With hundreds of kilometres of coastline exposed to Atlantic swells, Portugal is considered one of the best surf destinations in Europe and the world. There are waves practically every day of the year, beaches facing every direction, a mild climate and a wide choice of schools and surf camps, making it ideal for beginners and professionals alike.
Main destinations
- Ericeira: less than an hour from Lisbon, in 2011 it became Europe's first World Surfing Reserve, for the quality and density of its waves, such as Coxos and Ribeira d'Ilhas, which hosts international contests.
- Peniche: thanks to its peninsula, it has beaches facing north and south, with waves in almost any conditions. Supertubos beach, with its powerful barrels, hosts a stop on the WSL world tour every year; Baleal is perfect for learning.
- Nazaré: Praia do Norte is world-famous for its giant waves, which exceed 20 metres in winter and are ridden only by expert surfers towed by jet skis. For everyone else, the show is watched from the lighthouse.
- Lisbon and around: Carcavelos, on the Cascais train line, and the long Costa da Caparica (see Almada) are the Lisbon surfers' beaches; Guincho is the realm of kitesurfing and windsurfing.
- Vicentine Coast and western Algarve: the wild beaches of Arrifana, Amado, Bordeira and Monte Clérigo (see Aljezur) and those around Sagres, where there is always a beach sheltered from the wind.
- The north: Matosinhos and Espinho near Porto, Figueira da Foz, and kitesurfing at Viana do Castelo.
- The islands: Santa Bárbara on São Miguel in the Azores, and Jardim do Mar and Paul do Mar on Madeira, with powerful waves for experts.
When to go
Autumn, from September to November, is considered the best season: swells are regular, the water keeps its summer warmth and beaches are quieter. Winter brings the biggest waves, for experts. Summer has smaller waves, ideal for beginners, but busier beaches.
Practical information
The Portuguese Atlantic is cold: even in summer you need a 3/2 mm wetsuit on the west coast, and 4/3 mm or more in winter. Surf schools are everywhere, with courses for all ages, board and wetsuit hire and surf camps with accommodation. As always at sea, watch out for currents and the rules of priority in the water, and respect local surfers. See also the most beautiful beaches.