Surfing in Alentejo, Portugal - The ultimate surf guide

Spring surf conditions: Larger swells transition to smaller waves

During the springtime in Alentejo, you’ll see the larger winter swells transitioning to smaller, more manageable waves. This period isn't as constant as the autumn and winter but still offers enjoyable surf conditions, most suitable for intermediate surfers. It’s a nice time to visit Alentejo for the mild weather and to avoid crowds. 

Summer surf conditions: Calm and gentle waves 

The summertime is Alentejo’s peak tourist season. Now, Alentejo presents calm conditions and smaller, mellow and more gentle waves. It’s a nice time for beginners or those looking for more relaxed surfing sessions to visit the area. 

Autumn surf conditions: The bigger swells return as the surf season restart

Autumn brings the first significant swells of the surf season. The temperature cools down, and the waves start to pick up consistency and size. This season is often referred to as the best season for surfing in Alentejo and attracts more experienced surfers who are comfortable in bigger waves. 

Winter surf conditions: Powerful waves for advanced surfers

During wintertime, Alentejo experiences its largest swells and most powerful waves, making it a popular time for advanced surfers to head to the region. Reef breaks may become more prominent during the winter swells, creating challenging yet rewarding surfing opportunities.

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

Alentejo has something for all-level surfers during each season, making it a year-round surfing destination. Although, some seasons may suit different level riders better than others: 

• Beginner: during the summer season

• Intermediate: during spring and autumn

• Advanced: during the winter season 

There are surf spots available for beginners during the autumn and winter seasons (like during smaller swells or at beaches with more forgiving waves), and there are nice spots for more advanced surfers during the summer months. There's something for everyone in this beautiful region of Portugal.

What to wear while surfing in Alentejo: Which thickness should my wetsuit be?

We have wetsuits at the camp, but if you plan to bring your own, bring one that fits the climate of the season you plan on arriving. Depending on which season you visit Alentejo, you should use a suitable wetsuit. During the warmer months, a thinner wetsuit, like a 3/2mm, is good to keep you comfortable in the water. A thicker wetsuit, like a 4/3 mm, is good in the colder months to provide more insulation. 

General wetsuit guidelines: 

• 3/2mm wetsuit: April-October

• 4/3mm wetsuit: November-March

Remember: The thickness of the wetsuit may vary from person to person based on comfort levels, personal preferences, and the specific weather conditions during your visit. Check out our wetsuit guide for more info.

Where to stay in Portugal: Our hearts are in two places

We have two surf camps in Portugal: one in Alentejo and one in Ericeira. Both camps are amazing in their own ways. If you like a more upbeat vibe in a bigger camp, then our surf camp in Ericeria is the place for you. If you’re looking for a more relaxed surf camp atmosphere then Alentejo is the right choice.

A surf camp that feels like home

When you open the gate to our Alentejo surf camp you’ll see that it’s surrounded by a big field where our cute donkeys and horse strolls around. The donkeys are very curious and love to come up for a pat! The vibe at the camp is very homey where everyone hangs out together by the pool, plays cards in the shaded sofas and enjoys amazing food, like homemade pizza during the pizza nights and traditional cooking by our talented chef.

Getting around in Alentejo

You’ll be getting a ride to and from the surf spots (and to and from the different activities that we offer at the camp) from our camp crew. If you feel like picking up something from the supermarket or pharmacy, we’ll be happy to give you a lift on our way back from the beach after the surf. You will be completely fine without a car when visiting our camp, but if you feel like traveling a bit by yourself and seeing the surrounding areas then renting a car is a great idea.

The taste of Portugal: What to eat in Alentejo?

Most of the dinners that we serve at the surf camp are homemade Portuguese dishes, made with local ingredients. The base of many dishes from Alentejo consists of lamb, pork and Alentejo bread. Soups are very common dishes too, like the Açorda. And while you’re in Alentejo, don’t forget to indulge in the regional wine!

Traditional food from Alentejo

• Açorda: A common Portuguese soup made out of bread, coriander, garlic and spices from the region. Often topped with a poached egg.

• Sopa de tomate: The tomato soup is simple yet delicious! Both egg and bread will be in the soup, making it quite filling!

• Cozido de grão: A traditional portuguese stew.

• Bifana: A popular steak sandwich that can be found in all of Portugal. 

• Porco Preto: Porco Preto, or Black Iberian pig, is typical in Portuguese cuisine. You’ll find Porco Preto in many dishes, like grilled pork and Alentejo-style pork stews.

• Queijadas De Évora: A traditional pastry that is common in all of Portugal. It has a buttery crust and the filling is a mixture of sugar, fresh cheese and egg yolks (not to be confused with the iconic Portuguese pasty pastel de nata).

• Sericaia com Ameixas de Elvas: Another dessert that you shouldn't miss out on is the Sericaia com Ameixas de Elvas, which is a traditional dessert in Alentejo. “Ameixas” is Portuguese for plums. The dessert is egg-based and flavored with lemon zest and cinnamon.

Packing: What should you bring for your Alentejo surf trip?

You won’t need to bring much with you on your trip to Alentejo since we’ll provide both surfboards and wetsuits at the camp. But there are a few things that you shouldn't forget to add to your suitcase:

• Passport

• Mosquito repellent: The mosquitos in Portugal are the most active from around May to September, so a mosquito spray is a great thing to pack with you so that you can enjoy the warm summer nights outside. 

• Sunscreen: Remember to bring strong sunscreen with you. Alentejo can get quite hot and dry, so a sunscreen with high SPF will come in handy. 

• Comfortable shoes: There are many nice places to hike in Alentejo but the roads can be quite dusty, so pack a pair of shoes that you can walk around in and feel comfortable. 

• Swimwear: Bring board shorts/bikinis that are suitable for surfing.

• A reusable water bottle