Lisbon: Carcavelos Beach Surf Lesson with Pro Surfer

Getting into surfing in Portugal is almost a rite of passage, especially around Lisbon, where the beaches are world-famous for their consistent waves. This tour promises a personalized surf lesson with a professional surfer, Luís Perloiro, at Carcavelos Beach—one of Portugal’s top surf spots. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but from what we gather, it’s a solid option for anyone eager to catch their first wave or improve their technique in a relaxed, friendly setting.

What really stands out are the convenient logistics—including pickup from Lisbon and all gear provided—making the experience accessible and hassle-free. Plus, the small group size and extra instructor mean you’ll get plenty of individual attention, which is crucial in learning to surf. On the flip side, the experience lasts around 3.5 hours, so if you’re looking for a full-day adventure or a more intensive surf course, this might feel a bit compact.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who value professional guidance and a worry-free, intimate setting. It’s perfect if you’re new to surfing, want to get started with expert tips, or just enjoy a scenic coastal drive with someone knowledgeable about the surf scene in Portugal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Expert-led: Instruction by seasoned pro surfer Luís Perloiro
• All-included: Surf gear, wetsuit, and transport are covered
• Small group: Limited to 8 participants for personalized coaching
• Scenic drive: Enjoy a relaxed journey from Lisbon to Carcavelos
• Relaxed pace: 90 minutes of water time, with warm-up and tips
• Suitable for beginners: Participants should be comfortable in water but don’t need prior experience

The tour kicks off with a pick-up in Lisbon—a smooth start that takes away the stress of organizing transport. You’ll hop into an air-conditioned van with Luís, who greets you with casual warmth. During the 30-minute drive, you’re not just traveling—you’re getting a mini-lesson on what to expect in the water, surf etiquette, and tips from someone who’s made a career out of riding these waves.

Once you arrive at Carcavelos Beach, one of Portugal’s most popular surf spots, Luís will carefully choose the best surfboard and wetsuit suited for your size and skill level. The beach is known for its long, rolling waves, which are perfect for beginners and those wanting to build confidence. The atmosphere here is laid-back but lively, with plenty of fellow surfers and beachgoers.

The warm-up session lasts about 15 minutes, focusing on stretching and basic safety instructions. You’ll learn the essentials—how to paddle, pop up on the board, and maintain balance—before hitting the water for roughly 90 minutes of hands-on instruction. During this time, Luiz and the extra instructor (for groups over four) work closely with each participant, giving tailored feedback and encouragement.

As one review notes, “Luís was very professional and attentive,” highlighting how useful the individualized tips were. The small group size becomes obvious here, as you get plenty of personal coaching, making it easier to improve your technique and feel more confident on your board.

After your surf, the tour winds down at the Tricana Beach Bar, where you can unwind with a drink and chat about your experience. The relaxed vibe is perfect for sharing stories, celebrating small victories, or just soaking up the sun before heading back to Lisbon.

The strength of this tour is its combination of expert guidance and convenience. You’re not just renting gear and paddling out alone; instead, you get a seasoned pro who can guide you through the nuances of catching waves, no matter your experience level. Plus, the included transport and gear mean you’re free to focus on what really matters—learning and having fun.

The small group size ensures that everyone gets enough attention, which can make a big difference if you’re new to surfing or want to refine your skills. The personalized coaching, combined with the scenic drive from Lisbon, creates a balanced, enjoyable experience that’s more than just a lesson—it’s a little adventure.

However, it’s worth noting that the total duration is just about 3.5 hours. If you’re a dedicated surfer or someone looking for a full-day tour, this might feel brief. Also, participants should be comfortable in water but don’t need prior surfing experience. Anyone with mobility issues or who is not a strong swimmer may find this less suitable, as the tour explicitly states.

Considering that all equipment, transport, and expert instruction are included, the price is quite reasonable—especially given the small group size and the quality of coaching. For travelers wanting a high-quality, personalized surf lesson without the hassle of organizing everything themselves, it offers good value. The relaxed pace and the chance to chat with Luís about surfing life add a lot of intangible benefits.

From booking to returning, the experience is designed to be straightforward and enjoyable. Once you book, you simply show up at the designated pickup point in Lisbon—no worries about finding parking or renting gear on your own. The van is comfortable, and the driver (Luís himself) is friendly and knowledgeable, sharing insights about the local surf scene and life on the coast.

The drive to Carcavelos is scenic, offering views of the Atlantic and the coastline. Luís explains how Carcavelos became a favorite among locals and travelers alike, giving you some context that enriches your experience in the water.

On arrival, you’ll spend a few minutes getting suited up and warmed up. The instruction is clear, patient, and tailored. “I appreciated how Luís took the time to explain every step,” one reviewer mentioned, emphasizing the value of personalized attention.

In the water, you’ll likely find the waves manageable but fun—ideal for beginners. You’ll learn how to paddle out, position yourself correctly, and perform the pop-up. The focus isn’t just on standing up; it’s about understanding wave timing, balance, and safety.

After your session, the final drink at Tricana Beach Bar is a simple but nice touch, giving everyone a moment to relax and process the experience. The return drive to Lisbon is pleasant, often with lively conversations and some reflections on your surfing progress.

This tour is best suited for beginners and intermediate surfers, or anyone wanting a supportive environment to learn the basics. If you’re not comfortable in water or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. It’s also a good choice if you prefer a small-group, guided experience rather than a large class or self-guided rental.

Families with older children who are water-savvy can also enjoy this, but it’s not tailored for very young children or non-swimmers. The focus on safety and water comfort means you should be comfortable in the sea before booking.

If you’re intrigued by the idea of trying surfing in Portugal but want a safe, guided, and enjoyable introduction, this tour offers solid value. The combination of professional instruction, scenic transport, and all equipment included makes it a hassle-free way to dip your toes into the sport. The relaxed pace and personalized coaching are especially beneficial for beginners looking to build confidence or simply enjoy the thrill of catching a wave for the first time.

While it’s not a full-day surf camp or intensely focused course, it hits the sweet spot for a half-day adventure that’s fun and memorable. The small group size fosters a friendly environment, and the scenic drive adds a touch of local charm to the experience.

This experience caters best to travelers who want a quality, guided surf lesson with a relaxed vibe. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it’s a chance to create a genuine connection with the sport and the ocean—an authentic taste of Portugal’s surf culture.

Do I need prior surfing experience?
No, this tour is suitable for beginners, but you should be comfortable in water. It’s designed to teach the basics, so no previous experience is necessary.

What should I bring?
Just bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. All the surf gear and wetsuits are provided, so you don’t need to worry about packing anything special.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, including pickup, travel, instruction, and return.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to 8 participants, which helps ensure personalized coaching and attention from Luís and his additional instructor if needed.

Can children participate?
The tour is not suitable for children under 15 years old, or those who are non-swimmers or have mobility challenges. It’s best for water-confident individuals.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
The chance to learn from a pro surfer in a relaxed setting, with all logistics taken care of, and to enjoy the scenic drive from Lisbon to Carcavelos.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transport from Lisbon is included, making the experience seamless and saving you planning time.

If surfing in Portugal has been on your bucket list, this tour delivers a practical, enjoyable way to get started without the fuss. It’s honest, friendly, and geared toward making sure you have a good time on the waves.