Surf guide / Surf camps

Surf camps in Portugal: how to choose one

A week of surfing by the sea is one of the best ways to progress and meet people. To choose well, it helps to know what to expect and what to ask.

Surf guide / Surf camps

What a surf camp is and what is usually included

A surf camp combines accommodation, lessons and group life in a single booking. As a rule, the package usually includes a bed, breakfast, a set number of lessons or coached sessions, surf equipment and transport to the beaches. Some also include dinners, yoga or skate sessions and group outings.

BAD SURF PHOTO does not run or sell surf camps, so I have nothing to gain from your choice. I spend a lot of days on the beaches where these groups train, and this is the view of someone who watches them from the outside.

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A typical week

It usually goes like this: arrival on Sunday, a first lesson with theory and safety, then two surf sessions a day, morning and late afternoon, with breaks to eat, rest and, in some cases, review video or photos. Midweek some people take a rest day or a trip. Your body will thank you: paddling every day is more tiring than it looks.

The areas: where to stay

The Cascais and Sintra area is easy to reach from Lisbon and has several types of wave. Ericeira is known for its surf culture and many different breaks. Peniche offers a lot of variety in orientation, so there is almost always somewhere to surf. The Vicentine Coast and the western Algarve are wilder and calmer. Choose by the wave that suits you and the atmosphere you want: more social, more family-friendly, more peaceful.

What time of year to go

In summer there are more people and the waves are usually smaller, which helps beginners, and the water is milder. In autumn and spring there is a good balance of waves, temperature and crowds. Winter brings more swell and cold water, so it suits people with some experience. We have a separate guide on the best time to surf in Portugal.

Questions to ask before you book

How many lesson hours are really included, and how many students per instructor? What level is required and are there groups by level? Is the accommodation shared and how far is it from the beach? Is transport included? What happens if the sea is unsurfable for several days? Is there insurance, and what is the cancellation policy? Get everything in writing and read reviews critically.

Be wary of packages that promise guaranteed results. Surfing depends on the sea, your fitness and your effort.

A memory to keep

If you are in Cascais, Sintra, Ericeira or Almada during your week, BAD SURF PHOTO can photograph and film your session, so you have memories and can see your technique from outside. Photo €40 per hour, video €50 per hour, group of up to five at €70 and €90 per hour respectively, plus VAT, editing included and delivery in 48 hours. Book on WhatsApp.

Who it is for

Surf camps in Portugal: how to choose one

What is included

Ask how many lessons, what equipment and whether transport and meals are in the price.

The right area

Choose by the wave that suits you and the atmosphere: more social, calmer or more family-friendly.

Time of year

Summer to start; spring and autumn for balance; winter for those with experience.

Surf camps in Portugal: how to choose one - BAD SURF PHOTO

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FAQ

Quick questions.

Do I need experience to go to a surf camp?

Usually not. Many camps take beginners and run groups by level. Confirm this before you book.

Can I go on my own?

Yes, it is common. Plenty of people go solo and get to know the group during the week.

Can you photograph my surf week?

Yes: BAD SURF PHOTO does surf photo and video, but does not run camps or teach. Arrange it on WhatsApp.