Expect surprisingly cool water, punchy beachbreaks and some lovely long wrapping points. The prime months are March to September.
Take a shortboard and something that will handle the extra juice at the points. For dinner you’ll be having lobster, sea bass or swordfish at one of the ludicrously cheap restaurants in Ericeira or Peniche. Stay at the campsite just north of the town (but be careful of ripoffs), Pensao Gomes or Largo dos Navegates (all in Ericeira); try Residencial Maciel or Residencial Marisqueira in Peniche. Make sure you don’t mistime the paddle out at Coxos or you’ll get well and truly nailed. Don’t miss the party because you peaked too early (the coolest Portuguese clubs don’t get started until at least 1 am). If it’s flat, check out Lisbon, it’s one of the grandest cities in Europe (Just avoid the roads during rush hour).
Travel Directory
Peniche Surf Camp
Waking up everyday to surf perfect conditions.This is a reality in Peniche. Widely recognized as the best and most consistent surf spot in Portugal, the peninsula of Peniche offers a north and south-facing coastline. The result is the finest surfing conditions everyday regardless of the swell and wind direction.
The Surf Experience is one of the original surf tour and surf school companies. Aside from getting you to the best breaks – and perhaps more importantly – they know the best eateries and bars in town and will fit in dawnies or lates whenever needed. Whether learning, improving or ripping: this is the perfect set up.
Baleal Surf Camp is a small family-run business, with a prime surf-side location on Baleal beach. The camp has a laid-back vibe and accommodation to suit all budgets, and welcomes everyone: from singles to families, and from experts to novices. web:www.balealsurfcamp.com
