Private Surf coaching in Ericeira (world surfing reserve)

When it comes to catching waves in Portugal, Ericeira is often at the top of the list. Known as the first World Surfing Reserve in Europe, this charming fishing village packs some of the best surf spots along the Atlantic. We’ve looked into a private surf coaching experience here, designed for those who want to improve their skills while soaking up incredible scenery. It’s a neat choice if you’re seeking a mix of tailored guidance, fewer crowds, and the chance to see your progress through photos and videos.

What caught our interest? First, the flexibility of choosing the best surf spot based on the forecast ensures you won’t be stuck at a subpar location. Second, the inclusion of videos and personalized feedback makes the experience stand out—perfect for surfers who want to learn faster. A potential caveat? Since the activity requires participants to be independent in the water, complete beginners might need a different approach. This experience suits those who already have some surfing basics but want to level up, especially in a beautiful, less crowded environment.

Key Points

• Location: Ericeira, Portugal’s first World Surfing Reserve, renowned for excellent waves and scenic beauty
• Duration: 3 hours, with flexible start times based on availability
• Price: $227 per person, offering a personalized, guided surf session with videos and photos
• Highlights: Surfing the best spots as per forecast, fewer crowds, video analysis, and professional guidance
• Participants: Independent surfers with water competence; not suitable for children under 14
• Extras: Hotel pickup, gear, and post-session review of videos and photos included

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Private Surf Coaching?

If you’re someone who’s already comfortable in the water but looking to sharpen your skills, this experience could be just right. What makes it appealing is the personalized approach—a private group means more attention and tailored advice, rather than a crowded lesson. Plus, the fact that the spots are chosen based on the daily forecast means you’re likely to get the best possible waves, rather than settling for whatever’s left over.

The three-hour duration gives you ample time—roughly 1.5 hours in the water—to practice and get comfortable. After your session, you’ll enjoy a relaxed coffee with your guide, and review your videos to see what you can improve. We love the transparency here; you get to see yourself in action and get concrete tips to get better.

The video analysis aspect is a real bonus. Many surfers love seeing their own techniques—what works, what needs tweaking. For those who want to track progress or prepare for future sessions, these recordings are invaluable.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

This isn’t just a standard lesson; it’s a bespoke adventure tailored to the forecast and conditions. You start with a pickup from your hotel in Ericeira, making logistics simple. The guide, who speaks French, Portuguese, Spanish, or English, will meet you the day before or coordinate beforehand, so you’ll know exactly where and when to be picked up.

Once on location, you’ll head to the best surf spot of the day—be it in Ericeira itself or nearby Santa Cruz—depending on the surf forecast. The goal? To ride clean, quality waves with less crowd interference, which is a big plus for many surfers tired of battling for space in popular spots.

The guiding is designed for independent surfers, meaning you should be comfortable in the water on your own. The gear is provided, so no need to worry about bringing your own surfboard or wetsuit—though you can rent additional equipment if needed.

In the water, you’ll spend approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes paddling out, catching waves, and practicing. During breaks, your guide takes photos and videos, capturing your riding moments, which are later reviewed over coffee. This blend of practical coaching and visual feedback can really help you understand your surfing style and areas for improvement.

The Experience’s Strengths and Slight Drawbacks

The biggest perk? The personalized coaching combined with the beautiful scenery of Ericeira’s coastline. Since the spots are chosen based on the best forecast, you’ll likely surf fewer crowds, which can make all the difference mentally and physically. Many reviewers mention the stunning views and how helpful the knowledgeable guides are, with one stating, “Received valuable feedback already in the water what to improve and could apply it.”

However, a consideration is that participants must be independent in the water. While you’ll get gear and guidance, if you’re a pure beginner who hasn’t yet learned to paddle confidently or catch waves solo, this might not be the best fit. In that scenario, a beginner-oriented lesson without video capture might be more suitable.

Pricing-wise, at $227 per person, you’re investing in a quality, tailored experience rather than a group class. The inclusion of photos, videos, and post-session analysis adds value, especially if you’re serious about improving.

Why This Experience Stands Out

Compared to general group lessons or standard surf courses, this private coaching offers more personalized feedback and the chance to surf less crowded waves. The flexibility to choose the best spot based on daily conditions enhances the quality of your surf session. Plus, the video review turns this from a typical lesson into a valuable learning tool you can revisit long after your trip.

The professional guidance of multilingual instructors ensures that language barriers don’t hinder your experience. And, with the pickup/drop-off included, logistics are straightforward—no need to worry about how to get to the best spots.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Love This?

This experience is best suited for independent surfers who are comfortable in the water and want to refine their skills with expert feedback. It’s perfect if you dislike crowded surf spots and prefer a more relaxed, tailored approach. While not for children under 14, it’s a great choice for adults who want a mix of learning and sightseeing in a stunning setting.

If you’re visiting Ericeira and have a few surf days planned, this private coaching can be a highlight—helping you progress faster and enjoy the waves more fully.

Final Thoughts

For anyone already comfortable in the water but eager to take their surfing to the next level, this private coaching experience in Ericeira offers a superb blend of tailored guidance, stunning views, and practical feedback. The ability to surf the best waves based on the forecast means fewer crowds and better rides, which can make all the difference whether you’re out for fun or improvement.

The inclusion of photos and videos to review later really elevates this experience—it turns a good surf session into a valuable learning opportunity. While it does require a certain level of independence in the water, the overall package is well worth the investment if you’re serious about refining your surfing skills.

If you’re after a more personalized, flexible, and high-quality surf experience in one of Europe’s top surf spots, this private coaching is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
This experience is designed for independent surfers who can handle themselves in the water. Beginners needing full supervision or learning from scratch might find this too advanced, as the coach will be in the water with you, making photos or videos impossible for beginners.

What do I need to bring?
Just a towel and water. The gear needed for surfing is provided, so you don’t have to bring your own equipment unless you prefer.

Can I see my photos and videos afterward?
Yes, the package includes pictures and videos taken during your session, which you’ll review afterward over coffee. It’s a great way to watch your progress and get tips.

What is the duration of the surf session?
You’ll stay in the water for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with the entire activity lasting approximately 3 hours including pickup and review.

How do I know where and when to be picked up?
You’ll meet your guide either the day before or via phone the day before to coordinate pickup details, ensuring a smooth start.

Is there a specific language the guide speaks?
Guides speak French, Portuguese, Spanish, and English, so you’ll find someone who can communicate comfortably with you.

What is the price?
The cost is $227 per person, including transportation, gear, photos, videos, and video analysis.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, this activity isn’t suitable for children under 14 years old.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this experience available year-round?
Check availability for your preferred dates—since start times vary and depend on conditions, it’s best to book in advance and confirm.

If you’re looking to improve your surfing skills, enjoy quiet waves, and explore one of Europe’s top surf destinations, this private coaching in Ericeira might just be the perfect addition to your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: