Surf Holidays in Portugal

Besides the island of Madeira and the more developed (and crowded) parts of the southern Algarve region, Portugal is somewhat less of a mainstream destination. When compared to typical European holiday hotspots like Ibiza or the Costa del Sol. If incredible waves, sunny days, great food, delicious wine, and kind people is what you’re after, then surf holidays in Portugal tick all the boxes. Also it has prices that are impossible to match elsewhere on the continent.

The smart money is on surf holidays in Portugal

What makes Portugal so special? Sport, nature and culture combined produce the ultimate surfing vacation experience. Surf holidays in Portugal mean getting more for your money.

• Smaller crowds than Ibiza, Mallorca, Spain and the French Riviera and the best waves in Europe
• Clean Blue Flag beaches in pristine natural surroundings
• A wide variety of consistent surf breaks
• Many surf spots which are accessible via public transportation
• Warm sunny weather all summer long
• Delicious food and excellent wine at unbeatable prices
• A range of accommodation options to suit any budget, from inexpensive hostels to luxury resorts
• Affordable surf schools with experienced, qualified instructors
• A safe and peaceful destination – voted by Lonely Planet as one of the top 5 safest countries in the world for tourists in 2018
• Fascinating historical sites, music and cultural festivals
• Tasty cafés, fine restaurants and buzzing nightlife
• English is widely spoken, while French and Spanish are understood by many

Surf Europe’s best waves on its cleanest beaches

Portugal is home to several surf spots that are mainstakes on the European and international pro surfing circuits. The highest concentration of world-class breaks is clustered around the town of Ericeira, an old fishing village with a vibrant surf culture.

There are 9 top surf spots in Ericeira and over 40 regional breaks within easy reach. Excellent surfcamps cater to all levels of surfers, from lessons for absolute beginners to expert surf guiding for veteran shredders. As Europe’s only dedicated World Surfing Reserve, Ericeira is an absolute must for any surf holiday in Portugal.

Portugal’s surfing explosion

In the last 5 years the popularity of Portugal as the surfing capital of Europe has skyrocketed. The waves have always been there, the Atlantic Coast has been pounding Europe’s westernmost part for centuries. Additionally, surfing’s appeal worldwide grows exponentially. Becoming an olympic sport in 2020, and with numerous WSL competitions being held in Portugal., the biggest wave in the world (24m) was surfed in Nazaré by Rodrigo Koxa in 2017 (and a winner!). Also, a football-mad country (ever heard of Cristiano Ronaldo?!), surfing is Portugal’s second most popular sport.

Also, tourism in Portugal is growing steadily since 2011. The country was one of the top 3 hottest travel destinations worldwide by Lonely Planet. Portugal saw a 12 percent increase of foreign tourists in 2017 accounting for a total of 12.7 million visitors and contributing to the strongest economic growth since 2000. That said — Portugal represents a country of only 10.5 million inhabitants. That’s a lot of coastline and a serious amount of surf spots for such a small population… Even if you count tourists and other seasonal visitors. In addition to the popular, well-developed areas, plenty of isolated beaches are available for those in search of adventure. Moreover, instructors and surf guides will be happy to show you these “secret” spots.

Accommodation options for surf holidays in Portugal

Hospitality choices for your surf holiday in Portugal range from self-catered villas and surf apartments for families and groups to comfortable rooms and shared dorms. Moreover, A top-notch surf camp will provide all you need for the surf holiday of a lifetime.

See you in Portugal for fun in the sun and perfect waves!

You’ll go back home fat and happy, we promise you!

OUR SURF CAMP IN ERICEIRA