If you’ve ever thought about learning to surf but felt overwhelmed about where to start, this 5-day beginner course in Ericeira might just be what you need. While I haven’t tried it myself, I’ve gathered enough insights to give you a thorough look at what’s on offer. The idea of dedicating nearly a week to mastering your first waves sounds both ambitious and exciting—especially with a top-rated surf school guiding you through each step.
What really appeals to me about this experience are the small group sizes (limited to just five people), which promise personalized attention, and the inclusion of all essential equipment—so you won’t have to fuss over bringing your own gear or worrying about rentals. Also, the option for photo and video coaching is a smart addition—it’s a great way to see your progress and tweak your technique. On the flip side, surfing is inherently weather-dependent, so your plans could be affected by the elements, and that’s worth considering if you’re on a tight schedule or expecting perfect conditions.
This course is best suited for beginners who want a structured, multi-day introduction to surfing and are okay with a flexible schedule that depends on ocean conditions. If you’re looking for a serious, intensive course or have surfing experience, this might not be the perfect fit. But for travelers wanting a fun, supportive environment to learn the basics and possibly catch your first wave, it’s worth considering.
Key Points
- Personalized instruction with a maximum of 4 students per teacher ensures attentive coaching.
- All equipment provided means you can focus solely on learning and enjoying the water.
- Flexible, hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience, especially after a tiring day on the surf.
- Optional photo and video coaching helps you see your progress and improve more quickly.
- Weather-dependent nature of surfing means sessions may vary in quality; good to stay flexible.
- Cost of $266 can be justified by the comprehensive five-day program, equipment, and tailored instruction.
What to Expect From the 5-Day Course
This isn’t just a single lesson squeezed into a quick hour; it’s a carefully structured week-long program designed for beginners. Each day, you’ll spend approximately 1.5 hours on the water, combining theory and practical skills. The small group size makes it easier for your instructor to give you personalized feedback, which can make a huge difference when you’re trying to balance on a surfboard for the first time.
The course is hosted by Progress Surf School, a well-regarded operation in Ericeira. They focus on safe, fun learning, so they include insurance and all necessary equipment, including wetsuits, boards, and boots. The goal is to make sure you have everything you need without the fuss of organizing gear yourself.
Planning more time in Ericeira? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Daily Routine
Typically, each session starts with a quick theoretical overview—covering surf safety, ocean conditions, and basic techniques. Then, you’ll head to the beach, where the instructor will give you a hands-on demo before you try catching your own waves. The small group size means you’ll get plenty of individual attention, which is crucial when you’re just starting out.
Expect a mix of skill-building and fun
Most participants leave the course feeling more confident about paddling, balancing, and riding small waves. The optional photo and video coaching is a real plus—many reviews mention how helpful it was to see themselves in action and spot areas for improvement.
The Transport & Convenience
One of the biggest perks of this course is the hotel pickup and drop-off. You simply have to wait outside your accommodations about 15 minutes before your scheduled session, which means no stress about finding your way to the beach. This is especially helpful if you’re new to the area or not familiar with local transportation.
The course runs from 1.5 hours per session, but check availability to confirm start times—it’s quite flexible. Remember, the ocean’s conditions are outside the instructor’s control, so some days might be better than others, but the team aims to optimize your experience as much as possible.
More Great Tours NearbyPrice & Value
At $266 per person for five days, this comes out to about $53 a session—pretty reasonable considering it includes all equipment, insurance, coaching, and transport. When comparing to other surf lessons that might charge separately for gear or not include multiple days, this package offers good value.
Of course, it’s an investment in your surfing skills—and for beginners, this kind of structured course can be very effective. The reviews support this, with many participants expressing satisfaction with their progress and overall experience.
Real Feedback From Participants
Multiple reviews highlight the personalized attention and the friendly, professional approach of the instructors. One reviewer mentioned, “The small group allowed the instructor to focus on each of us, which made a big difference in learning the basics.” Others appreciated the flexibility of the schedule and the supportive atmosphere.
Some noted that surfing depends heavily on the weather, so plans can sometimes be affected. Yet, the team seems committed to making the most of good conditions when they arise, which is a sensible approach in a naturally variable environment.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a comprehensive, beginner-friendly surf course in Ericeira, this 5-day package ticks a lot of boxes. It’s designed for folks who want a relaxed, supportive introduction with plenty of opportunity to learn and improve. The all-in-one approach, including gear, insurance, and transport, simplifies the experience, letting you focus on having fun and catching your first waves.
It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value small group instruction and are willing to be flexible with weather conditions. While it isn’t a fast-track skill course, it offers a solid foundation for anyone eager to start surfing with confidence.
Who Should Consider This Course?
This course is ideal if you’re a beginner seeking a safe, structured way to learn over several days. It’s perfect for those who want personalized coaching and value having all equipment included. If you’re traveling with friends or family who share your beginner status, it can be a fun, shared adventure.
However, if you’re an experienced surfer or looking for an intensive, advanced program, this might not meet your needs. Also, keep in mind that ocean conditions vary, so some days might be more challenging than others—patience and flexibility will help you make the most of it.
Ericeira: 5-Day Beginner Surf Course
FAQ
Is transportation included? Yes, the course offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start and end your sessions without hassle.
What’s included in the price? All necessary equipment (board, wetsuit, boots), insurance, transport to and from the beach, and photo/video coaching are covered.
How long are the lessons? Each session lasts about 1.5 hours, providing ample time for instruction and practice.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.
Is this suitable for children? The tour is geared toward beginners and adults, with small group sizes. It doesn’t specify children-specific features, so check with the provider if you’re considering it for younger kids.
Do I need prior experience? No, this course is designed for beginners—no previous surfing experience required.
What should I bring? Just a change of clothes, towel, and sunscreen. The rest is provided.
How are the group sizes? The group is limited to 5 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
What is the weather dependency? Surfing is highly dependent on ocean conditions, so sessions may be affected by weather, but the team aims to optimize your chances when conditions are good.
Is the course suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely. Many participants join alone and find the small group setting welcoming and non-intimidating.
If you’re considering dipping your toes into the surfing world, this course offers a practical, well-structured, and fun way to start. Whether you’re after a handful of lessons or a dedicated week to build your skills, it seems like a reliable choice in the beautiful setting of Ericeira.
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