Lisbon: Surf lesson with transfer to Carcavelos or Caparica

Summary

Learn to surf Lisbon’s waves with a local guide & easy transfer

You’ll get picked up in Lisbon and head straight to Carcavelos or Caparica beach for a real surf lesson with local coaches who actually care if you’re having fun (and not just standing up). Expect cold water, sandy toes, plenty of laughs, and a relaxed vibe you’ll remember long after your first wipeout.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever tried standing up on one of these things?” That’s what João, our surf coach, asked as he handed me the board — wax still sticky from the last group. I just shrugged and laughed, because honestly, I hadn’t. The van ride from Lisbon to Carcavelos was quick, maybe twenty minutes? I lost track watching the city fade into salt air and that kind of light you only get near the Atlantic. There was sand everywhere before we even hit the beach — in my shoes, under my fingernails. Not complaining though.

The surf school felt like a little family; João knew everyone by name and kept switching between Portuguese and English without missing a beat. He showed us how to paddle out and pop up (I definitely flopped more than popped), but he didn’t make it feel like a lesson — more like we were all just figuring it out together. The water was colder than I expected for Portugal, but after the first wipeout I stopped caring. You could smell sunscreen and seaweed mixed together, which is weirdly comforting if you grew up far from the ocean like me.

We’d planned for Carcavelos but João checked the waves first thing and said Caparica might be better if conditions changed — apparently they do that a lot here. It’s nice not having to worry about logistics; they just load you in the van and go wherever the surf is best that day. There were locals out too, some kids doing tricks I can’t even describe. At one point I managed to stand up for maybe three seconds — long enough for João to shout “Boa!” and clap his hands above his head. Felt pretty good.

I still think about that salty taste on my lips after falling off for the tenth time, or how everyone cheered when someone finally caught a wave all the way in. It wasn’t perfect — I got sunburned on my nose and probably looked ridiculous in the wetsuit — but honestly, that’s half the fun of trying something new somewhere different.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Surf Lesson and Beach Transfer

• Pick up at central meeting point
• Drive to Carcavelos or Costa da Caparica beach
• Surf lesson at Carcavelos Surf School

Top questions

How do I get from Lisbon to Carcavelos or Caparica for surfing?

Your surf lesson includes pickup by private vehicle from a central meeting point in Lisbon.

Is equipment provided for the surf lesson?

Yes, all necessary surf equipment is included in your booking.

What if conditions aren’t good at Carcavelos?

If waves aren’t suitable at Carcavelos, you’ll be taken to Costa da Caparica instead.

Is this surf lesson suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels and no experience is needed.

Are there any health restrictions?

This activity isn’t recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.

Is insurance included in the surf lesson?

Yes, insurance is included as part of your booking.

Can I reach the meeting point by public transport?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes private vehicle pickup from Lisbon to either Carcavelos or Caparica (depending on where waves are best), use of all surf equipment during your lesson with local coaches guiding you every step (or stumble), plus insurance so you can focus on catching waves instead of worrying about logistics.