Surf House Portugal: Discovering the Best Locations

Portugal is one of the top surf destinations in the world, with incredible surf spots from north to south of the country. From the terrific waves you’ll find on the Silver Coast close to towns such as Nazaré (well known for its huge waves), Peniche, and Ericeira to Sagres in the Algarve and Espinho close to Porto, the 174km coastline of Portugal provides ample terrain for keen surfers.

If you are looking to make, you’re surfing holiday to Portugal permanent, and maybe snap up a property in Portugal so you can make the most of surfing the top waves throughout the year, or are looking to invest in a surf house in Portugal to secure a nice return on your investment, this article, Surf House Portugal: Discovering the Best Locations, has you covered.

Introduction to Surf Houses in Portugal

Portugal is well-known amongst the surf community, with many keen surfers gracing the country to try out the waves. Increasingly, though, more surfers are seeking to relocate to Portugal on a more permanent basis, drawn not only by the world waves but by the climate, culture, food, quality of life, and welcoming nature of the Portuguese.

Should you be seeking to invest in a private surf house, there are options across the coastline of the country, with the stunning Silver Coast (Costa da Prata) now a firm favorite, although you will also find options in Sintra, the Western Algarve, and elsewhere on Portugal’s extensive coastline.

Top Surf House Destinations in Portugal

We’ve already mentioned the Silver Coast as a top surf destination in Portugal. In this section of our Surf House Portugal article, we’ll provide a rundown of the top spots to secure your very own surf house in Portugal.

Ericeira: World Surfing Reserve

Ericeira became a World Service Reserve in October 2011, becoming the only reserve in Europe at the time, although North Devon in the UK also joined the exclusive club in 2022. Ericeira is located on Portugal’s Silver Coast, less than an hour northwest of Lisbon. Alongside the spellbinding waves and variety of breaks, from beach breaks, reefs, slabs, wedges, and point breaks, surfers will be spoilt for choice. This is also a good location for beginners, as there are many surf schools in the area where you can have a surf lesson to kickstart your surfing journey.

The town itself is also unique, with its whitewashed houses with blue façades, top seafood restaurants, and stunning ocean views. There are also many co-working spots for remote workers to get some work done in the morning and then head out to check the waves later in the day. For those seeking to snap up a property here, you will be tempted by the affordable prices here and elsewhere on the Silver Coast.

Peniche: Home of Supertubos

Also on Portugal’s Silver Coast, Peniche is a traditional fisherman’s town that retains a very local atmosphere. No matter which direction the wind blows, there is almost always offshore wind, so when the swell is right, Peniche is one of the most consistent surf spots in Europe. Supertubos Beach is the main surfing spot in town, nicknamed the European Pipeline, with its tubular and rapid waves. You are also not far from Nazaré, where the big wave surfers come to test their mettle. You have the TUDOR Big Wave Challenge in Nazaré and Rip Curl Pro Portugal in Supertubos to enjoy two of the biggest annual surf events in Europe.

As with properties in Ericeira, you’ll find good deals here, where it is possible to find stunning properties at more affordable prices than you would be able to elsewhere in the country.

Sagres: Best surf spots in the Algarve

While the Silver Coast is known for its dramatic landforms, the Algarve has been a firm favorite with expats for many years, given its sublime climate. For keen surfers, the best place to check out is Sagres, in the Western Algarve. You’ll find spectacular waves here. Both experienced surfers and beginners will be able to enjoy the surfing spots in and around Sagres. When the waves are too big elsewhere on the Western Coast, for example, on the Silver Coast, you’ll still be able to surf here, as you have protection from big swells and the wind.

You’ll find Sagres to be a quiet, charming city. Property prices here are also much more affordable than properties in other parts of the Algarve region and you should be able to get top properties at excellent prices.

Other top surf spots

There are many top surf spots in Portugal that you can enjoy year-round. Other top locations include the beaches in Sintra, Praia do Guincho in Cascais, Costa da Caparia and Carcavelos close to Lisbon, and there are also some top surf locations close to Porto in the North. There are also other excellent locations on the Silver Coast, such as close to Santa Cruz. If you are looking for a surf house or to buy property close to rolling waves, you will be spoilt for choice.

Choosing the Right Surf House

If you are considering snapping up a property in Portugal close to top surf locations, why not take a surf trip with friends along the coast to enjoy the best waves the country has to offer? Not only will you create lasting memories, but you’ll be able to determine which part of Portugal could be best suited to you. For such as small country, the variety of landscapes and local traditions is incredible.

Are you looking to buy a property intended for your own use, or are you looking for an investment? If you are looking to find a property as an investment opportunity, we provide some tips in the section below.

Consider the location carefully

If you are considering buying a property in Portugal to create a surf house, think about the location carefully. Take a look at whether there is another surf camp or surf school close by. Is this a top location for a surf trip? If yes, then consider if you will offer a surf package for visitors. Will you cater to experienced surfers, beginners, or a mix? And also determine accommodation and living needs for your guests.

Accommodation and amenities for guests

Will your guests have a shared room and shared bathroom, or will each have their own space? Will you cater to solo travelers or groups? Will you have rooms with a double bed to encourage couples to visit? Are you looking to invest in a swimming pool or communal area?

Ensure comfortable rooms, and think about large communal areas, such as a beautiful garden or terrace where guests can hang out after a long day out on the ocean. Consider having free wifi and places where guests can get some work done – now very important given the influx of remote workers who can work from anywhere – countless individuals are now enjoying the perks of Portugal while getting some work done.

Seasonality

Consider high season and quieter seasons as there may be times when it can be difficult to attract guests. The good thing about surfing is that the summer months will attract beginners, while an experienced surfer will likely visit in the winter months, when waves are bigger and they can challenge themselves, meaning that you should be able to have guests stay with you all year round.

Surfing lessons and coaching

Think about whether you are just providing a good base for surfers or want to be a surf school also that offers surfing lessons and coaching. If you want to offer surf lessons, ensure you have experienced, qualified instructors to help surfers, whether they are experienced or just starting out. You could also invest in video analysis to help advanced surfers hone their skills to perfection.

Surf house etiquette

Having people stay on your property can lead to problems, so make sure you have set rules in place for interactions between guests and also for the property to make sure every guest enjoys their stay, and that your property is well taken care of. Hiring someone to take care of this can certainly help.

Attracting guests

You should have a good strategy to attract guests. What are your unique selling points that will set you apart from competitors? Do you have a competitive surf package? Are you catering to specific personnel looking for a surf trip? Hiring someone with a clear vision to attract guests can be instrumental to success.

Looking to discover your very own surf house in Portugal?

Whether you are on the hunt for a property to relocate to in Portugal close to some of the most perfect waves in Europe or are considering investing in a surf house to generate some income – interest in Portugal’s surf scene continues to skyrocket as more tourists and expats discover the beautiful of Portugal’s coastline and the water sport activities on offer – you will find plenty of options.

Wherever you are thinking of snapping up property – the Algarve, Silver Coast, or close to Lisbon – Portugal is home to some of the very best waves. We’re sure you’ll find the perfect location for you.

Goldcrest: How We Can Help You 

Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent that is based in Lisbon. We provide expert, impartial advice on real estate investments and how to buy property in Portugal. From scouting out the perfect property through to property acquisition, we have you covered throughout the process.

If you are looking to purchase property in Portugal, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team of skilled experts is available to solve all your real estate doubts, helping you with the property search and offering insightful expertise and strategic advice.

Why choose Goldcrest?

• Local knowledge: With offices located across Portugal, our presence nationwide allows us to assist you personally across the country.
• Independent service: As an independent buying agent, we do not represent any development or project. Our service is entirely tailored toward each individual client, providing you with everything you need to secure the perfect property at the best possible price. As an impartial advisor on the market, we work solely on behalf of our client and provide a service tailored to your needs and requirements.
• Streamlined process: Our real estate agents speak English and Portuguese, and our service is completely focused on providing you with a hassle-free buying experience, saving you time.
• Experienced team: Our expert real estate team has a vast local knowledge of the Portuguese property market. We have cutting-edge technology and metasearch tools at your disposal to provide full market coverage, ensuring the best investment choices and negotiated prices.
• Network of partners: We have a close network of partners, including lawyers, property management services, builders, architects, designers, and landscape gardeners, again saving you time and hassle by providing you with trusted experts in their field of work.