Ericeira Surf Coaching: Learn from a Local Expert

A local surfer with three decades of experience teaches you to ride waves in a small group.

Surf coaching at the Ericeira World Surf Reserve in Cascais is a two and a half hour small group class for beginners to intermediate surfers, led by a certified coach with 30 years of experience. The lesson includes high-quality equipment, a warm-up session, in-water instruction with personalized tips, photography of your progress, video analysis, and a post-session debrief. Instruction is in English, Spanish or Portuguese. Minimum age is 16.

The experience

If you've never surfed or only tried it once, this class is built around getting you comfortable on a board in one session. Your coach has spent three decades teaching and surfing around the world, and the lesson is structured to build confidence rather than rush technique. You start with a warm-up on land, then move into the water with a safety briefing and the fundamentals. The group stays small, no more than six people, so the coach can watch your progress and adjust the tips to what you actually need in the moment.

The two and a half hours includes all the gear: high-quality surfboards and wetsuits fitted to your size and the water temperature. You'll get photos and video of yourself surfing, which the coach reviews with you afterward so you can see what worked and what to focus on next time. The lesson wraps with a reflection session where the group shares what they learned. Entry to the Ericeira World Surf Reserve is included, and basic insurance covers you during the session.

The coach speaks English, Spanish and Portuguese, so language is not a barrier. The experience is designed for adults from absolute beginners through intermediate level. If you've been surfing for years or you're just starting, there's a class that matches where you are. Bodyboarding is also an option if you prefer that instead.

What’s included

• Two and a half hours of tailored instruction matched to your skill level.
• high-quality surfboards and wetsuits for all participants.
• a warm-up session before entering the water.
• a safety and orientation briefing.
• personalized coaching from a certified surf coach with 30 years of experience.
• photography and video of your surfing.
• video analysis and feedback in a post-session debrief.
• entry and full access to the Ericeira World Surf Reserve.
• basic insurance coverage during the lesson.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (16 to 64 years) · Under 16: can't be booked

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish, Spanish and Portuguese

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Physically demandingNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Sea Krew

Is this one for you?The small group format with a coach who adapts to each person's level means beginners get the confidence-building foundation they need, while intermediate surfers get instruction tailored to where they're trying to progress. If you want personalized attention rather than a crowded lesson, this works. If you prefer one-on-one coaching, ask about private options at checkout.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish and Portuguese.

I've never surfed before, will I actually stand up on a wave in one lesson?

The coach's approach is built around getting beginners riding waves, not just paddling. With personalized tips during the two and a half hours, most people who've never surfed do catch and ride waves by the end of the session, though the focus is on building the foundation and confidence to keep improving after.

What's the Ericeira World Surf Reserve like as a place to learn?

Ericeira is one of the world's most renowned surf spots, with multiple breaks suited to different skill levels. The coach chooses the best local break for your group's ability on the day, so beginners get waves that are manageable while intermediate surfers get more challenge.

Do I need to bring my own wetsuit and board?

No. High-quality surfboards and wetsuits are provided for all participants, fitted to your size and the water conditions. You just bring yourself and a towel.

How many people will be in my group?

The maximum is six participants, so the coach can give you personalized attention and adjust instruction to what each person needs during the session.

What happens if I'm already an intermediate surfer?

There's an intermediate class designed for surfers developing their skills further. The coach assesses your level and places you in the group that matches your ability, so you're not bored if you've surfed before or overwhelmed if you're just starting.

Is there anything I should know before booking?

Minimum age is 16. The experience is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health, and a high level of physical fitness is needed for the session.