Costa da Caparica is a prime spot for surfing and water-based fun, thanks to its long stretch of sandy beaches and consistent waves. But it’s also a great place to learn new skills or improve existing ones. We’ve found two excellent workshops and classes that cater to different preferences — whether you want a quick intro or a more personalized coaching experience.
The Lisbon: Surfing Lesson on Costa de Caparica Beach offers a full three-hour beginner session with a certified instructor, perfect for those who want a thorough introduction. Meanwhile, the Come try our Surf Lesson in Costa da Caparica provides a shorter, two-hour class that includes all gear and personalized coaching. Both get rave reviews and are designed for different schedules — one for a deep dive, the other for a quick, fun try-out. Read on for detailed descriptions of each and decide which suits your style best.
1. Lisbon: Surfing Lesson on Costa de Caparica Beach
This 3-hour surf lesson near Lisbon is ideal for beginners eager to get their first wave. The tour includes a certified instructor, who has experience training competition athletes, ensuring you’ll get expert guidance. The lesson covers safety, paddling techniques, and riding waves, with plenty of time for practice. This experience can be booked with or without transportation from Lisbon, making it flexible depending on your plans.
The session starts at Estacionamento, where you’ll meet your instructor and group. From there, you’ll head to Costa de Caparica Beach, known for its long, manageable waves perfect for learning. The instructor will give a safety briefing and teach you how to handle the surfboard, then guide you in the water as you try to stand up for the first time.
What makes this tour stand out is the small group size, which allows for personalized attention, and the fact that it’s suitable for all skill levels. The reviews consistently praise the instructor’s kindness, clarity, and ability to help novices catch their first waves. Many mention how safe and fun the experience is, with some even saying it was a highlight of their trip.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a comprehensive, coached surf lesson with the option to include transportation, this is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for travelers who want to learn in a supportive group environment.
2. Lisbon: Come try our Surf Lesson in Costa da Caparica
This 2-hour surf lesson is a more compact, focused experience, ideal if you’re short on time but eager to try surfing. The class is held at Maryana Beach Lounge Restaurante, where you’ll meet your instructor and get suited up with a surfboard and wetsuit included. The lesson is designed to teach you the basics of surfing — paddling, standing, and catching waves — in a relaxed, friendly environment.
During the 1.5-hour session, you’ll receive personalized coaching from certified instructors who prioritize safety and fun. The reviews highlight how accommodating the staff are, especially for kids or first-timers. One reviewer noted, “Tiago and Andres made sure everyone, including our 10-year-old, was well cared for,” emphasizing the attentive approach. Even in challenging conditions, participants felt supported and learned a lot, often standing up on their boards by the end.
This class has a smaller number of reviews but maintains a perfect 5/5 rating, reflecting consistent quality. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a quick, engaging introduction to surfing without committing to a longer session.
Bottom Line: For a brief but thorough beginner lesson with all gear included, this class offers great value and a fun introduction to surfing.
How to Choose
Choosing between these two workshops depends on your schedule, budget, and how much you want to learn. If you’re after a full, in-depth lesson with personalized coaching and transportation options, the 3-hour Lisbon surfing lesson is your best bet. It’s perfect for those serious about mastering the basics or who want the convenience of pickup.
On the other hand, if you’re short on time or prefer a shorter, more casual experience, the 2-hour class offers a quick thrill with all necessary gear provided. It’s an excellent choice for families or travelers with limited time.
Consider your fitness level and comfort in the water — both tours are designed for beginners, but check the reviews for any specific advice. Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want a deep dive into surfing or a quick introduction, Costa da Caparica has options that suit diverse needs. The full-length, guided lesson is perfect for those who want to learn with expert help, while the shorter class suits travelers pressed for time or looking for a fun, low-pressure activity.
For families, first-timers, or anyone looking to get their feet wet, these workshops offer a memorable way to enjoy Portugal’s iconic Atlantic coast. Remember to book early, bring sunscreen, and get ready to catch your first wave in one of Europe’s best surf spots.
