Ericeira: Surf School Experience & Equipment Rental

If you’ve ever dreamed of catching your first wave or refining your surf skills in Portugal’s renowned surf village, Ericeira, this experience could be just what you’re looking for. Offering a 2-hour lesson with personalized attention from certified instructors, it promises a fun, safe dive into the surf world amid stunning coastal scenery.

What makes this tour stand out? We particularly appreciate the small group size, which ensures plenty of individual guidance, the beautiful setting of Ericeira’s coastline, and the option to rent equipment afterward for continued practice. On the flip side, it’s mainly targeted at newcomers or those with limited time, so seasoned surfers may look elsewhere for more advanced coaching. Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone eager to learn or refresh their basics while soaking in one of Portugal’s most iconic surf spots.

Good To Know

• Personalized instruction ensures tailored feedback for beginners.
• Breathtaking coastline views accompany every stage of the lesson.
• Option to rent surfboards lets you practice independently after your lesson.
• Small group setting (limited to 8 participants) allows for more attention.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for beginners or those wanting a quick, fun intro to surfing.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction: Why Choose a Surf Lesson in Ericeira?

Learning to surf in Ericeira offers a unique blend of stunning scenery and expert guidance. This experience, provided by Activity surf Center, aims to give you a solid foundation whether you’re stepping onto a surfboard for the first time or seeking to boost your confidence. The village itself is famous for its consistent waves and beautiful coastlines, making it a favorite among surf enthusiasts worldwide.

We love how the lesson emphasizes step-by-step guidance—from warming up on the sand to catching your first wave. Plus, the fact that it’s a small group (max 8 people) means you’ll receive plenty of personal tips without feeling lost in a crowd. The equipment rental afterward is a bonus, enabling you to keep practicing at your own pace and build on what you’ve learned.

One thing to consider? Since the tour is only 2 hours, it’s perfect for those short on time or new to the sport. However, if you’re after an in-depth course or multi-day coaching, you might want to look into longer programs or more comprehensive lessons.

This experience suits travelers who want a fun, authentic introduction to surfing, enjoy beautiful coastal environments, and prefer a small, friendly group setting.

What to Expect from This Surf School Experience

The tour begins at a centrally located spot in Ericeira, on R. de Santo António, where you’ll meet your instructor and fellow participants. Transportation is included, which means less hassle and more focus on the surfing itself. From there, you’ll head to the beach for your session.

The initial warm-up on the sand is designed to prevent injuries and prepare your muscles for the waves. Once you’re limber, your instructor will guide you through the fundamentals of paddling, positioning your body on the board, and standing up. The personalized coaching ensures that regardless of your starting point, you’ll progress at your own pace.

A major highlight in reviews is the dedicated attention from instructors who are fluent in multiple languages—Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish—and genuinely helpful. One reviewer mentioned their guide, João, as being “patient, encouraging, and clear,” which can make all the difference when trying to balance on a surfboard for the first time.

After the lesson, you’ll have the option to rent a surfboard, which is a great way to continue practicing on your own or with friends. The equipment is well-maintained, and staff are always happy to offer tips or pointers during your solo session.

The experience combines fun, safety, and stunning views, making it more than just a lesson—it’s a memorable introduction to one of Portugal’s premier surfing destinations.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Location: R. de Santo António 3 A, Ericeira

This spot is conveniently situated in the heart of Ericeira, making it easy to find and accessible. The meeting point offers a relaxed environment to meet your instructor and other participants. Arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to ensure a smooth start and to get comfortable with your equipment.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Warm-Up & Preparation

Starting with a sand warm-up, your instructor emphasizes safety and prepares your muscles for the physical activity ahead. Expect some light stretching and brief instructions on what to expect during your time in the water.

On the Sand: Technique & Fundamentals

Here, you’ll learn the correct body positioning, how to paddle efficiently, and the timing for standing up. Reviewers noted that instructors give step-by-step guidance, making complex movements easier to grasp. This stage is crucial for building confidence before hitting the waves.

In the Water: Catching Waves

Once in the water, you’ll be practicing paddling and positioning, with your instructor right beside you. You’ll learn how to read the waves, when to paddle, and how to stand. The breathtaking coastline backdrop adds to the experience, making each wave a memorable moment.

Post-Lesson: Equipment Rental & Practice

After the lesson, you can rent a surfboard and continue practicing independently. Many reviews mention that this flexibility allows for ongoing improvement, especially if you’re eager to progress beyond the beginner phase. Staff are available to offer tips as you hone your skills.

Return & Reflection

The tour concludes back at the starting point, near your initial meeting spot. It’s a good opportunity to reflect on your progress and plan future surfing adventures in Ericeira.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out?

Personalized Instruction: With no more than 8 participants, each person gets plenty of attention, which can make a big difference for beginners. Reviewers appreciated their instructors’ patience and clarity—some names mentioned include João and other friendly guides.

Stunning Coastal Setting: Ericeira’s coastline is one of Portugal’s most scenic, with rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and rolling waves. This natural beauty enhances the entire experience, making every paddle feel like part of a bigger adventure.

Option to Continue Practicing: The opportunity to rent a surfboard after your lesson gives you the chance to practice at your own pace. Several reviews mentioned that this flexibly extended the value of the experience, helping newcomers gain confidence.

Multilingual Guides & Easy Booking: Offered in Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish, the guides cater to diverse travelers. Plus, the booking process is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, making it convenient and risk-free.

Practical Details & Tips

Price & Value: At $57 per person, this lesson offers good value, especially considering the personalized attention and equipment rental. For beginners eager to learn the basics in a beautiful setting, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Duration & Scheduling: With a 2-hour window, it fits well into most travel plans. Check availability for specific start times, as slots may vary.

What to Bring: Pack your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. Arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a relaxed start. Remember, no pets, smoking, alcohol, or drugs are allowed during the activity.

Accessibility & Group Size: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers. Group size is capped at 8, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Who Should Consider It? Absolute beginners, travelers seeking a quick introduction, or those wanting to practice in a safe, supportive environment will find this experience perfect. It’s also suitable for families (with children over 10) or groups looking for a fun activity in Ericeira.

Final Thoughts

This surf lesson in Ericeira offers a well-rounded introduction to the sport, blending expert guidance with breathtaking scenery. The small group setting, flexible booking options, and the chance to rent equipment afterward combine to make it a strong value for anyone eager to dip their toes into surfing.

If you’re after a fun, authentic, and beginner-friendly experience in one of Portugal’s best surf spots, this tour is a solid choice. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a small group, or a family looking for a memorable activity, it delivers a safe, enjoyable, and picturesque day on the water.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for total beginners?
Yes, the lesson is designed for beginners, focusing on fundamental skills and ensuring you learn at your own pace.

How long is the lesson?
The lesson lasts approximately 2 hours, including warm-up, instruction, and time in the water.

Are the instructors fluent in English?
Yes, instructors speak English, Portuguese, French, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

Can I rent a surfboard after the lesson?
Absolutely, you can rent a surfboard post-lesson to keep practicing independently.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. Arrive 15 minutes early to prepare.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation to the activity location is part of the experience, making logistics easier.

This Ericeira surf school experience offers an inviting, well-organized chance to learn or practice surfing in a stunning setting, all while enjoying personalized attention and flexible options. It’s ideal for those wanting a fun, safe, and authentic taste of Portugal’s surfing culture.

You can check if your dates are available here: