Portugal is one of the hottest destinations right now, and not just because Summer temperatures get up to 100 degrees!
With a coastline of over 500 miles, there are a tonne of places to surf and in this article, we'll focus on the Southernmost region of Portugal – The Algarve.
Where is the Algarve?
The Algarve is a region in Portugal that runs the entire width of the Southern part of the country. Bordering Spain on one side, the next stop if you go South is Morrocco.
Recently touted as the California of Portugal, the Algarve is almost like a country in itself. With its upmarket areas of Quinta do Lago and Vilamoura in the East and the hippy vibes of Aljezur and Sagres in the West, this region has something to offer everyone and there are some great places to stay on the Algarve.
But we're talking about surfing, so…
When is the best time to surf in the Algarve?
The Algarve can be split into two main areas when it comes to surfing:
- The West Coast
- The South Coast
Generally, the West coast beaches or West-facing beaches pick up a lot more swell than the South facing spots. The most common swell direction is from the Northwest, so if there is any blip of swell in the Atlantic, the exposed surf spots such as Bordeira, Cordoama, and Arrifana will have a wave to surf.
Surfing in the Algarve in Winter
In Winter, from November through to March, the surf on the West Coast can be huge, and I mean HUGE! It is not uncommon for the waves at exposed spots to be over 10 feet, with most mortals running for shelter.
Typically in Winter, there are always waves somewhere, and the joy of surfing in the Algarve is the variety. If it is too big, you can hide ‘around the corner' and head to less exposed South Coast beaches, such as Porto do Mos in Lagos, Praia da Rocha in Portimao, or Praia da Luz.
Surfing in the Algarve in Summer
In Summer, the best surf beaches are primarily on the West Coast. The heavy Atlantic swells tend to die down, so head to surf beaches like Praia do Amado, Arrifana, or Monte Clerigo to get your beach fix.
Also, in Summer, there is the occasional Southerly swell that lights up all of the South Coast beaches, be sure to check any nooks and crannies because these novelty swells can be super fun but don't last long!
Which wetsuit to bring to the Algarve?
The water temperature remains fairly stable in the Algarve. Depending on the time of year, a 3/2 steamer is a good option, but at times in Winter, you will be happier with a 4/3 wetsuit.
In the Summer months, you can surf in boardies, but this tends to be shortlived and heavily dependent on local conditions, especially the wind.
The Nortada or North wind blows hard all Summer long in the West of Portugal, and it can be particularly annoying when searching for the best surf beaches, so try to seek shelter as best you can.
The Nortada can also cause some crazy upwelling to occur in the ocean. This can result in water temperatures dropping like a stone. It's not uncommon for the water to drop dramatically, so much so it can really take your breath away on those hot Summer afternoons!
One vital component of surfing in the Algarve is sun protection. The sun is seriously strong here, so be sure to pack sunblock and your best surf hat so you don't get too frazzled.
Should I rent a car to surf in the Algarve?
In a word: YES
If you are on a surf trip in the Algarve, a car is vital.
Friends often ask me if they need to rent a car, and I always reply with a yes. The surf varies a lot from day to day, and if you have a car, you can avoid the surf schools and beginner surfers and get off the beaten track.
Compare car rental prices and availability
Depending on the time of year, you may surf out West one day, and the next be on the south. If you don't have wheels, you will miss out. And there's nothing worse than surfing FOMO.
Are there any downsides to surfing in the Algarve area?
As mentioned above, you need to drive quite a bit to get the best surf in the Algarve. The roads are great, but you can find yourself checking spot after spot if you don't have a surf guide or know the local nuances of tides, swell directions, and wind.
Another downside is the crowds. The Algarve has become a top surf destination in recent years. The Winter months can be almost as busy as Summer in terms of surf lessons as well as combined yoga and surf camps grabbing every wave going.
Finally, the wind. Portugal is a windy country, and unlike other spots in the world where I've surfed, sometimes the wind can make beach breaks completely not surfable. Like totally unsurfable. Just be mindful of that, and look for waves and beaches sheltered by cliffs, of which there are loads!
The Best Surf Beaches and Surf spots in the Algarve
In no particular order, here are the best Algarve surf spots you need to check out.
Arrifana
A beautiful crescent-shaped bay, Arrifana is sheltered from that pesky North wind. Super popular with surf schools and as one of the best places to learn to surf, it can get busy, but for good reason.
It's a great place to be based as it almost always has a rideable wave. It can close out at times, especially at dead low tide, but in general, it has peaky waves up and down the beach.
Get your body in shape by walking the steep hill from top to bottom – it's a leg burner!
Bordeira
A long and picturesque stretch of beach just out from the town of Carrapateira. There is often a small ocean lagoon to the Southern end, so it's perfect if you have small kids with you who want to get wet. Picks up any swell going but can be affected by the wind. And if the wind is blowing from the North, head around the corner to Amado.
Amado
Another amazingly beautiful beach with dark red rocks to the North, Amado is one of my favorite places to surf in the Algarve.
Similar to a lot of the beaches along this coast, the waves can close out at low tide, but besides that, you will find peaky and often heavy surf at this popular spot. Lots of parking and a couple of places to watch the sunset and drink your post-surf imperial.
Zavial
Swell magnet on the South, Zavial serves up powerful fast waves that have dished out many a beating to the unwitting German tourist. Often has a fast righthander to the right side of the beach, best left to the local rippers. The rest of the beach has fun waves at various stages of the tide.
Beliche
A tube-hunters' dream, the swell at Beliche comes straight from deep water into shallow water very quickly. Slightly north of Sagres, sucky and fun waves peak up all across the beach, offering short intense rides year-round. Steer clear of the tight pack of bodyboarders on the left-hand side, and you will have a blast!
Tonel
Located a short walk from the surf town of Sagres, Tonel can dish up some solid waves in Winter and more beginner-friendly waves in Summer. With plenty of space and different peaks at various stages of the tide, Tonel is another top surf beach in the Algarve.
One of the best places to learn to surf, Sagres has a load of surf camps, surf schools, and bars. It's a great town to be based in for a surf trip to Portugal.
Porto do Mos
Just a short ride out of the historic town of Lagos, Porto do Mos is a mellow South Coast spot perfect if you are learning to surf. It can light up in Winter with wrapping swells from the North, making it feel like you are surfing Trestles.
Most of the time, though, it has a relaxed vibe with a crew of longboarders and digital nomads looking for some nice rides before heading into Lagos for dinner and drinks, which is highly recommended!
Where to stay to surf in Algarve
I'd say one of two places: Sagres or Aljezur/Arrifana.
Sagres
There are 4 surf spots, all walking, driving, or a short bike ride from each other – Martinhal, Mareta, Tonel, and Beliche.
And they all get waves at different times of the year. Add to that a cool vibe, Sagres is a top place to stay for a surf trip to the Algarve.
Aljezur
The alternative town of Aljezur is another great place to be based for a surf trip. With lots of places to stay, a load of restaurants, and a large supermarket, Aljezur ticks a lot of boxes.
The beach of Arrifana is just a short drive away, and if you are feeling more adventurous, there are surf spots up and down the coast down every dirt track. Rent a 4×4, get a map, and go explore!
Surfing in the Algarve – Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Algarve have surf?
Yes! West-facing beaches can get great waves, and even places like Albufeira and Faro in the East can get great surf in the Winter months.
Where to surf in Algarve for beginners?
There are a few places that are perfect for beginners. The beaches around Lagos, Porto do Mos and Meia Praia often have gentle beginner-friendly waves, and the amount of space means you can always find a spot to practice by yourself.
Try Arrifana or Sagres for the full surf experience. Lots of places to stay if you want the surf camp experience, or rent a board and car and go off and explore yourself.
Surfing in the Algarve – Final Words
I haven't listed every surf beach in the Algarve in this article, and that's done on purpose.
In this modern age of instant gratification, I think it's important to try to seek out new adventures under your own steam. If you are looking to surf in the Algarve, use this article as a guide, try to learn about how the tides and winds affect the surf, and get out there and explore! The payoff is so much more satisfying.
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