The Best Surfing Spots in the Algarve
Do you fancy a bit of surfing in the Algarve during your stay? This region features an incredible selection of beaches for surfers to enjoy and get their thrill. But even if you’ve never surfed before, there are areas where you can try it for the first time on beginner-sized waves. It makes for a great activity if you’re staying in the Algarve.
Why is the Algarve great for surfing?
The Algarve is a standout destination in Europe for surfing, and it’s not just the waves that make it so. This stunning region offers a unique combination of factors that make it a fantastic choice for surfers of all levels, from complete novices to seasoned pros.
Geographical location
Its geographical location is a huge advantage. The Algarve has a south and west-facing coastline. This dual exposure means that no matter the swell direction or wind conditions, you’re almost always guaranteed to find a surfable spot.
When the powerful Atlantic swells are hitting the west coast, bringing larger, more challenging waves, the south coast often offers more sheltered, gentler options. When the west coast is calm, the south coast can light up with its own unique breaks. This versatility is a massive draw for surfers all over the world.
Climate
The Algarve’s climate is exceptionally inviting! With a mild climate all year-round, and plenty of sunshine (even in the winter months), you can enjoy comfortable water temperatures during your surfs. While the summers bring smaller, milder waves perfect for beginners and longboarders, the autumn and winter months truly shine for intermediate and advanced surfers, as the Atlantic delivers more consistent and powerful swells.
Culture
You might not know it, but the Algarve offer a vibrant surfing culture. You’ll more than likely find surf schools, rental shops, and camps dotted along the coast, making it easy to get started or improve your skills. Lots of visitors are drawn in by the beautiful scenery, delicious food, and the joy of surfing in such a picturesque setting.
Best beaches for surfing in the Algarve
Surfing in the Algarve is a common hobby for locals and tourists. Here you’ll find some of the best places to surf in Portugal, not just the Algarve. From Sagres, Faro, Aljezur and more, we’re going to suggest some of the most popular beaches for surfing to give you some ideas just in case you decide to visit. Some of the best Algarve surfing spots include:
Praia de Faro
Location: Faro
Interested in surfing in Faro? Well, not only is Praia de Faro a great location for surfing in the Algarve, but it’s also one of the most unique beaches you’ll ever see. The beach and mainland are separated by the Ria Formosa, so it almost feels as if you’re on an island. It’s best to check conditions on the day you plan to surf, but usually, the best wind direction is from the northeast at Praia de Faro.
It’s known for being quite consistent, especially during the autumn and winter months, when the Atlantic swells deliver more reliable conditions. While it can get crowded when the waves are good, it’s generally a friendly spot suitable for surfers of all levels, from those just learning to paddle out to more experienced riders looking for fun, rippable waves.
Praia do Beliche
Location: Sagres
This beach is geared more towards advanced surfers with its frequent, powerful waves. So if that’s you, then why not head to Praia do Beliche to try it out? It’s nicely covered by the coastal cliffs as they almost engulf the beach within their rock faces. When the conditions are right, usually with a good west or south swell and offshore winds from the north, this beach comes alive, delivering some dream waves for experienced surfers.
To access this beach, you’ll need to take around 100 steps to get down. It can be a bit of a workout, especially with a board, but the views and the surfing experience definitely make it worthwhile!
Praia da Arrifana
Location: Aljezur
Another ideal location for surfers of any level. The backdrop is something special too, with towering cliffs overlooking the beach. It’s another popular area for surfers due to its brilliant peaks across the beach. One of its biggest selling points is that it is protected from the north wind, unlike most other beaches in the area. This natural shelter means that even on windy days, surfing conditions are still excellent with offshore or light cross-shore winds.
While the main beach break is perfect for progression, for more experienced surfers, you’ll want to check out the renowned right-hand point break at the northern end of the bay. This “Arrifana right-hander” can deliver long, powerful, and sometimes hollow rides.
Praia do Amado
Location: Carrapateira
Could there be a more picturesque location for a bit of surfing in the Algarve? It’s tough to beat, that’s for sure. Praia do Amado is surrounded by cliffs and hills that slope down to the beachfront, which contributes to the fantastic surfing conditions of this beach. The expansive bay allows for multiple peaks to form along its length, breaking over a sandy bottom, which makes it a remarkably versatile spot.
It’s famously consistent and often picks up swell when other beaches will be flat. The best conditions are thought to be with offshore winds from the east with shelter from the north winds. So if you’re looking for a winter surf trip, then coming to Praia do Amado in December could serve you up some incredible conditions.
Praia do Tonel
Location: Sagres
When it comes to surfing in the Algarve, Sagres truly holds a special place in the hearts of many wave riders, and it’s renowned for its consistently ideal conditions. Within this popular surfing hub, Praia do Tonel stands out as a particular favourite, and it’s easy to see why. Tonal Beach specifically is recommended by lots of surfers because it’s genuinely great for surfers of all levels!
One of Tonel’s key characteristics is that its peaks cover the full length of the beach. This means that whether you’re a complete beginner looking for gentle, rolling white water to practise on, or an intermediate surfer aiming to refine your turns on unbroken waves, you’ll find something for you. What truly makes Tonel special is its ability to offer unique waves all along the coast, adapting to different swell directions and sizes. While it can handle substantial swells, it also performs well on smaller days, providing fun, manageable waves. The best conditions are often found with a west or northwest swell and an offshore wind from the east or northeast.
Praia da Amoreira
Location: Alijezur
Praia da Amoreira offers a wonderful setting where freshwater meets the sea, making for a pretty special surf experience. This beach is known for its long sandy stretch and dune-backed scenery.
Thanks to the beach’s orientation, it picks up a decent amount of swell from the Atlantic. On the right day, you can expect fun, punchy waves, especially at mid to high tide. During low tide, you’ll find calmer, more forgiving conditions, ideal for first-timers.
Praia da Bordeira
Location: Carrapateira
Just north of Carrapateira village, Praia da Bordeira is a breathtaking beach known for its wide-open sands and stunning dunes. You’ll feel like you’ve just stepped into a postcard.
The waves here are best suited to intermediate and experienced surfers, with powerful beach breaks that can deliver some hefty rides, especially in winter. But on smaller days, beginners can get involved too! You’re looking at waves starting around 2ft and up to 12ft. Also, because the beach is quite exposed, it usually means you’ll have to deal with onshore winds.
Praia do Zavial
Location: Vila do Bispo
Praia do Zavial is one of those Algarve gems that surfers love to keep a secret, but we’ll let you in on it! This is a spot that’s a favourite with the more advanced surfers. Its 1-2ft waves can be quite misleading, with them being extremely powerful. In fact, some people have snapped their boards in these low waves due to the sheer power of them.
If you can brave it, then it’s sure to provide a fantastic surfing experience. You’ll find the most famous waves in the west corner, featuring a right-hand point with a heavy barrel. Due to its close proximity to the cliffs, it’s only really recommended for experts.
Book your luxury Algarve stay today
These are some of the best surfing beaches Algarve holidaymakers will love! If you’re interested in visiting this stunning region and are in search of a luxury stay, we can help! We have a selection of luxurious villas across the Algarve close to these beautiful beaches. Right now, we also have some fabulous special offers on our website too. Why not take a look at booking your dream Algarve stay?
Suitable for couples, families or larger groups, our range of properties and luxury Algarve villas are amongst the finest in the area. We also have a luxury concierge service for those who want to holiday in style. For further information, why not contact us today to discuss the options available to you? We’ll ensure your Algarve stay is one you’ll never forget!
Originally posted on 05/06/23
