The Ultimate Guide to Surfing Day Trips from Lisbon (For All Levels)
Dreaming of trading Lisbon’s cobblestone streets for sandy shores and perfect waves? You’re in luck. Just a short hop from the city center lies a coastline blessed with some of Europe’s best and most consistent surf. Whether you’re a complete beginner eager to stand up on a board for the first time or a seasoned pro hunting for the perfect barrel, there’s an incredible surf spot waiting for you. This guide breaks down the best surfing day trips from Lisbon, with all the practical info you need to get there, get in the water, and have an unforgettable day. Get ready to discover why this region is a surfer’s paradise and one of the best easy day trips from Lisbon.
Quick Facts: Comparing the Best Surf Day Trips from Lisbon
| Destination | Best For | Travel Time (from Lisbon) | Vibe | Average Day Trip Cost (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carcavelos | Beginners / All Levels | ~30 mins by train | Urban & Lively | €50 – €70 |
| Costa da Caparica | Beginners / Longboarders | ~45-60 mins by bus/ferry | Laid-back & Local | €55 – €75 |
| Ericeira | All Levels / Surf Culture | ~45-90 mins by bus | World-Class Surf Town | €65 – €90 |
| Peniche / Baleal | All Levels / Consistent Waves | ~90 mins by bus | Authentic Fishing & Surf Hub | €70 – €95 |
Top 4 Surfing Beaches for a Day Trip from Lisbon
Each of these surf hubs has its own unique character. Here’s the breakdown to help you find your perfect wave.
1. Carcavelos Beach: The Easiest Day Trip for Beginners
Why It’s Great
If you want maximum surf time with minimum travel, Carcavelos is your answer. Its huge, welcoming sandy beach and reliable, manageable waves make it the perfect classroom for learning to surf. The sandy bottom is forgiving, and you’ll find plenty of space to practice.
The Vibe
Expect a lively, urban beach atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for Lisbon locals, students, and tourists alike, so there’s always a buzz of activity. With numerous cafes, restaurants, and facilities right on the sand, you have everything you need for a comfortable day out.
How to Get There
Getting here couldn’t be simpler. It’s the best answer for how to get to the beach from Lisbon city centre quickly. Just hop on the Linha de Cascais train from Cais do Sodré station in Lisbon. The journey takes about 30 minutes, and the beach is a short 5-minute walk from the Carcavelos station. A return trip costs around €4-€6 with a reusable Viva Viagem card.
Surf Schools & Rentals
You’ll be spoiled for choice with surf schools lining the beach. Reputable options include Carcavelos Surf School and Lisbon Surf Connection, both offering group lessons and rentals.
2. Ericeira: Europe’s World Surfing Reserve
Why It’s Great
Ericeira isn’t just a town with good waves; it’s a dedicated surf town near Lisbon and the only World Surfing Reserve in Europe. This designation protects its unique coastline, which features a string of world-class breaks suitable for every skill level, from gentle beginner waves to powerful reef breaks for experts.
The Vibe
Imagine a picturesque Portuguese town with whitewashed, blue-trimmed houses, cobblestone streets, and a global community of surfers. That’s Ericeira. The vibe is a perfect mix of authentic local culture and international surf cool, with amazing seafood restaurants and surf shops on every corner.
How to Get There
Regular buses run by Mafrense depart from Lisbon’s Campo Grande bus terminal. Be sure to check the schedule for the express bus, which takes around 45 minutes. The regular service can take up to 90 minutes. A one-way ticket costs about €7.
Beginner vs. Pro Spots
- For Beginners: Head to Foz do Lizandro or São Julião south of town. These wide, sandy beach breaks offer gentler waves ideal for learning.
- For Intermediates/Pros: The legendary Ribeira d’Ilhas is the main stage, hosting professional competitions. More advanced surfers can also test their skills at Coxos, a powerful reef break.
3. Peniche & Baleal: The Wave Capital
Why It’s Great
Peniche is a geographic marvel for surfers. This peninsula juts out into the Atlantic, meaning no matter which way the wind is blowing or the swell is coming from, you can almost always find a protected spot with clean, surfable waves. Its consistency is legendary.
The Vibe
Peniche offers an authentic, gritty experience. It’s a working fishing port mixed with a serious surf scene, famous for the pro-level waves at Supertubos. Just up the road, the village of Baleal is a chilled-out surf haven, with a stunning beach that connects a small island to the mainland. It’s less polished than Ericeira and deeply connected to the ocean.
How to Get There
Rede Expressos buses run from Lisbon’s Sete Rios bus terminal directly to Peniche. The journey takes about 90 minutes and costs between €9-€12 each way. Once in Peniche, a car is very useful for hopping between the different surf spots, though you can walk to the main beaches in Baleal.
Best Spot for Beginners
Without a doubt, Baleal bay is the best place to surf in Portugal for beginners. The bay is sheltered on both sides, creating small, rolling waves perfect for learning in a safe environment.
4. Costa da Caparica: The Endless Beach
Why It’s Great
Stretching for nearly 26 kilometers, Costa da Caparica is a seemingly endless expanse of golden sand. This means you’ll always find your own peak, even on the busiest summer days. The coastline is dotted with numerous surf schools and beach breaks suitable for all levels.
The Vibe
Caparica has a relaxed, local summer holiday feel. The northern end near the town is busier, while the southern beaches are wilder. The coast is famous for its “barracas” (beach bars) and a charming miniature train, the Transpraia, that chugs along the dunes in the summer, dropping beachgoers at different spots.
How to Get There
The most scenic route is taking the ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas, then catching the Bus 3011 to Costa da Caparica. Alternatively, a direct bus (TST 3710) leaves from Areeiro in Lisbon. The total journey takes 45-60 minutes.
Surf & Social Scene
This is the perfect spot to combine a surf lesson with a lazy afternoon. After your session, grab a beanbag at a beach bar like Posto 9, order a drink, and watch a spectacular sunset over the Atlantic.
Sample 1-Day Surfing Itinerary for a Beginner (2025)
Wondering how to structure your day? It’s easier than you think!
- 9:00 AM: Fuel up with a coffee and a pastel de nata near your chosen station (Cais do Sodré for Carcavelos, Campo Grande for Ericeira, etc.).
- 10:30 AM: Arrive at the beach, find your pre-booked surf school, and get checked in.
- 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Surf Lesson! You’ll start with safety and pop-up techniques on the sand before heading into the water to catch your first waves.
- 1:30 PM: Lunchtime. Reward yourself at a beachside cafe. You can’t go wrong with fresh grilled fish or a hearty “tosta mista.”
- 3:00 PM: Free time. Feeling confident? Rent your board for another hour. Otherwise, relax on the beach, swim, or explore the local town.
- 5:00 PM: Pack up, rinse off, and begin your journey back to Lisbon, feeling tired but accomplished.
Where to Eat: Fueling Your Surf Session
Surfing burns a lot of energy. Here are some top spots to refuel:
- In Ericeira: For a special treat, indulge in incredible fresh seafood at Marisqueira Ribas (€€€). For a more casual but delicious meal, Tik Tapas (€€) offers creative small plates.
- In Peniche/Baleal: Don’t miss Taberna do Ganhão (€€) in Baleal. It’s a tiny, traditional spot with stunning ocean views and hearty Portuguese food.
- In Carcavelos & Costa da Caparica: The beach bars (`barracas`) are the main event. In Carcavelos, try Case de Praia (€€). In Caparica, Posto 9 and O Barbas (€€) are institutions known for fresh grilled fish right on the sand.
Insider Tips for Your Lisbon Surf Trip
- Check the Forecast: The ocean is always changing. Before you go, check a reliable surf report app like MagicSeaweed or Surfline for swell size, wind direction, and tide times.
- Book in Advance: During the peak season (June-September 2025), surf lessons and equipment can sell out. Book online a day or two ahead to secure your spot.
- Bring Cash: While most places accept cards, some smaller beach cafes, rental shacks, or local shops might be cash-only.
- Respect the Locals: Be mindful of surf etiquette. The basic rule is one person per wave. Don’t “drop in” on someone who is already riding.
- Go on a Weekday: If your schedule allows, a weekday trip means fewer crowds in the water and on the sand, giving you more waves to yourself.
What to Pack for Your Day Trip
Keep it simple with this essential checklist:
- ✅ Swimsuit (to wear under your wetsuit)
- ✅ High-SPF, waterproof sunscreen
- ✅ Towel
- ✅ A dry change of clothes
- ✅ Reusable water bottle and some snacks
- ✅ A waterproof bag for your wet gear
- ✅ Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection
- ✅ Camera or phone to capture the memories
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person, 2025)
| Item | Budget Option | Mid-Range Option |
|---|---|---|
| Transport | ~€5 (Train to Carcavelos) | ~€15 (Bus to Ericeira/Peniche) |
| Food & Drink | ~€15 (Packed lunch/snack) | ~€30 (Restaurant meal) |
| Surf Lesson/Rental | ~€35 (Group lesson) | ~€50 (Private/Semi-private) |
| TOTAL | ~€55 | ~€95 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where to go surfing near Lisbon?
The top spots are Carcavelos for ultimate convenience, Costa da Caparica for a relaxed vibe and endless sand, Ericeira for world-class surf culture, and Peniche/Baleal for the most consistent waves.
What is the best day trip from Lisbon?
This depends on your interests! For history, Sintra is unbeatable. For beach and activity lovers, a surfing day trip to Ericeira or Carcavelos is one of the best and most rewarding options available.
Where is the best place to surf in Portugal for beginners?
Baleal (in Peniche), Carcavelos, and the main beaches at Costa da Caparica are fantastic for beginners. They all feature sandy bottoms (safer than reefs) and generally offer gentle, rolling waves perfect for learning.
Where is the surfing capital of Portugal?
This is a fun debate! Ericeira is the official “World Surfing Reserve,” recognized for its quality and variety of waves. However, Peniche is often called the “Wave Capital” because it hosts major professional competitions and its geography guarantees a surfable wave almost every day of the year.
Can you surf directly in Lisbon city?
No, you cannot surf in the Lisbon city center itself, as it’s located on the calm Tagus River estuary. The true Atlantic coast and the nearest proper surf beaches, like Carcavelos, are a quick 30-minute train ride away.
Is Porto worth a day trip from Lisbon?
We’d advise against it. Porto is a fantastic city, but it’s over 3 hours each way by high-speed train. A day trip would feel incredibly rushed. Save Porto for a weekend trip and choose one of the fantastic day trips near Lisbon mentioned in this guide instead for a more relaxed experience.
Conclusion
Escaping Lisbon for a day of sun, salt, and surf is not just possible—it’s incredibly easy and rewarding. With a world-class coastline at its doorstep, the city is the perfect launchpad for an aquatic adventure. Whether you choose the urban convenience of Carcavelos or the legendary breaks of Ericeira, you’re guaranteed to return to the city with a smile on your face and sand between your toes. There’s a perfect spot for everyone, from absolute beginners to seasoned experts.
Have you surfed near Lisbon? Share your favorite spot or tips in the comments below!
TLDR: Your Quick Guide to Lisbon Surfing
- Fastest & Easiest for Beginners: Carcavelos (30 min train).
- Best for Surf Culture & Vibe: Ericeira (45-90 min bus).
- Most Consistent Waves (All Levels): Peniche/Baleal (90 min bus).
- Best for a Relaxed Beach Day: Costa da Caparica (45-60 min bus/ferry).
- Essential Gear: A wetsuit is mandatory year-round. A 3/2mm in summer and a 4/3mm or thicker in winter.
- Best Time to Learn: June to September 2025 for smaller waves and warmer weather.
