WHERE TO SURF NEAR LISBON – SURF GUIDE
Want to know where to surf near Lisbon? There are numerous beaches where you can surf near Lisbon throughout the year. From September to May, these months are considered prime for experienced surfers, offering exceptional conditions.
On the other hand, from May to August, less experienced surfers can enjoy the best surfing months. Despite occasional variations in swell patterns, there are always plenty of options available for surfers of all skill levels. Below, we provide recommendations on where to surf near Lisbon and what you can expect at each spot. Having a car is the best choice for greater independence, but there are also public transportation options available to reach the recommended spots below.
“Praia do Paraíso”
This beach is situated right in the heart of Costa da Caparica village, making it one of the prime options when you are looking for where to surf near Lisbon.
No matter the tide, this spot is suitable for surfing, making it a reliable choice throughout the year. With its sandy bottom wave, it offers an accessible surfing experience for surfers of all levels. When considering where to surf near Lisbon, this beach is definitely worth exploring.
Costa da Caparica (15 min. From Lisbon)
When considering where to surf near Lisbon, Costa da Caparica emerges as an excellent choice that caters to both beginners and advanced surfers. Situated just a short 15-minute drive from the city, Costa da Caparica shows a picturesque village and endless sandy beaches. Among the surf spots near Lisbon, this location stands out for its remarkable consistency, providing surfable swells throughout the year. Particularly during the winter months, Costa da Caparica showcases its best conditions.
It’s undeniable that Costa da Caparica reigns as a top destination for surfing enthusiasts seeking a blend of pleasant weather, abundant sunshine. Definitely its a spot to consider when you ask: “where to surf near Lisbon”.
“Praia da Fonte da Telha”
While exploring the extensive coastline of Costa da Caparica, approximately 10 kilometres from Praia do Paraíso, you’ll discover Fonte da Telha. As you venture further south, the impact of the swell on the coast gradually diminishes (especially the prevalent north swell in Portugal), resulting in smaller waves.
Fonte da Telha also emerges as an excellent choice among the surfers that are searching for the best spots on where to surf near Lisbon. It’s expansive sandy beaches serve as a perfect refuge, ideal for when the sea becomes excessively large and tumultuous.
Cascais (30 min. From Lisbon)
This charming town is home to a variety of beaches, including those with sandy bottoms and others with rocky bottoms. With such diversity,
Cascais is an ideal destination for surfers of all levels seeking the perfect wave. When considering where to surf near Lisbon, don’t overlook the incredible offerings that Cascais has to offer.
“Praia de Carcavelos”
Carcavelos Beach is a sandy-bottom beach that provides shelter for larger swells. The best time to surf at this beach is during the winter for experienced surfers and during the summer for beginners.
Although it has a sandy bottom, you shouldn’t underestimate the power of the waves. Carcavelos Beach has even been chosen as a venue for the world championship of tube riding, known as the “Capitulo Perfeito,” attracting the best surfers from around the world in search of the best barrels in the big winter waves. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the thrill of Carcavelos Beach when exploring where to surf near Lisbon.
“Praia do Guincho”
When exploring the options on where to surf near Lisbon, don’t miss the opportunity to ride the waves at Guincho Beach.
Guincho Beach is renowned for being highly exposed to the wind, making it a paradise for surfers and kitesurfers. It maintains remarkable consistency throughout the year and is a sandy-bottom beach suitable for all skill levels. Guincho Beach consistently receives more swell compared to Carcavelos Beach, making it an excellent choice for smaller wave days.
“Praia Grande”
located in the village of Sintra, near the Colares region. Praia Grande is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and majestic cliffs. As one of Portugal’s most exposed beaches, it effortlessly captures swells, making it a surfer’s paradise.
This sandy-bottom beach offers powerful and often tubular waves, providing an exhilarating surfing experience. When seeking where to surf near Lisbon, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the beauty and excitement of Praia Grande.
Sintra (30 min. From Lisbon)
Sintra, in addition to its enchanting ancient palaces and dense forests, also offers excellent beaches for surfing, it’s also a good option when you are looking where to surf near Lisbon.
The beaches of Sintra, among the top recommendations on where to surf near Lisbon, are known for their immense natural beauty. Due to the forested and mountainous area, Sintra creates a microclimate, often leaving visitors unsure of what to expect. The beaches of Sintra are known for their high exposure to waves, making them perfect for smaller wave days and weaker swells. However, they also cater to those who enjoy larger, more powerful waves.
“Praia das Maças”
Very close to Praia Grande, you’ll find Praia das Maçãs. When contemplating where to surf near Lisbon, Praia das Maçãs is an undeniable gem awaiting your visit.
It forms a bay surrounded by towering cliffs. Often, on the right side of the beach, you can find a famous right-hand wave that breaks from the rocks and ends on the sandy bottom. It’s an excellent beach for enjoying the sun, with good infrastructure, cafes, and restaurants.
Ericeira (30 min. From Lisbon)
Ericeira, situated approximately 35 kilometres away from Lisbon. When seeking the ultimate surfing destination near Lisbon, Ericeira should be at the top of your list. This destination holds a special place in the hearts of surfers, as it was the first European World Surfing Reserve.
Despite its proximity to Lisbon, Ericeira boasts a distinct climate, often cooler than the capital. As a picturesque fishing village with narrow streets and traditional houses, it embraces its strong connection to the sea. Ericeira is blessed with a prime exposure to swells, providing a wide range of surf options for all skill levels. Whether you prefer sandy bottoms with smaller waves or the iconic rocky bottoms with perfect, lengthy waves, Ericeira has it all.
“Ribeira D’ilhas”
Ribeira d’Ilhas is the most famous beach in Ericeira. This sandy beach offers a unique surfing experience, as the waves break over a rocky bottom, extending for several meters.
Ribeira d’Ilhas is a preferred choice for hosting numerous international surf championships, showcasing its world-class waves. With exceptional consistency and impressive resilience to wind conditions, this beach stands out among the top recommendations on where to surf near Lisbon. However, due to its renowned status, Ribeira d’Ilhas can get quite crowded with fellow surf enthusiasts seeking their perfect wave.
“Praia dos Coxos”
Looking for the perfect spot where to surf near Lisbon? Coxos Beach is an exclusive destination for experienced surfers seeking a challenge. With its rocky bottom and exhilarating right-hand waves, it offers a thrilling experience for those at advanced skill levels. While it’s a protected bay, it’s important to be mindful of the local surfers who may be less welcoming when it comes to wave competition.
Our advice for a harmonious surf session is to approach the water with humility and respect. Instead of disputing for the bigger waves with the locals, focus on enjoying the inside waves, as there are plenty of them and they remain incredibly satisfying. Remember, it’s all about the stoke and sharing the waves together. So, if you’re ready for an epic surf adventure and asking yourself where to surf near Lisbon, don’t miss the opportunity to ride the waves at Coxos Beach, where challenges and incredible surf experiences await you.
Looking for the ultimate surf experience near Lisbon? To make the most of your surf trip, why not take advantage of our surf guide service? Our team of experienced surfers knows exactly where to find the prime waves and can turn your surf adventure into an unforgettable journey.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the top spots Where to Surf near Lisbon and make your surf trip the best one ever.