Private Surf coaching in Ericeira (world surfing reserve)

If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave—or just sharpening your surf skills—this private coaching experience in Ericeira offers a tailored, professional approach with plenty of local charm. Known as Europe’s first World Surfing Reserve, Ericeira boasts some of the best surf in Portugal, and this guided session promises to put you in the right place at the right time, depending on the surf forecast.

What we really like about this tour? First, the personalized attention from experienced guides who adapt to the conditions and your skill level. Second, the included video analysis and photos, which are rare perks at this price point and make it easier to track your progress. But a potential consideration? The activity requires you to be independent in the water, so if you’re a total beginner, this might not be the best fit unless you opt for the beginner-friendly option. This experience suits travelers who want a focused, authentic surf session with plenty of local expertise and a relaxed vibe—perfect for intermediate and advanced surfers wanting to improve.

Key Points

• Tailored Location: Depending on the forecast, you’ll surf at the best spot around Ericeira, like Santa Cruz or Ericeira itself.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable instructors help you make the most of the waves and provide valuable feedback.
• Video & Photos Included: Capture your session on camera, review your technique afterward, and see your progress.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off, plus an easy reservation process with pay-later options.
• Limited for Beginners: You must be independent in the water, so this is ideal for confident surfers.
• Beautiful Setting: Surrounded by stunning coastlines, you’ll enjoy not just the waves but also the scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: An Authentic Surfing Adventure

This private surf coaching tour in Ericeira is geared toward those who want more than a basic lesson. Instead, it offers the chance for tailored guidance in a stunning setting, with the added bonus of high-quality photos and videos. We love the fact that this experience is flexible—the surf spot changes depending on the forecast to ensure you get the best waves possible, which is a real advantage for surfers who want to maximize their time in the water.

Two things that stand out for us are the professional guidance that helps you improve faster and the personalized video feedback—a rare luxury that turns a fun day into a true learning experience. The only thing to remember? This tour is meant for independent surfers—if you’re a total novice, you’ll want to either choose a beginner-friendly option or prepare for the coach to stay in the water with you, which limits the picture-taking.

What’s Included and How It Works

The experience covers hotel pickup and drop-off within Ericeira, so you don’t have to worry about transport logistics—a big plus in this charming but sometimes confusing fishing village. Once you meet your guide, usually the day before or by direct contact, you’ll know exactly where and when you’ll be picked up, making planning straightforward.

The three-hour session typically involves about 1.5 hours in the water, during which you’ll be coached and photographed. The guide will choose the best location based on the surf forecast—Santa Cruz, Ribeira d’Ilhas, or other nearby surf spots—ensuring you’re riding the best possible waves of the day. The included gear is surfboard and wetsuit, though you can rent your own if preferred.

After your time in the water, you’ll reconvene over coffee to review the pictures and videos taken during your session. This is where the experience truly shines—seeing yourself on camera helps identify areas for improvement and accelerates learning. If you’re a more advanced or independent surfer, the videos are a fantastic tool; for beginners, your guide will be in the water with you, so no pictures will be taken, but you’ll still enjoy professional guidance.

Surfing the Best Spots Based on Forecast

The core benefit of this experience is the adaptability—the location changes according to the day’s surf forecast. Ericeira’s coastline is renowned for its variety of breaks, from the more protected coves to open beach breaks. Spots like Santa Cruz are famous for their consistent waves, while Ribeira d’Ilhas boasts long, powerful rides suitable for intermediate and advanced surfers.

This flexibility means you’re not stuck at a fixed location, and you’ll get the best possible surf conditions. It also means fewer crowds—fewer people in the water often translate to more waves for you and a more relaxed, focused environment. Some reviews mention how the instructor’s local knowledge and expert advice make all the difference in scoring the perfect set.

Video and Photos: A Valuable Learning Tool

One of the standout features is the inclusion of pictures and videos taken during the session. Many users have expressed appreciation for this feature, as it allows them to see their technique from a different perspective. As one traveler noted, “Received valuable feedback already in the water what to improve and could apply it.” These visual aids can be a game-changer, especially for intermediate surfers eager to refine their stance, paddling, or wave selection.

For those who are less confident or prefer to focus on just riding waves, it’s good to know that if you’re a beginner, the coach will stay in the water with you, and no photos will be taken. This ensures safety and focus for newcomers, but limits the photographic record.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Value for Money

At $227 per person, this private session is competitively priced considering the personalized coaching, video review, and transport included. It’s not the cheapest surf lesson around, but the quality and attention to detail offer significant value.

For surfers serious about improvement, this experience provides a professional level of guidance combined with visual feedback, which is well worth the investment. Plus, with the flexibility to choose the best location based on surf forecast, you’re getting a tailored, high-quality experience rather than a cookie-cutter lesson.

The Setting and Atmosphere

Ericeira is simply breathtaking—cliffs, rocky coves, and long sandy beaches create a dramatic backdrop for your surf session. The guides are often multilingual, fluent in French, Portuguese, Spanish, and English, making communication smooth regardless of your language. The vibe is relaxed but professional, with a focus on safety, fun, and progress.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is perfect for independent surfers who can handle themselves in the water but want expert guidance and feedback. It’s suited for intermediate and advanced surfers eager to improve their skills or those looking for a personalized, scenic surf outing. If you’re a beginner who’s not yet independent in the water, you might still enjoy a session, but expect no photos or videos unless you select a different option.

Those who appreciate stunning coastlines, expert advice, and a flexible schedule will find this to be a highlight of their trip to Portugal. It’s an ideal mix of adventure, learning, and scenic beauty.

This private surf coaching session in Ericeira offers a rare combination of personalized guidance, professional feedback, and beautiful surroundings. It’s ideal for surfers who want to maximize their time in the water, improve their skills, and document their progress with photos and videos. The flexibility to pick the best surf spot based on the forecast means you’re getting the most out of your session.

Travelers who value expertise, authenticity, and a relaxed yet focused environment will find this experience to be well worth the investment. It’s especially suited for those who already have a certain level of independence in the water but want to learn from local professionals and capture the moment.

For anyone ready to take their surfing to the next level while enjoying one of Portugal’s most picturesque coastlines, this tour offers an excellent blend of instruction, scenery, and fun.

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
It’s best suited for those who are independent in the water. Beginners who aren’t yet comfortable paddling or catching waves on their own might want to consider a beginner-specific lesson or private session with the coach in the water.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, surf equipment, pictures and videos, video analysis, and guiding. Transportation is part of the package, making logistics hassle-free.

How long do I spend in the water?
Expect about 1.5 hours in the water during the three-hour session, giving ample time to catch waves, practice, and receive guidance.

Can I choose the surf spot?
Not exactly—your guide will select the best location based on the day’s forecast, aiming for the most suitable waves and fewer crowds.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and water. Wetsuits and surfboards are provided, but you can rent your own if you prefer.

What languages does the guide speak?
Guides are fluent in French, Portuguese, Spanish, and English, ensuring clear communication.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

If you’re looking for a personalized, scenic, and educational surf experience in Portugal’s premier surfing area, this private coaching session in Ericeira is a solid choice. With expert guides, flexible locations, and valuable video feedback, it promises a memorable day on the waves.

You can check availability for your dates here: