Surfing in Portugal: The Best Spots for Beginners and Pros
- Magdalena Motor
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Portugal is considered the European mecca of surfing. What earned it such a reputation? The main reason is its ideal geographical location. The country lies entirely along the Atlantic Ocean. In addition, there is a wind called Nortada, which creates waves of varying heights. This makes Portugal practically the perfect place for surfing.
Discover with us:
☀️Nazaré
🏄♂️Ericeira
Sagres
First recommendation is the small town of Sagres, located in the southwestern part of the country. It sits at the very tip of a peninsula that juts deeply into the sea. Its unique location allows for surfing both on the western and southern coasts. This makes it an ideal spot for beginner surfers, as during the autumn and winter months they can avoid the rougher swells of the Atlantic.
That doesn’t mean, however, that this place is only for those just starting their surfing journey. For experienced surfers, Praia do Beliche offers more challenging conditions. Not far from Sagres, you’ll also find Praia do Tonel, home to many surf schools where you can sharpen your skills.
Nazaré
Traveling along the central part of Portugal’s coast, you should definitely stop in the town of Nazaré. Nearby lies Praia do Norte, a spot incredibly popular among surfers. This beach is world-famous for its gigantic waves. The highest officially recorded wave here reached 24 meters, though some say they can soar up to 30 meters.
The best time to catch such waves is during winter. However, one should remember that these conditions are not for beginners. Tackling such enormous waves is reserved for highly experienced surfers. If you’re not one of them, it’s best to admire the spectacular swells safely from the shore.
Praia de Arrifana
Heading back near Sagres, to the north you’ll find a national park stretching along the coast, dotted with several stunning beaches. These are wild, untouched places, accessible only via unpaved roads. But that’s part of their charm—this remoteness gives them a unique magic. The best time to visit is autumn and winter, when the waves reach about a meter in height.
One beach especially worth visiting is Praia de Arrifana. Nestled between breathtaking rock formations, this wide sandy beach reveals its full beauty at low tide. It’s a favorite among surfers, which is why you’ll find several surf schools nearby, as well as bars and accommodations.
Ericeira
Let’s pause near Lisbon. Just north of Portugal’s capital lies the small fishing village of Ericeira. Despite its size, it is one of the most popular surfing destinations in the world. In fact, Ericeira has been declared the second World Surfing Reserve (after Malibu, California), highlighting its global reputation.
Nearby, you’ll find several iconic beaches, including Ribeira d’Ilhas, Pedra Branca, São Lourenço, and Coxos. These spots are excellent for both beginners and advanced surfers. For those just starting out, beaches such as São Julião and Foz do Lizandro are particularly well-suited. Ericeira is also home to many surf schools, making it a fantastic place to learn the sport.
Praia de Cabedelo
The Coimbra district is full of great surf spots, with Praia de Cabedelo being one of the most popular. Located near the town of Figueira da Foz, this wide sandy beach offers a diverse range of waves, perfect for surfers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, you’ll find the conditions here rewarding.
In addition to surfers, the beach also attracts windsurfers and bodyboarding enthusiasts, making it a lively hub for all kinds of wave riders.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for gentle waves or an expert chasing record-breaking giants, Portugal’s coastline offers something for everyone. With its stunning beaches, vibrant surf culture, and year-round conditions, it truly deserves its title as Europe’s surfing paradise.
We have reached the end of this article about Portugal's surfing spots. If you’re planning a visit to Portugal, be sure to check out our previous blogs for more tips on where to eat, drink, and explore. Or continue discovering more hidden gems and captivating destinations. Stay tuned for more articles on our website. Follow us on our instagram @thewalkingparrot to be continuously updated on new releases and join us as we embark on new adventures. We will be back soon with a new article! If you're visiting Lisbon, make sure to try our Fado, Food, and Wine tour!
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