Portugal has long been a top surf destination and a wicked winter escape for northern European surfers. With waves for all abilities, a consistent supply of North Atlantic swell, and excellent weather year-round, it’s no surprise the country has earned such a reputation. Here’s how to navigate a surf trip to Portugal.
Table of Contents
Overview
- Waves for all abilities
- Consistency
- Variety
- Crowds
- Localism
Best Time of Year
The best time of year to surf in Portugal depends on your ability. If you’re a beginner, head there in summer. (June, July & August). This is when the waves are at their smallest and the weather is hottest. For advanced surfers, any time of year will do. While winter often brings the biggest swells and stand-out days of waves, spring and autumn often bring the best conditions. My favourite time to surf in Portugal is October/November.
Portugal Surf Spots
Peniche
Peniche is the surfing capital of Portugal. With waves such as Supertubos as the main attraction, the small fishing town turned famous surf hotspot packs in heaps of waves no matter your ability. There isn’t much happening outside the water, but if you want to improve your surfing and nothing else, there’s nowhere better. Read more about surfing in Peniche.
Ericeira
If Peniche had a rival for Portugal’s surfing capital, it’s Ericeira. The town has dozens of waves along its coastline, from punchy beach breaks and a selection of world-class reef breaks. Coxos is the jewel in the crowd for advanced surfers, whereas Ribeira D’llhas is the pick for beginners and intermediates. On land, there’s more going on here than in Peniche. For more info, read more about surfing in Ericeira.
Lisbon
While Lisbon itself might not have waves, the nearby surrounding coastlines (just a short drive away), there are plenty of waves to be had. Places such as Caparica, are super consistent and are only a short drive from Lisbon itself. From Lisbon, Peniche is only 1 hour away, whereas Ericeira is a mere 45-minute drive.
Nazare
Nazare is the most famous of all of Portugal’s surf spots. It’s known for its towering a-frame peaks and having the biggest waves in the world. However, due to the underwater canyon, on small days, Nazare is a super hollow beach break and becomes an almost normal wave.
Algarve
The Algarve offers a platter of aquatic riches, with beach break wedges and a coastline facing in all directions, there is always somewhere to surf, regardless of the wind and swell. If you’re looking to escape the harsh Northern European winters further north, the Algarve is warm and sunny year-round.
Madeira
Fly two hours west of Lisbon and you’ll find Madeira. A stunning Atlantic island with towering dramatic sea cliffs, sparkling azure waters and a handful of right-hand points. Unfortunately, some of Madeira’s top breaks have gone extinct by coastal development, but there are still fun waves to be had if you know where to look.
Water Temperatures
In winter, you’ll need a 4/3mm and a pair of booties for the chilly morning sessions at the reefs. Even in summer, water temperatures never really creep up, but a decent 3/2mm and a short arm will see you through summer.
Getting There
Fly into Lisbon International for destinations such as Peniche and Ericeira, or Faro for the Algarve.
Enjoying this post? You might like some of our other European surfing content such as the complete guide to surfing in Hossegor. Or, our guides to top Portuguese destinations like Peniche, Ericeira, and Madeira.
Getting Around
By Car
The best way to get around while surfing in Portugal is by car. With wheels, you’ll be able to zip up and down the coast and surf the best breaks on the best days. Rent a car from Lisbon Airport and explore from there. Check out Discover Cars for the cheapest rental cars in Portugal.
By Public Transport
If you can’t drive, you can get around in Portugal via public transport. However, you’ll need to choose where to stay carefully, as many of the surf spots are spread out along the coast. I’d recommend booking a surf trip with one of Portugal’s best surf camps that can arrange transportation to breaks for you!
Where to Stay?
As you’d expect for such a renowned surf destination, Portugal’s main surf towns have accommodation options for all budgets. Here are some of my favourites.
Peniche Surf Lodge
- Dorm Price: $30 per night
- Surf Lessons: Yes
- Wifi: Excellent
- Vibe: Chill
Peniche Surf Lodge is my favourite spot to stay in Peniche. You can grab a dorm room here for around $3 per night and Duncan and Claire are super friendly and helpful in helping you get waves. Check it out here.
Selina Boavista
- Dorm Price: $25 per night
- Wifi: Excellent
- Vibe: Lively
If you’re after an affordable stay in the heart of Ericeira, Selina is a wicked option. With dorm rooms, privates, a small workspace, and an on-site restaurant, you’ll be in a great position to explore all of Ericeira’s best waves from here. Check Selina out here.
Tips for Surfing in Portugal
Crowds
Yep, it’s crowded in Portugal. There is no escaping it! Spots like Baleal, Supertubos, Coxos, and Ribeira D’llhas are all packed most days. However, because Portugal receives so much swell nd there are so many breaks (especially if you’re willing to hunt), you’ll still get plenty of waves.
Consistency
Portugal’s west coast faces directly into the North Atlantic, which means any swell that’s out there, will hit Portugal. In winter, you’re often waiting for the swells and storms to calm down rather than for the swell to come up. In summer, any lump or bump can translate into rideable waves.
Localism
There is some localism in Portugal. At the top breaks, eg. Supertubos and Coxos, the locals always get the best waves, and the local bodyboarders are super protective over “their” waves. As always, respect the locals wherever you’re surfing in Portugal.
Portugal Travel Information
- Currency: Euro
- Language: Portuguese
- Time Zone: GMT + 1
- Visa: 3 Month on Arrival
- Flight Times:
- LHR - LIS: 2h 30m
- LAX- LIS: 13h 0m +
- SYD - LIS: 24h 0m +
Portugal Surf Trip - Cost Breakdown
- 1 x week at Peniche Surf Lodge: $210
- 1 x week rental car: $200
- 1 x week groceries: $150
Total = $560
Final Words
Visiting Portugal at any time of year in the pursuit of waves will always result in wetting the gills In winter, expect big storms and the odd day of flawless waves–some of the best waves in the world happening on these days. In spring and summer, there are plenty of epic days. Days filled with surfing, coffee and man many pastel de natas. For more information on surfing in Portugal, flick us a message below.
