An Introduction To Ericeira Surf
Ericeira surf is a dream come true for wave riders, offering world-class breaks & the unique honor of being one of the few World Surfing Reserves. Located just 50 kilometers northwest of Lisbon, this charming coastal town is an ideal destination for surfers who prefer to explore without relying on a car. Its combination of diverse surf spots, vibrant culture, & ease of access makes Ericeira a must-visit for surfers of all levels.
One of the standout beginner-friendly beaches is Foz do Lizandro, known for its gentle waves & welcoming vibe. Just a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute bike ride from the town center, it’s the perfect spot for novices to practice their skills while soaking in the scenic beauty of the Ericeira coastline.
For consistent waves that cater to all abilities, Ribeira d’Ilhas is the go-to surf spot. A 15-minute bike ride away, this iconic beach hosts international competitions & boasts long, peeling right-handers that surfers from around the globe come to experience.
Advanced surfers can challenge themselves at Coxos, a reef break famous for its powerful, fast waves. A short 10-minute bus ride from town, Coxos delivers exhilarating conditions that test even seasoned surfers.
With a compact layout, well-connected bike paths, & public transportation, getting around Ericeira is effortless. Its surf schools, cozy accommodations, & lively cafés add to its charm, making it a fantastic base for exploring Portugal’s premier surf scene. Whether you’re catching your first wave or tackling challenging reefs, Ericeira surf has something for everyone.
In This Guide
Best Time For Ericeira Surf
Seasons:
- Autumn (September-November): Consistent swells & light offshore winds.
Attire Needed: 3/2mm wetsuit. - Winter (December-February): Large, powerful swells with occasional stormy days.
Attire Needed: 4/3mm or 5/4mm wetsuit. - Spring (March-May): Transition season with more moderate swells.
Attire Needed: 3/2mm wetsuit. - Summer (June-August): Smaller, more consistent surf ideal for beginners.
Attire Needed: 2mm shorty or boardshorts/bikini.
Surf Conditions:
- Wave Size & Swell Direction: Waves range from 2 to 8 foot, best with northwest to west swells.
- Break Type: Variety of breaks from beach to reef, with long, powerful rides.
- Tide & Wind: Best at mid to low tide, with north or northeast winds keeping the waves clean.
- Skill Required: Suitable for all levels, though certain spots like Coxos are for advanced surfers only.
Ericeira Surf Spots Within a 5km Radius
| Best Surf Spots | Distance from Ericeira | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Praia dos Pescadores |
In town centre |
1-3 foot |
Small, sheltered break |
Beginner |
|
Pedra Branca |
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) north |
3-6 foot |
Left-hand reef break |
Advanced |
|
Foz do Lizandro |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) south |
2-4 foot |
Mellow beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
|
Ribeira d’Ilhas |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) north |
2-7 foot |
Consistent right-hand point break |
Intermediate to advanced |
|
Coxos |
Approx. 5km (3.1mi) north |
4-8 foot |
Fast, hollow right-hand reef break |
Advanced |
|
Surf Spots Within in the Area |
||||
|
São Julião |
Approx. 7km (4.3mi) south |
3-6 foot |
Powerful beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
Access To Ericeira Surf Spots
| Best Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Praia dos Pescadores |
In town centre |
Not required |
Not required |
|
Pedra Branca |
Approx. 15-20 min. |
5-10 min. |
5-10 min.
(Local bus)
|
|
Foz do Lizandro |
Approx. 20 min. |
Approx. 5-10 min. |
10-15 min.
(Local bus)
|
|
Ribeira d’Ilhas |
Approx. 35 min. |
10-15 min. |
15 min.
(Local bus) |
|
Coxos |
Approx. 1hr. |
20 min. |
10-15 min.
(Local bus) |
|
São Julião |
Approx. 1 hr. 15 min. |
30 min. |
20 min. (Bus to nearby town + short walk) |
Accommodation in Ericeira
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range per night (EUR) | Price Range per night (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€20 to €40 |
$22 to $45 |
|
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€60 to €150 |
$65 to $160 |
|
Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€180 to €400+ |
$190 to $430+ |
How To Get To Ericeira
How to get to Ericeira from Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon Airport) (LIS)
To reach Ericeira, the most convenient route is to fly into Humberto Delgado Airport informally known as Lisbon Airport (LIS) & then take a local bus to your destination.
Below is a guide with estimated costs & various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Ericeira based on your preferences & budget.
Distance: 50km (31mi)
- Taxi or Ride-share:
- Time: 45-60 min.
- Cost: Approx. €50-€70 ($55-$75 USD)
- Public Transport (Bus) (Best Option):
- Time: 1.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. €6-€10 per person ($7-$12 USD)
- Shuttle Service:
- Time: 1 hour
- Cost: Approx. €15-25 per person ($20-$30 USD)
Discover Ericeira: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf isn’t on in Ericeira, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy. Here are 3 recommended pursuits to help you make the most of your time.
Explore the Fisherman’s Village:
Stroll through the picturesque streets of the old town, lined with whitewashed buildings & traditional blue accents. Visit the local market, artisan shops, & enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants overlooking the ocean.
Visit the José Franco Village Museum:
Located in the nearby village of Sobreiro, this open-air museum showcases traditional Portuguese rural life with miniature models of a typical village, windmills, & agricultural tools, offering a glimpse into the region’s past.
Hike the Scenic Coastal Trails:
Ericeira is part of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, & it offers beautiful hiking trails along the cliffs, providing breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Exploring Lisbon: The Best Sights & Landmarks To Visit
If it looks like there aren’t any waves for 2-3 days, we would suggest heading back to Lisbon & enjoying the culture, food, & all the other activities listed below.
Explore Belém:
Visit the iconic Belém Tower & Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, showcasing Portugal’s maritime history.
Don’t miss out on trying the famous Pastéis de Belém, custard tarts from the bakery where the original recipe was born.
Wander Through Alfama:
Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, with its narrow, winding streets & historic charm. Visit the São Jorge Castle for panoramic views of the city & the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé) for a glimpse of medieval architecture.
Stroll Along the Baixa & Chiado Districts:
Baixa is the bustling heart of Lisbon, full of shops, cafes, & landmarks like the Rua Augusta Arch & Praça do Comércio. Take a leisurely walk through the grand squares & pedestrian streets.