Surf trip to Ericeira

08 July, 2024 | Reading Time – 5 min

A surf trip to Ericeira is something every surfer should do once in their lifetime! However, this charming town in central Portugal is not just a tourist spot for surfers – any traveler can get a buzz from its atmosphere. And that’s exactly why we’ve prepared a guide for a surf trip to Ericeira.

Whether you’re a surfer or not, we guarantee you’ll love exploring every nook and cranny of this lovely place.

There are 11 kilometers of sandy beaches as far as the eye can see and a sea that is reputed to be the bluest in Portugal.

Have we succeeded in making you curious?

Great! Come with us on a surf trip to Ericeira, explore the most magical corners and if you don’t surf this might be the perfect invitation to start a new hobby!

Ericeira

This traditional fishing village is located about 50 kilometers from Lisbon, so it’s natural that in the summer it’s beaches are flooded with people looking for sea, sun and lots of surf.

This place has always had a strong connection with the sea, due to its fishing tradition, but the surfing culture in this area has further intrinsic this relationship with the sea.

The birthplace of many surfers, Ericeira is the stage for world championships such as the WLS World Surf League Tour and the QuikSilver Pro Portugal.

In addition, the natural characteristics of the sea and coastline, with high cliffs alternating with small coves and the preservation of natural habitats, have earned it the title of Europe’s first surfing reserve. However, you don’t have to be a surfer to feel at home here.

Ericeira has a very welcoming atmosphere, with its narrow cobbled streets where every corner can be a door to the sea.

How many days to stay?

The first thing to think about when planning your surf trip to Ericeira is how many days to stay in this charming place.

We recommend that you stay between 3 and 8 days, because there are lots of activities you can do in addition to the many natural wonders you can visit.

Organize your days so that you can enjoy all of Ericeira’s experiences, from relaxing on a terrace, tasting a typical fresh fish dish, visiting monuments, doing water activities or simply strolling along the seafront.

Whatever your plan, make sure your stay is long enough to explore and experience Ericeira’s charms.

What’s the weather like?

Like most seaside towns in Portugal, Ericeira is mostly sunny, although there may be some morning fog on some days. In the months from April to October, temperatures can vary from 18 to 28 degrees.

However, if you’re looking for the beach and sunshine, we advise you to make your trip between the months of June, July, August and September, when there are more sunny days and the temperatures are more pleasant

Where to sleep during your trip

There are various types of accommodation in Ericeira, from hotels to campsites.

All with different characteristics to suit all budgets. However, the most common are local accommodations. These are called “AL” and you can find this identifying symbol on the doors of the buildings.

This type of accommodation can be an apartment, a villa or a guesthouse. We advise you to choose accommodation that suits your needs so that the experience of this trip is as comfortable as possible.

What to visit

This wonderful town is not just about surfing, but also about culture.

And there are several points of interest that you should include in your surf trip to Ericeira, to learn more about the history and tradition of this place.

Museum of the Holy House of Mercy

The Holy House of Mercy Museum in Ericeira has an admirable collection of sacred art, including vestments, liturgical implements and other religious pieces.

It also has a room exclusively dedicated to fishing activities.

We recommend that you set aside a morning to explore the museum – believe us, it will fly by!

Jaime Lobo e Silva House of Culture

Initially created as a recreational club, the Jaime Lobo e Silva House of Culture has undergone different identities over the course of its existence.

It was once a casino with luxurious and vibrant rooms, but eventually closed in 1927. After that, it reopened as a cine-casino, with a very strong public radio component. However, it was in 1995 that it became what we know today, House of Culture.

This cultural center has an exhibition gallery, a library and an auditorium. An unmissable visit to the past!

World Surfing Reserve

Finally, visit Ericeira’s ex-libris, the World Surfing Reserve.

This project aims not only to showcase the town’s fauna and flora, but also the role that surfing has played in Ericeira’s evolution, establishing an important bridge between the geographical characteristics of the region and a knowledge that can only be transmitted through its history and inhabitants.

Best beaches

As we’ve already mentioned, there are dozens of beaches around Ericeira, but we’ve chosen two different options that will appeal to those looking for surfing or just some wonderful sunny days!

Foz do Lizandro Beach

Located in the parish of Carvoeira, Foz de Lizandro Beach is characterized by having the longest stretch of sand in the municipality of Mafra.

Here you’ll find bars, restaurants and terraces, but above all the famous waves! So if you’re looking for a place to surf, this beach could be just what you’re looking for!