Surfing in Ericeira, Portugal - The ultimate surf guide

Spring surf conditions: The ocean becomes milder after winter

As the winter transitions into spring, the conditions gradually become milder, the waves become more manageable, and the swell is smaller compared to the winter. The closer the summer gets, the more crowds will arrive in Ericeira, both in and out of the ocean.

Summer surf conditions: Calmer waves and peak tourism

Ericeira truly comes alive in summer, with enjoyable weather and lots of things to see and do around the village. While the swells are smaller and the waves less consistent, summertime is still popular for beginners and surfers looking for a relaxed session in smaller waves. Summer also means bigger crowds, so be prepared to be patient in the lineup and restaurant queue.

Autumn surf conditions: Prime surfing with consistent swells  

Autumn often provides some of the best surf conditions of the year, making it the best season for surfing in Ericeira. The waves become more powerful and reliable, making it ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers to enjoy Ericeira’s breaks. The weather remains pleasant, but the crowds begin to thin out, making the atmosphere more relaxed both in the water and around town. Autumn is perfect for those who enjoy great surf without the summer rush.

Don't miss out! From October, the waves at Nazaré begin to gain in size! Nazaré is a town about an hour's drive away, known for hosting some of the highest waves in the world. If you're lucky and manage to time your surf trip to the time the big waves hit Nazaré, you can watch the big wave surfers take on these massive swells from the high cliffs. There’s nothing like it!

Winter surf conditions: Big swells and experienced surfers 

Winter in Ericeira is known for the bigger swells and more powerful waves, attracting great surfers from all corners of the world. The water temperature drops, so a good wetsuit is A and O. While the weather can be less predictable, winter offers some of the most thrilling and rewarding surf sessions. The village quiets down significantly, offering a peaceful time in Ericeira, free from the bustling summer crowds.

Nazaré’s big wave season usually lasts between October and March, so there are usually plenty of chances to see the big wave surfers during a day trip to Nazaré in wintertime.

When is the best time to surf in Ericeira for my level? 

If you’re a beginner, you’ll find a good spot to surf any time of the year. There are always nice beginner-friendly waves around Ericeira. 

• Beginner: All year round, preferably May to September

• Intermediate: May to September 

• Advanced: September to April

Once you move past the beginner stage, you’ll probably enjoy Ericeira’s waves the most during the spring and summer months, when the waves are forgiving and small. Advanced surfers will enjoy the waves here in fall and winter when the waves become more powerful and challenging.

What to wear while surfing in Ericeira, Portugal: Which thickness should my wetsuit be?

A wetsuit is recommended for surfing year-round, a thinner one in summer and a thicker one in winter. The thickness depends on the season and your tolerance to cold water. Here are some general recommendations:

• Wetsuit thickness in spring: 4/3 mm.

• Wetsuit thickness in summer: 3/2 mm or even 2 mm.

• Wetsuit thickness in autumn: 4/3 mm or 3/2 mm.

• Wetsuit thickness in winter: 5/4 mm or 4/3 mm.

• Boots, gloves, and hood: In the coldest months, consider wearing neoprene boots, gloves, and a hood to further protect yourself from the cold water and wind.

Want to know more about how to choose the right wetsuit and what the numbers mean? Then check out our wetsuit guide.

Where to stay: Why should you stay at our Ericeira surf camp?

Ericeira is definitely worth a visit for anybody whose heart beats for surfing. But why do we think that our surf camp is the best option for accommodation?

Close to the waves and the village

Our surf camp is located right by our favorite surf spot at Foz do Lizandro and is a 25-minute walk from the picturesque village of Ericeira (which is a must-visit during your stay!). There you’ll find amazing cafes and restaurants, a vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches and both surf shops and supermarkets. It’s also a nice place to just enjoy the atmosphere while walking around the narrow streets. The coastal walk from the camp to the village is a pleasure of its own, the majestic cliffs of Ericeira do not disappoint! Foz do Lizandro is one of the biggest beaches in the area with a nice boardwalk where you can enjoy a cold beer after your surf session. 

A camp with a bit of everything

Ericeira is the home of our biggest surf camp with over a hundred spots for adventure-seaking guests. At our camp, you’ll get to enjoy our relaxing pool area, yoga shala and garden with an outdoor gym area, a volleyball field and a skate bowl. The camp also has a spacious co-work and a restaurant with delicious food and beverages. What more can one wish for in a surf camp?

If you’re looking for a surf camp in Portugal that is more off the beaten path you should check out our other Lapoint camp in Alentejo. Our Alentejo camp is smaller and the vibe is more calm and laid back. 

Activities: What can you do in Ericeira besides surfing?

Besides hanging out at the surf camp (who would say no to chilling by the pool or surfskating in the bowl?) there are many things to do and see in Ericeira.

The majestic nature

Ericeira is located by the Atlantic Ocean and we highly recommend you visit the beaches and hike along the majestic cliffs. You’ll see some of the most beautiful sunsets of your life. 

The nightlife 

Ericeira really comes alive during summer, with lots of tourists coming in and many events around town. But the village is full of fun all throughout the year. Here are some great places to spend a night out:

• Boardriders Quiksilver: Ever thought you would have some of your best nights with live music, an amazing view overlooking the ocean and a cold beer at a surfshop/skatepark? Well, this is the place to be! 

• Adega Bar 1987: A homely Portuguese bar with amazing tapas and a nice atmosphere in the heart of the village.

• Tubo bar: A small bar in town with dance-friendly music and drinks!

Spending the day by the beach

Ericeira has many beautiful beaches! Bring some friends, pack your picnic basket and head out to one of them for a relaxing layday. Many of the beaches have cute cafes around where you can go for an espresso or an ice cream. Ribeira d'Ilhas, Praia dos Pescadores and Praia do Sul are three beautiful and popular beaches. 

Packing: What should I bring for my Ericeira surf trip?

Have you already started to pack? Here are our two packing lists with everything you will need on your surf trip:

Ericeira, Portugal: general packing

• Passport: Don’t forget to bring your passport when traveling to Portugal. Check with your travel provider how long the passport needs to be valid, it can differ from country to country.

• Cash: Some restaurants in town only accept cash payments, so make sure to bring some cash with you. If not, don't worry! There are plenty of ATMs in town and in the supermarkets where you can withdraw money. 

• A reusable water bottle: We don’t sell plastic water bottles at our surf camps, so we recommend you bring a stainless steel bottle to keep your water nice and cold. There are plenty of shops in the village of Ericeira where you can find nice bottles!

• Something warm: The weather can shift quickly in Ericeria, so make sure that you dress the part! Some houses in Portugal can get quite cold during the colder months and it’s a good idea to bring some warm clothes to be prepared.

There are big supermarkets like Continente, Intermarche and Lidl a five-minute Uber ride away from the camp. Both Continente and Intermarche have a pharmacy if you need sunscreen or other products.

Ericeira, Portugal: packing for the surf

• Surfboards: We will provide surfboards, wetsuits and all the equipment you need for your surf trip, but if you want to bring your own board you are very welcome to do so! 

• Bikinis/boardshorts: We provide you with a suitable wetsuit when it’s time to head out for the surf so that you keep warm in the cool water. Just remember to bring a bikini, bathing suit or boardshorts that sit nicely. You don't want to have to adjust the swimwear under your thick wetsuit once it’s on! 

• Sunscreen: Even though Ericeira isn't a tropical island, the sun can still be quite strong! Especially if you’re in the water all day, so make sure to bring ocean-friendly sunscreen. 

Psst! Remember that you aren't travelling to the middle of nowhere. There are plenty of surf shops around Ericeira, both big brands like Billabong and Rip Curl but also smaller, local stores. It’s the perfect place to gear up your surf wardrobe and quiver.