If you’re eyeing a day that mixes the thrill of riding Atlantic waves with the pleasure of tasting Portugal’s celebrated wines, this experience might just catch your interest. While I haven’t personally done this tour, I’ve looked into what it offers, and it sounds like a well-rounded way to enjoy some of the best parts of the Lisbon area.
What I really appreciate about this tour is the combination of active fun in nature—hitting the surf—and the chance to relax and savor local wines in a historic cellar. Plus, the scenery along the coast and in Arrábida Natural Park is said to be pretty spectacular. One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is weather-dependent, and if conditions aren’t perfect, the activity could be canceled. But overall, it seems well-suited for anyone looking for an engaging outdoor day with a taste of Portugal’s wine scene. This tour would work especially well if you’re into outdoor sports and enjoy tasting regional wines, or if you’re simply curious to try surfing in a beginner-friendly environment.
Key Points
- All-in-one experience: Combines surfing or bodyboarding with wine tasting, offering a balanced day from activity to relaxation.
- Expert guidance: Certified instructors and local guides ensure a safe and informative experience.
- Scenic coastal views: The beaches, cliffs, and protected landscapes of Arrábida Park make the trip visually memorable.
- Flexible options: Private or shared tours, with hotel pickup available for private bookings.
- Weather-dependent: The activity relies on favorable sea and weather conditions, so flexibility is key.
- Great value: For around $102, you get transportation, equipment, an instructor, tasting, and photos—good bang for your buck.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
Planning more time in Arrabida Natural Park? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Transportation
You’ll meet at the main entrance of Lisbon Zoo, which is a convenient location, especially if you’re staying in the city center. From there, the journey takes you along the coast, offering scenic views of the Lisbon coastline and its varied elements. This drive sets the tone for the day—easy, comfortable, and packed with anticipation for what’s to come.
Surf or Bodyboard Session
Once you arrive at Costa da Caparica, the highlight begins: a two-hour surf or bodyboard session. Equipment is provided, and you’ll meet your instructor beforehand. The fact that the session is relatively short makes it accessible for beginners and those with limited time, but it’s enough to get a feel for riding the waves without feeling overwhelmed.
Reviews highlight that this part of the tour is particularly enjoyable. One traveler shared, “Surfing was really great, had a really great teacher.” The instructors are certified and experienced, which means you’re in capable hands, whether you’re a newbie or have some experience. The area itself is known for impressive Atlantic waves—ideal for learning or just having fun.
Visiting a Fisherman’s Village and Tasting Fresh Fish
After your surf, you’ll take a break in a sunny fisherman’s village nearby. This is a chance to enjoy local fish-based cuisine, which is a highlight for many visitors. The fresh flavors and relaxed atmosphere offer a glimpse into Portugal’s culinary culture, adding another layer of authenticity to your day.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring Arrábida Natural Park
Next, you’ll marvel at the spectacular protected landscapes of Arrábida Natural Park. The views here are said to be breathtaking—cliffs, beaches, and natural beauty that make for memorable photo ops. The guide’s commentary will likely enrich your understanding of this unique area, making the scenery even more meaningful.
Wine Tasting in Setúbal
The tour culminates in a visit to a historic wine cellar in Setúbal, one of Portugal’s most renowned wine regions. Here, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting that showcases local varieties. This part of the experience is especially appreciated, with reviews noting that the tasting offers a great opportunity to learn about Portuguese wines in an authentic setting.
Pricing and Value
At $102 per person, this tour offers a lot. You get transportation, surf or bodyboard equipment, an instructor, a local guide, insurance, a tasting, souvenir photos, and bottled water—all in one package. Compared to the cost of individual activities, it’s a solid deal, especially considering the variety and scenic value included.
Flexibility and Booking
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “reserve now, pay later” option, making it flexible for spontaneous plans or uncertain schedules. For private bookings, hotel pickup is included, which adds convenience, especially if you’re staying outside the city center.
Real Traveler Insights
The reviews are quite positive. Katrin, who rated it a perfect 5, mentioned, “Surfing was really great, had a really great teacher. It’s worth it.” She did note that the wine tasting was canceled, but the quick refund made the experience still worthwhile. Another traveler appreciated the guidance and local knowledge of their guide, saying, “We had a great time learning how to surf! Our guide was extremely knowledgeable.”
These comments highlight the professionalism of the guides and the overall enjoyment of the surf component. The fact that even with a canceled part, travelers still found value indicates good organization and customer service.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for active travelers who want a bit of everything: some beach time, a chance to learn or practice surfing, and an authentic wine tasting. It’s also great for those who enjoy scenic drives and natural landscapes. If you’re a wine lover curious about Portuguese varieties, or someone eager to try surfing in a beginner-friendly setting, this tour hits the mark.
However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or travelers with certain medical conditions like back problems, mobility issues, or motion sickness, as these could interfere with the activities. Also, participants need to be confident swimmers—so it’s not ideal for non-swimmers or those uncomfortable in the ocean.
The Sum Up
For those seeking a well-rounded day in Lisbon’s surroundings, combining a gentle surf session with a scenic drive and a taste of local wines, this tour offers genuine value and variety. The guides are knowledgeable, the scenery is stunning, and the experience caters to those with a sense of adventure and curiosity about Portuguese culture.
It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate active days with meaningful cultural and culinary stops. While weather dependency can mean some uncertainty, the overall package delivers a memorable, enjoyable experience—especially if you love trying new things and exploring different facets of Portugal’s coastal charm.
If you’re looking for an engaging way to spend a day outside the city, with the added bonus of delicious wines and beautiful scenery, this tour might be just the thing.
Lisbon: Surf or Bodyboard and Wine Tasting
“Surfing was really great, had a really great teacher. It's worth it. Unfortunately the wine tasting was cancelled, but we got a refund straight awa…”
FAQs
Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is included, and in private bookings, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package.
Can I choose between surfing and bodyboarding?
Yes, the activity offers either surfing or bodyboarding, depending on your preference.
How long is the surfing session?
The surf or bodyboard session lasts about two hours, providing enough time for beginners to get a feel for riding the waves.
What do I need to bring?
You should bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Large luggage or bags are not allowed on the tour.
Is the tour suitable for children?
The activity requires swimming confidence and physical fitness, so it’s best for teens and adults who meet the health and safety criteria. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or mobility issues.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The activity is weather-dependent. If sea or weather conditions aren’t favorable, the tour can be canceled, with options for an alternative date or full refund.
How many people will be in the group?
You can choose private or small group options, which typically mean more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
Ready to combine sea, scenery, and a glass of local wine? This Lisbon tour offers a fun, authentic day out that balances activity with relaxation, making it a memorable outing whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler.
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