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Discover the best surfing camps Portugal
A quick overview
What to do?Β Learn how to surf or enjoy one of the many surf camps in Portugal.
Costs?Β β¬ 74 for a 3-day surf camp upwards.
Where?Β All over the Portuguese Atlantic coast.
Worth it?Β If youΒ΄d like to learn how to surf or join a fun surf community, then sure thing!
Why surf in Portugal?
Portugal is a well-known destination to surf or learn how to surf. There are some incredible surf spots for beginner and experienced surfers. The actual die-hards will surf in NazarΓ©, a place known to have some of the most giant waves in the world! Many records have been set here, but these waves are only for professionals.
For a surf holiday for beginners, Portugal is also fantastic. You can join a surf retreat, learn basic surfing techniques, and join some of the best surf camps. Whether you want to ride the waves in the Algarve along the south coast or find world-class surf breaks close to Peniche, youΒ΄ll enjoy a memorable time in Portugal.
Benefits of a surf camp in Portugal
There are many advantages to enrolling on one of the surf camps in Portugal. There are surfing camps for all ages, and itβs a fantastic way to learn a new skill. During your stay in a surf house, youβll also meet many other surfers, and you can make some long-lasting friendships. The surf camps are available for different skill levels, from beginners to advanced surfers.
The surf schools have professional equipment, offer surf equipment rental, and of course, experienced and qualified instructors. They will teach you the fundamentals of surfing, including techniques for paddling, catching waves, and maintaining balance on the board. A surf coach can even point out common mistakes, accelerating your learning process on the board. Safety is also super important, and youβll learn how to surf in a controlled environment under the watchful eye of instructors.
Best surf camps in Portugal
There are many surf camps in Portugal, and Discover Portugal did some research. Together with Tripaneer, you can find some of the best surf camps in the country! Some include complimentary yoga sessions along the coast and many other fun activities. Are you ready to discover fantastic surf spots and uplevel your surfing skills? LetΒ΄s check out some surf camps worth booking in Portugal!
8-Day Yoga and Surf Camp in Porto
Letβs start in the North of Portugal, close to Porto. Golden Waves Surf Lodge is located in Ovar, just south of the city. Itβs one of Portugalβs most secret surf destinations and perfect for beginners to advanced surfers. Your day will start with catching waves and end with a yoga session during sunset. The surf school will give you a step-by-step introduction to surfing for those whoβve never surfed before. The intermediate course is perfect for improving your surfing skills. And if you already know what youβre doing, Ovar is just a paradise for catching waves! You will enjoy daily surf lessons, totalling 12 hours of surf classes. You can use surfboards and wetsuits; this surf camp includes surf insurance.
Prices from:Β β¬ 599 for 8 days and 7 nights
Golden Waves Surf Lodge offers shared premium rooms, single, double, and family suites with garden views. Apart from the dorm, all rooms have private bathrooms with amenities.
Good to know:
β Maximum group size is 18 people
β Instructors speak Finnish, German, Portuguese, and SpanishΒ
β Daily surf lessons will be in English
β 7 nights in the villa are includedΒ
β Every morning breakfast is included
β The villa has a fully equipped kitchen for self-catering + barbecue facilities
β There will be 8 yoga sessions, including materialΒ
β Available for beginner, intermediate and advanced surfers
β There is an outdoor swimming pool and tennis/football court
β Enjoy the beautiful garden, including a meditation gardenΒ
OtherΒ Porto surf camps:
6-DayΒ All Levels Nature Surf CampΒ near Porto, Aveiro – By Marias Hostel & Surf – From β¬ 250
8-DayΒ Yoga and Surf CampΒ in Porto – By Golden Waves Surf Lodge – From β¬ 599
4-Day FlashΒ Surf for BeginnersΒ in an Eco Surfcamp – By Maceda Surf Camp – From β¬ 465
5-Day Surf Camp with Yoga in Peniche, Baleal Surf Camp
Peniche is one of the best places in Portugal to surf, and you’ll find many surf schools in this coastal town. One is the Shark’s Lodge, which offers the Baleal Surf camp. This 5-day Peniche surf lodge experience includes surfing, yoga, and a lot of fun! Three surf lessons are included and are ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers. There will also be three yoga classes. Full surfing insurance is included.
Prices from:Β β¬ 450 for 5 days and 4 nights
Shark’s Lodge is open all year round.Β
Good to know:
β Maximum group size is 8 people
β Multilingual staff
β Certified surf Instructors (IPDJ)
β Vinyasa flow and Hatha yoga
β Swimming pool (outdoor)
β Board rental
β Breakfast is includedΒ
β Private rooms or shared triple rooms (for males and females)
β Tennis court, climbing wall, and an outside CrossFit box
Discover another surfing experience close to Peniche:Β
7-DayΒ Surf Safari, 5 In-Water CoachingΒ Sessions – By Peniche Surf Lodge –Β From β¬ 940
5-DayΒ Surf and Yoga HolidayΒ in Peniche – By Boa Onda Guesthouse – From β¬ 519
8-DayΒ Refreshing Surf CampΒ – By Alex Surf Hostel – From β¬ 499
7-Day Intensive Surf Coaching for All Levels in Ericeira
An intensive course is fantastic for those who want to up-level their skills! And Ericeira, a World Surfing Reserve, is a fabulous place to do so. Itβs a favourite surf town of many, and there is a lot to see and do nearby. The Hostel & Surfcamp 55 offers surfing camps for beginners, intermediates, and advanced surfers. Youβll get two surf lessons per day, including theory lessons. Discover things to do in Ericeira by clicking here.
Prices from:Β β¬ 520 for 7 days and 6 nights
Hostel & Surfcamp 55 accommodates 21 people, and each room has a sea view!Β
Good to know:
β Maximum group size is 8 people
β The 4 and 6-bed dorms have private bathrooms. There are private rooms also
β A fully equipped kitchen
β Including nine 2.5 or 3-hour daily surf lessons with video analysis
β An individual surfing plan with different objectives
β Equipment is available onsite
β Insurance included
β free wi-fi
β Including roundtrip airport transfers from Lisbon airport
Other surf camps in Ericeira:
8-DayΒ Unforgettable Surf Camp ExperienceΒ – By Ericeira Chill Hill – From β¬ 289
8-DayΒ Breathtaking Surf and Yoga HolidayΒ – By the Salty Pelican Yoga – From β¬ 849
6-DayΒ Amazing Surfing and Yoga HolidayΒ – By Moka Surfhouse & Yoga Retreat – From β¬ 564
8-Day Exciting Surf Camp in Cascais
Even in the Portuguese capital, Lisbon is a chance to surf! Nearby places are Sintra, Cascais and Costa da Caparica. Check out theΒ Surf Cascais surf classes, for example, which offer affordable packages for beginners and intermediates. In between surfing lessons, you can join the yoga sessions! All materials are included, as well as insurance. Certain days include video/photo coaching with a surf instructor.Β
Prices from:Β β¬ 520 for 8 days and 7 nights
Surf Cascais has comfortable shared and private rooms available.
Good to know:
β Maximum group size is 6 people
β Including six 2-hour surfing lessonsΒ
β Two yoga classes
β Seven nights accommodation with buffet breakfast
β All classes are in English
β Outdoor pool and a garden
β Barbecue facilities
More surf camps in Lisbon:
5-Day / 4-NightΒ Complete Surf CampΒ – By Surf Lisbon – From β¬ 320
8-DayΒ Surf Camp in Costa da CaparicaΒ – By Lisbon Surf Villa – From β¬ 964
9-Day / 8 NightsΒ Best Surf Week of Your LifeΒ in Sintra – By Moby Dick Lodge – From β¬ 501
8-Day Yoga and Surf Camp at A Dream Destination in Aljezur
The Algarve is known for its stunning coastline, and there is plenty of opportunity to surf! The west coast has some fantastic waves, and Aljezur is an excellent spot to learn how to surf the green waves! Russo Surfcamp has surfing camps for all levels, and daily yoga classes are included. You can use the surf equipment for free (apart from Saturdays), and there are free bikes you can use. If you want to increase your surf skills, you can check the professional photo and video sessions with your instructor. There is live music every Friday night, which starts after the barbecue.
Prices from:Β β¬ 675 for 8 days and 7 nights
Russo Surfcamp offers rooms in a modern Portuguese country house surrounded by nature. Outside is a garden, BBQ area and plenty of spots to chill.
Good to know:
β Maximum group size is 40 people
β Six days of activitiesΒ
β Instructors speak French, Portuguese, Russian, and SpanishΒ
β Instructions are all in English
β Airport transfers from Faro and Lisbon are availableΒ
β Daily delicious meals
β Outdoor pool with outdoor terrace
β Bar with snooker table, ping pong, and mini football
β Special care for babies and kids and animal friendly
Other popular surf schools in the Algarve:
8-DayΒ Kids and Family Surf CampΒ in Praia da Luz – By Climb and Surfcamp Quinta Formosinho – From β¬ 1,170
8-DayΒ Surf Clinic for Intermediate to Advanced SurfersΒ in Bensafrim – By Tiny Whale Surf Lodge – From β¬ 785
8-DayΒ Intensive Kitesurf CampΒ in Luz – By Ocean Spirits Lodge – From β¬ 727
8-Day Fascinating Surf Camp in Machico, Madeira Island
You’re lucky if you prefer a surf holiday on the Portuguese islands! The islands are in the middle of the Atlantic and offer some of the best waves in Portugal! Madeira New Wave offers a surf camp on the east coast of Madeira, in Machico. It’s perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers, and in Madeira, you can enjoy the sea and the mountains! Read the Madeira guide for more tips!
Β
Prices from:Β β¬ 835 for 8 days and 7 nights
At Madeira New Wave, you stay in a modern house with private double rooms. The six themed rooms have a private bathroom, TV, and free Wi-Fi.
Good to know:
β Maximum group size is 15 people
β Instructors speak English, Portuguese, and SpanishΒ
β Instructions are all in English
β Including 5 surf lessons and equipment
β Transportation to the best surf spot
β The perfect location to discover the rest of Madeira Island
Other surf camps Madeira and Azores:
8-Day UnforgettableΒ Surf Camp in Porto da Cruz, Madeira Island – by Madeira New Wave – From β¬ 435
5-Day AuthenticΒ Surf Camp Experience with PilatesΒ in SΓ£o Vicente, Madeira – By Madeira Surf Centre – From β¬ 445
8-DayΒ Atlantic Surfcamp Experience on SΓ£o Miguel IslandΒ (Azores) – By Azores Bagus Surf Stay Explore – From β¬ 575
How to choose the right surfing camps in Portugal
Who is surfing?
There are a few things to remember when selecting your surf camp in Portugal. And one of the first things to consider is who is joining the surf camp. There are specific surfing camps for each level; beginner, intermediate, and advanced. There are many surf lessons for complete beginners and intermediate surfers.
For more experienced surfers, surf guiding is available, but itΒ΄s always best to check. Would you like to join a female-only surf camp? Or do you look for fun activities for your children? Or maybe you want to combine surfing with a yoga holiday? The surf camps in Portugal have something available for everyone!
Where are the surfing camps Portugal?
Second up is the location. Along the Portuguese coast are many surf towns that offer surf lessons. Do you prefer a dramatic coastline, or do you love stunning beaches? The surf house is often within walking distance from the surf beaches, but it is always good to check. The perfect surf camp has, of course, beach transfers included.
Best surf camps in Portugal (what to look out for)
You want to be in good hands when you join a surf camp in Portugal. Most (if not all) surf camps offer insurance, and all the surf equipment and wetsuit rentals are usually included. Be sure to take out travel insurance to cover any accidents that might occur! As Discover Portugal readers, you receive 5% discount on your policy. Check how many surf sessions are included depending on your wishes and goals. And there any yoga sessions offered to relax your mind and your muscles?
And the best surf camps have, of course, qualified surf instructors. This way, you can be sure your surf lesson is safe and effective. The best surf camps offer video or image sessions after your daily surf lessons. The experienced instructors can guide your surf game to the next level and prepare you for more advanced surf conditions. Surfing camps Portugal offer free WiFi in most cases.
Accommodation
People from all walks of life join the surf camps in Portugal. But not everyone has the same interests. For kids and youngsters, spending time in a surf house with many activities might be pleasant. But if you prefer a quiet surf trip, check if the accommodation caters as such. You might enjoy more yoga sessions, a surf camp nearby a natural park, or a surf retreat combining surfing lessons with a sunset yoga session, meditation, and massages.
Thankfully there is a surf experience for every surfer. You can easily find a surf house with a fully equipped kitchen so you can cook your healthy food. There are also many with barbecue facilities, and these surf schools might offer weekly barbecues and activities.
Surfing conditions in Portugal
Depending on the location, seasons and time of the month, the waves can be smaller or larger. Most surfing schools can advise about the wave sizes and swell. The Portuguese coastline stretches over 800 kilometres, and a beautiful beach is around every corner. The giant waves are known to be in NazarΓ©, suitable for professional and more experienced surfers only. But there is a surf experience for everyone in Portugal!
The Atlantic Ocean generates a consistent swell all year round, making Portugal a favourite surf location for many. The weather is warmer in summer, and the waves are friendlier. There are larger swells on the western coast as well. Autumn is quieter along the beaches, and the consistent swells are perfect. During the winter months, the waves can be more challenging, and experienced surfers will enjoy the breaks along the coast. For them, Portugal truly turns into a surfing mecca! In spring, the giant waves become smaller again, and most skill levels can join the surf camps again.
Surf breaks in Portugal
When surfing in Portugal, youβll encounter different types of surf breaks. But what are the best waves for you? You have beach breaks, which are perfect for beginners. Ericeira and Peniche are well suited for the beginner surfer. Consistent waves are ideal for any level surfer, and you can find these all over the country. Point breaks are a favourite of the experienced surfer. For example, the supertubos (supertubes) south of Peniche are loved by many. NazarΓ© is known for its massive reef break waves. These are fantastic for big-wave surfers!
Water temperature in Portugal
For those who swam in Portugal before, you might know how cold it is! The water is warmer in summer, but the temperate remains chilly. It is essential to dress appropriately, and all surf camps in Portugal offer wetsuit rentals. This way, your surf sessions can be longer, but you also protect yourself from the sun and salt water. Your surf school will help you with the best wetsuit for the time of year, which might depend on the location.
The sea temperature can vary between 17Β°C (63Β°F) in winter to 23Β°C (73Β°F) in summer. In the Algarve, it can be warmer than in northern Portugal. Besides a thick wetsuit in winter, you might also consider wearing neoprene accessories such as booties, gloves, and hoods for extra insulation. In summer, you can wear a thinner wetsuit, and they will protect you from rashes, also.
Favourite surf spots in Portugal for the best surf camps
Portugal has many surf spots for all levels. The Algarve has surf locations around Sagres, Aljezur, Arrifana Beach, Lagos, and Bordeira. North of the Algarve, you find the Alentejo coast. Here you find spots like Sines and Vila Nova de Milfontes. Closer to Lisbon, Cascais, Carcavelos, Costa da Caparica and Sintra are much loved. Further north, we find Ericeira, a World Surfing Reserve! With eight kilometres of coast, there is no shortage of fabulous waves to ride. Many surf schools also offer pick-up services from Lisbon airport.
You find the famous surf locations Peniche and NazarΓ© along the Silver Coast. Surfersβ Paradise Peniche has around 20 surf spots, whereas NazarΓ© is known for the biggest waves in the world. So even if you canβt ride them, check out the surfers who can! It will be a fantastic experience! Click here to read more about the big wave season in NazarΓ©. Along the Green Coast (the Costa Verde), you can enjoy surfing around Viana do Castelo, LeΓ§a da Palmeira, Ovar and Espinho. YouΒ΄ll find surf camps in Portugal in any of the above places!
FAQ
There are many beaches in Portugal where you can learn how to surf. The most popular places for beginners are Ericeira, Aveiro, Cascais, Costa da Caparica, Peniche and Lagos.
The waves in summer are friendlier and smaller. You can surf all year round, but the water temperature in winter is cold, and waves can be higher.
Literally 365 days a year! Although spring to autumn is excellent for beginner surfers and intermediate skills. In winter, many professional surfers come to Portugal to ride the bigger waves.
Conclusion about surfing camps Portugal
The best surfing camps are scattered all over the country, and there is the perfect surf lesson for every level. You’ll start with some theory and basic skills if you’ve never stood on a board. But the classes are also incredible for intermediate and experienced surfers. The best surf camps in Portugal offer a fantastic surf experience for all ages. The accommodations you’ll stay in are nearby beaches and close to wonderfully relaxed towns. The surf capital Ericeira is perfect for beginners, but seeing the professionals surf in NazarΓ© is also a great experience! Would you like to learn how to paddle and stand up on a board?
18 Responses
I can’t believe I’ve not been to Portugal yet! I would love to try surfing again as an adult (I used to do it as a kid). Ericeira sounds about right to get started again. That coastline is bound to have great surf being on the Atlantic!
I hope you get to surf here someday Hannah! IΒ΄m sure you would love it!
I’ll have to pass this info onto my surfie friends!
Thank you, Melanie! I hope it will be helpful to them π
Surf camp is a great place to learn! How cold do you think the water is around Portugal? I have struggled to learn how to surf in California because of how cold the water is!
It is usually between 17Β°C (63Β°F) to 23Β°C (73Β°F), so cold enough! A good wetsuit is a must to stay warm most days.
I’ve tried having my friends teach me how to surf in Florida, but I would love to take actual lessons, especially in Portugal!
Lessons are such a great way to learn! I hope you get to do it here.
Looks like so much fun, I would love to take surfing classes in Portugal one day!
I hope you can make it happen!
This seems so cool! Thanks for sharing!
Anytime Kacy!
The water in Portugal is stunning π
It sure is! Also, perfect for a swim!
This looks like such a fun activity in Portugal! I’ve only surfed in Australia so I’m curious how surfing would be here. Thanks for sharing your recommendations here!
YouΒ΄re welcome, Kelly! Australia must be excellent for surfing too!
This looks absolutely gorgeous! I tried surfing some years ago but was no good so switched to SUP. I certainly caught smaller waves on a SUP but it needs a different wave. Are any of these places SUP friendly?
Depending on the location and season you can definitely SUP here too. ItΒ΄s best to check with the surf camp what the possibilities are.