Surfing Lisbon

Portugal and Lisbon is known for its consistent waves, stunning beaches, and surf-friendly climate

Whether you're a beginner looking for a surf school or an advanced surfer seeking challenging breaks, the Lisbon coastline has something for everyone.

Lisbon Surf Experience

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Lisbon Surf Experience ⭐

With Lisbon’s proximity to so many great surf spots, you’ll never be far from your next wave! If you want to surf close to the city or take a day trip to explore world-class breaks, this region is a surfer’s paradise.

Here’s an overview of the top surf spots in and around Lisbon:

Carcavelos Beach

• Location: About 15–20 minutes west of Lisbon, along the Cascais train line.

• Best for: Beginners to intermediate surfers.

• Surf conditions: Carcavelos is one of the most popular surf beaches near Lisbon. The sandy bottom and consistent beach break make it ideal for learning to surf. The waves are typically in the 3 to 6 feet range.

• When to surf: Best from autumn to spring (September to April) when the swell is more consistent.

• Vibe: Very popular, especially with locals and tourists alike, so it can get crowded, especially during weekends.

Guincho Beach

• Location: Near Cascais, about a 30-minute drive from Lisbon.

• Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers.

• Surf conditions: Guincho is known for its strong winds and large waves, making it a haven for both surfers and windsurfers. The beach faces northwest, so it gets the full brunt of Atlantic swells, making it more suitable for experienced surfers when the swell is big.

• When to surf: Summer can be windy, but autumn and winter offer bigger and more powerful swells.

• Vibe: Beautiful, wild, and less crowded than other beaches. It’s surrounded by the stunning Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, adding to the scenery.

Lisbon Surf Experience

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Lisbon Surf Experience ⭐

Praia do Norte (Nazaré)

• Location: A little farther away from Lisbon (about 1.5 hours' drive north).

• Best for: Big wave surfers (advanced to expert).

• Surf conditions: Nazaré is world-famous for its monstrous waves, especially in winter, when it can see some of the biggest waves in the world due to a unique underwater canyon that funnels swell directly toward the beach.

• When to surf: October to February is when the biggest swells hit, but it's also extremely dangerous at this time, suitable only for highly experienced surfers.

• Vibe: Nazaré has gained fame because of big wave competitions, and the atmosphere can be a mix of awe and adrenaline when the big swells arrive.

Ericeira

• Location: Around 35 minutes north of Lisbon.

• Best for: All levels (various surf spots for different skills).

• Surf conditions: Ericeira is a surf reserve with over 7 kilometers of coastline, boasting some of Portugal’s most famous surf breaks. There are numerous spots catering to all levels:

  • Ribeira d’Ilhas: A long right-hand point break, ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers.

  • Foz do Lizandro: Great for beginners due to its sandy bottom and mellow waves.

  • Coxos: A world-class, fast and powerful right-hand wave, recommended only for experienced surfers.

• When to surf: Year-round, but the best conditions are in autumn and winter.

• Vibe: Ericeira has a laid-back surf town atmosphere with surf shops, cafes, and a cool beach vibe.

Costa da Caparica

Lisbon Surf Experience

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Lisbon Surf Experience ⭐

• Location: Just south of Lisbon, across the Tagus River.

• Best for: All levels (especially beginners and intermediates).

• Surf conditions: Costa da Caparica is a long stretch of beach with many different surf spots along its length, providing a variety of wave types. The beach break here is consistent, with the waves ranging in size depending on the time of year. Schools and surf camps are common here, making it beginner-friendly.

• When to surf: Best in autumn and winter, although summer is also great for learning.

• Vibe: A local favorite, but it can get crowded, especially in the summer months.

Peniche

• Location: About 1 hour north of Lisbon.

• Best for: All levels (home to Supertubos, one of Portugal’s most famous breaks).

• Surf conditions: Peniche offers a variety of waves, including the famous Supertubos, a fast and hollow wave ideal for advanced surfers. For beginners, there are plenty of more mellow beach breaks like Baleal.

• When to surf: Best from September to April when the swells are consistent.

• Vibe: Peniche is a well-known surf town and hosts various surf competitions. The town has a relaxed and welcoming surf culture.

Surf Schools and Camps

Lisbon and the surrounding areas have many surf schools and camps where you can take lessons or join surf tours. Some popular options include:

• Lisbon Surf House: Located in Carcavelos, offering surf lessons, camps, and accommodation.

• Ericeira Surf Camp: A popular surf camp in Ericeira, offering surf packages for all levels.

• Peniche Surf Camp: Perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers wanting to stay close to some of the best surf spots in Portugal.

Lisbon Surf Experience

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Lisbon Surf Experience ⭐

Best Times to Surf in Lisbon

• Autumn (September to November): This is considered the best time to surf in Lisbon. The water is still warm from summer, but the swells start picking up, and the crowds thin out.

• Winter (December to February): This is big wave season, with powerful swells rolling in. The water can be cold, but if you have the right gear, this is prime time for surfing.

• Spring (March to May): The waves are smaller than in winter, but it's still a good time for beginners and intermediates.

• Summer (June to August): Waves are smaller, ideal for beginners, but the beaches can get crowded.