Learn to surf in Ericeira.
Stand up on your first wave.
Group, private and kids surf lessons in Portugal's only World Surfing Reserve. Federation-certified instructors, all gear included, and the friendliest lineup on the Atlantic coast.
This week at Ribeira d'Ilhas
Find your path
What kind of surfer are you about to become?
First time in the ocean
Never touched a board. Our beginner lessons start on sand and have you standing on a wave the same morning.
Start here→I've surfed a bit
You catch whitewater but you're stuck. Our coaching sessions break down exactly what's holding you back — with video review.
See coaching→Here with the kids
Kid-sized boards, kid-paced lessons, qualified coaches. Kids surf lessons from age 8. Parents can join the adult class.
Kids lessons→It's a group thing
Bachelor party? Family trip? Team offsite? Private surf groups up to 8 — same wave, same memory.
Plan a group→Surf lessons in Ericeira
Pick the lesson that fits your week
Every lesson includes board, wetsuit, federation-certified instructor, water safety supervision, and post-session photos. Just bring a swimsuit, a towel, and a sense of humour.
Packs & Prices
The more you surf, the more you save
Every session is all-inclusive: board, wetsuit, leash, wax, certified instructor, and warm shower. No hidden extras.
Group Lessons
Up to 6 students · 2h
Private Lessons
1-on-1 · 1.5h
All prices include board, wetsuit, instructor and shower. No booking fee.
View all packs & pricesHow we teach
Our teaching philosophy
Every lesson at Ericeira Waves is built on three pillars — in exactly this order.
Safety First
Before anyone touches a board, every student gets a thorough water safety briefing. We monitor conditions daily and always match students to appropriate waves. Every instructor holds a Water Safety Specialist qualification.
Make It Fun
Learning to surf should be the highlight of your holiday. Our instructors are energetic, encouraging, and patient. Progress is fastest when you're smiling.
Real Progression
We use the Portuguese Surf Federation's progressive methodology. You won't just stand up — you'll understand why, so you can do it again, alone, anywhere in the world.
Your first surf lesson
What to expect on day one
Your first surf lesson will be the best €45 you've spent on this trip. Here's exactly what happens.
Land Briefing
30 minutes on the beach. Ocean awareness, surf etiquette, paddling technique, and the pop-up. You practice the movement until it's automatic.
Into the Water
Your instructor is in the water with you. We choose the right wave for your level and literally push you into your first one.
Stand Up
Most students stand up on their first or second wave. Your instructor captures every milestone for your post-session photos.
High Five
You rinse off in our outdoor shower, collect your photos, and realise you want to book another lesson before lunch.
What our students say
4.9 stars across 373+ reviews
Don't take our word for it — here's what the people who actually paddled out with us have to say.
“I was terrified of the ocean. Genuinely. Bruno spent the entire land briefing making sure I understood what was happening and why it was safe. I stood up on my third wave. I cried. I booked another lesson the same afternoon.”
“Came for a week, ended up extending my trip twice. The instructors here actually care about whether you improve, not just whether you had fun. The video feedback session changed my surfing completely.”
“We did the group lesson as a couple — our kids did the junior class at the same time. The organisation was flawless. Our 9-year-old was standing on her board by the end of the first hour.”
“Did 5 sessions over 2 weeks. Went from complete beginner to consistently catching unbroken waves. The progression is real. If you're serious about learning, not just having a go, this is the school.”
“Sofia is an incredible teacher. Patient, encouraging, technically excellent. She spotted my back foot problem on the second wave and fixed it. I'd been trying to correct that myself for months.”
“I'm 52 and had convinced myself I was too old. Carlos laughed at that kindly and told me about a 71-year-old they'd taught last summer. I was catching waves in the first hour. Best decision of the trip.”
Why Ericeira
Europe's only World Surfing Reserve
Ericeira was designated a World Surfing Reserve in 2011 — the first in Europe, and one of only twelve in the world. Here's what that means for your surf lesson.
What this means for your lesson
- ✓Consistent, clean Atlantic swell year-round — not just seasonal surf windows.
- ✓Multiple beach breaks at different levels — we match you to the right spot for your ability.
- ✓Protected marine environment and zero industrial development on the coastline.
- ✓A real surf town, not a tourist trap. Locals surf alongside visitors every morning.
The team
Your instructors
Every Ericeira Waves instructor is certified by the Portuguese Surf Federation (FPS), holds a Water Safety Specialist qualification, and has been surfing in Ericeira for at least 5 years.
Bruno Costa
Head Instructor and Founder
Sofia Mendes
Senior Instructor
Tiago Ferreira
Surf Coach and Video Analyst
Gear rental
Boards, wetsuits and e-bikes
Already know how to surf? Rent quality equipment by the half-day or full day. All boards are in excellent condition and regularly maintained.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Not a strong swimmer? Bringing kids? Worried about the weather? We've heard every question. Here are the real answers.
Ready to catch your first wave?
Join 373+ students who stood up on their first lesson at Ericeira Waves. Spots fill fast in summer — book yours now.