Summary
Portugal is to Europe what Bali is to Indonesia; it represents the surfing paradise of the continent, providing the most consistent swells across a diverse array of breaks, some widely recognized while others remain hidden gems.
This location invites surfers to experience peeling beach breaks that roll into the golden sands of the sunny Algarve. Alternatively, ambitious surfers can challenge themselves against the formidable waves of Nazare, renowned for hosting the largest waves globally!
However, Portugal is not solely defined by its remarkable surfing conditions and diverse breaks. The region is also home to picturesque surf towns, bordered by stunning coastlines interspersed with pine forests and dune meadows, and complemented by a rich culinary scene featuring delights such as salt-cod broth paired with Douro wine.
Having surfed and explored Portugal for nearly 12 years, I recall catching some of my initial waves outside the UK on the beginner beaches of northern Peniche. Since then, I have undertaken month-long surfing retreats in the Algarve and attended surf camps in Porto. Below are my 10 top choices for the best surfing locations in Portugal.
1. Peniche
Among all the surfing locations in Portugal, Peniche is repeatedly lauded for its exceptional quality and variety of breaks. This town is located on a tombola of land about 1.5 hours’ drive north of Lisbon, featuring sands that face north, south, and west directly into the Atlantic.
The benefit of this location is that nearly any swell and wind direction will yield surfable conditions. During the summer, to maximize your surfing experience, visit Praia da Consolação, where you can ride smaller waves under the gaze of the centuries-old Fortaleza. In winter, for larger swells, retreat to Baleal to surf the protected sets at Praia das Pedras Muitas, which serves as a beginner hub for the area.
A standout wave in this region is Supertubos. This powerful barrel wave forms curling tubes that draw water from the beach south of downtown Peniche and is a venue for major annual WSL competitions—ideal for spectators but potentially hazardous for inexperienced surfers.
2. Sagres
Sagres represents the surf capital of the Algarve, positioned at the wave-battered southwestern tip of Portugal. Beyond the coastline, any further travel leads directly into the Atlantic Ocean. The area hosts numerous reputable surf schools and lodges that meet its esteemed title.
The primary surfing action occurs at Tonel Beach, nestled beneath towering cliffs at the western edge of the town, where the cannon-holed structure of the historic Fortaleza de Sagres overlooks.
However, Tonel is not the only accessible surfing location here. Sagres also provides excellent access to the southern Algarve, catering to beginners seeking less challenging swells.
For a more tranquil experience, venture east to beaches like Praia do Barranco and Praia da Luz, where gentle waves and a family-friendly atmosphere abound, complete with sun loungers and ice cream parlors adorning the promenades.
3. Ericeira
Ericeira holds the distinction of being the first officially recognized World Surfing Reserve in Central Portugal. The reason for this accolade is evident; the town is surrounded by a lengthy stretch of west-facing Atlantic shoreline that is perpetually surfable. The northern section attracts professional surfers, while the southern segment accommodates learners and casual riders.
Starting with the latter, lengthy sandy bays like Foz do Lizandro and Praia do Sul serve as ideal locations for beginners during the summer, providing manageable chest-high waves. Many novice surfers have ridden their first waves here, all framed by the sun-lit cliffs along Portugal’s central coast.
In contrast, the rocky bays to the north, such as Coxos and Ribeira D’Ilhas, create an entirely different atmosphere. When winter storms arrive, powerful swells generate impressive barrel rides, offering breathtaking sights and exhilarating experiences for the daring.
4. Nazare
It is crucial to acknowledge that the vast majority will likely never surf the colossal waves of Nazare. The town is renowned on the international surfing circuit for possessing the largest surfable waves on the globe.
The record for the most significant wave ever ridden was achieved here, set in 2020 by Sebastian Steudtner, who successfully rode an astounding 86-foot (26-meter) wave without falling.
Realistically, surfing in Nazare is primarily for spectators. It is best to visit around October for an opportunity to witness the largest swells of the year. Crowds gather at the clifftop lighthouse by North Beach to observe the spectacular waves.
Furthermore, the town of Nazare is quite charming, featuring a genuine Portuguese coastal atmosphere characterized by cobblestone streets winding through whitewashed cottages and lively tavernas.
5. Arrifana
Arrifana is recognized as one of the premier beginner surf spots in the southern Algarve region. This locale enjoys nearly 300 days of sunshine each year and is consistently graced by swells from the north and central Atlantic, resulting in a picturesque bay bordered by soaring cliffs and charming whitewashed coastal cottages.
The path to the beach is dramatic and exciting, guiding visitors past surf cafes and board rental shops before descending a wooden ladder onto the sandy shore. The stacked rock formations visible to the south are often shrouded in ocean mists, creating a mystical ambiance.
Beginners and intermediates should focus on the primary beach break, where 20 different waves crest along 700 meters of shining sand.
For more experienced surfers, there is a faster, advanced tubular wave that breaks in front of the harbor, but this requires swells exceeding eight feet.
6. Carcavelos
Carcavelos is the most renowned surf break along the Estoril Coast, which stretches westward from the bustling capital of Lisbon. As a result, it tends to be crowded; nonetheless, it remains exceptionally consistent and is suitable for surfing throughout the entire year, accommodating varying skill levels depending on the season.
Accessing the beach is simple; board a tram at the Cais do Sodré station in downtown Lisbon, which conveniently delivers you within a block of the waves after a 35-minute ride. The beachfront offers board rentals and reputable surf schools providing lessons at competitive prices.
The shorebreak wave lures many surfers; it is notable for its power, curling toward the beach with vigorous closeouts while presenting the occasional left or right line.
Beyond the bay, the reefs to the west form a barreling right that attracts seasoned surfers, though it is wise to avoid this area as a newcomer.
7. Espinho
Charming Espinho is a trendy beach town located just to the south of Porto. A short 30-minute train journey from the city delivers visitors to a delightful expanse of golden sand adorned with a palm-lined promenade and vibrant sunset bars. The atmosphere is inviting and relaxed.
The waves are particularly impressive during the autumn and winter months, with strong northwestern swells prompting exciting surf conditions. During this period, spectators can observe expert shortboard surfers riding the barreling rights near the concrete breakwater at the north end of the beach.
Nevertheless, what makes Espinho one of Portugal’s top surfing destinations is its gentler beach breaks during the summer months, coupled with a proliferation of affordable surf schools providing lessons. This makes it a prime spot for beginner surfers traveling from Porto.
8. Azurara
Located along the Green Coast of northern Portugal, Azurara is a quaint fishing village featuring a limited number of tranquil coastal hotels. A series of sandy boardwalks traverse the oat-lined dunes, leading to an inviting bay that accommodates surfers of all levels.
In spring and summer, the onshore winds diminish, creating favorable conditions for enjoyable longboard and shortboard surf sessions. Prime waves can be found near the breakwater on the northern side of Praia da Azurara, offering wonderful conditions for trimming.
Azurara is somewhat of a hidden gem in the northern Portuguese surf scene, providing a serene escape from the more crowded beaches of Espinho and Matosinhos near Porto. However, the beach’s orientation necessitates southerly swells for optimal conditions; otherwise, the waves can be quite flat.
9. Jardim do Mar
Jardim do Mar is a challenging surf spot, completely exposed to the powerful winter swells from the west that sweep through the Atlantic from November to March. This intimidating break is located along the southwestern edge of Madeira, Portugal’s subtropical paradise.
Under dramatic cliffs adorned with palm trees and ferns, the wave begins with a stern drop straight onto a solid slab of Atlantic water.
If you manage to successfully turn at the bottom, you will face an overhead wall of water to your right, which accelerates rapidly. Mastering the top and bottom turns is essential to navigate the more difficult sections and avoid the rough cobblestone beachfront.
Unfortunately, Jardim do Mar has been designated as a wave at risk due to the adverse effects of a jetty constructed years ago, which slightly diminished its power. Consequently, the break can now only be surfed at low tide.
10. Costa da Caparica
The stunning Costa da Caparica stretches along the central coast for an impressive 8.5 miles. This unbroken stretch of cinnamon-colored sand is conveniently located within a 30-minute drive of the capital, making it an ideal choice for city dwellers who wish to explore Lisbon while enjoying some surf time.
Multiple surfing spots can be found along this lengthy shoreline. However, the true joy lies in meandering to discover a wave to call your own for the day. The northern end of the beach typically offers slightly smaller swells, while south of Praia do Castelo, approximately the midpoint, the waves generally grow in size.
The surf conditions here are largely influenced by underwater sandbanks that can fluctuate in quality; good days can be followed by flat conditions. While westerly winds can create choppy surf, rare easterly winds during winter can transform the area into smooth, ideal surfing conditions.
