This post includes affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
An Introduction To Lagos Surf
-
By
Matt
- Updated | January 8, 2026
When I visited Lagos in Portugal, I was immediately drawn to its warm water, long sandy beaches, and waves that roll in almost all year.
This southern Algarve town has a relaxed, friendly vibe, great food, and stunning coastal views. Walking along the cliffs with the Atlantic stretching out below feels like a mini adventure every time.
Meia Praia is my go-to spot for starting the day. The soft, slow-breaking waves make it perfect for beginners learning to pop up and turn. The wide sandy beach feels open and calm, and it is just a short walk or bike ride from town, making it easy to get in the water quickly.
For more experienced surfers, Porto do Mos offers faster, cleaner waves when the swell is right. Nestled between cliffs and dunes, the setting is quiet and scenic, and the longer peeling waves let you enjoy every ride.
Lagos is easy to explore. Beaches are close to each other and the town, so walking or cycling between breaks is simple. It makes a perfect base for surfers who want variety without long travel.
In This Guide
Best Time To Surf Lagos
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
-
Peak Lagos Surf Season | November to March
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
The best time to surf in Lagos is from November through March. During these months, Atlantic swells are bigger and more consistent, bringing exciting waves to Meia Praia and Porto do Mos.
Winter swells create powerful, fast-breaking waves that test skill and timing. These months are perfect for surfers looking for higher performance waves and lively surf sessions in a beautiful coastal setting.
-
Shoulder Lagos Surf Season | April, May & October
Suited For All Skill Levels
April, May, and October offer friendlier waves for surfers of all abilities. The swells are smaller than in winter but still consistent, making it easier to catch clean, rideable waves.
These months are great for learning and improving skills, with fewer crowds and relaxed ocean conditions that let you focus on your technique and enjoy longer rides.
-
Low Lagos Surf Season | June to September
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
From June to September, waves in Lagos are softer and more mellow. Summer swells create gentle breaks that are perfect for beginners at Meia Praia.
The water is warm, the beaches are quieter, and the ocean is forgiving, making it an ideal time to take lessons or enjoy easy long rides.
Lagos Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Lagos Surf Temperature:
18–20°C (64–68°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit is best, though some may go lighter on very warm days.
Rainfall:
Summer is very dry, only about 0–2 rainy days per month.
Lagos Surf Temperature:
17–19°C (64–66°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit remains ideal for warmth and comfort.
Rainfall:
Light showers begin to appear, roughly 3–5 days per month, with more rain toward November.
Lagos Surf Temperature:
15–17°C (59–63°F)
What To Wear:
A 4/3 mm wetsuit with booties is recommended to stay warm.
Rainfall:
Winter brings more rain and occasional windy conditions, about 10–12 rainy days per month.
Lagos Surf Temperature:
16–18°C (64–68°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit works well, and lighter suits are possible in late spring.
Rainfall:
Rainfall is moderate, around 5–7 rainy days per month, with occasional showers as the weather transitions.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Lagos
| Lagos Surf Spots | Distance from Lagos | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Meia Praia |
Approx. 1.5km (1.2mi) east of town |
1-3 foot |
Gentle, long sandy beach break |
Beginner or intermediate |
|
Porto do Mos |
Approx. 2.5km (1.6mi) west of town |
2-5 foot |
Cleaner beach break with occasional peaks |
All levels |
Further Information To Lagos Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: North
- Swell Direction: South, southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Meia Praia is one of the most popular beginner‑friendly surf beaches in Lagos. The wide sandy bottom makes the waves gentle and easy to ride, especially when the swell comes from the south and winds blow offshore.
At mid-tide, the waves break more evenly, giving learners longer rides and plenty of space to practice. The beach is long and open, so even when more people are in the water, there are spots to spread out.
Meia Praia also has a relaxed vibe with cafes and rental shops close by, making it a great place to start your surf day.
The waves may not be very powerful, but the friendly conditions make this break perfect for building confidence and enjoying the ocean with other surfers of all ages and skill levels.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: North, northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest, south
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Porto do Mos is a lovely beach break that can be more challenging than Meia Praia when the swell picks up. With a sandy bottom and occasional peaks, the waves can offer longer, cleaner rides when southwest swells hit and the wind stays light.
At low or mid tide, the sets can shape up nicely, giving intermediate surfers chances to link turns. The beach sits between cliffs and dunes, making the setting feel calm and scenic.
Beginners can still catch small whitewater waves here on softer days, but when the swell builds you get more push and energy in the sets.
The crowd is usually spread out thanks to the wide shoreline, and local surfers are friendly to visitors. Porto do Mos is a great step up from the gentler breaks and a solid choice for those wanting waves with a bit more shape and challenge.
Rating: 4/5
Travel Time To Lagos Surf Spots
| Lagos Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Meia Praia |
Approx. 30 min. |
10-15 min. |
20 min. (Local bus or Taxi) |
|
Porto do Mos |
Approx. 35 min. |
10-20 min. |
20 min. (Local bus or Taxi) |
Compare Prices, Book Today
Accommodation In Lagos
Your Lagos surf stay should feel easy from the start, and that is where Trip.com can help. They list a wide range of places near Meia Praia and Porto do Mos, from budget rooms to comfortable hotels and apartments, so it is simple to find something that fits your style and travel plans.
If you want a more surf-centered stay, Tripaneer offers surf camps in Lagos that combine accommodation, surf lessons, and equipment with a social, friendly setting. It is a great way to improve your surfing, meet other travelers, and feel part of the local surf scene.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€20 to €40 |
$22 to $50 |
|
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€50 to €130 |
$60 to $145 |
|
Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€150 to €320+ |
$160 to $340+ |
|
*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
|||
Lagos Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Lagos surf schools offer lessons and guidance for surfers of all levels, from complete beginners to advanced riders. The Surf Experience is known for its beginner-friendly approach, helping students master the basics in a safe and fun environment.
Lagos Safari Surf School provides a more tailored experience, with lessons designed to match skill level and progression. Students can focus on improving turns, paddling, and timing in small groups with attentive coaching.
Jah Shaka Surf Shop combines surf lessons with board rentals, giving learners flexibility to practice at different beaches like Meia Praia and Porto do Mos. Meanwhile, Lagos Surf Center offers both group and private sessions, making it easy for surfers to get personalized instruction while enjoying the local surf culture.
Lagos Surf Camp
8 Day Beginner And Intermediate Yoga And Surf Camp With Tiny Whale Surf Lodge
This 8 day yoga and surf camp near Lagos offers a calm, personal way to improve your surfing while enjoying the peaceful Algarve countryside. Designed for beginners and intermediates, the camp focuses on small group coaching, steady progress, and a relaxed atmosphere that helps you learn without pressure.
Guests enjoy five carefully planned days of surf coaching with ISA Level Two instructors, supported by video feedback, surf theory, and pool training sessions. Daily yoga classes help stretch and restore your body after time in the water, keeping you feeling fresh and ready for the next surf session.
You stay at the cozy Tiny Whale Surf Lodge, set in a quiet green area just outside Lagos. Accommodation ranges from shared rooms to private cabins and safari tents, all designed for comfort and rest. The lodge has a pool, yoga deck, garden spaces, and a fire pit where guests gather in the evenings.
Healthy breakfasts, beach lunches, and home cooked dinners are included, using fresh local ingredients. With a friendly community feel, thoughtful coaching, and beautiful surroundings, this camp offers a balanced mix of surfing, wellness, and relaxed Algarve living. Find Out More
More Surf Camp Reads In Portugal
Start by browsing the 8 Best Surf Camps In Portugal For Beginners if you want a simple way to compare trips across the country. From there, the 5 Best Surf Camps In Ericeira are great for surfers who want a lively town feel with easy access to reefs and beach breaks, while the 6 Best Surf And Yoga Retreats In Peniche suit anyone who likes a calm routine mixed with good waves and daily stretching.
If the Algarve is calling you, the Yoga Surf Retreat Portugal Algarve guide focuses on relaxed coastal stays with space to slow down and reset, and the Portugal Surf Camp Algarve Beginner guide is a handy place to start if you are new to surfing and want gentle waves and patient coaches. You can also explore the Best Beginner Surf Camps in Portugal in Portugal to see how Algarve compares with other regions.
Lagos Surfboard Hire
Lagos has a range of surfboard hire options to suit surfers of all levels, so you can be ready to ride the waves at Meia Praia or Porto do Mos.
The Surf Experience offers a wide selection of well-maintained boards, perfect for beginners and more experienced surfers wanting to explore different breaks.
Jah Shaka Surf Shop provides flexible board rentals along with wetsuits and other gear, making it easy to practice at your own pace or try new waves.
Lagos Surf Center also rents boards for all skill levels, giving surfers high-quality equipment to maximize their sessions and enjoy the vibrant surf culture.
With these services, Lagos surfboard hire ensures you have everything you need to make the most of your time on the waves.
Lagos Surf Report & Surf Cam
Surfing in Lagos is all about catching the right swell at Meia Praia or Porto do Mos, so staying updated on wind, tide, and wave conditions is key.
Websites like Surf-Forecast provide detailed daily and weekly surf outlooks, while Surfline offers live cams and real-time updates to help plan your session.
Staying connected while exploring the coast is important. Using services like Drimsim eSIM or Yesim eSIM makes it easy to have internet on your phone without swapping SIM cards. Just activate online and you’re ready to check surf reports, tides, and local updates anytime, anywhere.
How To Get To Lagos Surf
- Faro Airport (FAO) To Lagos
Distance: 100km (62mi)
To reach Lagos surf, the most convenient route is to fly into Faro Airport (FAO) and then continue west to your destination.
Below is a guide with estimated times and transport options so you can choose the best way based on your needs and budget.
Public Transport
Approx. 2-3 hrs.
Details:
From Faro Airport, take a taxi or local bus to Faro train or bus stations. From there, board a direct train or Rede Expressos bus to Lagos.
Buses and trains run multiple times daily, making this a convenient and budget-friendly option. Check schedules ahead of time as times can vary.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 1.5-2 hrs.
Details:
Several airport shuttle services operate from Faro to Lagos, including shared and private transfers. Shared shuttles may make stops along the way, while private options take you directly to your accommodation.
Reserve your shuttle early through HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups for a hassle-free ride from the airport straight to the beach.
Portugal Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
After choosing Lagos for your surf trip, it helps to line up the simple travel basics before you arrive. Check your visa rules ahead of time and keep some Euros with you for beach cafes, markets, and small local spots. Cards work in most places, but cash still makes everyday travel feel easier.
For helpful notes on safety, tap water, health care, local rules, and what to do in an emergency, head to our Portugal surf page to find out more. It covers the small but important details that make your time in Lagos relaxed and stress free from day one.
Travel Insurance For Your Lagos Surf Trip
Getting sick or hurt on a surf trip can turn a great week in Lagos into a real hassle. VisitorsCoverage offers travel insurance that helps cover medical care, emergency transport, trip changes, and even damage or loss to your surf equipment.
With solid protection in place, you can relax and enjoy the Algarve waves knowing you are covered if something unexpected comes up along the way.
Discover Lagos: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
Even when the surf isn’t on at Meia Praia or Porto do Mos, Lagos has plenty of activities to keep you busy. Here are three recommendations to make the most of your time.
If you want more options, check out GetYourGuide Lagos, which offers experiences like boat trips along the coast, kayaking, and guided historical tours.
Keep Exploring With More Portugal Surf Destinations
Written by Matt
Surfer for nearly 20 years and an environmental scientist for nine, Matt grew up on the Sunshine Coast in Australia and now calls Melbourne home. He’s all about finding surf towns you can reach without a car and writes simple surf guides to help you do the same.