Family/children surf lesson

If you’re thinking about adding a splash of adventure to your trip to Portugal, a family surf lesson might just be the perfect choice. While I haven’t personally been on this particular tour, reviews and detailed info paint a pretty inviting picture of what you can expect. It’s designed to be accessible, fun, and educational—ideal for families, beginners, or anyone wanting to feel the ocean’s rhythm with some expert guidance.

What I really appreciate about this experience are the qualified instructors and the small group size, which means personalized attention and a safer, less chaotic environment. Also, learning to surf at Peniche’s best beach sounds pretty unbeatable—waves, scenery, and good vibes all in one.

A potential aspect to consider is the duration and timing—it’s a two-hour lesson with possibly limited start times, so planning ahead is key. But overall, if you’re after a relaxed, well-organized intro to surfing, especially with kids or beginners, this experience hits many of the right notes.

This tour is best suited for families, first-timers, or anyone looking for a supportive, small-group surf lesson that prioritizes safety and fun.

Key Points

• Highly qualified instructors accredited by the Portuguese Surfing Federation (FPS) ensure quality teaching and safety.
• Small-group setting (max 7-8 students per instructor) for personalized feedback.
• Family-friendly environment with patient, knowledgeable staff that handle children well.
• Convenient meeting point inside the Hotel Star Inn Peniche, right near the main beach.
• All necessary equipment provided, including wetsuits, surfboards, and access to facilities.
• Flexible booking options: reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The adventure begins right inside the hotel reception at the Special Surf 78 help desk, where friendly staff greet you and help you settle in. The location is super convenient—just a few meters from the main beach of Peniche’s Baleal area—so you won’t need to worry about long transfers or complicated logistics.

Once checked in, you’ll be handed a wetsuit and shown to the changing areas, which are equipped with lockers, showers, and bathrooms. This setup ensures you’re comfortable and ready before hitting the sand and surf. The wetsuit will keep you warm and protected, while the locker facilities allow you to change without hassle.

Next, you gather your gear—surfboards are provided, and the instructor will go over safety tips, basic techniques, and what to expect during your lesson. We loved the way the instructors are described as “ultra friendly and very pedagogical,” especially with kids. This is important because surfing can seem intimidating at first, but good instructors make all the difference in boosting confidence.

The lesson itself begins with a warm-up on the sand, where instructors assess your ability levels and tailor the instruction accordingly. You’re grouped by ability, which means beginners won’t feel overwhelmed, and those with some experience can refine their skills. The instructor-to-student ratio keeps the experience intimate, with about 7 or 8 students per instructor, so everyone gets personal feedback.

Once everyone is ready, it’s time to hit the water. The beach across the street offers the perfect setting—waves gentle enough for beginners but still exciting enough to feel like you’re truly riding the ocean. The instructors guide you through paddling, catching waves, and standing up, all while emphasizing safety and fun.

A typical session lasts around two hours, which is plenty of time for a thorough lesson without exhaustion. Afterward, you return to the changing area for a hot shower and a comfortable space to relax. The overall flow of the experience feels well-structured and relaxed, making it an excellent introduction to surfing.

What Makes This Surf Lesson Stand Out

Qualified instructors are a big bonus here — they’re accredited by the Portuguese Surfing Federation, which lends credibility and reassurance. We know that skilled teachers can make or break a beginner’s experience, and this setup seems to prioritize quality instruction.

The small group size ensures individual feedback, which is crucial when learning something as technical as surfing. You won’t feel lost in a crowd, and your instructor can really focus on helping you improve.

The location—the best beach of Peniche—is another plus. This beach is known for its consistent waves and scenic surroundings, making it a favorite for beginners and pros alike. The setting, combined with the supportive guidance, creates a memorable and enjoyable atmosphere.

The flexible booking options allow you to reserve your spot without immediate payment, adding ease for planning your trip. The cancellation policy offers peace of mind, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

Reviews reflect high satisfaction: one traveler, Géraldine, called their experience “extraordinaire,” praising the team’s patience and pedagogical approach with children. Her enthusiasm hints that kids are genuinely welcomed and well taken care of, making this a family-friendly activity if you’re traveling with youngsters.

Practical Details and Tips

Meeting point: Inside the Hotel Star Inn Peniche, where the Special Surf 78 help desk is located. The convenience of this central spot makes logistics simple.

End point: The session concludes back at the same meeting point, so no need to worry about additional transport.

Duration: About 2 hours—enough for a comprehensive lesson but not so long that it becomes tiring, especially for kids or complete beginners.

Inclusions: The price covers the lesson, equipment, and instructor, along with personal and civil liability insurance. Facilities like changing rooms, bathrooms, and showers are also part of the package.

Language: The instructors speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese, which caters well to international visitors.

Group size: Limited to 5 participants when booked privately or in small groups, ensuring a focused and personal experience.

What to bring: Just your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water—everything else is provided.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This surf lesson is perfect for families wanting a safe, fun introduction to surfing, thanks to the friendly instructors and manageable group sizes. It’s equally suited for beginners of all ages, especially those who prefer small groups for more personalized feedback.

Travelers looking for a relaxed, well-organized activity that lets them enjoy Peniche’s beautiful beach and beginner-friendly waves will find this a great option. If you’re on the fence about trying surfing or want your kids to learn in a supportive environment, this trip delivers.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re after an authentic, professionally led surf experience in Portugal that emphasizes safety, fun, and personal attention, this lesson from Special Surf 78 ticks many boxes. The instructors’ accreditation and the small group approach are strong indicators of quality, and the location couldn’t be better for a first-time surfer.

While two hours might seem short, it’s enough to get a real feel for surfing and to leave with a sense of achievement. Plus, the included facilities and flexible booking options add to the overall convenience.

This experience offers a balanced mix of instruction, support, and scenic beauty—ideal for families, newbies, or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to surfing’s joys. Just remember to book in advance, keep an eye on the start times, and prepare your swim gear for a fun-filled day by the sea.

FAQ

Is this surf lesson suitable for children?
Yes, the staff are described as very pedagogical and patient with kids, making it a family-friendly option for young beginners.

How long is the lesson?
The lesson lasts approximately 2 hours, which provides enough time for warm-up, instruction, and practice without wearing out participants.

What equipment is included?
All necessary equipment, including wetsuits and surfboards, is provided as part of the package.

Where do we meet?
You meet inside the Hotel Star Inn Peniche at the Special Surf 78 help desk, conveniently located near the main beach.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

Is there an option to reserve without paying immediately?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, making it easier to plan your schedule.

Are the instructors multilingual?
Yes, they speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese, catering well to international travelers.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is around 7-8 students per instructor, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water—everything else is provided, including changing facilities and showers.

Choosing to try surfing in Peniche with a well-rated, professional team like Special Surf 78 can be a highlight of your trip, especially if you’re eager to get your toes wet and enjoy Portugal’s legendary waves in a safe, friendly setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: