Ericeira: 5-Day Beginner Surf Course

If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave in Portugal, the Ericeira 5-Day Beginner Surf Course promises a comprehensive and fun introduction to the sport. Operated by Progress Surf School, this program is tailored for newcomers to surfing who want quality instruction in a relaxed environment. The course offers personalized guidance with small groups, all necessary equipment, and even optional photo and video coaching to help you improve your technique. At $266 per person, it strikes a balance between affordability and quality, especially given the inclusiveness of transport, insurance, and equipment.

What really makes this experience shine is the dedication of the instructors—many reviews rave about the patience and professionalism of guides like João and Miguel—and the convenience of hotel pickup in Ericeira, saving you from logistical headaches. I love the fact that each session blends theory and hands-on practice, making sure you’re not just riding waves blindly but understanding the basics of paddling, positioning, and timing. Plus, the optional photo and video review feels like having your own personal coach analyzing your every move, which is invaluable for progress.

A minor consideration is that surfing is heavily dependent on natural conditions—wind, tide, and waves. If the surf isn’t perfect on a given day, you’ll need a little patience, but the staff does their best to optimize the experience. This course is a fantastic pick for those who value small-group instruction, safety, and the chance to genuinely learn a new sport in one of Europe’s top surf spots.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Small group size (max 4-5 students) ensures personalized attention from experienced instructors.
• All-inclusive package covers surfboard, wetsuit, boots, insurance, and transport, offering great value.
• Optional photo/video coaching helps you analyze and improve your technique with professional feedback.
• Hotel pickup in Ericeira simplifies logistics, so you can focus solely on learning.
• The course is designed for beginners and those looking to improve, blending theory and practice.
• Weather and wave conditions can vary, so some days might be better suited for learning than others.

The Learning Environment and Instruction Quality

What I find most appealing about this 5-day course is how personalized it is. With no more than five students per instructor, you won’t be lost in the crowd. You’ll get a chance to ask questions, receive tailored advice, and build confidence as you progress. The guides—like João—are described as patient and encouraging, which makes a big difference when you’re just starting out.

The blend of theory and practice ensures you’re not just blindly paddling out and hoping for the best. Instead, you’ll learn how to read the waves, position yourself, and paddle efficiently. The optional photo and video feedback is a bonus that many reviews mention fondly, with guests saying it significantly boosted their understanding and performance.

The Convenience of All-Inclusive Pricing and Transportation

One of the biggest perks is that transportation to and from the beach is included. This is especially helpful in Ericeira, where surf spots can be spread out and parking might be tricky. The all equipment (board, wetsuit, boots) provided means you don’t need to worry about packing gear or shelling out extra for rentals. Plus, the price of $266 covers insurance, offering peace of mind in case of minor mishaps.

This package offers solid value—for less than the cost of a couple of private lessons elsewhere, you get a full week of instruction, gear, transport, and safety coverage. That makes it a practical choice for travelers wanting to dip their toes into surfing without breaking the bank.

The Natural Variability and Flexibility

A key consideration is that surfing depends heavily on natural conditions. Some days might be perfect, and others less ideal. The staff do their best to work around the forecast, but you might find that some sessions are more productive than others. However, this variability is part of the sport and adds an element of unpredictability that keeps things exciting.

Who Will Love This Experience

This course is ideal for beginners or those looking to build confidence in a supportive setting. If you’re traveling with friends or family who want to learn to surf in a relaxed environment, this is a great option. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer small groups for more personalized guidance. Keep in mind that the focus is on foundational skills—not advanced tricks—making it perfect for first-timers.

Each day’s session lasts about 1.5 hours, which is enough time to practice without getting exhausted. The program is designed to gradually build your skills:

• Day 1 introduces the basics of paddling, positioning, and safety. Expect to spend time on land understanding wave dynamics and ocean safety tips. Many reviews highlight the friendly, encouraging approach of the instructors, which helps ease first-time nerves.

• Day 2 and 3 focus on catching your first waves. You’ll start with small, manageable swells in a controlled environment, gaining confidence with each session. The instructors often provide individual tips—like how to position yourself or paddle more efficiently—that make a real difference.

• Day 4 and 5 aim to refine your technique, catch more waves, and maybe even ride a few longer. The optional video review becomes particularly valuable as you compare your early attempts with your more confident rides by the end of the course.

Throughout the week, instructors like João emphasize safety first, always ensuring you’re comfortable and confident before heading into more challenging waves. The small group setting allows for personalized feedback, which reviews suggest is a highlight.

What You’ll Need to Bring

You should pack a change of clothes, towel, and sunscreen—essentials for any day at the beach. The equipment provided is of good quality, and many reviews mention how comfortable wetsuits and boards are, even for larger body types.

Who It’s Best for

This course suits adventurous spirits eager to learn a new skill, fitness enthusiasts, or families wanting a safe, guided introduction to surfing. It’s less suited for those seeking luxury or private coaching—but for most, the small-group, multi-day format offers excellent value.

In short, this 5-day course offers a solid foundation for anyone wanting to learn surfing in Portugal’s renowned Ericeira. It’s especially worthwhile if you appreciate small groups, experienced guides, and all-in-one pricing. The inclusion of photo and video coaching adds an extra layer of benefit that helps you see your progress, which is invaluable when you’re just starting out.

While natural conditions might mean some days are more productive than others, the overall experience promises fun, safety, and real skill development. It’s a great way to turn a beach holiday into a memorable adventure that could turn you into a lifelong surfer.

If you’re prepared for a week of physical activity, enjoy learning in a friendly environment, and love the idea of progressing from novice to confident rider, this course is a fantastic choice. It balances value, professionalism, and the chance to take home a new skill—plus, you’ll get a good dose of Portugal’s famous surf culture.

Is transportation to the beach included?
Yes, the course includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Ericeira, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

What equipment is provided?
All necessary gear—surfboard, wetsuit, and boots—is included, ensuring you don’t have to bring or rent anything extra.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts unexpectedly.

Is the course suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. This course is designed specifically for those new to surfing or looking to build foundational skills with expert guidance.

What language are the instructors?
Guides speak both English and Portuguese, making communication accessible for most travelers.

How long are each lesson?
Each session lasts about 1.5 hours, carefully timed to balance learning and physical exertion.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Just a change of clothes, towel, and sunscreen—everything else is provided, and the staff recommend bringing a sense of adventure and patience.

If you’re after a well-organized, beginner-friendly surfing experience in Ericeira, this 5-day course ticks all the right boxes. Just remember, as much as the instructors teach, a lot of your success depends on natural wave conditions—so a dash of patience and a big smile are your best companions.