8 amazing surfing spots in Portugal

8 amazing surfing spots in Portugal

Let me introduce you to the 8 amazing surfing spots in Portugal! Whether you’re an experienced surfer or not, you will love surfing in Portugal. The climate, the winds, the coastline are some of the reasons it is one of the favourite destinations for surfers from around the world. It is an experience I recommend to everyone! It is a very physical activity, but it’s so much fun! Read on and find out 8 amazing surfing spots in Portugal.

Sagres

This one is an amazing surfing spot, where the waves tend to be better during spring, autumn and winter. Though Sagres is not one of the main spots for surfing, the area offers plenty of different activities for the visitors. For diving and aquatic life fans, there’s the Divers Cape center that will guarantee a unique diving experience. You can also go to the Cape Cruise which is a company that is specialized in whale and golphins watching. Then I also recommend the Coastline Algarve for those of you looking for water and land guided visits through the caves and hidden beaches of the coast.

Ericeira

You will find many amazing surfing spots in Ericeira, such as Ribeira d’Ilhas, Coxos, Pedra Branca and Foz do Lizandro. There’s a large variety of beaches for surfers from all levels, from beaches with gentler waves for the beginners, to beaches with more aggressive waves for the experienced surfers. Overall, Ericeira’s beaches are quiet and very appreciated by the surfers, especially during the low season.

Praia do Norte in Nazaré

Next on my list of 8 amazing surfing spots in Portugal is the Praia do Norte in Nazaré! The world’s greatest waves record happened there! It is due to a rare geomorphologic pheonomenon, which is a gap in the continental plate that is about 170 kilometers long and five kilometers deep, creating the highest waves ever! However, this beach is not exactly recommended for beginners, because the waves can be a little aggressive. But they definitely are the most impressive, so it is still worth visiting Praia do Norte to watch the formation of these gigantic waves.

The Praia do Norte became famous over the years, thanks to all the new records that were reached there. It gained a lot of popularity in November of 2011 when the surfer Garrett McNamara surfed one of the biggest waves ever! This definitely put Nazaré in the surfing international scene! Since then, two more records were hit: Benjamin Sanchis and Rodrigo Koxa surfed an even bigger wave than McNamara, but it is Rodrigo Koxa’s record that prevails.

Espinho

Espinho has become popular over the years, especially for the people who want to spend some days in the sun. Its stream is very strong and the waves are constant, which makes the perfect place for experienced surfers. There, you will find a natural pool, which is where the children can safely play in the water. While in Espinho, don’t miss the casino if you feel like gambling a little after spending the day at the beach!

Praia da Barra

At Praia da Barra, you will find surfers at all levels! This beach is two kilometers long, so there is room for everyone to comfortably surf without disturbing one another. The waves are very fun and you can practice at all tides.

Praia de Carcavelos

This beach is the most famous one of the Lisbon Region. This is why it is where you’ll find the most surfers! The smooth waves will allow you to surf without fear. Around the Praia de Carcavelos, you will find many surf schools. You can choose between joining the classes or rent the surfing materials and venture on your own. Finding a place to eat will also be easy, since there are plenty of restaurants and bars with affordable prices. On the beach, there are showers and bathrooms at your disposal. Volleyball and basketball courts are found on the beach as well, in case you want to practice different activities besides enjoying the waves and the sun.

Nonetheless, if you plan on going to Praia de Carcavelos during the summer, you need to come early in the morning to guarantee you get a spot on the sand! It can get pretty crowded on the hot days!

Cantinho da Baía and Prainha in Peniche

Peniche is where you will find two amazing surfing spots! This city is very famous among the surfers, because, since 2009, it hosts one of the stages of a world surfing tournament, the MEO Rip Curl Pro. But it has always been known as a great city for surfing thanks to its coastline and its winds.

I recommend you the two beaches located by the road that leads to Ilha do Baleal. On your left, you will find Cantinho do Baía, and on your right, you will find Prainha. Try them both and see which one you prefer!

> Read about the 20 unmissable attractions in Portugal.

Praia do Guincho in Cascais

This beach usually hosts national and international surf contest due to its great conditions for surfing, such as EDP Billabong Pro Cascais and Men’s World Surf League Pro Championship. Note that the peak season happens during the months of July and August.

I’ve now shared with you 8 amazing surfing spots in Portugal! Let me know if you know more great beaches for the surfers. If you don’t feel like surfing and rather sun tan on the sand, check this article about the best beaches around Lisbon! I hope you’ve enjoyed this article and that it has inspired you! Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need further information about anything. See you soon!