10 Best Surfing Camps in Portugal: Surfer’s Guide (2024)

Looking for surfing camps in Portugal to join? You’re in luck because in this article, I will be sharing my top picks for the best surf camps in the country.

Portugal is honestly a surfer’s paradise which boasts of an incredible combination of stunning coastline, fantastic waves, and warm, sunny weather. The food is pretty fantastic too!

This is why it is an ideal destination for surf enthusiasts from all over the world.

With a diverse array of world-class surf breaks like Nazaré, Peniche, and Ericeira, Portugal offers something for everyone, from seasoned pros to beginners looking to catch their first wave.

I’m not going to lie, even if I have surfed all over the world, surfing in Portugal can feel a little bit intimidating, giant waves aside. This is why I think surf camps are the perfect way to get to know the waves and level up your skills.

You can expect a fun, friendly, and laid-back atmosphere, as well as the chance to meet like-minded travelers who share your passion for riding the waves.

So pack your bags, grab your board, and get ready to experience the time of your life at one of Portugal’s exceptional surf camps!

Related: Check out our guide to Surf Camps in Ericeira

Best Surfing Camps in Portugal Overview

Best Portugal Surfing Camps

1. 8 Day Yoga and Surf Camp in Porto

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

Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure with an 8-Day Yoga and Surf Camp near Porto, situated just 30 kilometers south of the city in a breathtaking, untouched beach paradise.

Start your day catching waves and end it with a sunset yoga session. Local professional surf instructors will be your reliable buddies in the water, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. If you’re looking for other surf and yoga retreats in Portugal, check out our full article.

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

This unique Yoga and Surf Camp offers a well-rounded experience, combining 12 hours of surf classes, 8 yoga sessions, and 7 nights accommodation in a beautiful modern villa. The camp caters to all skill levels, allowing everyone to make the most of their time in Portugal. High-quality comfort mattresses and superior bed linen ensure a good night’s sleep after a day filled with yoga and surfing.

Note: If you’re looking for a surf camp that is shorter, check out this 3-day yoga and surf camp.

What to Expect:

During the 8 Day Yoga and Surf Camp in Porto, guests will enjoy 6 days of surf lessons (total of 12 hours), 8 yoga sessions with material included, and unlimited use of surfboards.

This surf camp in Portugal is located in Furadouro. Aside from being surrounded by nature, local restaurants are within a 7-minute walk. Here you can find cafes and restaurants serving delicious Portuguese meals and international dishes.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

• 7 nights accommodation in a modern villa
• 7 breakfast buffets
• 6 days of surf lessons (total of 12 hours)
• 8 yoga sessions with material included
• Unlimited use of surfboards and wetsuits
• Fully equipped kitchen for self-catering
• Access to swimming pool, fitness center, and sports area
• Mountain bikes
• Pick-up from the local train station in Ovar
• Drinking water and tea
• Wi-Fi

2. 8 Day All-Included Surf Camp at Surf Resort in Aljezur, Algarve

Location: Aljezur, Algarve, Portugal
Length: 8 Days
Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Immerse yourself in the pure beauty of nature at Russo Surf Resort – Vale Figueiras, a surf camp nestled in the heart of a natural park with stunning ocean views.

Run by local surf pioneers and led by the Algarve region’s most recognizable surf coach, Luis Marreiros, this surf camp promises high-quality lessons for beginners, intermediates, and upper-intermediates, with a step-by-step course program designed to help students learn the right techniques and progress quickly.

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

At this all-inclusive surf camp, you can focus on your surfing experience while enjoying good company, helpful staff, healthy food, and relaxing extras.

The camp offers 6 days of surfing, professional photo and video sessions, all meals, live music, and a famous BBQ night with sangria. The breathtaking location and exceptional coaching make this surf camp a must-try for surf enthusiasts.

Honestly, the Algarve is such a stunning place and is one of our favorite spots in Portugal.

What to Expect:

During the 8 Day All-Included Surf Camp, guests will enjoy 6 days of surf lessons, complimentary use of surf equipment, daily transport to the beach, and live music events.

Lessons are structured with warm-ups, theoretical exercises on the beach, and practical sessions in the water. The camp also offers professional photo and video sessions from June to September, capturing your surf memories to cherish forever.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

• 7 nights accommodation (shared or private)
• Full board (7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 6 dinners)
• Tasty dinners from Grandma-chef
• Home baked breakfast buffet and individual lunch packages for the beach
• Friday evening BBQ and live music night
• Welcome drink
• Surf course with the team of Luis Marreiros – the most recognizable surf coach of Algarve
• 6 surf days, including surf course from Monday to Friday (beginner, intermediate, advanced)
• 6 days surf material all day (Surfboards, rashguards, and wetsuits)
• Surfing insurance
• Free surf in between the surf lessons and on Saturday (materials rent, transfers)
• Professional photo session (June to Sept)
• Video sessions of surf lessons
• Ripcurl wetsuits and surfboards

3. 8 Day Yoga and Surf Camp in Bensafrim, Lagos

Location: Bensafrim, Lagos, Portugal
Length: 8 Days
Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Find your balance with a combination of yoga and surfing at the tranquil Tiny Whale Surf Lodge in Bensafrim, Lagos. This surf camp is designed for those who take surf coaching seriously, focusing on a personalized and holistic approach.

Experience daily surf-inspired yoga sessions with yoga guru Chloe, aimed at stretching, relaxing, and restoring your body for the next day’s surf adventures.

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

At this surf and yoga camp, you’ll enjoy small group coaching tailored to your individual surfing goals, daily video coaching, surf and ocean theory, and pool technique lessons.

The camp offers a harmonious environment, luxurious accommodation, and delicious meals, ensuring you have a rejuvenating experience while improving your surfing skills.

What to Expect:

During the 8 Day Beginner and Intermediate Yoga and Surf Camp, guests will enjoy 7 surf-inspired yoga sessions, 5 carefully structured surfing days with qualified coaches, daily video coaching or surf theory sessions, and surf skate sessions.

You’ll have access to all the necessary surf equipment and transportation to the best beaches each day. The surf lodge also provides comfortable accommodation, healthy meals, and access to facilities like a pool and jacuzzi.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

• 7 carefully planned surf-focused yoga sessions
• 5 carefully structured days of surf coaching with qualified coaches based on your individual surfing goals
• Your own surf coach for the week, teaching in a 1 to 4 coach-to-student ratio or less
• All the surf equipment you’ll need along with transport to the best beaches
• Daily video coaching or surf theory sessions with your surfing footage & images
• Surf skate session(s)
• 7 nights accommodation in a luxurious surf lodge
• 7 healthy breakfasts and 5 beach picnics for your surf days at the beach
• 5 delicious 2-course evening meals at the lodge from the in-house chef
• Wi-Fi available in all rooms
• Daily tea, coffee, and cakes back at the lodge after your surf sessions
• Use of all surf lodge facilities including pool, jacuzzi, garden

4. 5 Day Complete Surf Camp at Surf Lisbon

Location: Lisbon, Portugal
Length: 5 Days
Skill Level: All Levels

Experience the best of Lisbon’s golden beaches, excellent climate, and perfect waves for all surfing levels with the 5 Day / 4 Night Complete Surf Camp at Surf Lisbon.

With certified instructors, high-quality surfboards, and wetsuits, you are guaranteed an exceptional surfing experience. Surf Lisbon ensures your comfort by providing transportation from the Surf House and Lisbon to the surf spots during your stay.

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

The Complete Surf Camp offers a well-rounded experience with 3 full days of surfing, consisting of 2 lessons per day tailored to your skill level.

The camp also provides comfortable accommodation at the Surf House, daily breakfast, and access to local amenities. The charming beach town of Caxias is an ideal setting for an action-packed surf trip.

What to Expect:

During the 5 Day / 4 Night Complete Surf Camp, guests will enjoy 3 full days of surfing with 2 lessons per day, led by certified and experienced instructors. The camp provides all necessary equipment, including surfboards, wetsuits, and insurance during lessons.

Accommodation for 4 nights is provided at the Surf Lisbon Surf House, along with daily breakfast and transfers to the beach and back.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

• Accommodation for 4 nights
• Daily breakfast
• 3 full day surfs (2 x 2hr lessons per day)
• Certified and experienced instructors
• Groups tailored to your level
• Surfboard and wetsuit
• Insurance while in the class
• Transfer to the beach and return

5. 7 Day Affordable Surf Safari Package for All Levels in Peniche

Location: Peniche, Portugal
Length: 7 Days
Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Experience the best of Peniche’s diverse surf breaks with the 7 Day Affordable Surf Safari Package. Peniche Surf Lodge offers a home-away-from-home atmosphere, bringing together like-minded individuals who share a love for surfing.

The Surf Lodge team will guide you to the best waves each day, providing a comfortable beach camp and ensuring you get the most out of your surf trip.

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

This Surf Safari Package offers a unique experience with daily morning in-water coaching surf lessons, 2 surf sessions per day, 6 days of equipment hire, and a comfortable beach camp.

Peniche is an ideal location for surfers of all levels due to its diverse surf breaks and consistent waves throughout the year. The camp provides daily breakfast, afternoon coffee, herbal teas, and cookies, as well as bicycles for guest use.

What to Expect:

During the 7 Day Affordable Surf Safari Package, guests will enjoy 5 top-quality in-water surf lessons, with surf equipment provided for 6 days. Each morning begins with a surf lesson at either 10:30 am or 11:00 am, lasting for 2 hours, followed by a break for lunch and a guided free surf session in the afternoon.

The package also includes 6 nights of accommodation, daily breakfast, afternoon refreshments, and access to bicycles.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

• 6 nights accommodation
• 5 surf lessons (in-water coaching)
• 2 guided surf sessions per day
• Daily help-yourself breakfast (cereals, toast, fruit/yogurt, herbal teas, and filter coffee)
• Equipment for 6 days, including afternoons
• Transport to and from the beach
• Bicycles
• Daily beach camps with beach games and volleyball
• Afternoon coffee, a selection of herbal teas, and cookies at the beach camp

6. 8 Day Roxy Ladies Week (Women’s Only Surf Camp)

Location: Algarve, Portugal
Length: 8 Days
Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Calling all the ladies! This 8 Day Roxy Ladies Week for an exclusive women-only surf camp experience designed for beginner to intermediate surfers.

Spend a week with like-minded women from around the world, enjoying the pristine beaches and beautiful weather of the Algarve. The camp offers high-quality surf coaching, yoga sessions, paddleboarding, hiking, and more, ensuring a well-rounded and unforgettable experience.

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

The Roxy Ladies Week focuses on providing an enjoyable and pressure-free learning environment, ideal for women of all ages and skill levels. The highly qualified coaching team ensures that your surfing and surf knowledge will improve significantly during your stay.

Additionally, the revitalizing yoga sessions, active stand-up paddleboard tour, coastal hike, and surf skate sessions make this camp a perfect choice for an all-inclusive surf holiday.

What to Expect:

Throughout the 8 Day Roxy Ladies Week, you will participate in 5 carefully structured days of surf coaching tailored to your individual surfing goals. Daily video coaching or surf theory sessions, as well as access to all surf equipment during lesson hours, are included.

The camp also offers 7 surf-focused yoga sessions, a stand-up paddleboard tour, a coastal hike, and surf skate sessions. Accommodation for 7 nights, daily meals, transportation to the best beaches, and access to the surf lodge facilities are also provided.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

• 7 carefully planned surf-focused yoga sessions
• 5 days of surf coaching with qualified coaches based on individual surfing goals
• Daily video coaching or surf theory sessions with surfing footage and images to keep
• Active stand-up paddleboard (SUP) tour in the lake
• Coastal hike
• Surf skate session(s)
• 7 nights accommodation
• 7 healthy breakfasts
• 5 beach picnics for surf days at the beach
• 5 delicious two-course evening meals
• Daily tea, coffee, and cakes at the lodge after surf sessions
• Personal surf coach for the week
• All surf equipment during lesson hours
• Transportation to the best beaches
• Wi-Fi available in all rooms
• Use of all surf lodge facilities including pool, jacuzzi, garden

7. 6 Day Ultimate Surf Camp in Lagos, Faro

Location: Lagos, Faro, Portugal
Length: 6 Days
Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Check out this exciting and memorable surfing adventure in Lagos, Portugal, with the 6 Day Ultimate Surf Camp. This surf camp offers surfing lessons for all skill levels, ensuring a fantastic experience for everyone who wants to catch some waves.

Meet open-minded people and get expert guidance during the lessons while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Lagos.

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

The best part about this surfing camp in Portugal is that they have a Landrover to take you down the coast where you can catch the sick waves. This allows you to reach some pretty cool spots that most camps don’t go to.

The surf camp also includes complimentary yoga and surf safaris on certain dates, adding variety and excitement to your surf holiday.

What to Expect:

During your 6 Day Ultimate Surf Camp, you will participate in surfing lessons, receive board and wetsuit rentals, and enjoy 4×4 beach transfers. 

Breakfast and homemade lunches are provided to keep you energized throughout the day. The camp also includes complimentary yoga lessons during the weeks stated in the itinerary, as well as 5 nights of accommodation.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

• Surfing lessons, tuition, and tips
• Board hire, including wetsuits
• Complimentary yoga and surf safari on certain dates
• 4×4 beach transfer
• 5 nights’ accommodation
• Breakfasts
• Homemade lunches
• Yoga lessons (only during the weeks stated in the itinerary)

8. 4 Day Intensive Surf Coaching in Ericeira, Lisboa

Location: Ericeira, Lisboa, Portugal
Length: 4 Days
Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Join Hostel & Surfcamp 55 on this 4-day intensive surf coaching package, designed for beginners and intermediate surfers. The focus is on basic surfing techniques, with two surf lessons per day and theory lessons to enhance your understanding of the sport.

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

This surf camp offers small group lessons with excellent surf teachers, ensuring personal attention and a comfortable learning environment. With a range of surf spots in Ericeira, you’ll be able to experience different waves and conditions suited to your skill level. Video analysis is included, which allows for precise feedback and improvements to your surfing skills.

Surfing in Ericeira is some of the best in all of Portugal and when you spend a few days here, it’s easy to see why.

What to Expect:

During your 4-day surf camp, you’ll participate in five 2.5 or 3-hour surf lessons and one theory lesson. The package includes qualified surf instructors, all-day surf equipment use, and a surfing plan with specific objectives to train.

Roundtrip airport and beach transfers are included, as well as free Wi-Fi and video analysis. You’ll stay for three nights at the accommodation provided.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

• 5 2.5 or 3-hour surf lessons
• 1 theory lesson
• Surfing plan with different objectives to train
• Video analysis
• Qualified surf instructors and surf team
• All-day surf equipment use
• 3 nights accommodation
• Beach transport for the lessons
• Free Wi-Fi
• Roundtrip airport transfers
• Taxes

9. 5 Day Surf and Yoga Holiday in Colares, Portugal

Location: Colares, Portugal
Length: 5 Days
Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Experience a dreamy yoga retreat surrounded by the natural beauty of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park in Colares, Portugal.

This 5-day surf and yoga holiday at Star Pine Lodge is perfect for those who love yoga, surfing, and waking up to the sound of waves. With a cozy and friendly atmosphere, it’s easy to meet like-minded travelers and enjoy the various activities offered in this stunning region.

Why We Recommend This Surf and Yoga Holiday:

This holiday offers a perfect combination of surf and yoga classes, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds. With a focus on relaxation and adventure, you’ll have the chance to explore the surrounding area, visit the UNESCO world heritage town of Sintra, or take a day trip to Cascais or Lisbon.

What to Expect:

During your 5-day holiday, you’ll participate in 3 days of 2-hour daily surf classes and 3 days of 1-hour evening yoga sessions. The package includes a surfboard and wetsuit according to your level, free use of the pool, yoga & fitness area, garden, chill-out lounge, and common kitchen.

Breakfast buffet and lunch package are provided, as well as transport to and from the surf spot. You’ll stay for four nights at Star Pine Lodge.

Surf and Yoga Holiday Inclusions:

• 3 days of surf classes (2 hours per day, 6 hours in total)
• 3 days of yoga classes (1.5 hours per day, 4.5 hours in total)
• 4 nights accommodation in the room of your choice
• Breakfast buffet
• Free use of pool, yoga & fitness area, garden, chill-out-lounge, and common kitchen
• Fresh fruit and tea all day
• Lunch package
• Surfboard according to level and appropriate wetsuit
• Transport to and from surf spot
• Wi-Fi
• Yoga mats and yoga accessories

10. 8 Day Exciting Surf Camp in Cascais, Lisbon

Location: Cascais, Lisbon, Portugal
Length: 8 Days
Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Last but not least, we have this surf camp in Portugal in Cascais. Discover the surf town of Cascais with an 8-day surf camp package designed for beginners and intermediate surfers.

Surf Cascais offers affordable packages tailored to your individual abilities, helping you learn, improve, and polish your surfing skills. With experienced instructors by your side, you’ll explore the best breaks and secret spots in the area. In addition to surfing, the camp includes yoga sessions and video/photo coaching for a well-rounded experience.

Why We Recommend This Surf Camp:

This 8-day surf camp in Cascais is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the local surf culture while improving their skills. With experienced instructors, yoga sessions, and video coaching, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive and fun experience that caters to your skill level.

What to Expect:

During your 8-day surf camp, you will participate in 6 surf lessons, each lasting 2 hours, with all material (board and wetsuit) and insurance included. You’ll also have 2 yoga sessions, video/photo coaching, and daily breakfast.

Your accommodation for 7 nights is included, as well as transport from Cascais center on check-in/out days and transport to the beach.

Surf Camp Inclusions:

• 6 surf lessons (2 hours each)
• 2 yoga sessions
• Video and photo coaching
• Surfboard and wetsuit
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Insurance
• 7 nights’ accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Transport from Cascais center on check-in/out days
• Transport to the beach

Surfing in Portugal

Now that I shared some of my top picks for surfing camps in Portugal, let’s take a birds eye view on how this sport got started in the first place.

Surfing in Portugal has a rich history dating back to the 1960s when American and Australian surfers first discovered its incredible wave potential. The country’s extensive coastline, combined with its Atlantic location, provides a wide variety of surf spots and breaks that cater to surfers of all levels.

Some of the most popular surf spots in Portugal include Ericeira, a World Surfing Reserve with breaks such as Ribeira d’Ilhas, Coxos, and Pedra Branca; Peniche, known for its famous wave, Supertubos; Sagres in the Algarve, with its numerous surf spots and warmer waters; and Praia do Norte in Nazaré, home to the infamous giant waves ridden by big wave surfers.

The type of waves found in Portugal varies depending on the surf spot, ranging from mellow beginner-friendly waves to powerful, barreling waves for more experienced surfers.

The best seasons for surfing in Portugal are generally during the autumn and winter months, from September to March, when swells from the North Atlantic Ocean generate powerful waves with better consistency.

However, spring and summer also offer surf opportunities with smaller, more forgiving waves, ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers.

Surfing Camps in Portugal Summary

In summary, Portugal’s rich surfing history and diverse coastline make it a top destination for surfers of all levels which is what makes it an ideal spot for yoga and surfing camps.

To wrap things up, Portugal is a fantastic destination for unforgettable surf camps that suit all kinds of surfers, tastes, and budgets.

Hopefully, I’ve given you a variety of surfing camps in Portugal to choose from. Honestly speaking, these camps are the perfect way to level up your surf game while soaking in the beauty of Portugal’s amazing beaches and lively surf scene.

With top-notch coaching, friendly vibes, and extra activities like yoga and sightseeing, you’re sure to have an incredible time riding the waves in Portugal.

Happy surfing!