Caparica Surf Flat is a surf camp in Costa Da Caparica, Portugal. With a 4.8★ Google rating from 80 reviews, it offers quality surf experiences on the Portuguese coast.
Dr. Bernard Surf Camp is a surf camp in Costa Da Caparica, Portugal. With a 4.6★ Google rating from 43 reviews, it offers quality surf experiences on the Portuguese coast.
Nestled in the vibrant coastal town of Costa da Caparica, Epic Surf School offers an authentic Portuguese surf experience just steps from some of Europe's most consistent waves. Surrounded by miles of sandy beaches and a lively surf community, this school provides the perfect setting for both beginners eager to catch their first wave and seasoned surfers aiming to refine their skills. The warm Atlantic waters, combined with the variety of surf breaks suitable for all levels, create an inviting environment where surfers can enjoy the thrill of riding powerful swells or mastering their technique in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. With expert instructors dedicated to personalized coaching, Epic Surf School promises more than just lessons—it's an immersive experience that fosters confidence, camaraderie, and a deeper connection to the ocean. Whether you're seeking a laid-back escape or an intensive surf adventure, this school offers a genuine taste of Portugal’s surf culture, all within a stunning coastal landscape that keeps calling surfers back year after year.
Gota Dagua Surf Camp Portugal is a surf camp in Costa Da Caparica, Portugal. Close proximity to lisbon for easy day trips.
Puresurfcamps - Surfcamp Portugal, Caparica Surfhouse is a surf camp in Costa Da Caparica, Portugal. With a 4.9★ Google rating from 297 reviews, it offers quality surf experiences on the Portuguese coast.
Sul Surf Eat & Sleep is a surf camp in Costa Da Caparica, Portugal. With a 4.8★ Google rating from 146 reviews, it offers quality surf experiences on the Portuguese coast.
The Echo Surfers Fonte da Telha is a surf camp in Costa Da Caparica, Portugal. Eco-conscious surf school focused on ocean conservation.
Surf Camps in Costa da Caparica
Just a short drive from Lisbon, Costa da Caparica offers 30 kilometers of beautiful, consistent beach breaks suitable for all levels of surfers. It's the perfect spot to catch a wave and soak up the Portuguese sun.
The Surf Scene in Costa da Caparica
Just a stone's throw from the vibrant city of Lisbon, Costa da Caparica is a sprawling coastline that has become a haven for surfers of all stripes. Stretching for nearly 30 kilometers, this area offers a seemingly endless expanse of sand and a multitude of surf spots. The vibe here is laid-back and welcoming, with a strong local surf culture that's readily apparent in the numerous surf schools, camps, and beachside cafes that dot the coast. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just looking to catch your first wave, you'll find a friendly and encouraging atmosphere in Costa da Caparica.
Waves and Breaks
The primary setup in Costa da Caparica is a series of beach breaks, with jetties interspersed along the coast that help to create more defined and consistent peaks. The sandy bottom makes it a relatively safe place to learn, while the variety of spots ensures that there's always a wave to be found, regardless of the swell direction or tide. The waves here are known for their consistency, and on any given day, you can find everything from gentle, rolling peelers perfect for longboarding to more powerful, hollow sections for high-performance surfing.
Best Time to Surf
While Costa da Caparica offers surfable waves year-round, the prime seasons are generally considered to be the autumn and spring months. During this time, from September to November and March to May, you'll find a perfect combination of consistent swell, warmer water temperatures, and fewer crowds. The summer months can also be good, especially for beginners, with smaller, more manageable waves, though the beaches can get quite crowded. The winter brings more powerful swells, which can be a treat for experienced surfers, but the water is colder and the weather can be more unpredictable.
Skill Levels
One of the biggest draws of Costa da Caparica is its suitability for all skill levels. The long, sandy beaches and numerous peaks provide ample space for beginners to learn without feeling intimidated. The gentle, rolling waves in many spots are ideal for practicing pop-ups and riding the whitewater. For intermediate and advanced surfers, the jetties and sandbars create more challenging waves with better shape, offering opportunities for turns, airs, and even the occasional barrel. The sheer number of spots means you can always find a wave that matches your ability and comfort level.
What Makes It Unique
What truly sets Costa da Caparica apart is its unique combination of a world-class surf destination with the proximity to a major European capital. You can spend your morning surfing and your afternoon exploring the historic streets of Lisbon, enjoying its rich culture, food, and nightlife. This blend of beach life and city life is hard to find anywhere else in the world. Additionally, the sheer length of the coastline means that even on the busiest of days, you can find a peak to yourself if you're willing to walk a little. The consistent waves, friendly atmosphere, and stunning sunsets make Costa da Caparica a truly special place for surfers.
Autumn, from September to November, is considered the prime surf season in Costa da Caparica. During this period, the water is still warm from the summer, and consistent swells from the Atlantic create ideal conditions. Spring (March to May) is also an excellent time with good waves and fewer crowds. While summer offers smaller, more manageable waves perfect for beginners, winter provides the most powerful and consistent surf for experienced riders.
Costa da Caparica is renowned for being an excellent surf destination for all skill levels. Its 30-kilometer stretch of sandy beach offers a wide variety of waves. There are gentle, rolling waves perfect for beginners taking their first lesson, as well as more challenging and faster breaks for intermediate and advanced surfers looking to improve their skills. You can find more information on our surf school page.
A wetsuit is recommended year-round when surfing in Costa da Caparica. In the summer and early autumn, a 3/2mm wetsuit is usually sufficient. During the winter and spring months, a warmer 4/3mm or even a 5/4mm wetsuit is advisable to stay comfortable during longer sessions in the cooler Atlantic waters.
Besides your essential surf gear, we recommend packing a good quality wetsuit, high-SPF sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Bring comfortable beachwear, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. It's also a good idea to have some warmer clothes like a hoodie or jacket for the evenings, especially outside of the summer months. For exploring the area, comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Costa da Caparica offers a taste of authentic Portuguese coastal life. You'll find an abundance of restaurants serving fresh seafood and grilled fish. Don't miss trying local specialties like 'ameijoas à Bulhão Pato' (clams in white wine sauce). The culture is relaxed and centered around the beach. For a more extensive cultural experience, the vibrant city of Lisbon is just a short drive or ferry ride away, offering historic sites, Fado music, and delicious 'pastéis de nata'.
The cost of a surf trip can vary widely depending on your preferences. Costa da Caparica offers a range of options, from budget-friendly surf hostels to more luxurious hotels. You can find affordable local 'tascas' for meals or dine at more upscale beachfront restaurants. To get a better idea of costs for accommodation and surf packages, check out our Costa da Caparica surf camps.
Yes, Costa da Caparica is generally a very safe place to surf. The beach breaks are sandy-bottomed, which minimizes the risk of injury from rocks or reefs. During the summer, many of the main beaches have lifeguard services. However, like any surf spot, it's important to be aware of the conditions, respect other surfers in the water, and never surf alone if you are a beginner.
Absolutely! The main attraction is the stunning coastline itself, with its long sandy beaches and beautiful dunes. The historic city of Lisbon is just across the river and easily accessible for a day trip. You can explore its charming streets, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife. The protected landscape of the Arrábida Natural Park, with its breathtaking cliffs and secluded beaches, is also a short drive away and well worth a visit.