Peniche Surf Guide 2025 | 4 Best Surf Spots With Easy Access

An Introduction To Peniche Surf

Peniche is one of Europe’s top surf destinations, located around 90 kilometers north of Lisbon. It’s known for its consistent waves & stunning coastal scenery. This vibrant town is an ideal base for surfers of all levels. Peniche is compact & easily accessible, with great public transport & walkable distance to many of the towns top surf spots.

Praia do Baleal is a fantastic spot for beginners, featuring sandy beach breaks that make it perfect to gain some skills. It’s just a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute bike ride from the town center, it’s easy to reach & offers a friendly, laid-back vibe.

For more advanced surfers, Supertubos stands out as one of Europe’s most famous surf breaks. A mere 15-minute bike ride away, Supertubos delivers powerful, hollow barrels that challenge even the most skilled surfers. This world renowned beach is a must visit for those seeking adrenaline pumping waves.

Peniche surf is easily accessible thanks to its compact layout & well connected paths, making it simple to explore the area’s top breaks. Reliable public transport also ensures convenient access to further locations, providing surfers the opportunity to experience Peniche.

Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you if you decide to make a purchase or book a service through them. We only promote products and services that we believe in, and your support helps us continue to provide honest insights and valuable content.
Thank you for your trust and for supporting our work!

Surfer launching into a huge air at Supertubos, Peniche Surf, Portugal, with clear skies and vibrant blue water
Supertubos - Peniche

In This Guide

Surf Camp
Find Your Portuguese Surf Camp
Compare Prices, Book Today

Best Time To Surf Peniche

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

During the peak Peniche surf season, from November through March, relentless North Atlantic swells create robust, performance-oriented waves along its extensive coastline. In these five months, the surf is at its most dynamic, offering challenging conditions that appeal to intermediate & advanced surfers.

Morning offshore winds frequently sculpt the waves into clean, hollow faces, enhancing the ride quality even amid occasional weather fluctuations. The consistent intensity & energy during this period make Peniche surf a premier choice for those seeking high-performance waves. Peniche surf in the winter offers thrilling sessions & extended rides, with the powerful conditions making it an ideal destination for experienced surfers looking for demanding & exhilarating surf experiences.

During the shoulder Peniche surf season, the transitional months of April, May, & October offer a balanced compromise between winter intensity & summer calm. Over these three months, North Atlantic swells moderate, producing well-formed, consistent waves that accommodate a variety of skill levels.With fewer crowds & a more relaxed ocean environment, surfers benefit from extended sessions & focused skill development.

The reduced aggression of the swells still maintains enough performance for progression, making this season an ideal time for both honing technique & enjoying accessible, quality Peniche surf. Whether you’re refining your skills or simply enjoying a more relaxed pace, Peniche surf during the shoulder season offers an excellent opportunity to experience some of the best breaks in Portugal without the intensity of peak season conditions.

During the low Peniche surf season, spanning June through September, the North Atlantic swells diminish, producing softer, more mellow waves along its coastline. In these four months, the surf becomes noticeably calmer, creating a relaxed environment that is ideal for beginners & leisurely sessions.

Although the wave energy is reduced compared to the winter months, the consistency of the smaller sets allows for enjoyable rides & steady progression. This summer period, marked by fewer crowds, offers surfers a peaceful setting to refine their technique & savour the tranquil side of the Peniche surf experience.

Peniche Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide

Peniche Surf Temperature:
18–20°C (64–68°F)

What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit is recommended at Peniche during summer. Despite warmer air, the Atlantic water remains cool enough to require full suit coverage.

Rainfall:
Summer conditions are very dry with only about 0–2 rainy days per month, ideal for consistent surf sessions.

Peniche Surf Temperature:
17–19°C (64–66°F)

What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit continues to be the best choice. On particularly sunny days, some may opt for a slightly lighter suit without compromising comfort.

Rainfall:
Rainfall begins to increase to roughly 3–5 days per month, which can influence the local swell patterns.

Peniche Surf Temperature:
15–17°C (59–63°F)

What To Wear:
A 4/3 mm wetsuit is essential in winter, providing the necessary insulation against colder water & harsher weather conditions.

Rainfall:
Winter is markedly wetter, with around 10–12 rainy days per month, often paired with more challenging wind conditions.

Peniche Surf Temperature:
16–18°C (64–68°F)

What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit remains advisable in spring, though conditions can allow for a lighter option during the warmest parts of the day.

Rainfall:
Expect moderate rainfall, around 5–7 rainy days per month, as the season transitions into the drier summer period.

A black-and-white photo capturing a large right-hand wave, with a surfer paddling over the crest in Peniche, Portugal Surf
Supertubos - Peniche

Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Peniche

Peniche Surf Spots Distance from Peniche Wave Size Wave Quality Skill Level
Praia da Cova da Alfarroba
Approx. 2.5km (1.5mi) northeast
1-3 foot
Consistent beach break
Beginner
Praia do Baleal
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) northeast
2-5 foot
Consitent beach break
All levels
Praia do Molhe Leste
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) south
3-8 foot
Hollow, fast waves
Intermediate to advanced
Supertubos
Approx. 5km (3.1mi) south
4-10 foot
Powerful, barrelling waves
Intermediate to advanced

Further Information To Peniche Surf Spots

Ideal Conditions:

  • Tide: Works on all tides
  • Wind: East
  • Swell Direction: West-northwest
  • Crowd Factor: Moderate

Praia da Cova da Alfarroba is a fun, consistent beach break in Peniche, offering multiple peaks that cater to surfers of all levels. The best conditions occur at mid tide when a west-northwest swell meets light east winds, creating clean, punchy waves over the sandy bottom. The waves range from mellow, rolling sections ideal for beginners to faster peaks that provide an enjoyable challenge for intermediate surfers.

While not as famous as Peniche’s world-class spots, Cova da Alfarroba remains a solid choice for a less intense surf session with a more relaxed crowd. The lineup can still get busy, especially in summer, but the beach’s multiple takeoff zones help spread surfers out.

Rating: 3.5/5

Ideal Conditions:

  • Tide: Works on all tides
  • Wind: East
  • Swell Direction: West-northwest
  • Crowd Factor: High

Praia do Baleal is one of Peniche’s most popular surf spots, offering a variety of peaks that work in different conditions, making it a great choice for surfers of all levels. The break works best at mid tide when a solid west-northwest swell & east wind create fun, fast waves over the sandy bottom.

With both lefts & rights available, Baleal provides a mix of open faces & occasional barreling sections, particularly on bigger swells. Due to its accessibility & wave variety, it’s a go-to surf spot for locals & visiting surfers alike, leading to a high crowd factor, especially during peak season. Despite the busy lineup, Baleal’s multiple peaks allow for an enjoyable session if you’re patient.

Rating: 4/5

Ideal Conditions:

  • Tide: Works on all tides
  • Wind: East
  • Swell Direction: West
  • Crowd Factor: Moderate

Praia do Molhe Leste is a lesser-known but highly dependable surf spot in Peniche, offering powerful waves that break consistently over a sandbank near the harbor jetty. Mid tide provides the best conditions when a solid west swell meets east winds, generating steep, hollow waves that can be excellent for advanced surfers.

While the wave is not as famous as Supertubos, it shares some characteristics, offering fast, sometimes barreling rides when the conditions align. The crowd factor remains moderate, as many surfers opt for Peniche’s more well-known breaks, making it a great option for those looking for a quality wave without heavy competition in the lineup.

Rating: 4/5

Ideal Conditions:

  • Tide: Mid to high tide
  • Wind: East-northeast
  • Swell Direction: West
  • Crowd Factor: High

Supertubos is one of Portugal’s most legendary waves, known for its heavy, barreling beach break that produces world-class tubes. This break comes alive at mid tide when a strong west swell meets an east-northeast wind, creating thick, fast barrels that demand skill & commitment. The wave breaks over a shallow, shifting sandbank, offering short but intense rides that challenge even experienced surfers.

Due to its reputation as one of Europe’s best beach breaks, Supertubos attracts a high crowd factor, particularly when the waves are pumping. Despite the competitive lineup, those who can navigate the takeoff & handle the power of the wave will be rewarded with some of the best barrels in Portugal.

Rating: 5/5

Travel Time To Peniche Surf Spots

Peniche Surf Spots Walking Time Biking Time Public Transport
Praia da Cova da Alfarroba
Approx. 35 min.
10 min.
5 min. (Local bus or Taxi)
Praia do Baleal
Approx. 60 min.
15-20 min.
5-10 min. (Local bus or Taxi)
Praia do Molhe Leste
Approx. 60 min.
15-20 min.
10-15 min. (Local bus or Taxi)
Supertubos
Approx. 60 min.
Approx. 20 min.
10-15 min. (Local bus or Taxi)

Accommodation In Peniche

Your Peniche surf journey should start with ease, & that’s where Trip.com comes in. They’ve got a wide variety of places to stay near the beach, whether you’re traveling hans solo or with friends. Booking through them early gives you more time to plan your surf sessions instead of worrying about where you’re going to be sleeping.

If you’re looking for a more immersive surf-focused trip, Tripaneer organises surf camps in Portugal that bring together coaching, community, and adventure. It’s the perfect way to sharpen your skills, meet new people and become part of the Peniche surf scene.

Accommodation Type Description Price Range (EUR)* Price Range (USD)*
Hostels
Dormitory-style accommodation
€20 to €40
$22 to $45
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units
€50 to €120
$55 to $130
Luxury Stays
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments
€150 to €300+
$160 to $320+

*Rates are per night and subject to change.

Peniche Surf Lessons & Surf Schools

Peniche surf schools offer a wide range of lessons & expertise to suit surfers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. Praia do Baleal Norte stands out for its beginner-friendly approach, offering expert guidance on mastering the fundamentals of surfing.

Escola Surf Peniche provides a more comprehensive experience with lessons tailored to different skill levels, from novice to advanced surfers aiming to refine their techniques. Special Surf 78 is another excellent choice, blending professional coaching with a focus on safety and progression, ensuring students leave with a stronger skill set.

Silver Coast Surf School Baleal combines local knowledge with engaging instruction, making it an ideal option for those seeking a personalized learning environment. Go4Surf School Peniche rounds out the list with its highly skilled instructors, offering both group and private lessons to suit individual needs while embracing the vibrant surf culture of Peniche.

With so many fantastic options, Peniche surf schools are sure to provide an unforgettable surfing experience for all levels of surfers.

Peniche Surf Camp

8 Day Peniche Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat With The Salty Pelican

This 8-day surf & yoga retreat in Peniche offers a mix of surf, yoga, & relaxation in a stunning coastal setting. Designed for beginners & intermediates, the retreat includes five days of surf lessons with expert instructors & six days of surfboard rental, ensuring plenty of time in the water.

Daily yoga sessions, including morning Hatha Flow & afternoon Yin yoga, help balance strength & flexibility while complementing the surfing experience. Guests stay in a stylish, modern retreat with shared or female-only accommodations, complete with a heated pool, rooftop bar, & lush garden.

A healthy breakfast buffet is served each morning, & optional group dinners create a friendly, social atmosphere. Excursions to Berlengas Island & Obidos add to the adventure. Whether solo or traveling with one or two friends, this retreat offers a rejuvenating mix of surf, yoga, & relaxation in Portugal’s surf capital. Find Out More

Drone shot of the accommodation at The Salty Pelican in Peniche, Portugal
Image Credit: The Salty Pelican
Learner Surfers walking to the water with their surfboards.
Image Credit: The Salty Pelican
Students learning yoga at the Salty Pelican in Peniche, Portugal
Image Credit: The Salty Pelican

7 Day Affordable Surf Camp With Peniche Surf Lodge

Experience a surf adventure at Peniche Surf Lodge, a cozy & welcoming surf house near Portugal’s best waves. This 7-day package is ideal for solo travelers, pairs, or small groups of up to three people, offering a personalized & immersive surf experience.

The package includes five in-water surf coaching lessons with personal guidance, ensuring you progress confidently, whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced surfer. Each day features a structured morning surf lesson followed by an afternoon free surf session, with full surf equipment rental provided for the entire stay.

You’ll enjoy six nights of accommodation in a relaxed, comfortable lodge with access to shared kitchens, living areas, & free Wi-Fi. A complimentary breakfast is served each morning, featuring cereals, toast, fruit, yogurt, herbal teas, & filter coffee.

Beach camps with sun protection, beach games, & bicycles are available, creating a fun, social, & well-rounded surf experience in one of Europe’s top surfing destinations. Find Out More

Accommodation and van with surfboards at Peniche Surf Lodge in Peniche, Portugal
Image Credit: Peniche Surf Lodge
Two surfers standing up and learning how to surf with Peniche Surf Lodge in Peniche Portugal
Image Credit: Peniche Surf Lodge

Peniche Surfboard Hire

Peniche surfboard hire services offer a range of high-quality equipment for surfers of all levels, ensuring you’re well-prepared to ride the area’s renowned breaks. Go4Surf School Peniche provides a wide range of well-maintained boards, ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers seeking to explore the area’s diverse breaks. 

Special Surf 78 not only excels in instruction but also offers a selection of premium boards tailored to different wave conditions, ensuring every session is maximized. Waterlost Shop is another reliable option, featuring an extensive inventory of boards for hire and additional gear to suit various surfing needs. 

With these excellent rental services, Peniche surfboard hire options ensure surfers can enjoy the area’s world-class waves with the right equipment for a memorable surf experience.

Peniche Surf Report & Surf Cam

Navigating the Peniche surf scene means staying in tune with ever changing wind, swell and tidal conditions. The crew at Surf-Forecast provide detailed outlooks, while Surfline offer live cams & real-time updates that help you plan the perfect session. The paid Surfline features are particularly useful if you’re chasing consistency.

And staying connected is a must. That’s where Drimsim eSIM or Yesim eSIM come in. Forget about finding something small enough for that little hole on your phone to swap SIM cards. Just activate an eSIM online & you’re good to go.

Surf Camp Long
Find Your Portuguese Surf Camp!

How To Get To Peniche Surf

Distance: 100km (62mi)

To reach Peniche surf, 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 Peniche surf based on your preferences & budget.

Taxi or Rideshare
Approx. 1.5-2 hrs.

Details:
A direct taxi or ride-share from Lisbon Airport to Peniche surf is the fastest & most comfortable way to travel. The drive follows the A8 motorway, offering a smooth & scenic route.

HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups allow you to book your airport taxi before you arrive, cutting out waiting time. This is a smart choice for travelers with boards or bulky gear who want a smooth transfer straight from the plane to their destination.

Public Transport 
Approx. 2.5-3.5 hrs.

Details:
From Lisbon Airport, take the metro or a taxi to Sete Rios or Campo Grande bus stations. From there, board a Rede Expressos or FlixBus coach to Peniche surf, which takes around 1.5–2.5 hours.

Buses run multiple times daily, making this a convenient & budget-friendly option. While the journey is straightforward, checking timetables in advance is advised, as schedules vary.

Shuttle Service
Approx. 2-2.5 hrs.

Details:
Several airport shuttle services provide transfers to Peniche surf, including shared & private options. Shared shuttles make stops along the way, while private transfers offer a direct ride.

Reserve your shuttle early through HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to have a vehicle waiting when you land. This service ensures a fast, hassle-free transfer to the beach, avoiding long waits or complicated logistics.

Drone view of Peniche, Portugal, showcasing the town surrounded by the ocean and dramatic cliffs
Peniche - Portugal

Portugal Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know

Once you’ve picked your Portuguese surf towns, take a moment to get your travel details in order. Make sure your visa situation is sorted and have some Euros ready for casual spending. Most places take cards, but small purchases are easier with cash.

For tips on safety, drinking water, healthcare, emergencies and a few more things, our Portugal surf page has the essentials you should know to make your trip smooth and easy.

Travel Insurance For Your Peniche Surf Trip

Injuries & illnesses can quickly change the course of your Peniche surf trip, leading to costly & stressful situations. VisitorsCoverage provide travel insurance that protects you from medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellations, and loss or damage to your surf gear.

The many coverages they offer ensures that your Portuguese surf adventure remains safe and enjoyable, even if unexpected challenges may arise.

Discover Peniche: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat

When the surf isn’t on in Peniche there are plenty of other exciting activities to explore. Here are 3 recommended activities to make the most of your time. If you’re after something different, check out GetYourGuide Peniche, which offers amazing experiences, including cave explorations and scenic boat tours. 

  • Explore the Berlenga Islands

    Take a boat trip to the Berlenga Islands, a natural reserve known for stunning cliffs, crystal-clear waters, & diverse marine life. You can hike around the island, visit the São João Baptista Fortress, & enjoy birdwatching.

  • Visit the Peniche Fortress (Forte de Peniche)

    This historic fortress played an important role in Portugal’s history. It was used as a political prison during the Estado Novo regime. Today, it serves as a museum, offering insight into Portugal’s past & the local culture.

  • Discover Cabo Carvoeiro

    Head to Cabo Carvoeiro for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean & the nearby Berlenga Islands. This scenic cape is known for its dramatic cliffs, lighthouse, & unique rock formations, making it a great spot for photography & relaxing walks.

Fort of Sao Joao Baptista with calm water
Fort of Sao Joao Baptista - Peniche

Exploring Obidos: The Best Sights & Landmarks to Visit

If there’s no surf for a couple of days, consider heading to Obidos, a charming medieval town just 30 minutes from Peniche by bus, with its picturesque streets, historic castle, & local artisanal shops. You can also take a Medieval Tales & Secrets Spots Guided Walking Tour with GetYourGuide. Get in early because it sells out fast.

  • Explore the Obidos Castle

    Walk along the castle walls for panoramic views of the town & surrounding countryside.

  • Visit the Livraria de Santiago

    A beautiful old church converted into a bookstore, perfect for book lovers.

  • Sample Ginjinha de Obidos

    Try this local cherry liqueur served in edible chocolate cups, a sweet treat unique to the region.

  • Stroll Through the Village

    Wander the narrow, cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses adorned with flowers.

  • Attend a Festival

    If visiting in July, don’t miss the Obidos Medieval Fair, where the town transforms with medieval costumes, markets, & entertainment.

Keep Exploring With More Portugal Surf Destinations

Arrifana

Carrapateira

Ericeira