Are you planning a trip around the Algarve and wondering which surf spots are the best for beginners?
Perhaps you have already taken some classes in Faro or elsewhere and want to explore more of the southern coast of Portugal but don’t know where to start.
Then please keep reading, as this article is made for you!
I was in your shoes some years ago. Having someone who could show me these spots was very helpful, so let me be your guide now. 🙂
First things first: What is Your Current Surf Level Like?
Not every surf spot can be suitable for beginners. Some bring heavy and fast waves, while others can be soft and slow. This could make a massive difference in the amount of fun you will have!
You don’t need a maverick when you are in the learning process. I have taught beginners in Faro for over seven years, and many were happy with smaller waves.
The more relaxed you are, the better you surf.
Especially when you are starting, you want to have fun. When you are having fun, your progress comes faster, too.
Before you choose the best surf spot, ask yourself some questions:
- How well can you control your surfboard?
- Do you know surf etiquette?
- Do you have the stamina to paddle to the line-up and also back?
- Do you know how to behave when the wave is going to break on you?
- And what about your knowledge of currents?
These points will prepare you better and give you more confidence in the water. The next thing to do is check the forecast for the day.
What you need to know…
If I’m planning my surf trip, the first thing I do before I choose the place is to see the weather and surf conditions.
Is it too windy? Look for more hidden spots!
Is a big swell hitting the West Coast? Seek beaches more in the south or protected by the cliffs, like Arrifana, Amado, Tonel, Mareta, or Faro.
I know it’s a big science, but if you want to learn more, I will explain more in the upcoming article.
If you have no idea how to read the surf forecast, one easy way is to walk to a surf shop, and usually, they are very helpful in advising you on the best place on that day. If you travel to Aljezur, I can highly recommend SW Surf Shop.
So now, when you are prepared, you can check out the surf spots I have picked for you around the Algarve.
One of my favourite places is Aljezur, for a very good reason. You have three great surf spots (Arrifana, Monte Clerigo, and Amoreira) near each other, which you can check out in only a few minutes of driving. It saves you fuel and, especially, your precious time.
You can check them out in person, see which one you like the most, and go and have fun!
1. Amoreira (live webcam here)
It is one of my favourite beaches to surf during the summer. It’s easy to access, and usually, you get easy parking (summer can be stressful elsewhere, hehe). I prefer to park next to Taberna do’Gabriel II, dress in the parking lot, and walk down to cross the river.
The access is easy. Just walk down the stairs on the right side.
I recommend surfing close to the river on the left side or more in the middle. The right side has rocks; you must watch out for the current, which can be tricky.
Unfortunately, surf rentals are unavailable at this beach, so you must rent some in Aljezur or Arrifana before you come.
Little tip: The road between Monte Clerigo and Taberna do Gabriel II is great for a surf skate session. I very much recommend the sunset time! Wow, the view you get here is breathtaking.
Click here to check the forecast for this spot before you go.
2. Monte Clerigo (live webcam here)
Summer can be slightly busier with all the surf camps and schools. I recommend coming early, as during the high season, it is also challenging to find parking (for this reason, Amoreira is my number one choice).
You have a few snack bars nearby to grab a morning coffee or lunch after your session.
Compared with Amoreira, you can rent surf material across the street with Algarve Adventures.
Click here to check the forecast for this spot before you go.
3. Arrifana (live webcam here)
The beginner’s paradise! One of the best surf spots in the Algarve. Especially for those starting with the green waves. It’s well protected from wind, big swells, and sound waves for longboards.
It might get busier, especially on the weekends. Easy solution: wake up early and get in the water with the sunrise (you can catch up on your sleep after your session).
A significant advantage is that the rentals are available directly at the beach, so you don’t need to carry your board up the hill after a tiring session.
Click here to check the local surf forecast.
4. Bordeira (live webcam here)
Click here to check the forecast for this spot before you go.
5. Amado
It’s a fun spot to hide from the north wind. The cliffs protect you. Surf rental is available right at the beach, and on the top of the hill, you have a small cafe from which you can watch others’ success or grab some snacks.
Click here to check the forecast for this spot before you go.
6. Tonel
It is one of the best beginner’s options around Sagres, offering plenty of surf rentals. It’s a great choice if you don’t have a car to move around in. It is one of the few places you can reach by foot.
Click here to check the forecast for this spot before you go.
7. Mareta (live webcam here)
If the waves on the west coast get too huge, it’s a perfect hidden spot that offers an easy wave. You have ample parking nearby. If you decide to stay in Sagres, you don’t need a car to reach this one!
Click here to check the forecast for this spot before you go.
8. Praia de Faro (live webcam here)
The little piece of paradise. It offers fun waves and could be a very easy surf spot for you to progress. The best thing is that it’s not crowded. That’s where I’ve learned to surf and work since 2016.
All beginners love it. And the view! Meet me at AMAR Surfing Academia. 🙂
Click here to check the forecast for this spot before you go.
Thank you for taking the time!
I hope this makes your decisions a lot easier and gives you plenty of surf spots in the Algarve.
If you have any doubts or questions, please contact me via IG, Facebook, or email. I will be happy to connect with you, hear about your favourite spots and surf adventures, or meet on the line-up to share some waves.
You can learn more about how to read the forecast. Stay tuned, as more useful tools are coming soon. You can subscribe to my newsletter and get new updates directly to your email.
Have fun!
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