Beginners, intermediate and advanced surf lessons

Getting into surfing in Portugal’s renowned Ericeira region is a fantastic idea for all skill levels, thanks to the area’s consistent waves and welcoming surf culture. The Ericeira Waves Surf School offers a comprehensive experience—covering everything from beginner basics to advanced techniques—in a way that balances safety, fun, and learning. With a 5-star rating from 58 reviews, their reputation is built on professionalism, personalized attention, and top-notch equipment.

What we really love about this surf school is how it emphasizes quality over quantity. The instructors, accredited by IPDJ and FPSurf, are attentive and passionate about helping each surfer improve, whether they’re just starting out or already riding the waves confidently. A possible consideration is that the lessons are only approximately 2 hours long, which is perfect for a quick, energetic session but might leave some looking for more extended coaching or multiple days of practice.

This experience suits travelers who value personalized instruction, safety, and being in a celebrated surfing environment. It’s especially good for those who want a balanced mix of instruction, fun, and stunning scenery, making it ideal for families, solo travelers, or groups of friends eager to learn or refine their skills in a safe, encouraging setting.

Key Points

• High-Quality Instruction: Accredited teachers with excellent feedback, focused on safety and technique.
• All Skill Levels Welcome: Tailored lessons for beginners, intermediates, and advanced surfers.
• Top Equipment Provided: Quality suits, boards, and boots from Rip Curl and Ocean and Earth.
• Ideal for Small Groups: Max of 6 travelers ensures personalized coaching.
• Flexible Scheduling: Open daily from 8 AM to 9 PM, with easy booking and cancellation.
• Stunning Location: Set within the Ericeira World Surfing Reserve, perfect for scenic surfers’ paradise.

Overview of the Experience

The Ericeira Waves Surf School is all about creating memorable and safe surfing experiences in one of Europe’s top spots. Located conveniently in the Ericeira World Surfing Reserve, this school leverages the area’s reputation for quality waves and relaxed surf culture. Whether you’re a total novice or looking to sharpen your skills, their lessons are designed to be accessible and effective, with a sharp focus on safety and enjoyment.

The Booking & Meeting Process

Booking is straightforward—most travelers book about a week in advance, with many reviews mentioning the smooth communication via WhatsApp. You’ll meet at the Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas parking lot, a popular and scenic spot. The actual lessons are about 2 hours long but often include a little extra time for warm-up and gear fitting.

What’s Included

All necessary gear—Billabong suits, boards, and boots—are provided, so you won’t need to worry about lugging your own. The lessons take place in the ocean, with safety and technique as the focus, but the provided equipment ensures comfort and quality.

What’s Not Included

Food and drinks aren’t included, so plan to bring a snack or water if you’re there for an extended day. The focus remains on the water and the waves.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Out of Water: The Introduction

Classes typically start with a brief in-class presentation about surfing’s history, the gear used, and safety rules. This part is essential for beginners and helps set expectations. Expect your instructor to be engaging and clear—many reviews mention instructors like Bruno, Miguel, and Mario by name, highlighting their helpfulness and enthusiasm.

In the Water: The Practice

After the intro, everyone heads out to the waves for about 1.5 hours of practical coaching. The instructors focus on teaching the correct movements for standing on the board, paddling, and catching waves. Several reviews praise the instructors’ patience and attention to detail, especially for beginners who might be nervous or unsure.

Tailored for Your Level

• Beginners: Learn to paddle, balance, and stand up confidently. The instructors are encouraging and adaptable, making sure no one feels left behind.
• Intermediate & Advanced: For those with some experience, the lessons can focus on improving technique, wave selection, and riding more challenging breaks.

Post-lesson: Feedback & Tips

Many reviewers mention that instructors provide personalized feedback, helping surfers understand what to focus on next. The small group size—max six—ensures dedicated attention, and you might find yourself getting some insider tips to boost your confidence.

Quality Equipment & Environment

The school’s partnership with top brands such as Rip Curl and Ocean and Earth guarantees high-quality gear, which is critical for comfort and safety. With suits, gloves, and boots included, even the cold Atlantic waters won’t dampen your enthusiasm.

The location, within the Ericeira World Surfing Reserve, is a real highlight. You will be surrounded by panoramic views of rugged coastline and powerful waves, making the entire lesson feel like part of a larger adventure. Several reviewers describe the waves as “perfect for beginners,” with just enough power to be exhilarating but not overwhelming.

Small Group Dynamics & Personal Attention

One of the most praised aspects of the school is the intimate group size. Reviews repeatedly mention that groups are limited to six people, meaning instructors can give personalized feedback throughout the lesson. For example, Bruno, Miguel, and Mario are frequently singled out for their meticulous and enthusiastic coaching style.

This small group approach is especially beneficial for beginners or anyone feeling nervous about the water. Reviewers note that the instructors are kind, helpful, and always encouraging—creating an environment where everyone feels safe and supported.

Pricing & Value

At approximately $63.86 per person, this surf lesson offers impressive value. Given the quality of instruction, equipment, and the stunning location, many travelers consider this a worthwhile investment. Several reviewers emphasized the professionalism and high standards of the school—highlighting the organization, gear, and attentive coaching as just as important as catching waves.

For those considering multiple lessons, the price is competitive, and the small group sizes mean you’ll likely get more tailored guidance than in larger classes.

The Review Highlights & Real Experiences

Guest reviews paint a clear picture: this surf school is well-organized, friendly, and highly effective. One reviewer raved, “The surf lessons at Ericeira Waves were amazing! The communication went smoothly via WhatsApp. I learned a lot thanks to feedback from Bruno and the crew.” Another mentioned, “Great location with perfect waves for beginners. Instructors were kind, helpful, and very encouraging.”

Many seasoned surfers appreciated the professionalism, with one noting that Bruno and Miguel “brought their surfing to the next level.” The emphasis on safety and technique is evident in reviews praising the detailed feedback and patient coaching.

Who Will Love This Experience

This tour is ideal for beginners wanting a solid foundation, intermediate surfers looking to refine skills, or even advanced surfers eager for a refresh in a supportive environment. Families, solo travelers, and groups of friends will all find value here, especially given the small group sizes and personalized attention.

If you’re after a scenic, safe, and professionally run surf lesson that emphasizes quality over quantity, this is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those who want to learn from passionate instructors and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery of Ericeira.

The Sum Up

In summary, Ericeira Waves Surf School offers a top-tier surfing experience that balances professional instruction, quality equipment, and a breathtaking setting. The small group sizes ensure personalized coaching, making it perfect for newcomers and those looking to elevate their skills. The reviews consistently highlight the instructors’ kindness, attention to detail, and the overall well-organized nature of the experience.

While the lessons are around 2 hours, many find that the quality and focus make it well worth the price. The location’s reputation for excellent beginner waves adds to the appeal, making it a worthy choice for your first or next surfing adventure.

If you’re seeking a safe, fun, and educational surfing experience in Portugal, this school ticks all the boxes. It’s best suited for travelers who value quality instruction, stunning scenery, and a friendly atmosphere—an excellent investment in your surfing journey.

FAQ

Are the surf lessons suitable for beginners?
Yes, the lessons are designed to cater to all levels, including complete beginners. The instructors focus on safety, basic techniques, and building confidence.

What equipment is included?
All necessary gear—suits, boards, and boots—are provided, ensuring comfort and safety in the water.

Can I book a private lesson?
While most lessons are group-based, reviews mention private lessons, which can be booked for a more personalized experience.

How long is each lesson?
Each session lasts about 2 hours, with approximately 1.5 hours spent in the water practicing.

What is the group size?
Lessons are limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, allowing for personalized attention from instructors.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to the meeting point (Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas) is not included, but the location is accessible via public transit and easy to find.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If canceled later, the payment is non-refundable, but weather-related cancellations are fully refunded or rescheduled.

Choosing to learn surfing at Ericeira Waves Surf School means enjoying Portugal’s vibrant surf culture with top-notch guidance and some of the best waves for learners. Whether you’re here for a quick intro or a series of lessons, the experience promises to be memorable—and, with a little luck, the start of a lifelong love for riding the waves.