This is our pick of the 16 Best Surf Camps in Portugal.
Nestled along the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal boasts an extensive coastline with a variety of surf breaks suitable for all levels of surfers, from beginners to seasoned pros. Whether you’re a first-time surfer looking to catch your first wave or an experienced rider seeking challenging breaks, Portugal’s surf camps offer something for everyone.
Our pick of the best surf camps in Portugal provide a unique blend of surf instruction, accommodation, and an immersive cultural experience. Located in picturesque coastal towns such as Ericeira, Peniche, and Sagres, these surf camps feature cozy accommodations ranging from shared dormitories to private rooms, all catering to different preferences and budgets. Many of them also offer amenities such as communal kitchens, chill-out areas, and outdoor spaces perfect for socializing and unwinding after a day of surfing.
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What to Expect From a Surf Camp in Portugal?
One of the primary draws of surf camps in Portugal is the quality of instruction available. Experienced surf instructors lead daily lessons catered to all skill levels, focusing on surf theory, techniques, water safety, and environmental awareness. Whether you’re a beginner learning to paddle out for the first time or an intermediate surfer refining your turns, instructors provide personalized guidance to help you progress and build confidence in the water.
In addition to surf lessons, many camps offer a range of activities to complement the surfing experience. These may include yoga sessions to improve flexibility and balance, guided coastal hikes to explore the stunning natural scenery, and cultural excursions to nearby towns and attractions.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as part of a family vacation, surf camps in Portugal provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals of all ages and backgrounds come together to share their love for surfing and adventure.
When is the Best Time of Year to Learn to Surf in Portugal?
The best time of year to learn to surf in Portugal largely depends on your skill level.
For beginners, the spring and summer months, from April to September, are generally considered the best time to learn to surf in Portugal. During this period, the weather is warmer, the water temperatures are comfortable, and the waves are typically smaller and more manageable, making it ideal for novice surfers to practice and progress.
The autumn and winter months can also offer rewarding surfing experiences for those willing to brave cooler temperatures and larger swells. From October to March, Portugal’s coastline experiences more consistent Atlantic swells, creating challenging conditions that may be better suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. However, some beginners may still find opportunities to learn during this time, especially in sheltered areas with smaller waves and protected breaks.
The Best Surf Camps in Portugal
From the rugged shores of the Algarve to the renowned breaks of Ericeira and Peniche, these 16 surf camps cater to surfers of all levels, providing an immersive opportunity to explore the country’s vibrant coastal culture while honing your skills on the waves.
The Surf Experience
First on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is The Surf Experience.
This lively Surf Camp is located in the beautiful old Portuguese town of Lagos, just 45 minutes from Faro Airport.
Designed to be as sociable as possible, the accommodation consists of comfortable shared rooms, a large modern kitchen, free Wi-Fi, a secure boardroom, and two huge terraces with a barbecue area.
Guests can choose from a 3-day, 4-day, 5-day, 6-day, 7-day, and 10-day all-inclusive package when staying with The Surf Experience. Each package includes daily surf lessons, shared or private accommodation, surfboard and wetsuit hire, and complimentary yoga.
Guests at The Surf Experience are also encouraged to make the most of the nightlife in Lagos, with many bars and nightclubs just a short walk away from the camp.
If you’re looking to surf hard and party harder, this surf camp is the perfect place for you.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at The Surf Experience in Portugal.
Golden Waves Surf Lodge
Second on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is Golden Waves Surf Lodge.
This serene surf camp is located at Furadouro Beach just 45 minutes from Porto airport. Surrounded by pine trees a few minutes from the beach, this surf camp is perfect for guests who are looking to rest and recharge.
The modern villa is made up of private rooms, suites and dorms. There is a large lounge area with a fireplace for guests to enjoy, as well as an outdoor pool and barbecue area.
Guests can choose from a 3-day or 1-week all-inclusive package when staying with Golden Waves Surf Lodge. Both packages include daily surf lessons, shared or private accommodation, surfboard and wetsuit hire, and a daily breakfast buffet.
Guests can also upgrade to include morning yoga sessions with the 1-week surf and yoga package.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at Golden Waves Surf Lodge in Portugal.
Peniche Surf Lodge
Next on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is Peniche Surf Lodge.
This cozy and budget-friendly surf camp is located in the coastal town of Peniche, just a 1-hour drive from Lisbon Airport.
Peniche Surf Lodge offers a unique experience, with accommodations spread across two lodges, both conveniently located near Papoa beach.
Guests at Peniche Surf Lodge can choose between shared dorms or private rooms. There is also plenty of communal spaces in both lodges, perfect for mingling with fellow surfers after a day in the waves. You can unwind on the roof terrace while enjoying a barbecue and taking in the panoramic sea views.
Peniche Surf Lodge offers guests a 7-day surf camp package. This package includes daily surf lessons, a hearty breakfast to fuel your adventures, daily surfboard and wetsuit rental, and an afternoon coffee to recharge. There is also the option to arrange airport transfers and additional meals for a hassle-free stay.
For travellers looking to catch waves on a budget without sacrificing comfort and community, Peniche Surf Lodge is the ideal choice.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at Peniche Surf Lodge in Portugal.
Surf Cascais
Next on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is Surf Cascais.
This trendy surf camp is located in the beautiful old town of Cascais just 30 minutes from Lisbon Airport.
The villa is divided into six large bedrooms, offering both private and shared rooms. There is a fully equipped kitchen, a communal garden and swimming pool, a large lounge space, and a bar where good times and good drinks are always guaranteed.
Guests can choose from a 5-day or 1-week all-inclusive package when staying with Surf Cascais. Both packages include daily surf lessons, shared or private accommodation, surfboard and wetsuit hire, and a daily breakfast buffet.
Guests can also upgrade to include morning yoga sessions with the 1-week surf and yoga package.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at Surf Cascais in Portugal.
Tiny Whale Surf Lodge
Next on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is Tiny Whale Surf Lodge.
This luxury surf camp is situated in a peaceful countryside setting near Lagos, a 1-hour drive from Faro Airport.
The spacious accommodation consists of a combination of private and shared rooms. There is a large garden with an outdoor pool, jacuzzi, yoga deck, and a outdoor bar with a lounge area and firepit.
Guests can choose from a 1-week beginner, 1-week intermediate and a 1-week women’s only all-inclusive package when staying with Tiny Whale Surf Lodge. Each package includes daily surf coaching, shared or private accommodation, surfboard and wetsuit hire, a daily breakfast buffet, and evening meals.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at Tiny Whale Surf Lodge.
Selina Peniche
Next on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is Selina Peniche.
Set within a whitewashed villa in the fishing village of Peniche, this hip hostel is a 1-hour drive from Lisbon Airport.
Airy 6-bed and 8-bed dorms feature bunk beds. All have Wi-Fi, lockers and linens, as well as shared bathrooms. Private rooms are also available. Amenities include a Mediterranean restaurant, a bar and a rooftop terrace, a screening room, and a shared kitchen.
Guests can book a room at Selina Peniche and then add-on surf lessons with surfboard and wetsuit rental after they check-in. Group surf lessons are priced at €33 per person and private surf lessons are priced at €125 per person.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at Selina Peniche.
Hostel & Surfcamp 55
Next on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is Hostel & Surfcamp 55.
Located in the picturesque coastal town of Ericeira, just a 40-minute drive from Lisbon Airport, Hostel & Surfcamp 55 is a top choice for budget-conscious solo travellers.
This surf camp can accommodate up to 21 guests in 7 rooms. The four and six-bed dorms come with private bathrooms for added convenience, while private rooms feature washbasins and access to shared bathrooms. There is also a communal lounge area and roof terrace, which are perfect for unwinding with newfound friends after a day of surfing.
Hostel & Surfcamp 55 offers guests a choice of a 4-day, 7-day, or 10-day surf camp package. Each package includes daily surf lessons, theory sessions to enhance your skills, video analysis to fine-tune your technique, surfboard and wetsuit rental, comfortable accommodation, and airport transfers.
Whether you’re a solo traveler looking to meet like-minded individuals or simply want to soak in the vibrant surf culture of Ericeira, Hostel & Surfcamp 55 is the ideal choice for an unforgettable surf adventure.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at Hostel & Surfcamp 55.
The Salty Pelican Ericeira
Next on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is The Salty Pelican in Ericeira.
This modern surf retreat is located in the charming fishing town of Ericeira just 30 minutes from Lisbon Airport.
The newly built villa sleeps up to 40 guests in a combination of private and shared rooms. Most rooms come with a private terrace and ocean views. There is an open plan living area, covered outdoor dining area, a swimming pool, yoga deck, a poolside cafe, and a wellness centre offering massages and body treatments.
The Salty Pelican offers a 1-week all-inclusive package. This includes daily surf lessons, shared or private accommodation, surfboard and wetsuit hire, unlimited yoga, and a daily breakfast buffet.
For digital nomads or more experienced surfers looking for more flexibility, The Salty Pelican also offers a room-only option.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at The Salty Pelican in Ericeira.
Surf Lisbon
Next on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is Surf Lisbon.
This boutique Surf Camp is located in on the outskirts of Lisbon in the beach town of Caxias, just 20 minutes from Lisbon Airport.
The typical Portuguese summer house can accommodate up to 18 guests in 4 private rooms and 2 shared rooms. There are a number of common areas, including a shared lounge, dining room, a fully equipped kitchen, and a large garden with barbecue.
Guests can choose from a 4-day or 1-week all-inclusive package when staying with Surf Lisbon. Both packages include daily surf lessons, shared or private accommodation, surfboard and wetsuit hire, and a daily breakfast buffet.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at Surf Lisbon in Portugal.
The Salty Pelican Cascais
Next on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is The Salty Pelican in Cascais.
The newly renovated surf house in located the village of Estoril, in-between the beaches of Cascais and the mountains of Sintra, just 30 minutes from Lisbon Airport.
The modern Portuguese house is made up of a combination of private and shared rooms. There is a cozy lounge, a well-equipped kitchen, a peaceful garden with hammocks and bean bags as well as a terrace and barbecue area.
The Salty Pelican offers a 1-week all-inclusive package. This includes daily surf lessons, shared or private accommodation, surfboard and wetsuit hire, unlimited yoga, and a daily breakfast buffet.
For digital nomads or more experienced surfers looking for more flexibility, The Salty Pelican also offers a room-only option.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at The Salty Pelican in Cascais.
Selina Boavista Ericeira
Next on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is Selina Boavista Ericeira.
This laid-back guesthouse is a 5-minute walk from Pescadores Beach in rustic fishing village of Ericeira. The nearest airport is in Lisbon, which is a 30-minute drive away.
Basic dorms sleep up to 20 guests and provide free Wi-Fi, linens and shared bathrooms. Private rooms are also available. Amenities include an outdoor pool, an informal restaurant, and a yoga deck.
Guests can book a room at Selina Boavista Ericeira and then add-on surf lessons with surfboard and wetsuit rental after they check-in. Group surf lessons are priced at €33 per person and private surf lessons are priced at €125 per person.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at Selina Boavista Ericeira.
Nice Way Cascais
Next on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is Nice Way Cascais.
Located in the historical center of Cascais, the camp is located within walking distance of the beaches, restaurants, and nightlife, and just a 30-minute drive from Lisbon Airport.
The accommodation is divided into 16 bedrooms. There are 11 shared rooms and 5 private rooms. There is a garden with a swimming pool, board storage, a fully equipped kitchen, a lively bar, barbecue facilities, and a cosy lounge with cable TV/Netflix.
Nice Way Cascais offers a 1-week all-inclusive package. This includes daily surf lessons, shared or private accommodation, surfboard and wetsuit hire, yoga, and a daily breakfast buffet.
For digital nomads or more experienced surfers looking for more flexibility, Nice Way Cascais also offers a room-only option.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at Nice Way Cascais.
Sagres Sun Stay
Next on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is Sagres Sun Stay.
This well-equipped hostel is located in Sagres, a small village in the Algarve, 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Faro Airport.
The newly-built villa is made up a combination of private and shared rooms. There is a salt water pool, a selection of fitness machines, board storage and personal lockers, and a poolside cafe and bar for guests to enjoy.
Sagres Sun Stay offers a 1-week all-inclusive package. This includes daily surf lessons, shared or private accommodation, surfboard and wetsuit hire, and a daily breakfast and dinners.
For digital nomads or more experienced surfers looking for more flexibility, Sagres Sun Stay also offers a room-only option.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at Sagres Sun Stay in Portugal.
Chill in Ericeira Surf House
Next on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is Chill in Ericeira Surf House.
This brightly coloured surf house is located on a small hill overlooking Praia do Sul, 2 minutes walk from the center of Ericeira. The closest airport is in Lisbon, which is a 30-minute drive away.
The house can accommodate up to 50 people in 17 rooms. There are private and shared rooms available. There is a large rooftop terrace and a courtyard with barbecue. Guests can also enjoy a poker table and table football in the communal lounge.
Guests can book a room at Chill in Ericeira Surf House and then add-on surf lessons with surfboard and wetsuit rental after they check-in. Surf lessons are priced at €40 per person.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at Chill in Ericeira Surf House in Portugal.
Wave Sensations
Next on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is Wave Sensations.
This rustic surf camp is located in Sagres, 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Faro Airport.
The beachfront camp is made up of a combination of private and shared rooms. Most rooms have views overlooking the ocean. There is a large rooftop terrace and a well-equipped kitchen.
Guests can book a room at Waves Sensations and then add-on surf lessons with surfboard and wetsuit rental after they check-in. Group surf lessons are available for €65 per person.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at Waves Sensations.
The Salty Pelican Peniche
Next on our list of the Best Surf Camps in Portugal is The Salty Pelican Peniche.
This luxury surf camp is located in the historic fishing village of Peniche, a 50-minute drive from Lisbon Airport.
The newly built beachfront villa sleeps up to 40 guests in a combination of private and shared rooms. Most rooms come with a private balcony and ocean views. There is a rooftop terrace with outdoor lounging & dining area, cinema room, indoor yoga shala, and an all-day cafe.
The Salty Pelican offers a 1-week all-inclusive package. This includes daily surf lessons, shared or private accommodation, surfboard and wetsuit hire, unlimited yoga, and a daily breakfast buffet.
Click HERE to check the latest rates and book your stay at The Salty Pelican Peniche.
Surf Camps in Portugal
Whether you’re a beginner eager to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking challenging breaks, Portugal’s surf camps cater to every individual’s needs and preferences.
These 16 surf camps not only provide top-notch surf instruction from experienced instructors but also offer activities such as yoga sessions, coastal hikes, and cultural excursions, ensuring a well-rounded and immersive experience. Moreover, the accommodations range from cozy shared dormitories to luxurious private rooms, accommodating various budgets and preferences.
From the vibrant nightlife of Lagos to the rugged beauty of Sagres and the charming towns of Ericeira and Peniche, each surf camp provides a unique experience, blending surf culture with Portuguese hospitality. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, Portugal’s surf camps offer the perfect setting to hone your skills, make new friends, and create unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags, wax your board, and get ready for an epic surfing adventure in Portugal.
