Top Surfing Spots Near Lisbon: Your Ultimate Guide to Waves for All Levels

Lisbon, with its stunning coastline and consistent waves, is a haven for surfers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner eager to catch your first wave or an advanced surfer seeking challenging breaks, the Lisbon area offers a variety of surf spots to suit your needs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best surfing locations around Lisbon, including optimal times to visit, how to get there, accommodation options, and more.

Carcavelos Beach

Level: Ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers.

Best Time to Visit: The prime surfing season at Carcavelos is from September to May, with the most consistent waves occurring between October and March.

How to Get There: Carcavelos is approximately 20 minutes by train from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré station. Trains run frequently, making it a convenient day trip.

Accommodation: While Carcavelos has limited lodging options, staying in Lisbon provides easy access to the beach. Our hostel offers comfortable accommodations and is conveniently located near public transportation.

Dining: After a surf session, enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries along the beachfront. Many restaurants offer a variety of dishes to satisfy your post-surf appetite.

Costa da Caparica

Level: Suitable for all levels, with various breaks catering to beginners, intermediate, and advanced surfers.

Best Time to Visit: Surfing is viable year-round, but the best conditions are typically from September to May. Summer months may have smaller waves, ideal for beginners.

How to Get There: Located across the Tagus River, Costa da Caparica is about a 20-minute drive from Lisbon. Public buses and ferries are also available for those without a car.

Accommodation: While there are accommodations in Costa da Caparica, staying in Lisbon allows you to experience the city’s vibrant culture and nightlife, with easy access to the beach.

Dining: The beachfront is lined with numerous restaurants and bars. Enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes and fresh seafood while taking in ocean views.

Guincho Beach

Level: Best suited for intermediate and advanced surfers due to strong winds and powerful waves.

Best Time to Visit: Winter months bring the most powerful swells, ideal for experienced surfers. Summer offers consistent waves but can be windy, making it popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

How to Get There: Guincho is approximately a 30-minute drive from Lisbon. Alternatively, take a train to Cascais and then a bus or taxi to the beach.

Accommodation: Staying in Lisbon provides easy access to Guincho while allowing you to enjoy the city’s amenities. However, for those seeking proximity to the beach, Cascais offers various lodging options.

Dining: Nearby Cascais boasts a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining. Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese cuisine in this charming coastal town.

Ericeira

Level: Offers spots for all levels, from beginner-friendly beaches to advanced reef breaks.

Best Time to Visit: The best surfing conditions are from September to May, with consistent swells and favorable winds.

How to Get There: Ericeira is about a 40-minute drive from Lisbon. Buses are available but may take longer.

Accommodation: Ericeira has a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to upscale hotels. Staying in Lisbon and making day trips is also feasible.

Dining: The town is renowned for its seafood restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to try local specialties like grilled sardines and octopus salad.

Praia do Magoito

Level: Intermediate to advanced surfers.

Best Time to Visit: Fall offers consistent swells and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the crowded summer months.

How to Get There: Approximately a 45-minute drive from Lisbon. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car is advisable.

Accommodation: Limited lodging options in Magoito. Staying in Lisbon or nearby Sintra provides more choices.

São Pedro do Estoril

Level: Suitable for all levels, with consistent waves and long rides.

Best Time to Visit: Winter brings consistent swells, making it ideal for surfers seeking reliable conditions.

How to Get There: A 30-minute train ride from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré station.

Accommodation: Staying in Lisbon is convenient, with easy train access to São Pedro do Estoril.

Praia da Adraga

Level: Advanced surfers due to powerful waves and challenging conditions.

Best Time to Visit: Winter months offer the most powerful swells, attracting experienced surfers.

How to Get There: Approximately a 45-minute drive from Lisbon. Public transportation is limited; renting a car is recommended.

Accommodation: Limited options near the beach. Staying in Lisbon or Sintra provides more choices.