Just a short train ride from Lisbon lies Cascais, a picturesque coastal town that has become a magnet for surfers from all over the world. With its stunning beaches, consistent waves, and vibrant surf culture, it’s no surprise that Cascais is considered one of Europe's top surf destinations. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, the variety of surf spots ensures there’s a perfect wave waiting for you.
- This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan the ultimate surf trip to Cascais. We'll cover the best beaches for every skill level, when to visit for the best conditions, and where to find the top surf schools and rental shops. By the end, you'll be ready to grab your board and hit the waves of this beautiful Portuguese paradise.
Why Choose Cascais for Your Next Surf Trip?
For decades, Cascais was a quiet fishing village and a summer retreat for Portuguese royalty. Today, it's a bustling town that perfectly blends its historic charm with a modern, laid-back surf vibe. The coastline is dotted with golden sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and world-class waves, offering something for every type of surfer.
One of the biggest draws of surfing in Cascais is its accessibility. Located just 30 kilometers west of Lisbon, you can easily hop on a train and be by the ocean in under an hour. This convenience makes it a fantastic option for a day trip or a longer stay. The town itself is full of excellent restaurants, lively bars, and charming streets to explore when you're not in the water. Plus, the local surf community is incredibly welcoming, making it a great place to connect with fellow wave riders.
The Best Surf Spots in Cascais
The Cascais coastline offers a diverse range of surf spots, each with its own unique character. From powerful beach breaks to sheltered coves, you’ll find waves suitable for all abilities.
Praia de Carcavelos: The Crowd-Pleaser
Praia de Carcavelos is arguably the most famous and popular surf beach in the Lisbon region. This long, sandy beach produces consistent and powerful waves, making it a favorite for intermediate and advanced surfers. Because it's a beach break, the sandbanks are always shifting, creating varied conditions that keep things interesting.
- Best for: Intermediate to Advanced Surfers
- Wave Type: Beach break with right and left-handers
- Tide: Works best on a mid to high tide.
- Swell: Picks up both north and south swells, making it very consistent.
Carcavelos can get crowded, especially during weekends and summer months. However, the beach is wide enough to accommodate many surfers. You'll find numerous surf schools and rental shops right on the promenade, making it easy to get everything you need for a session.
Praia do Guincho: For the Adrenaline Junkies
Known for its wild, untamed beauty and powerful waves, Praia do Guincho is the go-to spot for experienced surfers looking for a challenge. This beach is exposed to the full force of the Atlantic, meaning the waves are often large and powerful. It’s also famous for its strong north winds, especially in the summer, which makes it a world-class destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
- Best for: Advanced Surfers, Kitesurfers, and Windsurfers
- Wave Type: Powerful beach break
- Tide: Best at low to mid tide.
- Swell: Works best with a northwest swell.
Due to the strong currents and powerful waves, Guincho is not recommended for beginners. For those with the skills to handle it, a session here offers an exhilarating experience against a backdrop of stunning sand dunes and the Sintra mountains.
Praia da Poça: A Reef Break for All Levels
Praia da Poça, located closer to Estoril, offers a different experience with its reef break. The spot has several peaks that cater to various skill levels. The main peak, a right-hander, is popular with local longboarders and intermediate surfers, offering a long, mellow ride. Further out, a more advanced wave breaks over a shallow reef, providing a faster and more challenging ride.
- Best for: All levels, depending on the peak
- Wave Type: Reef break
- Tide: Works on all tides, but mid tide is often best.
- Swell: Best with a southwest swell.
Poça is a great place to progress your skills. The inside section is more forgiving, while the outside offers a taste of a more powerful wave. Just be mindful of the rocks and the local crowd.
Costa da Caparica: A Beginner’s Paradise
Although technically not in Cascais, Costa da Caparica is just a short drive across the 25 de Abril Bridge and is worth the trip, especially for beginners. This massive stretch of sandy beach offers countless peaks with gentle, rolling waves perfect for learning. The sheer size of the beach means you can always find your own space to practice without feeling crowded.
- Best for: Beginners and Intermediate Surfers
- Wave Type: Mellow beach break
- Tide: Best at low to mid tide.
- Swell: Works well with a southwest swell.
The area is packed with surf schools offering lessons and rentals at very reasonable prices. The relaxed atmosphere and easy waves make it the ideal place to catch your first wave.
When is the Best Time to Surf in Cascais?
Cascais is a year-round surf destination, but the best time to visit depends on your skill level and what you're looking for.
- Autumn (September - November): This is often considered the prime surf season. The summer crowds have dissipated, the water is still warm, and the Atlantic starts to produce consistent, clean swells.
- Winter (December - February): Winter brings the biggest and most powerful waves, attracting advanced surfers to spots like Guincho. The weather can be unpredictable, but you can score some epic sessions. You'll definitely need a good wetsuit.
- Spring (March - May): Similar to autumn, spring offers consistent swells and pleasant weather. The water is starting to warm up, and it's a great time to visit before the summer rush.
- Summer (June - August): Summer is perfect for beginners and longboarders. The waves are generally smaller and more forgiving, and the weather is fantastic. The main downside is the crowds, especially at popular spots like Carcavelos.
Surf Schools and Rentals
Cascais is home to a fantastic selection of surf schools and rental shops. Whether you need a lesson, a board, or a full set of gear, you'll find plenty of options.
- Cascais Surf School & Camp: Located right on Carcavelos beach, this is one of the oldest and most reputable surf schools in the area. They offer group and private lessons for all ages and skill levels.
- Moana Surf School: Also on Carcavelos, Moana is known for its friendly instructors and well-structured lessons. They have a great reputation for helping beginners feel comfortable and confident in the water.
- Guincho Surf School: For those looking to tackle the waves at Guincho, this school offers specialized lessons focused on handling more powerful conditions.
Most schools also offer board and wetsuit rentals. You can typically rent gear for a few hours or a full day at a reasonable price.
Your Next Wave Awaits
Surf Cascais offers an unbeatable combination of world-class waves, stunning scenery, and a vibrant culture that makes it a must-visit destination for any surfer. From the mellow rollers perfect for beginners to the powerful barrels that challenge even the most experienced riders, there is truly a wave for everyone. With its easy access from Lisbon and year-round surf, it’s time to start planning your trip. So pack your bags, grab your board, and get ready to discover the magic of surfing in Cascais.
