Surfing in Portugal is globally renowned for its quality waves. Located on Europe’s western edge, the Atlantic Ocean provides almost constant swells on the many reefs and beach breaks of Portugal. The growing Portuguese passion and reputation for quality surf brings surfers all year round from many countries to surf on Portugal’s popular and unique coastline.
The exceptional coastline & climate allow pro surfers to practice and train all year round ready for the summer months surf competitions. Each year international pro surfers convene at Ericeira, Portugal to take part in the major “Quick Silver Pro Portugal” competition which runs over 6 days from the 19th to the 24th of October and consists of 14 heats and the chance to win $145 000. If you want to watch some spectacular talent then hire a car, explore the west coast, stop for a day or two in Lisbon, then head up a little further to Ericeira for this event.
The surfing culture has also influenced many festivals to be held during the summer period in the Algarve and Lisbon. One of the most popular is “Optimus Alive!” which is a music and arts festival held in the height of summer in Lisbon. In the Algarve is the Super Bock Surf Fest usually a little later in the summer.
Portugal fame for surf has inspired the younger generation to get involved with the sport. Portugal has many surf schools and camps for beginners usually based on local beaches. Some of the bigger surf schools are located in Sagres, Lagos, Amado, Arrifana, Peniche and Ericeira. Contacts in Lagos area are www.surfexperience.com, http://www.facebook.com/FilSurf, http://www.extremealgarve.com/