Surf the World Surf Reserve of Ericeira with a new friend

Exploring the Ericeira Surf Experience: What You Need to Know

If you’re considering a day at Portugal’s renowned Ericeira Surf Reserve, this guide might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the feedback and details paint a pretty appealing picture. It’s a surf guiding experience designed for those who already have some confidence in the water—so if you can paddle out on your own and catch green waves, this could be a fantastic way to explore some of the best spots around Ericeira.

What do I like about it? First, the chance to visit multiple surf spots—both reef breaks and beach breaks—with an expert showing you where to come in and out of the water. That kind of local knowledge can make a big difference, especially in a place as varied as Ericeira. Second, the tour’s relaxed approach—it’s not a lesson, but rather a guided tour—so you get to surf at your own pace while benefiting from a knowledgeable leader.

Of course, a consideration is that this isn’t a beginner’s class; you should be comfortable managing yourself in the water and handling your surfboard. If you’re new to surfing, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re looking for an insider experience that combines scenic beauty, top surf spots, and a local guide, then this tour is worth thinking about. It’s ideal for those who want to explore rather than learn how to surf from scratch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Suitable for experienced surfers comfortable going past the surf break alone
• Includes transportation to and from the meeting point, making logistics easier
• Focuses on guiding around Ericeira’s famous surf spots, not lessons
• Offering a relaxed post-surf coffee or drink to wind down and soak up the atmosphere
• Affordable price point around $91 per person, considering the guided experience and transport
• Small or private groups available, adding a personal touch to your surf adventure

Discovering the Magic of Ericeira’s Surf Spots

Ericeira isn’t just another coastal town; it’s Portugal’s only World Surf Reserve, and with good reason. The area boasts a variety of surf spots, each with unique characteristics that appeal to different styles and skill levels. This tour takes you to reef breaks and beach breaks, offering a diverse sampling of what makes Ericeira so special for surfers.

From the outset, the experience is designed to give you an authentic local perspective. The guide, who speaks English, Portuguese, and Spanish, will take you to the best surf spots based on conditions and your skill level. Expect to be driven to the locations, where you’ll get some guidance on how to best approach each wave.

The Locations and Their Charm

The reef breaks are particularly captivating—they often produce cleaner, more powerful waves and tend to be less crowded than beaches. The guide will explain how these breaks work and where to come in and out of the water, which can make a big difference in your safety and enjoyment. Plus, you’ll appreciate the chance to see some of the most iconic surf spots in Portugal.

Beach breaks are usually gentler and more forgiving, making them great for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. We loved the way the guide explained the different types of breaks and the best ways to approach each, helping even confident surfers maximize their time on the water.

The Surfing Itself

Remember, this is not a surf lesson, but a guiding tour. That means you should already be capable of paddling out alone and catching waves without assistance. If you’re someone who consistently rides green waves and can manage yourself in the water, you’ll feel right at home. The guide will be there to point out the best waves and give you tips, but you’ll be the one riding.

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The Post-Surf Break

After the surf, the tour wraps up with a visit to one of the guide’s favorite local spots for a warm coffee or drink. It’s a nice touch that allows everyone to relax, share stories, and soak in the coastal vibe while planning the next wave or just enjoying the moment.

How the Tour Works: Logistics and Details

The tour lasts between 4 to 8 hours, depending on your preference and the conditions. It starts at a parking lot next to the Boardriders surf shop, a convenient meeting point for those staying in or near Ericeira. Transportation is included, meaning no stress about renting or finding your way—your guide takes care of that.

Pricing is set at $91 per person, which covers the guiding and transportation but not your personal surf gear. You’ll need your own board and wetsuit, though rental options can be arranged if you contact the provider in advance.

This tour accommodates small groups or private bookings, ensuring a more tailored experience. If you’re traveling with friends or solo but prefer a more intimate vibe, this flexibility is a plus. The guide speaks multiple languages, so communication is smooth regardless of your preferred language.

What the Tour Isn’t

It’s important to clarify that this isn’t a surf lesson. If you’re completely new or want to learn the fundamentals, you’d need a proper lesson. This experience assumes a certain level of surfing confidence—being able to paddle out on your own and handle the waves safely.

Cancellation and Booking Flexibility

You can reserve your spot with no upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is handy for travelers with unpredictable plans or those hesitant to commit upfront.

What Travelers Are Saying

One enthusiastic review notes, “Super fun got to see the coast of Ericeira, and got to surf the local famous spots.” This highlights how accessible and enjoyable the experience can be for those who already know how to surf.

The overall 5-star rating reflects satisfaction with the guide’s knowledge and the quality of the spots visited. Given the small group setting and local insights, many find it a rewarding way to experience Ericeira’s surf scene without the stress of navigating on their own.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for surfers with intermediate or higher experience levels, who already feel comfortable managing themselves in the water. If you’re looking to explore multiple top spots with guidance and enjoy some local hospitality afterward, it’s a lovely way to spend a day.

Those wanting a more instructional approach or beginner lessons should look elsewhere but for a guided, scenic surf day with friendly company, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

For surfers wanting to see Ericeira’s best surf spots with a knowledgeable guide, this experience offers a good balance of local expertise, scenic variety, and relaxed post-surf vibes. The price is reasonable, especially considering the included transportation and small group setting.

However, keep in mind that this isn’t a beginner’s class—your ability to manage yourself in the water is key. If you’re confident in your surf skills and want to explore Portugal’s only World Surf Reserve, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

It’s perfect for surfers who value local insights, like variety in wave types, and enjoy a laid-back, authentic atmosphere. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, the flexibility and personal touch make it worth considering.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own surf gear?
Yes, you should have your own surf gear. If you don’t have equipment, contact the provider in advance, as rental options might be available.

Is this suitable for beginners?
No, this tour is designed for experienced surfers who can paddle out and catch waves on their own. It’s not a surf lesson.

What is the duration of the tour?
The experience lasts between 4 and 8 hours, with starting times based on availability. You can check specific times when booking.

Will transportation be provided?
Yes, your guide will pick you up and drop you off at the designated meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
The guide speaks English, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring smooth communication.

If you’re after a guided day of exploring Ericeira’s surf spots, at a reasonable price, this tour is a solid choice. Just be sure you’re comfortable managing your own surfboard and paddling out on your own. For those surfers, it promises a memorable day with great scenery, top local spots, and a relaxed vibe—what more could you want?

You can check availability for your dates here: