Lisbon is not the first place that comes to the minds of surfers, but the city can actually offer plenty of surfing spots. As the coastline is pretty long, the beaches rarely get overcrowded, dozens of surfing schools vary in prices and it is possible to find an affordable one. However, the size of the waves highly depends on the season.
For the beginners, it is better to come to Lisbon in the late spring or early summer as the waves are rather small. Even though the temperature of the air might be high—around 30°C – the water remains cold (15°C) and a wetsuit is required.
More experienced surfers would enjoy coming to Lisbon in spring or autumn when the waves get bigger. For those who know the basics of surfing practising in summer would be rather boring. Meanwhile, as winters are mild enough, the most experienced surfers may arrive even in December-February. Due to the large Atlantic storms, the best swells are found along the coast but the water is pretty cold. But generally, the best periods are spring and autumn, when the waves are big enough and it's not too cold outside. Moreover, as the best surfing conditions are outside the summer months, car rental prices are lower so driving to the more remote locations is more affordable.
Lots of surfers’ schools and spots for practising are located west of Lisbon (Cascais and the Estoril coast) and south (Costa da Caparica). They differ in terms of wave types and directions, and the number of surfers. Hence, you should do a bit of research before planning your surfing trip to the Lisbon region.
Practical info
When is the optimal period to go surfing in Lisbon?
Surfing activity in Lisbon is ideal from September to May when wave consistency and height are at their peak. Newbies can easily learn the ropes between late spring and early summer when waves are gentler. With gentle winters, even the more competent surfers can take part between December and February, albeit while wearing a wetsuit due to the cold water. Off-season rates offer a more affordable car-hire, making travel to remote locations more pocket-friendly. Show more
What are the hottest surfing locations in Lisbon?
Lisbon's top surfing sites can be found southward of the Costa da Caparica or westward of Cascais and the Estoril coast. Each site offers varying numbers of surfers, wave directions and types. Praia Grande, Guincho, Carcavelos, and Costa da Caparica are some of the preferred picks for surfers of all skill levels. For comparison purposes, the coast further west provides longer stronger waves, while the South's beaches tend to have smaller breaks making them better suited for amateurs. Show more
What is the water temperature like in Lisbon?
For European coastal waters, Lisbon experiences moderate temperature ranges, making it viable to surf in any season. During peak summer, air temperatures can rise to 30°C, but the water remains cold with temperatures hovering at 15°C, necessitating a wetsuit. Conversely, the mild winters enable surfers to enjoy the waves throughout the year, despite colder waters falling from 10°C. Show more
How do the surfing conditions vary in Lisbon with respect to seasonal changes?
Highly influenced by the seasons, optimal surfing times in Lisbon differ significantly. Relative to the wave heights, the smaller waves that are perfect for beginners can be located later in the spring and during the initial stages of summer. Generally, from September to May, wave heights are more frequent and present more challenge — the perfect backdrop for experienced surfers. Surfing can still be done in winter, but being a cold season, a wetsuit is a must. Skilled surfers will especially enjoy waves during Atlantic storms in December to February. Show more
What is the difference between schools and surfing spots in the west and south of Lisbon?
Lisbon's surfing schools have a range of prices, with some located along the shoreline and some near the beach. In the west, surfers can expect more extensive and complicated waves, while the southern beaches offer more arbitrary sizes. Surfing schools have varying prices, and the number of surfers at each location is diverse, requiring comprehensive research. Show more
