The 5 Best Surf Camps In Portugal [2024]
This is our review of the best surf camps in Portugal in 2024.
The best surf camps in Portugal package the combination of surf, social and learning together as one.
I’m a surfer that has travelled to 20 countries who researched the best surf camps in Portugal to help you find the best for you.
And I found that Peniche Surf Lodge is the best overall surf camp in Portugal.
Every surf camp is different. So, I've included a review of the best surf camps in Portugal for every type of surfer.
Let’s get started.
Selecting the best surf camp involves considering a variety of factors such as camp accommodation, atmosphere and quality of surf lessons.
After hours of researching and analysing over 1000 reviews we have produced a list of the best surf camps in Portugal.
The Best Surf Camps In Portugal
- Peniche Surf Lodge - Best Surf Camp In Portugal
- Surf Experience - Second Best Surf Camp In Portugal
- Maceda Surf Camp - Best Surf Camp for Solo Travellers
- Salty Pelican Surf Camp - Best Surf Camp With Yoga
- Russo Surf Camp - Best Surf Beach Location
Looking for other surf camp locations? Check out the surf camps in Mexico!
Peniche Surf Lodge - Best Surf Camp In Portugal
⭐️ Verdict: BEST SURF CAMP IN PORTUGAL (90%)
Address: R. Casal dos Violas 6, 2520-360 Peniche, Portugal
Best For: Keen Surfers
Why We Recommend:
Peniche Surf Lodge is a welcoming surf camp that feels like a home away from home. With a focus on surfing, socialising, and enjoying sunny beach days, you can expect a comfortable stay equipped with surf essentials and activities. The Peniche team ensures personalised guidance and assistance, making it a valuable and unforgettable surf trip experience.
Pros
Clean & Maintained
High Level Lessons
Close To The Water
Good Surfboard Selection
Cons
Basic Kitchen
Standard Breakfast
Surf Sessions Could Have More Structure
Transport Back From Beach Is Set Time For Everyone
Location
What To Expect
At Peniche Surf Lodge, guests can expect five in-water coaching sessions spread over the week, with one surf lesson and an afternoon free surf for five days and two free surfs on another day. Surf equipment and transportation are provided all day, every day.
Peniche, known as Europe's best surfing destination year-round, offers daily morning in-water surf lessons and comfortable accommodations for six nights, tailored to each surfers's skill level.
Contact Peniche Surf Lodge
- Phone Number: +351 912 590 574
- Email: surfpeniche@gmail.com
- Instagram: @penichesurflodge
The Surf Experience - Second Best Surf Camp In Portugal
⭐️ Verdict: SECOND BEST CAMP IN PORTUGAL (88%)
Location: Rua dos Ferreiros No 21, 8600 Lagos, Algarve, Portugal
Best For: All Levels of Surfers
Why We Recommend:
The Surf Experience offers a well-rounded surfing holiday suitable for all levels. With a range of activities including yoga, it provides a diverse retreat by the sea for all surfers!
Pros
Great Surf Spots
Attentive Instructors
Perfect Location
Family Feel
Cons
Requires Good Fitness
Student/Instructor Ratio Can Become Too High
Rooms Can Become Noisy
Main Office Hard To Locate
Location
What To Expect
At The Surf Experience in Lagos, Portugal, guests can expect a fulfilling surfing getaway featuring expert lessons for all skill levels and convenient board hire with wetsuits included. Complimentary surf safaris on select dates offer exciting opportunities to explore new surf spots, while delicious breakfasts and homemade lunches keep guests energised.
With comfortable accommodation for 4 nights amidst beautiful surroundings and convenient 4x4 beach transfers, guests can maximise their time in the water and enjoy a memorable surfing retreat.
Contact The Surf Experience
- Phone Number: +351 919830591
- Instagram: @the_surfexperience
Maceda Surf Camp - Best Surf Camp for Solo Travellers
⭐️ Verdict: BEST SURF CAMP FOR SOLO TRAVEL (86%)
Address: R. da Charneca 647, 3885-722 Maceda, Portugal
Best For: Solo Travellers
Why We Recommend:
Maceda Eco Surf Camp offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature in the heart of a pine forest, just 30 minutes south of Porto. With uncrowded beaches and a focus on fostering connections between guests, it provides a tranquil setting for learning to surf safely and confidently under the guidance of qualified instructors.
Pros
Very Friendly Dog
Great Evening Activities
Variety of Food Options
Stunning Beach
Cons
Quiet During Low Season
Surf Lessons Can Be Hectic
Hostel Atmosphere Rather Than Camp
Yoga Course Can Be Challenging
Location
What To Expect
During your stay at Maceda Eco Surf Camp, you can expect three days of guided surfing sessions led by qualified instructors, with transfers to the beach. Nestled in a serene pine forest, you'll enjoy three nights of comfortable accommodation and daily breakfast to fuel your surfing adventures. The camp offers a range of activities and events designed to foster connections among guests, while optional yoga lessons and Thai massages provide opportunities for relaxation.
With access to a fully equipped kitchen, guests can prepare their meals the night before. Recreational equipment such as bikes, surfskates, board games, slackline, and volleyball are available for leisure activities, ensuring a memorable and fulfilling experience.
Contact Maceda Surf Camp
- Phone Number: +351 968 359 530
- Email: macedasurfcamp@gmail.com
- Instagram: @macedasurfcamp
Salty Pelican Surf Camp - Best Surf Camp With Yoga
⭐️ Verdict: BEST SURF CAMP FOR YOGA (84%)
Address: Tv. dos Moinhos 10, 2655-315 Ericeira, Portugal
Best For: All Levels of Surfers
Why We Recommend:
We recommend The Salty Pelican surf camp in Portugal for its tranquil setting, which allows guests to immerse themselves in various activities. From sunrise meditation by the seaside and daily yoga sessions with ocean sounds to exhilarating surfing sessions and guided meditation hikes to a secluded national park beach. This camp offers a holistic retreat experience focused on balance and rejuvenation for surfers.
Pros
Food Tastes Amazing
Great Environment To Meet People
Beautiful Town To Explore
High Level Surf Instructors
Cons
Food Could Be Healthier
Hostel Styled Accommodation
Crowded In High Season
Set Times For Yoga & Surf
Location
What To Expect
At The Salty Pelican surf camp in Portugal, guests can expect an immersive experience that combines relaxation, adventure, and exploration. With unlimited yoga classes, meditation included in each session, and premium surfboard rental, guests can indulge in their passion for both surfing and well-being. The camp offers 5 days of surf lessons, ensuring ample opportunity to master the waves under expert guidance.
Beyond the surf and yoga activities, guests have the freedom to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Sintra National Park and the vibrant streets of Lisbon during their free time. Each day begins with a delicious buffet-style breakfast, setting a nourishing tone for the day ahead. With 7 nights of premium accommodation, guests can unwind and recharge in comfort after a day of adventure.
Contact Salty Pelican Surf Camp
- Phone Number: +351 932 560 960
- Email: ericeira@saltypelicanretreats.com
- Instagram: @saltypelicanretreats
Russo Surf Camp - Best Surf Beach Location
⭐️ Verdict: BEST SURF BEACH LOCATION (83%)
Address: Malhada da Serva, Aljezur, Portugal
Best For: All Levels of Surfers
Why We Recommend:
Expect an exhilarating surf camp experience at Russo Surfcamp in Vale Figueiras, Algarve, Portugal. This surf camp package includes all meals and optional airport transfers. Immerse yourself in a friendly atmosphere surrounded by fellow surf enthusiasts, whether you're learning to surf or aiming to progress in your skills.
Pros
Great Accommodation
Theory & Practical Coaching Available
Tasty Food
Structured Days
Cons
Camp Can Get Messy
Transfer Cars Are Dated
Remote Location
Rooms Can Get Warm
Location
What To Expect
Experience an action-packed six days at Russo Surfcamp in Vale Figueiras, Algarve, Portugal. With surf lessons catering to all skill levels, access to surf equipment available for use throughout five days, and professional photo and video sessions capturing memorable moments, the camp ensures an unforgettable surfing adventure.
Enjoy a lively Friday evening BBQ and live music night, complemented by seven nights of comfortable accommodation and delicious daily meals. Transportation arrangements are also provided, ensuring convenience throughout your stay.
Contact Russo Surf Camp
- Phone Number: +351 964 342 391
- Email: info@russosurf.com
- Instagram: @russo_surfcamp_vale_figueiras
What to Look For in a Surf Camp in Portugal
Deciding which surf camp is for you can be challenging with the overwhelming amount of information available today. We have listed the key factors to consider for your surf camp in Portugal including location, surf lesson quality, accommodation, food and camp atmosphere.
*Another good tip is to check each camps social media to see what they have been up to recently!
Surf Camp Location
Camp location is personal preference, as some may want a surf camp right on the beach, whereas others don't mind being inland commuting to the beach every day. Location will also impact which surf spots you will take on so ensure the swell in your selected location matches your skill level.
Surf Lessons
This will be the bulk of your experience therefore ensuring the surf lessons are high quality will ensure a successful surf camp. Some lessons can be overcrowded resulting in a high student/instructor ratio, this can result in you not getting adequate teaching time to develop your surf skills. It's important to note this can be expected in high season so if your looking for a more 1 to 1 experience consider the seasonality of your trip.
Accommodation & Facilities
Where you sleep can be a number one consideration for many surfers. You will burn a lot of energy during surf camps so ensuring you can get a good amount of shut eye is vital! Surf camps often have extra facilities for you to enjoy such as swimming pools, skate ramps, and even ice baths. These can add to your experience during down time so look out for these!
Food
This is your fuel for your surfing so it is very important! Most surf camps offer breakfast and dinner, however each camps food quality and variety will differ. Opt for surf camps that offer a wide range of foods for breakfast and dinner so you can have as much energy as possible when surfing.
Camp Atmosphere
A lot of surfers arrive to a surf camp looking to connect with like minded surfers and build new friendships. The camps atmosphere will impact this. Often surf camps will put on evening activities such as a camp fire or some drinks to bring everyone together, some surf camps are more focused on partying than others so ensure you select the best one for your needs.
Where Are The Best Surf Camps In Portugal
When it comes to finding the best surf camps in Portugal, you'll discover an array of options across the country.
Near Porto, you'll find picturesque beaches such as Matosinhos and Espinho, offering excellent waves for surfers of all levels.
In the Algarve region, towns like Lagos and Sagres boast stunning coastlines with consistent surf conditions and a vibrant surf culture.
Faro, the gateway to the Algarve, provides easy access to numerous surf spots along its coastline. Peniche, located on Portugal's west coast, is renowned for its world-class waves, making it a hotspot for surfers from around the globe.
Finally, Lisbon, Portugal's capital city, offers a unique blend of urban culture and surfing opportunities, with nearby beaches like Carcavelos and Costa da Caparica catering to surfers of varying abilities.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, Portugal's diverse coastline ensures there's a surf camp to suit your preferences and skill level.
Best Time To Do a Surf Camp In Portugal
The best time to do a surf camp in Portugal largely depends on your surfing preferences and skill level.
Generally, the prime surfing season in Portugal extends from late September to early May, coinciding with the autumn, winter, and spring months. During this time, the Atlantic Ocean generates consistent swells, providing excellent surfing conditions along the Portuguese coast.
The autumn months, particularly September and October, often offer warm weather and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for beginner surfers to hone their skills.
Winter months, from November to February, see larger swells and more challenging conditions, attracting experienced surfers seeking adrenaline-pumping waves.
Spring, from March to May, offers milder temperatures and less crowded beaches, making it another excellent season for surfers of all levels.
However, it's essential to note that Portugal's weather and surf conditions can vary from year to year, so it's always a good idea to check surf forecasts and consult with local experts before planning your surf camp trip.
Where To Learn To Surf In Portugal
Portugal boasts an abundance of excellent surf spots ideal for learning to surf.
In the north near Porto, Matosinhos Beach offers consistent waves and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for beginners. Further south, in the Algarve region, Lagos is a popular destination with several surf schools dotted along its coastline, providing gentle waves and expert instruction in a stunning setting.
Sagres, located on the southwestern tip of Portugal, is renowned for its consistent waves and surf-friendly beaches, making it another fantastic spot for beginners to learn the ropes.
Peniche, on the west coast, is famous for its world-class waves, but it also offers beginner-friendly beaches like Baleal and Consolação, where surf schools abound.
Lastly, just a short drive from Lisbon, Carcavelos Beach provides convenient access to the capital city and offers beginner-friendly waves, making it an excellent choice for those looking to combine city exploration with surfing lessons.
With such a diverse range of options, aspiring surfers in Portugal are spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the perfect spot to learn.
Surfing In Portugal
Surfing in Portugal has become synonymous with its rich coastal culture and stunning Atlantic coastline. With a history dating back to the 1960's, when the sport was introduced by adventurous travellers, surfing quickly captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike, evolving into a cherished national pastime.
Today, Portugal stands as one of Europe's premier surfing destinations, renowned for its diverse array of surf spots, world-class waves, and year-round surf culture.
History
Portugal's surfing history is deeply rooted in its maritime traditions and coastal lifestyle. Introduced in the 1960s by foreign surfers drawn to the country's pristine coastline, surfing quickly gained popularity among locals.
Over the years, Portugal has produced famous surfers and hosted prestigious surfing events, solidifying its reputation as a global surfing hub. From humble beginnings to becoming a key player in the international surfing community, Portugal's surfing journey is a testament to its deep connection to the sea.
Spots
Portugal boasts an extensive coastline dotted with a plethora of surf spots catering to surfers of all levels. From the iconic breaks of Ericeira and Peniche to the legendary waves of Nazaré, each surf spot offers its own unique charm and character.
Whether you're seeking gentle beach breaks for beginners or challenging reef breaks for experienced surfers, Portugal has it all. With picturesque beaches, consistent swells, and vibrant surf scenes, these spots have earned their place among the world's top surfing destinations.
Waves
The diversity of waves in Portugal is unparalleled, offering something for every surfer to enjoy. From the rolling beach breaks of Costa da Caparica to the powerful reef breaks of Coxos, Portugal's waves cater to surfers of all skill levels and preferences.
The Atlantic Ocean produces consistent swells year-round, providing ample opportunities for surfers to catch waves. Whether you're seeking mellow peelers for longboard rides or adrenaline-pumping barrels for shortboard thrills, Portugal's waves promise an unforgettable surfing experience.
Seasons
The surfing season in Portugal varies throughout the year, with each season offering its own unique conditions and experiences.
Autumn, winter, and spring are generally considered the best seasons for surfing, with September to May offering consistent swells and favorable weather conditions.
Winter months bring larger swells and more challenging conditions, attracting experienced surfers seeking big waves.
Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for surfers of all levels to enjoy.
Whether you're seeking big waves or mellow sessions, Portugal's diverse seasons ensure there's something for everyone to enjoy year-round.
How We Chose The "Best" Surf Camps
In selecting the best surf camps, I employed a thorough and meticulous process to ensure that each camp met the highest standards of quality and satisfaction.
This process involved reviewing over 1000 reviews from various online platforms and meticulously analysing social media feedback. Additionally, I reached out to individuals who had firsthand experience with the camps to gather insights into their overall experiences.
Each surf camp was evaluated based on a weighted system, considering essential factors such as location, surf lessons, accommodation, food quality, and overall atmosphere.
By assigning specific weights to each criterion and meticulously grading each product against these standards, I was able to objectively assess and compare their merits.
FAQ
What is the surf capital of Portugal?
The surf capital of Portugal is often considered to be Peniche. Renowned for its world-class waves and vibrant surf culture, Peniche attracts surfers from around the globe seeking challenging breaks and epic rides.
Is Lisbon or Porto better for surfing?
Some of the best surfing waves in Portugal can be found in regions like Peniche, Ericeira, and Sagres. These areas boast iconic breaks and consistent swells year-round, making them popular destinations for surfers seeking epic rides and memorable sessions.
Where are the best surfing waves in Portugal?
Some of the best surfing waves in Portugal can be found in regions like Peniche, Ericeira, and Sagres. These areas boast iconic breaks and consistent swells year-round, making them popular destinations for surfers seeking epic rides and memorable sessions.
What is the best time of year to surf in Portugal for beginners?
The best time of year for beginners to surf in Portugal is typically during the spring and autumn months, from March to May and September to November. During these seasons, milder weather and fewer crowds create ideal learning conditions with manageable waves for novice surfers to practice and improve their skills.
Our Verdict
When you book a surf camp it’s important to be satisfied you have made the right decision on where to go.
Every surf camp has their pros and cons, it's about finding the best one for you. But, Peniche Surf Lodge is an excellent choice for surfers seeking a true Portugal surfing experience.
