5 Best Ericeira Surf Camps: A Surfer’s Guide (2024)

written by local expert Tom Rogers

Tom is the co-founder of Adventure in You and has been traveling the world for the last 9 years, living in 5 different continents. His advice on travel gear, adventure travel, and business have been featured in Foundr, Business Insider, CNN and more.

Looking for the best surf camps in Ericeira? Don’t worry, I got you covered.

Ericeira, Portugal, is a fantastic spot to catch some seriously epic surf, and it’s home to some of the best surf camps around. 

This charming fishing village boasts a vibrant surf scene and stunning beaches, making it a top destination for surfers from all corners of the globe. With world-class surf breaks like Ribeira d’Ilhas, Coxos, and Pedra Branca, you’re in for a thrilling time on the waves. 

When you join a surf camp in Ericeira, you can expect top-notch coaching, loads of fun, and the chance to meet new surf buddies who share your passion for the sport. 

Ericeira was one of our favorite stops during our travels around Portugal and it’s easy to see why!

Amazing seafood, incredible waves, and a super cute small town feel. It is also home to some of the best surf camps in Portugal!

Keep on reading as I share some of our favorite surfing camps in Ericeira, Portugal!

winter sunny day in ribeira d'Ilhas
Ericeira is one of the best places in Portugal to attend a surf camp

Surf Camps in Ericeira Overview

Surf CampLocationLengthBook
Surf Camp with OmassimEriceira, Portugal8 DaysView Prices
Intensive Surf CoachingEriceira, Lisboa, Portugal7 DaysView Prices
White Waves Surf CampEriceira, Portugal8 DaysView Prices
All-Women’s Surf and Yoga HolidayEriceira, Portugal8 DaysView Prices
Amazing Surfing and Yoga HolidayEriceira, Portugal6 DaysView Prices

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The Best Ericeira Surf Camps

1. 8 Day Surf, Sleep and Eat in Ericeira, Portugal

  • Location: Ericeira, Portugal
  • Length: 8 Days
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

First up for best surf camps in Ericeira is this 8-day surf camp with Omassim. This surf camp is ideal for surfers looking to improve their skills while enjoying this beautiful surfing town. 

This package combines expert surf instruction, delicious veggie meals, and comfortable accommodation for a memorable surf holiday.

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

With 5 surfing lessons led by certified instructors, comfortable lodging, daily breakfast, and a relaxing atmosphere, this 8-day surf camp is perfect for those looking to enhance their surfing abilities while enjoying a one-of-a-kind experience.

The surfing instruction is taught by Ericeira Surf School so you know you’re in good hands.

What to Expect:

During your 8-day surf camp, you’ll participate in 5 surf lessons, each tailored to your skill level, ensuring a fun and safe experience. Wetsuits, board, transportation, and insurance are all included. 

In addition to surfing, your stay includes 7 nights of accommodation, daily breakfast, 6 light lunches as lunch boxes, and 6 dinners. You’ll also have free access to the well-equipped fitness room and Wi-Fi.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

  • 7 nights accommodation
  • 7 veggie breakfasts
  • 6 veggie lunch boxes
  • 6 veggie dinners as a buffet (one evening no dinner at the guesthouse, dinner out at an extra charge)
  • 5 days of surf classes (approximately 10 hours per week) – includes wetsuit, board, transportation, and insurance
  • Use of the well-equipped gym free of charge
8 Day Surf, Sleep and Eat in Ericeira, Portugal.jpg

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2. 7 Day Intensive Surf Coaching for All Levels

  • Location: Ericeira, Lisboa, Portugal
  • Length: 7 Days
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

This 7-day intensive surf coaching package is perfect for all skill levels – beginners, intermediates, and advanced surfers. It is one of the most popular surfing camps in Ericeira.

Hostel & Surfcamp 55 provides personalized coaching with two daily surf lessons and theory sessions, ensuring a memorable and educational experience as you hone your surfing abilities.

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

This 7-day surf camp in Ericeira offers a comprehensive and engaging experience for surfers of all levels. With small group sizes, experienced instructors, and tailored lessons, you’ll be able to develop your skills in a supportive and fun atmosphere.

If you’re looking for alternatives to this surf camp in Ericeira, Hostel & Surfcamp also offers a 10-day surfing camp as well as a 4-day surfing camp.

What to Expect:

During your 7-day surf camp, you’ll enjoy 9 surf lessons, each lasting 2.5 or 3 hours, with all material (board and wetsuit) and insurance included. 

The camp also features theory lessons, video analysis, and roundtrip airport and beach transfers. Your 6 nights of accommodation, daily beach transport for lessons, and free Wi-Fi are all part of the package.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

  • 9 x 2.5 to 3-hour surf lessons
  • Theory lessons
  • Surfing plan with different objectives to train
  • Video analysis
  • Qualified surf instructors and surf team
  • All-day surf equipment use
  • 6 nights accommodation
  • Beach transport for the lessons
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Roundtrip airport transfers
  • Taxes
7 Day Intensive Surf Coaching for All Levels.jpg

3. 8-Day Premium White Waves Surf Camp in Ericeira, Portugal

  • Location: Ericeira, Portugal
  • Length: 8 Days
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Join this 8-day premium White Waves Surf Camp in Ericeira, Portugal, for an unforgettable experience. Ideal for those who want a stress-free trip, this package includes everything you need for a hassle-free surfing adventure.

Enjoy 5 surf lessons, a video analysis session, a photo session, and much more during your stay.

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

This 8-day surf camp offers a comprehensive and luxurious experience, with surf lessons, airport transfers, daily breakfast, BBQ night, and comfortable accommodation. It’s perfect for those looking to make the most of their surf holiday without any worries.

What to Expect:

During your 8-day surf camp, you’ll participate in 5 surf lessons with beach transfers, equipment, and insurance included. In addition, you’ll have access to one video analysis session and one photo session. 

Your package includes 7 nights of accommodation, daily breakfast, and a BBQ night. Tea and coffee are available all day, and you’ll have access to the surf camp’s facilities, towels, and bed linens.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

  • Airport transfers (Lisbon Airport)
  • 7 nights accommodation with breakfast
  • 5 surf lessons (2 hours each) with beach transfer, equipment, and insurances
  • 1 video analysis session
  • 1 photo session
  • BBQ night
  • Tea and coffee available all day
  • Free use of the surf camp facilities
  • Towels and bed linens provided
8-Day Premium White Waves Surf Camp in Ericeira, Portugal.jpg

4. 8 Day All-Women’s Surf and Yoga Holiday in Portugal

  • Location: Ericeira, Portugal
  • Length: 8 Days
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

This all-women’s surf and yoga holiday in the beautiful coastal town of Ericeira, Portugal is one of the best surf camps for all of you ladies! Wake up to the sound of the sea breeze and practice yoga to the rhythm of crashing waves. 

With a perfect blend of surfing, yoga, meditation, and relaxation, this retreat offers a truly rejuvenating experience for women seeking a unique escape.

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

This 8-day all-women’s surf and yoga holiday is perfect for those looking to connect with like-minded individuals in a supportive and empowering environment. 

With unlimited yoga classes, premium surfboard rental, meditation, and ample free time to enjoy Portugal, this surf camp offers a one-of-a-kind experience.

What to Expect:

During your 8-day retreat, you’ll enjoy 5 days of surf lessons, unlimited yoga classes, and premium surfboard rental between 9 am and 5 pm. 

Your package includes 7 nights of premium accommodation, daily breakfast buffet, complimentary WiFi, and all yoga and surf equipment. Experience guided meditation and find tranquility in the beautiful surroundings of Sintra and Lisbon.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

  • 5 days of surf lessons including transport
  • 7 nights premium accommodation
  • Unlimited yoga classes (x 11)
  • Unlimited premium surfboard rental (Between 9 am – 5 pm)
  • Meditation included in yoga classes
  • Daily breakfast buffet
  • Complimentary WiFi
  • Free time to enjoy both Sintra & Lisbon
  • All yoga & surf equipment provided
  • Complimentary lemongrass & bergamot shampoo/conditioner dispensers
  • Complimentary bathroom & pool towels
8 Day All-Women’s Surf and Yoga Holiday in Portugal.jpg

5. 6 Day Amazing Surfing and Yoga Holiday in Ericeira, Portugal

  • Location: Ericeira, Portugal
  • Length: 6 Days
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Experience the perfect blend of yoga and surfing in the picturesque town of Ericeira, Portugal. This 6-day retreat offers a combination of daily yoga classes, surf lessons, and relaxation in a beautiful setting. 

With a focus on harmony, strength, and flexibility, this holiday is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. To be perfectly honest, this surf camp is a lot more focused on yoga but I figured I would include it anyways for those who want to work on their flexibility.

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

This 6-day surfing and yoga holiday in Ericeira is ideal for anyone seeking to rejuvenate their body and mind through a combination of yoga, surf lessons, and delicious vegetarian meals. 

The friendly and experienced staff at Moka ensures a memorable and relaxing experience for all participants.

What to Expect:

Your retreat includes 5 nights of accommodation in a Portuguese villa, daily healthy breakfasts, 4 vegetarian dinners, 1 daily yoga class, 3 two-hour surf lessons with full equipment, 1-hour massage, and daily local transfers to town and beaches. 

You will have access to the camp’s facilities, including a 66m2 Mongolian yurt for yoga lessons and workshops, a wave skate ramp, and a beautiful garden with hammocks.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

  • 5 nights accommodation
  • 5 healthy breakfasts
  • 4 delicious vegetarian dinners
  • 1 daily yoga class (75/90 minutes each) including meditation/pranayama or yoga Nidra
  • 3 two-hour surf lessons with full equipment (beginner level)
  • 1-hour massage
  • Daily local transfers to town and beaches
  • Access to camp’s facilities
6 Day Amazing Surfing and Yoga Holiday in Ericeira, Portugal.jpg

Surfing in Ericeira

Now that I’ve shared my top picks for the best surfing camps in Ericeira, here’s a quick overview about this spot.

Ericeira, a charming coastal town in Portugal, is a renowned surf destination famous for its consistent surf breaks, breathtaking coastline, and vibrant surf culture. 

Although there are plenty of other things to do in Ericeira, majority flock here for the surf.

With a variety of surf spots catering to different skill levels, Ericeira is the perfect destination for surf enthusiasts of all abilities. In 2011, Ericeira was declared a World Surfing Reserve due to its unique surf breaks and rich surf history.

If you’re looking for other surfing camps in Portugal, check out our full guide!

Popular Surf Spots in Ericeira:

Ribeira d’Ilhas

Located approximately 3.5 kilometers north of Ericeira, Ribeira d’Ilhas is one of the most famous surf spots in the area. 

The right-hand point break offers long, peeling waves that provide ample opportunity for surfers to showcase their skills. The wave quality is consistent throughout the year, with the best conditions typically occurring between September and April. 

Ribeira d’Ilhas is characterized by its rocky bottom and a combination of fast, hollow sections and more mellow, open-faced waves. 

Due to its high-quality waves and consistency, the spot regularly hosts national and international surf competitions, making it a popular destination for spectators and surfers alike.

Coxos

Coxos, situated in the northern part of Ericeira, is a world-class right-hand point break known for its powerful, barreling waves. 

The spot works best with a northwest swell and southeast winds, producing fast and hollow waves that challenge even the most experienced surfers. The rocky bottom and strong currents make Coxos a spot reserved for advanced surfers. 

During big swell days, the wave can reach heights of over 10 feet, attracting big wave surfers from around the globe. Despite its popularity, Coxos can be less crowded than other surf spots in Ericeira due to its challenging nature.

Coxos beach one of the world surf reserve in Ericeira Portugal
Coxos Beach is one of the most famous surf spots in Ericeira

Foz do Lizandro

Foz do Lizandro, located just south of Ericeira, is a versatile beach break that offers ideal conditions for beginner and intermediate surfers. 

The sandy bottom, along with the more forgiving left and right-hand waves, make it a popular spot for surf lessons and practice sessions. 

The beach is also a favorite among families and beachgoers, thanks to its picturesque surroundings and ample facilities, including beach bars, restaurants, and restrooms. 

During the summer months, Foz do Lizandro can become quite crowded, but the expansive beach ensures that there is ample space for everyone. A lot of surf camps in Ericeira start here which is perfect when you’re a beginner.

São Julião

São Julião is a long, sandy beach located approximately 7 kilometers south of Ericeira. The beach break provides consistent left and right-hand waves that cater to surfers of all skill levels. 

The northern part of the beach offers more powerful and challenging surf conditions, while the southern end provides gentler waves that are ideal for beginners. 

São Julião is also popular among longboarders, thanks to its long, open-faced waves. The beach’s stunning surroundings, combined with its range of surf conditions, make it a popular destination for surfers and beach goers alike.

Pedra Branca

Next up on my list is Pedra Branca. Pedra Branca is situated close to Ericeira’s town center, is an A-frame reef break known for its fast, hollow left-hand waves and slower, more mellow right-hand waves. The spot works best with a northwest swell and east or southeast winds. 

The shallow reef and powerful waves make Pedra Branca suitable for intermediate and advanced surfers. 

During the summer months, the spot can become crowded due to its proximity to the town center and its reputation for producing high-quality waves. However, the unique wave characteristics and picturesque location make Pedra Branca a must-visit spot for surfers visiting Ericeira.

pedra branca beach in Ericeira Portugal
Pedra Branca beach in Ericeira Portugal

Wave Types and Skill Levels:

Ericeira offers a diverse range of wave types, including beach breaks, point breaks, and reef breaks. The variety of surf spots ensures that there are suitable conditions for all skill levels, from beginners looking to catch their first wave to experienced surfers seeking challenging barrels and powerful sections.

In general, beginners should opt for beach breaks with sandy bottoms and gentle waves, such as Foz do Lizandro and São Julião. 

Intermediate surfers can explore point breaks like Ribeira d’Ilhas and some sections of São Julião, while advanced surfers can test their skills at challenging reef breaks like Coxos and Pedra Branca.

In summary, Ericeira is a surf paradise that caters to surfers of all abilities, with a diverse range of surf spots, consistent waves, and a vibrant surf culture. 

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned surfer, Ericeira offers an unforgettable surf experience along the stunning Portuguese coastline, making it the perfect destination for surf camps.

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FAQ about Surf Camps in Ericeira

Can beginners surf in Ericeira?

Yes, beginners can surf in Ericeira. The area offers a variety of surf spots that cater to different skill levels, including beginner-friendly beach breaks like Foz do Lizandro and São Julião. 

These spots have sandy bottoms and gentler waves, making them perfect for beginners to learn and practice their surfing skills. Many surf camps in Ericeira provide lessons and coaching tailored for beginners, ensuring a safe and enjoyable learning experience.

When is the best time to surf in Portugal?

The best time to surf in Portugal varies depending on your skill level and the region you plan to visit. In general, the surfing season in Portugal spans throughout the year, but the conditions differ between seasons.

For beginner and intermediate surfers, the best time to surf in Portugal is from April to October. During these months, the waves are generally smaller and more manageable, with warmer water temperatures and more pleasant weather.

For advanced surfers, the prime surfing season is from October to March. During this period, the waves are larger and more powerful, especially along the west coast and the famous big wave spot of Nazaré.

Do you need a wetsuit to surf in Ericeira?

Yes, wearing a wetsuit while surfing in Ericeira is generally recommended, as the water temperatures can be relatively cool throughout the year. 

The thickness of the wetsuit you will need depends on the time of year and the water temperature:

During the warmer months (June to September), water temperatures in Ericeira can range from 18°C to 21°C (64°F to 70°F). A 2mm or 3/2mm wetsuit is typically sufficient during this period.

In the cooler months (October to May), water temperatures can drop to around 14°C to 17°C (57°F to 63°F). A thicker wetsuit, such as a 4/3mm or even a 5/4mm, is recommended to stay warm in these conditions.

If you join a surf camp in Ericeira, wetsuit rental will most likely be included in your package.

Do you need to rent a car to surf in Ericeira?

While renting a car to surf in Ericeira is not strictly necessary, it can be a convenient option if you want to sightsee. If you join a surfcamp in Ericeira, most places will have excursions included as well as transportation to the best surf spots within the area.

If you plan to visit other nearby attractions or towns, such as Sintra, Cascais, or Lisbon, renting a car can make it easier to travel at your own pace and on your own schedule.

You can check out Discover Cars as you can easily compare rates from different companies.

What is the best month to surf Ericeira?

For experienced surfers, the best months to surf in Ericeira are typically between September and November. During this time, the North Atlantic swells become more consistent, providing bigger and more powerful waves. 

This period also coincides with the autumn season, which often brings favorable weather conditions and less crowded surf spots.

For beginners and intermediate surfers, the summer months of June, July, and August can be ideal. The waves are generally smaller, more manageable, and consistent during this time, providing suitable conditions for learning and improving surf skills. Additionally, the weather is warm and sunny, making for a pleasant surf experience.

How much are surf lessons in Ericeira?

The cost of surf lessons in Ericeira can vary depending on factors such as the surf school, the length of the lesson, and whether it’s a private or group session. 

On average, you can expect to pay between €35-€60 for a single group surf lesson, which typically lasts for about 2 hours.

Private lessons tend to be more expensive, ranging from €50 to €100 per lesson, as they offer personalized attention and instruction tailored to your skill level and needs.

Many surf schools and camps in Ericeira also offer package deals that include multiple lessons, accommodation, and other activities, which can provide better value for your money.


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