Top 7 Surf Towns in Portugal

Portugal boasts some of Europe’s best surf towns, where stunning beaches meet vibrant surf culture. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer chasing the next big swell or a traveller seeking a laid-back coastal vibe, Portugal’s Atlantic coast has something for everyone. With year-round waves, mild climate, and a rich seaside heritage, it’s no wonder surf lovers flock here. Below, we highlight seven must-visit Portuguese surf towns – each with its own unique charm and breaks – and how you can capture their spirit in your style. (Pssst: We’ll even point you to some gear inspired by these very spots!)

1. Nazaré – Home of the Giant Waves

If you’ve seen jaw-dropping videos of 80-foot waves, chances are they were filmed in Nazaré. Once a humble fishing village, Nazaré shot to surf stardom in 2011 when Garrett McNamara rode a world-record 78 ft wave here. Today, it’s the ultimate big-wave destination – every winter, elite surfers and curious spectators gather by the red lighthouse at Praia do Norte to witness nature’s fury. The secret to Nazaré’s monster waves lies in an underwater canyon off its coast. This Nazaré Canyon, plunging over 5 km deep and 230 km long, funnels Atlantic swells into towering peaks. In fact, Nazaré now holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wave ever surfed: a staggering 26.21 m (86 ft) face conquered by Sebastian Steudtner in 2020. Surfing here is only for the brave and expert – but experiencing it is for everyone. Even if you’re not paddling out, watching these giants crash from the safety of the clifftop is unforgettable. After an adrenaline-filled day, stroll the old town and enjoy grilled seafood as you reflect on nature’s power. Wear the vibe: Nazaré’s colossal waves inspired our Vintage Surf apparel – check out the Nazaré collection for organic tees and hoodies that channel this big-wave energy (like our Nazaré Surf Vintage T-Shirt in retro surf style). It’s a perfect way to keep Nazaré’s adventurous spirit close, even when you’re on calmer shores.

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2. Ericeira – World Surfing Reserve Wonder

Ericeira is a picturesque coastal town that surfers describe with pure adoration. Just 50 km northwest of Lisbon, Ericeira earned the prestigious title of Europe’s first World Surfing Reserve in 2011, recognized for its high concentration of quality breaks along 8 km of shoreline. Here you’ll find waves for every level: from mellow beach breaks like Foz do Lizandro for beginners, to the world-class reef break Ribeira d’Ilhas and the famous hollow barrels of Coxos for pros. The town itself is a delight – think whitewashed houses with blue trim, narrow cobbled streets, and cliffside cafés where you can sip a “bica” (espresso) after your surf. Ericeira’s surf culture is ingrained in its identity; you’ll see board-toting locals and surf vans at every corner. Even if you’re not surfing, the vibe is contagiously laid-back and ocean-centric. Don’t miss the fresh seafood (Ericeira is known for amazing sushi and traditional shellfish stews) to recharge after a day in the water. Wear the vibe: Embrace Ericeira’s blend of tradition and surf chic with a tee or hoodie from our Surf Collection, which includes minimalist designs inspired by Ericeira’s waves. A soft organic cotton t-shirt with a subtle surfboard print keeps you comfy for a post-surf pastel de nata (custard tart) run through town.

3. Peniche – Tubes and Traditions

Jutting out into the Atlantic on a peninsula, Peniche is often dubbed Portugal’s surf capital for its consistent waves and famous breaks. The star here is Supertubos (“Super Tubes”) – a powerful beach break known for its fast, hollow barrels that attract the world’s top surfers each October during the WSL Championship Tour event. Peniche’s coastline wraps around, providing surf options for different wind directions: if Supertubos is too heavy, head to the other side of the peninsula to Baleal Beach for friendlier waves and a fun surf camp scene. Beyond surfing, Peniche has a salt-of-the-earth charm; it’s an active fishing port with a formidable 16th-century fortress guarding the harbor. Stroll the old fort or take a boat trip to the Berlengas Islands, a stunning nature reserve offshore. Peniche’s mix of traditional Portuguese life and surf-town buzz makes it special – where else can you find fishermen mending nets next to surf shops and vegan cafés? Wear the vibe: Peniche’s bold surf heritage pairs well with our retro surf styles. Try a vintage-look hoodie emblazoned with a wave graphic – it’ll keep you warm during those early-morning surf checks and nod to Peniche’s legendary tubes. Don’t forget to explore our surf-inspired hoodies that celebrate spots like Peniche and Nazaré, blending comfort with coastal cool.

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4. Cascais & Carcavelos – Lisbon’s Surf Playground

Just a short drive or train ride from Lisbon, the cosmopolitan town of Cascais and the nearby beach of Carcavelos offer the perfect union of city and surf. Cascais, once a royal seaside resort, charms visitors with its elegant streets, museums, and marina – but surfers know that a quick hop brings you to consistent waves. Carcavelos Beach, at the start of the Cascais coastline, is the go-to surf spot for Lisboetas (people from Lisbon), especially in autumn and winter when swells are up. Its long stretch of sand produces fun, punchy beach breaks suitable for beginners and experts alike. In summer, mornings offer small clean waves and by afternoon the beach scene is lively with sunbathers and volleyball. Further along, Guincho Beach (technically in Cascais area) is a stunning wind-swept strand backed by dunes and the Sintra hills – great for experienced surfers and kitesurfers when conditions align. After catching waves, you can enjoy Cascais’ sophisticated side: waterfront restaurants, gelato in the old town, and evening strolls by the illuminated Cascais Citadel. Wear the vibe: Capture the stylish yet relaxed atmosphere of Cascais with minimalist travel wear. A crisp organic cotton t-shirt (like our Lisbon Coast tee featuring a tiny wave emblem) paired with shorts is ideal for daytime, while a lightweight sweatshirt thrown over your shoulders readies you for Cascais’s chic outdoor restaurants by night. (Insider tip: our apparel comes in versatile neutral tones – perfect for mixing surf functionality with city fashion).

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5. Sagres – The Wild Algarve Surf Frontier

Journey to Portugal’s southwestern tip and you’ll find Sagres, a village perched on dramatic sea cliffs where it feels like the edge of the world. This is the heart of the Costa Vicentina in the Algarve – a protected coast of rugged beauty, abundant surf, and raw nature. Sagres has a laid-back, adventurous vibe: a place where surfers, backpackers, and nature lovers converge. Here, Atlantic swells meet unique coastal geography to produce waves on both west- and south-facing beaches, offering a huge variety. Beginners can enjoy gentle rollers at Praia do Martinhal or Praia da Mareta (on the south side), while advanced surfers tackle the more exposed breaks on the west coast like Praia do Tonel (right below Sagres’ famous fort) or drive up to Arrifana Beach and Praia do Amado a bit further north for consistent surf year-round. The scenery is spectacular – think towering cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and sunsets that set the sky ablaze with colour. Sagres town is small and unpretentious, with surf hostels, bars, and cafes where stories of the day’s waves are shared. Don’t miss a visit to Cabo de São Vicente (Cape St. Vincent) nearby, the lighthouse-topped cape historically known as the end of the known world. Wear the vibe: The wild spirit of Sagres and the Costa Vicentina calls for comfortable gear that can handle adventure. Our collection includes tees with sunset designs inspired by Vicentina’s coastline and cozy hoodies from the Costa Vicentina region. For instance, throw on a soft organic hoodie in the evening – our Alentejo Sunset Hoodie (inspired by nearby Alentejo’s golden skies) keeps you warm as you watch the sun dip into the Atlantic. It’s all about embracing those untamed, free-spirited Algarve vibes.

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6. Figueira da Foz – Long Rides on a Laid-Back Coast

On Portugal’s central coast lies Figueira da Foz, a traditional seaside town which also happens to boast one of the longest right-hand waves in Europe. At the Praia do Cabedelo and Buarcos beach, under the right swell, experienced surfers can enjoy leg-aching rides that peel along the point seemingly forever. This wasn’t lost on earlier generations of surfers – Figueira was on the surf map decades ago and continues to host surf events, albeit less hyped than Nazaré or Peniche. The town itself offers a retro resort feel: a long promenade, belle époque hotels, and even a casino, harking back to its popularity in the 20th century. It’s a great place to slow down and experience Portuguese beach culture more like a local – summertime sees Portuguese families filling the sands, and you can join them for a relaxed day by the sea. Aside from the waves, you can explore the nearby Serra da Boa Viagem hills for panoramic views or wander the local fish market for a slice of daily life. Wear the vibe: Figueira’s easygoing atmosphere aligns with casual, beach-ready attire. Think breathable tank tops and classic tees for daytime, and a light layer after sundown. A tank like our Surfing Galo Tank Top – which playfully features Portugal’s iconic rooster riding a wave – keeps you cool when the sun is high and adds a dose of Portuguese fun to your outfit. Later, when the ocean breeze picks up, pull on a light sweatshirt or long-sleeve tee from our collection. It’s all about comfort with a dash of local legend.

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7. Espinho (Porto’s Surf Spot) – City Surf with Northern Flavour

Rounding out our list, we head north to Espinho, the surf town for Porto’s wave riders. Just 20 km south of Porto, Espinho offers a long sandy beach and beach-break waves that are popular especially in autumn and winter swells. It’s known for consistent peaks and occasionally powerful hollow waves – there’s even a quality right-hand point/jetty break by the old casino that can light up on big swells. Surf schools and camps here welcome beginners too, making Espinho a versatile spot. After your surf session, you can hop on a short train ride to Porto and swap your wetsuit for a city outfit to explore Porto’s historic centre (a UNESCO site) – talk about convenience! But Espinho itself has its charms: a weekly open-air market (one of the largest in Portugal), excellent seafood restaurants (try the local speciality grilled fish caught fresh), and a long boardwalk where locals take evening strolls. This town gives you a taste of authentic northern Portuguese life, with the bonus of good waves. Wear the vibe: Blending city and surf style is key here. You might pair our Porto-inspired t-shirt – perhaps one featuring a subtle azulejo (tile) pattern or typography nod to Porto’s streets – with your favourite jeans to transition from the beach to a cafe in the city. A quick accessory like a cap can complete the look (for example, our Lisbon Tram embroidered cap adds a pop of personality while shading you from the sun). With the right mix of surf gear and urban flair, you’ll feel at home in both Espinho’s lineup and Porto’s laneways.

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Final Surf Tip: Portugal’s surf towns each offer a different flavour of the surf life, but all share the friendly, adventurous spirit that makes traveling here so special. No matter which town you visit, remember to respect the local surf etiquette, take time to chat with locals (who often have the best secret spot tips), and soak up the culture beyond the waves. And if you’ve fallen in love with these places like we have, consider carrying a memento – our Atlantic Wave apparel collections are inspired by Nazaré’s giants, Ericeira’s charm, Sagres’ sunsets and more theatlanticwave.com, so you can wear a piece of Portugal’s surf soul wherever you go.

 

Happy surfing and boa viagem!