01
Why we picked it
Founded in 2008 by local surfer David Rosa, who still runs it, teaching small groups on some of the west coast’s best beginner beaches right on the Algarve–Alentejo border.
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Learn to Surf in the Algarve
- 8 places
The Algarve's west coast is one of the best places in Europe to learn to surf: consistent Atlantic swell, sandy beginner beaches, and schools that have been doing this for decades. The south coast is gentler and warmer, and has schools of its own. Wetsuits, boards and insurance are included almost everywhere, so you really do just turn up. This is the complete list of surf schools on Algarve Circle, running west to east from Odeceixe on the Alentejo border down through Sagres and Lagos to Vilamoura. Every school here works with certified instructors, and most keep groups small, so pick by where you are staying and how you like to learn.
02
Why we picked it
Lessons at Praia da Arrifana and Monte Clérigo inside the Rota Vicentina, every instructor certified by the Portuguese Surfing Federation, from EUR 45.
03
Why we picked it
Built by Carrapateira locals from a fishing family, over 20 years of small-group lessons plus Surf & Stay weeks on the wild west coast.
04
Why we picked it
Teaching in Sagres since 2002, one of the longest-running schools on this stretch, with a year-round base at Hotel Memmo Baleeira and a summer beach hut at Cordoama.
05
Why we picked it
Founder Rodrigo Lacerda is a Level II surf coach with Surf and Rescue certification and 20+ years of teaching; the sheltered, south-facing Praia da Luz is a forgiving place to start, with pick-ups from Lagos, Luz and Burgau.
06
Why we picked it
Over 17 years of daily surf trips from Lagos and Praia da Luz to wherever the conditions are best, groups capped at 8 surfers per instructor.
07
Why we picked it
Running surf camps from Lagos since 1992, the original European surf camp: all-inclusive weeks from EUR 256 staying at the Surf House with its legendary rooftop bar.
08
Why we picked it
The first surf school on Vilamoura Beach, going since 2006, federation certified, teaching surf, SUP, bodyboard and longboard all year round on the warmer south coast.
