Costa da Caparica: Surf Lesson & Beach Pickup from Lisbon

Summary

Lisbon surf day with beach pickup wetsuit boards & photos

You’ll get picked up in Lisbon and driven to Costa da Caparica for a hands-on surf lesson with a small group. All gear’s provided — wetsuit and board — plus there’s a photographer in the water catching your best (and worst) moments. You’ll feel that first cold wave hit, learn from a local instructor, and ride back salty but happy.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the salt in the air before we even saw the water — that kind of briny sharpness you get near the Atlantic. Our guide, João, picked us up right in Lisbon and drove us out to Praia do Castelo in Costa da Caparica. He had this relaxed way of talking about waves and weather, like he was describing old friends. The van was full of boards and neoprene; I remember my wetsuit felt cold and rubbery at first but warmed up fast under the sun.

João didn’t waste time with long speeches on the sand — just a quick stretch, a few words about reading the sets (I only half understood), then suddenly we were paddling out. The water was colder than I expected and my arms got tired embarrassingly fast. But he kept an eye on everyone, calling out tips or laughing when one of us wiped out. There was a photographer bobbing nearby snapping pictures — caught me mid-fall once, which I’m still not sure I want to see.

I managed to stand up for maybe three seconds (felt longer) and honestly, that tiny rush is what stuck with me more than anything else. After about two hours, salty and exhausted, we peeled off our wetsuits and piled back into the van. João put on some old Portuguese rock for the drive back to Lisbon — windows cracked open so you could still smell the ocean on your skin. It’s funny how quickly it all goes by.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Surfing lesson at Costa da Caparica

• Pick up from Lisbon city center
• Drive to Praia do Castelo beach
• Get wetsuit and surfboard
• Warm up and quick theory on sand
• Surf for around 2 hours
• Photographer captures surf moments
• Drive back to Lisbon city center

Top questions

How long does the surf lesson at Costa da Caparica last?

The surf lesson lasts around 2 hours, depending on conditions and stamina.

Is transportation from Lisbon included in this surf day trip?

Yes, pickup from Lisbon city center is included in your booking.

Are wetsuits and surfboards provided for all participants?

Yes, both wetsuits (summer or winter) and various surfboards are provided.

How many students per instructor during the lesson?

The maximum ratio is 1 instructor for every 5 students.

Is there a photographer during the surf session?

Yes, a professional photographer joins you in the water to capture moments.

Can beginners join this Costa da Caparica surf experience?

Yes, it’s suitable for beginners as well as experienced surfers.

Where does the tour start and finish?

The tour starts and ends at your agreed pickup spot in Lisbon city center.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

This activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from Lisbon to Costa da Caparica beach and back again, all necessary gear like wetsuits (for any season) and a choice of surfboards, guidance from a certified local instructor throughout about two hours in the water, insurance coverage during your lesson, plus candid photos taken by an accompanying photographer before returning to your starting point in Lisbon.