A destination that should be on every surfers bucket list, boasting rugged and uninterrupted Atlantic coastline laced with mellow beach breaks, big-wave swells and gnarly reefs of all different shapes and sizes. Portugal is the perfect playground for all levels of surfers.
Airport: Faro (FAO) or Lisbon (LIS)
Best time to visit: Bigger swell hits September to April. June to September is best for beginners.
Rubber: 5/3mm to 3/2mm depending on season and spot.
Local cuisine: Famous for their pasteis de natas (custard tarts).
Fun fact: Home to one of the worlds’ biggest waves, Nazaré.
There are consistent swells from September through to April, however the summer months are also popular for beginners and intermediates with smaller swells, combined with warmer water and air temperatures. The Algarve boasts two coastlines facing in completely different directions, so the chances of finding decent waves is pretty much certain.
Off the beach you’ll find cold local beer and mouthwatering pastries. Take some time to just stroll the streets as the architecture is intricate, colourful and the perfect backdrop for a sangria in the sunshine.
Surf Spots to check out:
- Peniche
- Ericeira
- Sagres
- Baleal
- Costa da Caparica
Our Top 3 Picks for Surf Travel in Portugal:
The Surf Experience
Lagos
The Surf Experience
Location: Lagos
The Surf Experience hails as the first surf camp and school Portugal, with over 30 years of experience in combining surf development, wholesome foods, a lot of fun and creating an environment where you’ll meet your new best friends.
Situated on the SW coast of Portugal means that The Surf Experience is wedged within short distances from both coastlines of Europe’s liquid dreams. There’s a number of accommodation options to choose from, as well as yoga weeks, surf safaris, female only and longboarding specific stays.
These guys offer a friendly vibe with a sprinkle of aprés surf, promising that you’ll have the opportunity to boogie before you leave.
Chicks on Waves
Algarve
Chicks on Waves
Location: Algarve
Discover the ultimate surf experience with Chicks on Waves, nestled in the heart of the Algarve where the waves are in abundance. The Chicks on Waves villa is situated overlooking the ocean, with a sun-drenched terrace, swimming pool and roof terrace for your perfect sunrise and sunset yoga spot.
The female-owned, ocean-view sanctuary welcomes all women to connect through the transformative power of surfing, yoga, and nature. Experience our Catch Green Waves package, where you’ll receive personalised coaching to conquer small, unbroken waves. Join us for an empowering escape where friendships flourish and memories are made to last a lifetime.
Soul & Surf
Algarve
Soul & Surf
Location: Algarve
Practice yoga, eat sunshine food, recharge, surf the Atlantic waves, or just hang by the pool. Enjoy getting to know the whole heap of brilliant people including the team that make this retreat so special.
A combination of all of the best things about surfing and yoga, but ultimately a place where you will spend time with other interesting and like-minded people from all over the world.
Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner gliding into your first waves, no worries; the SW Algarve and ‘The Soul of Surfing’ programme has you covered.
