Ericeira: Surf coaching at the World Surfing Reserve

If you’re dreaming of catching some waves in Portugal’s first-ever World Surfing Reserve, this surf coaching experience in Ericeira might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t tried it myself, I’ve read enough about it to get a good sense of what it offers — and it sounds pretty appealing for surfers of all levels. Whether you’re looking to improve your skills or simply want to enjoy some of the best surf spots with less crowd, this tour seems to tick some important boxes.

What really caught my attention are the focus on personalized guidance and the inclusion of photos and videos to track your progress. Plus, the small group size means you’re not just another face in the crowd. That said, it’s worth noting that the activity depends heavily on the forecast, so some flexibility might be needed. If you’re someone who values a tailored, relaxed atmosphere and wants to surf in one of Europe’s most renowned spots, this experience could suit you perfectly.

Key Points

• Personalized surf coaching based on current surf conditions and your skill level
• Small group size (limited to four participants), ensuring more individual attention
• Flexible location depending on the forecast, with options including Santa Cruz, Ericeira, or Peniche
• Video and photo analysis to help you see your progress and improve faster
• Transportation and gear are included, so you don’t have to worry about extras
• Ideal for surfers who want a relaxed, guided session and don’t mind waiting for the right surf conditions

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Experience

This isn’t just a surf lesson — it’s a personalized mini surf trip, carefully planned to maximize your time on the water and your enjoyment of Ericeira’s legendary waves. The process starts with a chat the day before — this is where you’ll tell your guide about your surfing experience, your goals, and your equipment needs. Whether you’re an absolute beginner eager to catch your first wave or an intermediate surfer looking to sharpen your turns, your guide will tailor the session accordingly.

Once the day arrives, you’ll meet your guide, either through an arranged pre-activity meeting or directly at the pickup point with “Waves Finder” written on the vehicle. Since the activity is limited to a small group of four, there’s plenty of room for personalized coaching and questions. Plus, the guide’s local expertise means you’ll be headed to the best spot of the day — whether that’s Santa Cruz, Ericeira, or even Peniche — depending on the surf conditions and forecast.

The Actual Surf Session

On the day of, you’ll head out with your guide and get into the water for roughly 1.5 hours. The focus here is on making the most of the waves, whether that means paddling out to the best peaks or catching waves on your own. The experience isn’t just about riding the surf — it’s about learning, improving, and enjoying the vibe of this incredible surf environment.

During your session, photos and videos will be captured to document your progress. After you’re done, you’ll sit down for a coffee and a review of your clips with your guide. This part is especially valuable because you can see what you’re doing right and where you might improve, making your next surf even better.

What’s Included and Why it Matters

The package covers quite a few essentials: transportation, surf gear, photos and videos, and video analysis. This means you don’t have to worry about renting equipment or organizing transport — it’s all taken care of, which is a big plus. Plus, the inclusion of video analysis adds something extra that many beginner or intermediate surfers will appreciate, helping you grasp technique improvements more quickly.

The small group size (up to 4 participants) ensures plenty of personal attention. You’re likely to feel more comfortable asking questions and trying new techniques without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd.

The Value in the Price

At $108 per person, this experience seems quite fair considering what’s included. Private coaching can often cost much more, especially when you factor in equipment rental, transportation, and personalized feedback. Here, you’re paying for a customized, guided experience that adapts to conditions and your skill level, plus the added benefit of professional video analysis.

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The Experience from the Reviews

Two recent reviews paint a pretty clear picture. Nicole praises Julien’s planning, noting he provided everything needed and ensured a fantastic time. Ryan highlights Julien’s positive attitude and the fun atmosphere, mentioning that even family members got into the spirit of chilling and learning. The consistent theme is that guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive — essential traits for a session aimed at improving your surfing while enjoying the scenery.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who wants to maximize your surf time with tailored guidance, this experience is a strong choice. It’s perfect for beginners eager to catch their first waves in a stunning setting, or intermediate surfers looking to refine their skills with expert feedback. It’s also quite suitable if you’re traveling with a small group of friends or family who share similar levels — the small group model keeps it intimate and relaxed.

Keep in mind, the activity depends on surf conditions, so flexibility with your schedule might be necessary. And since all participants need to be water-independent, this isn’t ideal for complete beginners who aren’t comfortable paddling or staying afloat.

A Balanced Look at the Downsides

The main consideration here is dependence on weather and surf forecast. Since the location shifts based on conditions, you might find yourself heading to a different spot than originally expected. This isn’t necessarily a drawback, but it’s worth being flexible.

Also, while the price includes gear, it’s good to double-check your wetsuit and board sizes beforehand, especially if you have specific needs. And with only a 3-hour window, it’s a relatively short session, so if you’re after a full-day surf adventure, this might feel a bit limited.

Final Thoughts

This Ericeira surf coaching experience offers a well-rounded mix of personalized instruction, stunning scenery, and practical extras like videos and photos. For those seeking a tailored, relaxed surf session with a local guide, it’s hard to go wrong. The small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and focus on improvement make it a compelling choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want quality over quantity.

Whether you’re just starting out or already riding waves but want to refine your skills, this tour’s focus on flexibility and feedback makes it stand out. Plus, the chance to surf in the legendary waters of Ericeira — Europe’s first World Surfing Reserve — is a big bonus. If you’re serious about making the most of your surf trip, this experience can give you a memorable, helpful, and fun day on the water.

FAQ

How do I know if this tour is suitable for my surfing level?
This experience is designed for anyone who can be independent in the water, so if you’re comfortable paddling and staying afloat, you’ll likely be fine. The guide will tailor the session based on your needs, whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, surf equipment (that they have on hand), photos and videos taken during your session, and video analysis. It’s a comprehensive package that minimizes extra costs.

How long is the actual surfing time?
You’ll spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes in the water, focusing on catching waves, practicing techniques, and enjoying the surf.

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

Where do we go surf?
Depending on the forecast, the guide might take you to Santa Cruz, Ericeira, or even Peniche — all renowned surf spots with excellent waves.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and water to stay hydrated. The guide provides the gear, but you might want your own wetsuit if you prefer a specific type or fit.

Is this activity suitable for children or families?
The activity requires participants to be water-independent, so it’s best suited for older teens and adults who can paddle on their own. It’s not specifically aimed at families with young children.

How do I meet the guide?
You’ll connect with your guide the day before to arrange the pickup, or you’ll see “Waves Finder” on the vehicle if same-day meeting is needed. Pickup is included in the package.

If you’re planning a trip to Ericeira and want a surf experience that combines expert guidance with the beauty of Portugal’s legendary coast, this tour offers a balanced, practical, and enjoyable way to get in the water. Just remember to stay flexible, pack your water, and get ready for some memorable waves.

You can check availability for your dates here: