The picturesque golden coasts that benefit from sunny days throughout the year, combined with the powerful Atlantic waves attract crowds of surfers to the Algarve. But you don’t have to be a professional to get into the water! Waves in southern Portugal vary in difficulty. Some are less powerful, but still offer fun tours. And local schools provide excellent offers for beginners and intermediate surfers. Why not to learn from some of the best places to enrol in one of the following schools?
SW Surf Shop | Aljezur
Aljezur, in the northwest of the Algarve, is a fishing village and the beach is one of its main highlights. It’s not surprising, therefore, that some of the best surf lessons in the Algarve come from here.
The SW Surf Shop is the place to go in the northwest of the Algarve to buy equipment and suits or to rent boards and enroll for classes that are taught by local professionals. Anyone can become a pro with the right master!
📍 Rua 25 de Abril 101C, Aljezur, 8670-088 Portugal
Future Eco Surf School | Portimão
Another great option to learn how to surf is by checking out Future Eco Surf School. Offering lessons since 1998 and idyllically located on the beautiful Praia da Rocha in Portimão, there is no way to doubt the appeal.
Classes are focused on all levels, from beginner to absolute intermediate. Future Eco Surf School also works in partnership with many local hotels for each personality type. From hostels to boutiques and even five-star hotels! You can reach this school with extreme ease from our Portimão Red Apartment, which is located only 15 minutes away within walking distance.
📍 Rotunda da Marina, Portimão, 8500-911, Portugal
Algarve Surf Shop & School | Sagres
If diving completely into the surfing lifestyle without any distractions seems like the plan to you, consider The Algarve Surf Shop & School. It’s located in remote Sagres, a quiet fishing village in the extreme southeast of Portugal.
Operating since 1996, Algarve Surf Shop & School is one of the oldest schools and covers multiple experiences. From surfing fields to traditional classes and special trips. The enrolment also comes with the possibility of reducing accommodation fees in one of the local hostels.
📍 Rua Comandante Matoso, Sagres, 8650-357, Portugal
Wavy Surf Camp | Sagres
Why not spend your days surfing and nights in well-equipped huts? Wavy Surf Camp, in Sagres, provides a unique experience that includes:
- Surf classes
- Trips
- Glamping in comfortable tents (some of them are even categorized as luxury tents).
In addition to surfing, you can practice canoeing, snorkeling, skateboarding, and cycling. The camp organizes volleyball and ping pong matches as well. So if you figure out that surfing isn’t really your thing after trying, you still have plenty of opportunities to have fun!
📍 Camping Sagres Orbitur Cerro das Moitas, Sagres, 8650-998, Portugal
Albufeira Surf & SUP | Albufeira
Enroll in Albufeira Surf & SUP if you want to learn how to:
- surf
- stand-up paddle
- cliff jump
- take Kayaking tours.
This school is for ocean lovers in general! But even people who haven’t spent much time on the water before can enjoy experiencing their first time on a board with this group of experienced athletes.
As for surfing, enroll for a two-hour class at €35 per person or a one-day class at €75 per person. An additional benefit is the location of the school: in the middle of one of the coolest cities in the Algarve. If you want to reach this school from our Aldeia do Golfe House in Vilamoura, it’s a quick drive. Only 20 minutes and you’re there already!
📍 Praia da Galé, 8200-424, Portugal
Algarve Surf Hostel | Lagos
Are you looking for a fun hostel that also offers surf lessons? The Algarve Surf Hostel in the resort city Lagos may be the right place. Working in partnership with Algarve Surf Shop & School in Sagres, the hostel offers a variety of package offers in addition to the relaxed ambiance.
It’s a short walk away from bars, but far enough to sleep in peace and tranquillity. The prices start from €15 per night, making it incredibly accessible to this lovely side of the Algarve. A great advantage for sure!
📍 Urb. Cerro das Mós, Lote 55, Lagos, 8600-917, Portugal
Surf Experience | Lagos
Surf Experience is the oldest surf school in the Lagos area. It has been open since 1992 and offers a high level of training and beautiful accommodation. Beginners usually go as far as the sheltered area of Arrifana.
In your free time make sure to explore Lagos, and indulge in its delicious food, cheap cocktails, and lively clubs. Avoid coming here in the summer, though, as it is often crowded and prices are significantly higher.
📍 Rua dos Ferreiros 21, 8600-657 Lagos, Portugal
Jah Shaka Surf Shop | Lagos
The great advantage of Jah Shaka Surf Shop is the extensive list of options available to customers. In particular, you can choose among:
- traditional surfing (€25 per day, if you don’t need classes)
- kitesurfing
- bodyboarding
- stand-up paddle boarding.
There are also week-long camps that combine kitesurfing, SUP, and yoga classes for €440 per person and per person. The surf shop also offers a variety of accommodations for everyone, from budget lovers to luxury travelers.
📍 Rua Cândido dos Reis 112, Lagos, 8600-681, Portugal