The Algarve makes is a great place to head for a surfing holiday. Long waves roll in from the Atlantic onto its west coast and can reach some serious heights. Some of the biggest waves ever surfed have been just up the coast near Lisbon, at around 100 feet high. The waves don’t reach those heights in the Algarve, but there is still some impressive surfing to be had.
There are good surf spots across the Algarve, although most head for the west of Algarve as the waves are more reliable. The area is also less busy with tourists than the southern Algarve beaches and has more of a surfer scene. If you are a beginner then an an Algarve surfing holiday may be perfect for you as most areas have beginner breaks for you to learn the basics.
Sagres lies on the tip of Portugal, where the west and south coasts meet. That makes it a great place to be to catch swells coming from either direction giving Algarve surfers more options. It is a friendly, undeveloped town surrounded by wild countryside and wild sea. Cordoama Beach is a favourite of both beginners and experts, with good conditions for both. There are many other spots around Sagres, and surfers can get out and explore the beaches for themselves.
On the south coast, Lagos is the main Algarve surfing spot. There are some great beginner waves on the main town beach. Experienced surfers might want to travel a little further afield to get bigger waves. That’s not a problem: as there are many surf spots nearby.
On an Algarve surfing trip, you can have your pick of the waves. From nice, easy beach breaks to towering swells Surfing in the Algarve is varied and fun, with some of Europe’s best waves to enjoy.