Lisbon: Guided Surfing Tour & Lessons

If you’re dreaming of catching waves in Lisbon, you’re in luck. We’ve looked into this guided surfing tour offered by Carcavelos Surf School, designed for those who want a fun, hassle-free introduction to surfing or simply want to enjoy the beaches with some professional guidance. This experience promises a mix of scenic beaches, expert instruction, and the convenience of door-to-door transport, all for a reasonable price.

What really caught our eye are the small group sizes—limited to just eight participants—ensuring you get plenty of attention from certified instructors. Plus, the flexibility of choosing between summer and winter surf spots is a nice touch, allowing you to experience Lisbon’s beaches year-round. However, it’s worth noting that the tour lasts only 2 to 3 hours, so if you’re after a full day of surfing, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, social vibe and want some straightforward surfing experience without the hassle of organizing transport or equipment. Whether you’re a beginner or someone with a bit of surf time under your belt, this guided outing offers a convenient, enjoyable way to spend a few hours in the sun and surf.

Key Points

• Convenient pickup and drop-off from Lisbon makes the experience hassle-free
• Professional instructors are certified and skilled at tailoring lessons for all levels
• Small group sizes ensure individualized attention and a more personal experience
• Beautiful beaches like Carcavelos and Caparica provide scenic, wave-friendly spots
• Flexible timing and location depending on seasonal surf conditions
• Affordable pricing offers good value for a fun half-day activity

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Surfing Experience

Imagine stepping out of your Lisbon hotel and being greeted with a friendly pickup. The drive to the beaches is short and scenic, giving you a quick preview of Portugal’s coastline before you hit the sand. Depending on the weather and surf conditions that day, you’ll go to either Carcavelos or Caparica, both renowned for their surf-friendly waves and stunning beaches.

The start is informal but professional. You’ll meet your instructors, who are certified and speak multiple languages (English, Spanish, Portuguese). They’ll provide an overview of what you’ll be doing, making sure everyone feels comfortable. If you’re new to surfing, don’t worry—these lessons are designed for complete beginners, but even experienced surfers can benefit from some tips and practice.

Your lesson lasts about two hours, during which you’ll receive all the necessary equipment—like surfboards and wetsuits—and tailored guidance. The group sizes are kept small to ensure plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized feedback. The instructors focus on safety, technique, and most importantly, making sure you have a good time.

The Beaches and Their Charm

In summer, you might cross the famous “golden gate” bridge to reach Praia do Infante in Caparica, with its long stretches of sandy beach and lively atmosphere. During winter, the surf shifts to Carcavelos, known for hosting surfing competitions and offering more consistent waves. Both spots are just a short drive from Lisbon’s city center, meaning you can enjoy a quick escape from the city buzz.

The beaches are not only perfect for learning but also stunning to look at. The reviews mention “mild waves” and “gorgeous beaches,” highlighting the scenic setting that makes the surf experience all the more memorable. After your lesson, you can relax on the sand, take in the views, or even grab a coffee nearby.

What’s Included and What to Bring

For $57 per person, the tour covers:
– Pickup from Lisbon
– 2-hour surf lesson with certified instructors
– All necessary equipment
– Insurance and safe storage
– Showers at the beach

You should bring your own towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, and water bottle. The inclusion of essentials like insurance and safe storage is reassuring, especially if you’re new to surfing. The showers are a nice touch for rinsing off after your splashy adventure.

How the Tour Runs

The tour usually lasts around 2 to 3 hours, with starting times varying based on availability. Since it’s a small group experience, you’ll have plenty of time with your instructor, making it ideal for absorbing tips and gaining confidence in the water. The tour is flexible enough to accommodate different ability levels—beginners will find the instruction accessible, while more experienced surfers can use the lessons to refine their skills.

The transfer back to Lisbon is straightforward, leaving you free to continue exploring the city or relax after your surf. Booking is flexible as well—you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Traveler Feedback

One recent participant described their experience as “Great experience, mild waves and gorgeous beach,” highlighting the relaxed setting and friendly waves, perfect for beginners. Another said, “It was simply amazing! Only confusing detail: It said, it would be in French, and I could not choose anything else. I guess I would have understood him in French as well, but for everyone: French is NOT required. He speaks English very well! Don’t stress because it says French.”

The small group size and professional instruction seem to resonate well with travelers, leaving many feeling satisfied and eager to try again. The overall rating of 4.4 from 29 reviews suggests most people find this a worthwhile, enjoyable experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you’re a beginner or casual surfer wanting a friendly introduction without the hassle of organizing transport or equipment. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer a small, intimate group with personalized attention. The scenic beaches and professional guides make it a good choice for those who value quality instruction and beautiful surroundings.

If you’re looking for an all-day surf adventure or are an experienced surfer wanting advanced waves, this might not be the right fit. But for a relaxed, fun-filled outing, it checks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

This guided surfing tour offers a practical, friendly way to enjoy Lisbon’s beaches and get a taste of surfing. The combination of professional instruction, scenic beaches, and convenient pickup makes it a solid choice for travelers of all levels who want a straightforward, enjoyable surf experience.

While the duration is limited to a couple of hours, it’s enough time to learn the basics, have fun in the waves, and leave with some memorable photos and stories. The affordability adds to its appeal, especially if you’re eager to try surfing without a big commitment.

For anyone wanting a hassle-free intro to Portugal’s surf culture, this tour delivers the essentials with a personal touch. Just remember to bring your sunscreen, swimsuit, and water, and you’re set for a great day in the sun.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes a pickup from a pre-arranged meeting point in Lisbon and transfer back afterward, making it easy and stress-free.

What beaches do the tour go to?
Depending on the season and surf conditions, you’ll go to either Carcavelos or Caparica, both known for their surf-friendly waves and beautiful settings.

How long is the surfing lesson?
The lesson lasts approximately 2 hours, ideal for beginners or those looking for a quick, fun session.

Are the instructors certified?
Yes, the instructors are certified and experienced, with guides speaking English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, and a water bottle. The tour provides equipment and showers.

What is the group size?
The experience is limited to small groups of up to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour is designed for all ability levels, but children should be comfortable in the water and supervised accordingly.

What is the price?
The tour costs $57 per person, representing good value for a professional surf lesson with included gear and transfers.

Do I need to speak French?
No, the guides speak English very well, despite some tour descriptions mentioning French. Language is not a barrier here.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Small groups foster a friendly environment, and solo travelers often find it easy to connect with others during the experience.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic way to try surfing in Lisbon with professional guidance and minimal hassle, this tour offers a lot of value. It’s a solid pick for a fun day in the sun, especially if you’re new to surfing or want a straightforward introduction to Portugal’s coastal waves.

You can check availability for your dates here: