Ericeira the surfing paradise in Portugal
Surfing in Portugal at Ericeira
Welcome to Ericeira the surfing paradise in Portugal, a charming fishing town along Portugal’s Atlantic coast.
Ericeira is much more than just a destination for surf enthusiasts.
Its history dates back centuries, when the city was founded as a small fishing village. Ericeira’s strategic location along the Portuguese coastline made it a center for trade and fishing, contributing to its growth and development over the centuries. The narrow cobbled streets and picturesque colorful houses in Ericeira’s historic center are tangible evidence of its rich history, which has withstood the challenges of time.
Over the years, Ericeira, Portugal’s surfing paradise, has become famous for its coastal beauty and spectacular waves, attracting not only surfers but also travelers eager to immerse themselves in its fascinating history. The city was officially declared a “World Surfing Reserve” in 2011, recognizing not only its importance as a destination for surfing enthusiasts in Portugal, but also its unique history that continues to blend with modernity.
Today, as the waves of the Atlantic continue to cradle surfing enthusiasts, Ericeira retains its historic charm. Visitors can explore local museums, including the Municipal Museum and the Sea Museum, which offer a fascinating overview of the region’s maritime history. This connection with the past gives Ericeira a cultural depth that harmoniously blends with its contemporary reputation as a surfing paradise, making every visit an immersion in history and adventure.
Discover Ericeira the surfing paradise in Portugal
Every year, the eyes of the world are on this picturesque location as it welcomes some of the best global surfers in an epic challenge on its waves.
The world championship in Ericeira, the surfing paradise in Portugal, is more than a competition; it is an event that blends the tradition of surfing with the modernity of competitiveness. International athletes compete in waters that have seen generations of surfers, creating a unique blend of Ericeira’s historic charm and the dynamic energy of competitive surfing. The competition not only adds a touch of adrenaline to the city’s already vibrant atmosphere, but also helps cement Ericeira’s reputation as one of the most iconic surfing destinations in the world.
In addition to the competitions, the world championship in Ericeira offers an opportunity for visitors to experience the atmosphere and excitement surrounding this international event. The local community joins surf enthusiasts from around the world, creating a festive and inclusive atmosphere. Through this event, Ericeira not only celebrates its history on the waves but also projects itself into the future, maintaining its status as a surfing mecca and a must-visit destination for anyone who loves this fascinating sport.
The best beaches for surfing in Ericeira, the surfing paradise in Portugal
Ericeira offers true gems for surfing enthusiasts: beaches with perfect waves that attract surfers from all over the world. Let’s explore them together.
Perfect waves in Ribeira d'Ilhas, the gem of Ericeira, the surfing paradise in Portugal
The beach of Ribeira d’Ilhas is famous for its perfect waves, making it an unmissable stop for those wishing to surf in Ericeira. With its long and powerful waves, this beach is suitable for both beginners and more experienced surfers.
Declared a World Surfing Reserve, Ribeira d’Ilhas is a historic icon of Ericeira, attracting not only surfers but also those who want to experience the magic of this enchanted place. The combination of spectacular waves and historical atmosphere makes this beach an authentic paradise for those seeking to ride the waves.
Family fun at Foz do Lizandro
For a more relaxed surfing experience suitable for children, Foz do Lizandro is the ideal choice. With softer waves and a welcoming beach, this destination is perfect for introducing the little ones to the world of surfing.
While Ribeira d’Ilhas offers an intense surfing experience, Foz do Lizandro indeed adds a touch of sweetness and relaxation. The huge cliffs that protect it make it perfect for beginners and families looking for a quieter experience. Surf schools along the coast offer lessons suitable for all ages, creating an ideal environment for family surfing experiences. After a day on the water, visitors can enjoy the beach or explore local restaurants, completing the day with authentic fun and relaxation
San Juliao: The hidden charm of the coast
Ribeira d’Ilhas and Foz do Lizandro are already renowned, but we cannot overlook the charming San Juliao, a nearby beach that adds further diversity to Ericeira’s surfing scene.
San Juliao presents itself as a lesser-known but equally captivating gem. This less crowded beach offers a more intimate experience for those seeking tranquility amidst the waves. Its varied surf conditions make it suitable for surfers of all levels, while its peaceful atmosphere is perfect for those who want to enjoy the natural beauty without distractions. San Juliao adds a quieter dimension to Ericeira’s surfing scene, offering a relaxing break from the excitement of the other two main beaches.
What adds to the charm of this beach are the adjacent coves, accessible only at low tide, where you can enjoy moments of true solitude in small, practically private bays.
Where to surf in Portugal near Ericeira
Portugal is a particularly attractive destination for surfers, who obviously don’t stop solely in the town of Ericeira, but also venture further north for even wilder adventures.
Maceira: Natural treasures and wild waves
A few kilometers from Ericeira, Maceira offers a tranquil retreat for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Its beaches, with pristine landscapes and wild waves, attract both nature lovers and surf enthusiasts seeking new challenges. Maceira is an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy surfing in a more secluded setting, immersed in the wild and authentic beauty of the Portuguese coast.
Praia de Porto Novo: a hidden paradise for surfing in Portugal
Praia de Porto Novo, located a short distance from Ericeira, the surfing paradise in Portugal, is an authentic hidden paradise. Featuring sandy beaches, majestic cliffs and challenging waves, this destination is popular with surfers and travelers seeking natural beauty. The tranquility of Porto Novo offers a relaxing break, while the surfing opportunities satisfy adventure lovers looking for new thrills in a more secluded setting.
Peniche: The Kingdom of Surf and Atlantic Waves
Moving southward, Peniche emerges as a mecca for surfing and Atlantic waves. Known for its exceptional surfing conditions and variety of beaches, Peniche attracts surfers from all over the world. Supertubos Beach is famous for its tubular waves, while Baleal offers a more relaxed scene. With a vibrant atmosphere and a well-established surf culture, Peniche is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure along the Portuguese coast.
Also worth mentioning is the World Surf League (WSL) championship , which takes place right on the beaches of this town
Nazarè: Giant Waves and Fascinating History
To the north of Ericeira, Nazaré stands out for its gigantic waves, attracting the bravest surfers and enthusiasts of high-altitude surfing. The unique conditions of Nazaré have made this location famous worldwide for its spectacular waves, especially the renowned Praia do Norte. In addition to surfing, Nazaré also boasts a fascinating history, with its characteristic historic center and the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré overlooking the bay. Visiting Nazaré offers a combination of adrenaline and culture, making it a comprehensive destination for those exploring the Portuguese coast.
Practical Tips for a Trip to Ericeira, the surfing paradise in Portugal
However, let’s go back to Ericeira, the surfing paradise in Portugal, the country where we have settled at the moment and of which we have therefore had the opportunity to know all the secrets. If you’ve never surfed, or if you need a few refresher lessons to discover the best areas based on the weather, Ericeira offers a wide range of surf schools suitable for all ages and skill levels.
From beginner lessons to advanced courses, there’s something for everyone.
Best times of year for surfing in Portugal in Ericeira
The best season for surfing in Ericeira is from April to October, when ocean conditions are ideal. However, even the winter months offer exciting opportunities, especially for more adventurous surfers considering the water temperatures.
Choose the Right Equipment for Surfing in Ericeira
Make sure you are well-equipped for your surf trip to Ericeira, although of course you can decide to rent everything on site at affordable prices.
From quality wetsuits to boards suitable for your skills, investing in the right equipment will make a difference in your surfing experience.
Remember that the water temperature in Portugal is always quite low, so wearing a wetsuit, even in summer, is essential to avoid feeling cold.
Surfing in Portugal with Total Safety
The waves in Portugal are no joke; the videos you see online are all real. Often, the waves are very high, and in any case, they always have significant power. With children, you need to be very vigilant even when they are on the shore because the waves can be unpredictable for those who do not know how to observe them. If you expect a calm and relaxing beach vacation from Portugal, you have definitely chosen the wrong place. There are coves where the current is weak and the waves are less powerful, but these are isolated places.
I don’t mean to say that Portugal is not suitable for families, but you need to move away from the concept of a relaxing vacation.
Why stop in Ericeira, the surfing paradise in Portugal
Over the years, Ericeira, the surfing paradise in Portugal, has undergone a disproportionate boom, earning it the nickname “surfing bubble”. It is a unique place, surrounded by uncontaminated nature and a wild sea. It is not just the perfect place for surfers, but it is becoming a second Bali in Europe, a place where physical activity, yoga and proper nutrition are the cornerstones of every inhabitant’s life.
It’s definitely worth a visit to this fantastic fishing village.
If you’re into surfing, I’ll leave you the link to my article on The best surf spots in Bali.
If you want to know more about Portugal, here are the articles dedicated to our adventures in this peace of world:
Digitally Yours
☀️ Sara ☀️
