The Best Surf Camps in Ericeira for All Levels
November 17, 2023
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Northwest of Lisbon, Ericeira is more than just another charming little fishing town. It is a surfer’s hotspot, home to a high density of world-class waves and some of the most laid-back surf vibes in Portugal.
Ericeira was declared a World Surfing Reserve in 2011, and it is currently still the only one in Europe. The Ericeira World Surfing Reserve is part of the Mafra Municipality and covers seven epic surf breaks along 4 km (2.5 mi) of coastline: Pedra Branca, Reef, Ribeira d’Ilhas, Cave, Crazy Left, Coxos, and São Lourenço.
Thanks to its variety of waves, from mellow beach breaks to powerful and hollow points, Ericeira is a great destination to progress from a complete beginner all the way to a well-rounded surfer. Furthermore, there are plenty of surf camps in Ericeira that you can join at any time of the year, which offer personalized programs for all levels and pockets.
When to go surfing in Ericeira?
Ericeira is a year-round surfing destination.
Summer months, between May and October, offer good conditions for beginner surfers to learn the basics in friendly waves and warmer water. You’ll need a 2mm long sleeve shorty, or a 3/2mm spring wetsuit if it’s windy, to surf in Ericeira in summer.
Progressing surfers will find good conditions in summer, spring (March/April), as well as in autumn and early winter (September to December).
However, the best surf hits the coast between autumn and spring (October through May). Although winter months are more recommended for advanced surfers, depending on the swell size and the tides, beginners can still find some mellow waves during this time too. Please take note that you’ll need a 4/3mm wetsuit to surf in Ericeira in winter.
Water temperatures peak in August, averaging at 20 to 22°C (68 to 72°F). They reach their minimum in February – 14 to 16°C (57 to 61°F).
» For more on the surfing conditions, best waves, and how to budget your trip, check out our complete guide to surfing in Ericeira.
8 Days Surf and Yoga Holiday in Ericeira
- Skill level: Beginners & intermediates
- Price: From EUR 649 per person for 8 days/7 nights
- Availability: March till November
Whether you’re craving a wellness break or want a more active vacation, you’ll find the perfect balance here. This surf and yoga camp in Ericeira aims to relax and re-energize you from the inside out.
The retreat is located only 400m from the beach. You’ll wake up to the sea breeze, meditate with a sea view, practice yoga against the sound of the crashing waves, and learn to surf in a serene location. The program includes five surf lessons, twice-daily yoga, daily meditation, and breakfast. All the necessary surfing and yoga equipment is provided.
There will be only five days of surfing lessons in this eight-day package, but you’ll also have unlimited surfboard rental so that you can surf in Ericeira for as long as you wish, whenever you wish. This also gives you plenty of time to relax, explore Sintra National Park, or try other activities.
A typical day starts with a morning Hatha Yoga Flow session by the sea, designed to warm you up and get you ready for the day ahead. Breakfast is served afterward. Then, the surf van will take you to the best surf spots of the day for your level, where you’ll have the lessons. You’ll have a lunch break at the beach, followed by free time. In the afternoon, the Yin Yoga and meditation sessions will rebalance your energy systems, calming your body and mind.
6-Day Amazing Surf and Yoga Holiday in Ericeira, Portugal
- Skill level: All levels
- Price: From EUR 538 per person for 6 days/5 nights
- Availability: March till November
Want to take a break from your daily routine? Or maybe just want to have an exciting holiday in a beautiful destination? Either way, this surf camp is for you! It takes place in a lovely Portuguese villa, located on the top of the hill just outside the surf town of Ericeira.
The program includes 5 nights of accommodation, 5 healthy breakfasts, 4 delicious vegetarian dinners, 1 daily yoga class, 3 two-hour surf lessons, 1-hour massage, and daily local transfers from and to town and beaches.
You’ll also have access to the camp’s facilities, including a large garden, a terrace with an amazing ocean view, an open-air cinema, a Mongolian yurt, hammocks, Wi-Fi, and free bicycle use. During your free time, you can get around the town and enjoy its wide offer of fine bars and restaurants. Or if you prefer, you can explore the Sintra and Cascais Natural Park.
4-Day Surf Camp in Ericeira
- Skill level: All levels
- Price: From EUR 372 per person for 4 days/3 nights
- Availability: March till November
Looking to learn how to surf? Want to improve your skills? Head to Ericeira, where you’ll not only learn to surf and improve your skills under the supervision and guidance of the best surfing team but also learn to ride the waves in one of the best surfing spots in the world.
You’ll stay in a Portuguese villa featuring a large garden and a beautiful terrace facing the ocean. The program includes 3 healthy breakfasts, 2 delicious vegetarian dinners, a daily yoga class, 2 two-hour surf lessons, and 1-hour massage.
There are many other activities you can book at an extra cost such as a variety of spa treatments, Stand Up Paddle lessons, horse riding lessons, mountain bike tours, cycling, hiking tours, and day trips to Sintra and Lisbon.
8-Day Surf Camp in Ericeira
- Skill level: Beginners
- Price: From EUR 515 per person for 8 days/7 nights
- Availability: May till October
Join this affordable surf camp in Ericeira and stay in a Portuguese house only minutes away from the beaches and town center yet secluded enough to enjoy some much-needed privacy.
The waves nearby are ideal for beginner and intermediate surfers. Each day, the instructors check the forecast and find the best surf spot for your level. You may surf in the morning on one day or you may hit the waves in the evening on another, depending on the conditions.
During the first session, the instructors will assess your level and fit you into a group of similar abilities. There will be a maximum of five students per instructor for a quality, safe, and fun experience.
There’ll be four surf lessons in total, of two hours each. Transfer to the surf spots, all the necessary surfing equipment, and insurance are included.
The package also includes daily breakfast and unlimited tea and coffee.
8-Day Intensive Surf and Yoga Holiday in Ericeira
- Skill level: All levels
- Price: From EUR 935 per person for 8 days/7 nights
- Availability: April till October
Get one whole week of surfing on some of Portugal’s best waves. No matter if you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced surfer, you too can experience world-class beaches, reef, and point breaks.
The surf camp is located in the quaint village of Palhais, only a 20-minute walk from Ribeira D’Ilhas, one of the most famous surf spots in Portugal. You’ll stay in a guesthouse with access to the fully equipped kitchen, gym, yoga studio, garden, lounge, dining area, and outdoor swimming pool. You’ll enjoy daily 7 breakfasts, 6 light lunches, and 6 dinners.
You’ll enjoy 10 surfing lessons with full hands-on support from experienced instructors. The lessons are adapted to your specific level of experience and are held in separate groups so that each participant can make the most of their time in the water. All the necessary surfing equipment is provided by the camp.
During your stay, you’ll visit different surf breaks and ride the most spectacular waves in Ericeira. Complete surfing equipment, transfer to the surf spots, and insurance are included.
Surfing and yoga are both full-body practices and complement each other wonderfully. During your stay, you’ll attend six yoga classes – Vinyasa flow in the morning and Yin Yoga in the evening. The camp will provide a yoga kit for your personal use (yoga mat, belt, blocks, bolster, blanket).
*Prices are subject to change depending on the date of arrival.
Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? No matter what your level may be, beginner or advanced, these surf camps in Portugal promise an unforgettable experience!