Discover where to surf in Portugal
Discover where to surf in Portugal Sacha Verheij on Unsplash

Surfing in Portugal is incredibly popular, thanks to the country's excellent surf conditions, beautiful beaches, and consistent waves. Portugal is known for its diverse coastline, which offers a wide range of surf spots suitable for all levels of experience, from beginners to advanced surfers. Get ready to enjoy the best surfing in Portugal and plan a seaside road trip to some of the best surfing beaches in Portugal. These are our recommendations of the 10 best surf spots in Portugal.

    Surfing in Portugal

    Portugal provides an incredible experience when it comes to surfing, whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to catch your first wave. Portugal has numerous surf spots along its coastline, with the most famous ones located in the central and southern regions. Peniche, Ericeira, and Nazaré are renowned for their world-class waves, hosting international surf competitions. 

    Portugal offers a variety of wave types, making it suitable for surfers of different skill levels. The country is known for its consistent and powerful Atlantic swells, which generate excellent waves. From beach breaks to reef breaks and point breaks, Portugal has a wide range of wave setups that cater to different surfing preferences.

    When is the best time to surf in Portugal? Portugal is a year-round surfing destination, with the surf conditions varying throughout the seasons. The autumn (September to November) is considered the prime surf season when the Atlantic swells are at their best. However, the winter months (December to February) bring larger waves, particularly in the renowned big-wave spot of Nazaré. Spring (March to May) and summer (June to August) offer smaller and more manageable waves, making it ideal for beginners and less experienced surfers looking for a relaxing summer holiday.

    Praia do Norte, Nazaré

    The great waves at Praia do Norte
    Wikipedia

    First on the list of the best surf sports in Portugal is undoubtedly one of the best surf beaches in Portugal. Praia do Norte is a world-renowned beach located in Nazaré, a coastal town in central Portugal. It has gained international fame for its massive waves and has become a mecca for big-wave surfers seeking the ultimate thrill.

    Praia do Norte is one of the most famous beaches in the surfing world thanks to its gigantic waves. Garret McNamara is one of the surfers responsible for putting this beach on the world’s surfing map with 2 world records for the biggest wave ever surfed in one of Portugal's best surf spots. In November 2011, he broke a Guinness World Record by surfing a 78 ft (23.8 m) wave in Praia Norte. 2 years later, he broke his own record, after surfing a 100 ft (30 m) wave along the Coast of Nazaré. If you want to follow McNamara’s footsteps and improve your surfing skills you can take a class at the local surf school.

    Once you're finished riding waves for the day, make sure to visit the Miradouro do Suberco, a viewpoint that offers amazing views of the sea and the coastline. And, because we all know a day in the sea can be tiring, refuel with a delicious traditional Portuguese dish of grilled sardines or caldeirada, a stew prepared with fresh fish, tomatoes, bell peppers, potatoes and served on top of toasted bread.

    Peniche

    Peniche has become very famous in the international surf circuit, transforming Portugal into the sport’s European capital and is one of the best places to surf in Portugal. The most popular beach among surf fanatics is the Supertubos beach, the “European Pipeline” with incredibly powerful waves. Also putting Peniche on the map are global competitions. Every year, thousands of surfers from all over the world meet in Peniche for the ASP World Tour competitions and to do the sport they love the most. 

    If you plan to make a visit and ride the waves here, in between Peniche and the Baleal Beach (a special place where the sea is on both sides of the beach) you can find amazing hostels, small hotels and a wide range of holiday apartments for rent.

    Ericeira

    Beautiful views of the coast in Ericeira
    Wikimedia commons

    Ericeira is a popular surfing destination located on the western coast of Portugal, approximately 50 kilometres (31 miles) north of Lisbon. It is known for its consistent surf, diverse wave options, and a vibrant surf culture. 

    This picturesque fishermen’s village is filled with amazing surf spots such as S. Lourenço, Coxos, Pedra Branca and Foz do Lizandro. During the off-season, this area is a true surfer’s paradise, thanks to great beaches, incredible waves and tranquillity; perfect conditions to practise and improve your skills on the board.

    For a change of scenery and a rest from the waves in one of the best surf towns in Portugal, we recommend heading to Mafra to discover the town and enjoy some traditional Portuguese pastries, as well as visiting Sintra for a quick romantic getaway. The area is also close to Lisbon where you can spend an afternoon enjoying the capital's hustle and bustle.

    While in Ericeira, you must try the local cuisine. The best place to do this by far is in one of the town’s “marisqueiras” (seafood restaurants) that serve the best fresh fish and seafood dishes in the area.

    Espinho

    Espinho has become a popular destination for those wishing to spend a few days in the sun. However, the rough sea conditions make it difficult for regular swimming and diving, but you can find a seaside pool that has been built so everyone can safely swim in the salty waters.

    Surfers, on the other hand, are fearless and come here to take advantage of the impressive waves. After a long day of adventure at sea, you can also take your chances at Espinho’s casino to relax and unwind. 

    Praia de Carcavelos, Carcavelos

    The best beach for surfing really close to Lisbon
    Wikipedia

    Carcavelos is one the most popular and most frequented beaches in Lisbon. Thanks to its location and proximity to the city, the beach is often overcrowded so if you want to enjoy the waves, make sure you choose your spot wisely and go early in the morning.

    This Portuguese surf beach offers beachbreaker waves, perfect for beginners, and is very well equipped with shower rooms, toilets and volleyball and basketball courts. In the area surrounding the beach, you can also find a lot of restaurants and bars where you'll be able to refuel with delicious food at a reasonable price.

    Arrifana, Costa Vicentina

    Enjoy surfing in the Costa Vicentina's National Park
    Wikimedia commons

    Arrifana is a very well-known beach in Portugal amongst both surfers and bodyboarders. Surrounded by cliffs and near a small fishing village, this stunning seaside location in the Costa Vicentina’s National Park, has pointbreak waves which are violent and turbulent, perfect for more experienced surfers who are up for a challenge.

    After spending time in the water in this wonderful surf spot in Portugal, take a walk through the beautiful woods of the National Park and enjoy the stunning views of the seaside.

    Praia do Cabedelo, Figueira da Foz

    This beach is home to dunes, vegetation, a family-friendly environment, good facilities and great views of Figueira da Foz, making Praia do Cabedelo a perfect surf spot for all the family on Portugal’s Silver Coast.

    Praia do Cabedelo is a popular destination for surfers. It offers consistent waves and is known for its beach break, making it suitable for surfers of various skill levels. The beach's exposure to Atlantic swells ensures a good wave formation, especially during the autumn and winter months when the surf conditions are often more favorable. 

    Bring your sunscreen, parasol and windbreak to shelter from the sun and wind and prepare your board to ride the spectacular jettybreak waves this beach has to offer. If you are looking for a surf school, Surfing Figueira offers classes directly at Cabedelo Beach for all levels.

    Praia do Amado, Costa Vicentina

    Discover the famous Praia do Amado
    Wikimedia commons

    Strong currents, steep beachbreaker waves and clear waters make Praia do Amado one of the best beaches for surfing in Portugal. With easy access and parking perfect for caravanning tourists, you can spend the day sunbathing, riding waves and swimming in this natural paradise in Portugal.

    If you want to learn a few new tricks or improve your skills make sure to take a class at the Amado Surf Camp.

    Sagres

    The strong currents in Sagres create an amazing surfing experience
    Wikimedia commons

    Sagres in the Algarve is another one of the best places for surfing in Portugal and is known by surfers all around the world who are looking for a place to enjoy the sport during spring, autumn and winter.

    The appeal of this seaside location goes beyond its great, challenging waves since it also offers a variety of activities for all tastes. Go on an adventure and dive with the Divers Cape company to see the diversity of sea-life present in the area, or even go for a ride with Cape Cruiser, a company that organises whale and dolphin watching trips.

    Sagres is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, with dramatic cliffs, golden sandy beaches, and the pristine Atlantic Ocean. Besides surfing, visitors can explore the stunning coastal scenery, go hiking along the cliffs, or take part in other water activities like paddleboarding or kayaking. The area is also known for its historical significance, with the Cape of St. Vincent and the Sagres Fortress being notable attractions.

    Paúl do Mar, Madeira

    Visit Ribeira das Galinhas on the Island of Madeira
    Wikimedia commons

    Paúl do Mar is a picturesque coastal village located on the southwest coast of Madeira, a Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its rugged cliffs, dramatic landscapes, and excellent surf conditions, Paúl do Mar has become a popular spot for surfers and nature lovers. If you are an avid surf fan, you might have heard of Ribeira das Galinhas, a secluded beach with fantastic waves in Madeira that hosted the World Surfing Championship in 2001.

    Paúl do Mar is known for its consistent surf, thanks to its exposure to the Atlantic Ocean swells. The village benefits from the island's unique topography, which creates favourable wave formations. The waves here can be powerful, with both left and right-hand breaks, making it an exciting destination for experienced surfers. However, it's worth noting that the surf conditions can vary depending on the time of year and weather patterns.