa-Léguas is just that: in the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park. This country house is full of traditional Alentejo design, incorporating the local colours and timeless lines, and has 5 rooms. The property is surrounded by some of Portugal's best beaches and nature. You can explore the surrounding landscape not only on land with some of the hotel's bikes, but also in the water: With surfing, diving and fishing, there is something for everyone.
Monte do Papa-Léguas, Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park
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Mercearia D'Alegria
Mercearia D'Alegria is a boutique Bed & Breakfast in an ancient house that has been carefully renovated to provide accommodation in the beautiful town of Peniche. Close to the sea, it is the perfect accommodation for a surfing holiday in Portugal. After a long day of surfing you can use the free bicycles provided by the B&B to cycle back to your accommodation and enjoy the last rays of sunshine on the outdoor terrace where breakfast is served.
Mercearia D'Alegria, Peniche
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Still haven't found what you're looking for? Take a look at our selection of the best places to stay in Portugal:
- Luxury hotels, luxury apartments and luxury villas in Portugal
- Holiday apartments, villas and guesthouses in Portugal
- Romantic holidays and Honeymoon in Portugal
- Holidays with children and family-friendly hotels in Portugal
- Pet-friendly hotels in Portugal
- Adults only hotels in Portugal
- Country hotels and holiday homes in the countryside in Portugal
- Beach hotels and villas by the sea in Portugal
- City breaks in Portugal
- Yoga and wellness hotels in Portugal
- Eco-friendly hotels in Portugal