Ericeira isn’t just any surf town; it’s a vibrant hub where adrenaline-charged waves meet laid-back charm.
Picture this: you wake up to the sound of waves, brew your coffee with the back door of your van wide open to the Atlantic breeze, and your biggest decision of the day is… beach break or point break?
Welcome to the magic of Portugal’s west coast — and there’s no better way to experience it than by van life, with a surfboard on the roof and Ericeira in your sights.
Whether you’re chasing waves or just chasing sunsets, Ericeira is a must for your Portuguese surf adventure. What was once a quiet seaside village is now a top-rated destination — and yet, it still keeps its fishing village soul and easygoing vibe.
With Atlantic Coast Campers, you get the keys to freedom — a fully equipped campervan and surf lessons that take you off the beaten track to where uncrowded waves are pumping.
Van Life in Portugal: The Ultimate Road Trip
Portugal was made for road trips. Imagine driving along winding coastal roads, stopping at golden beaches, cliffside viewpoints, and tiny surf towns that aren’t on the map. A campervan gives you the freedom to go where you want, when you want — with zero check-in/check-out stress and no fixed schedules.
Forget overpriced Airbnb’s or crowded hostels. With a campervan, you sleep right by the ocean, under the stars. Wake up early, slide open your van door, and the beach is your backyard. It’s spontaneous, affordable, and 100% vibes.
All our campervans (link extras) come fully loaded with everything you need: comfy beds, kitchen gear, outdoor shower, and space for your surfboards. All you have to bring is the spirit of adventure.
Tip: Check our extras to upgrade your trip with surf gear, portable showers, outdoor tables, and more.
Surfing in Ericeira – Europe’s Only World Surfing Reserve
Surfing in Ericeira is a dream come true for many. Whether it’s the gentle waves during summer season or epic winter swells, we know nothing can stop the obsessed from tracking down the best waves during their surf holiday.
Anywhere with a World Surf Reserve label is a must-visit surfing spot in our book. So why not head across to Ericeira. Just 40 minutes from Lisbon (or 30 from our base), this laid back beach town offers a number of surf spots suited to different experience levels, and it’s close to other hidden gems less crowded ( we’ll tell ya here 😊).
If you already surf, surfing in the iconic point break Ribeira D’ilhas is something that any surfer should do before dying! A world class righthand, with long waves pealing in front of a beautiful natural amphitheater.
Atlantic Coast Campers guests don’t just rent a van in Portugal — they create unforgettable road trip stories that goes beyond just getting a campervan to visit Portugal and catching waves. With thoughtful tips and connecting with our team, you can add a whole new level to your stay.
Imagine cruising through Ericeira’s charming streets or taking the scenic route along clifftops, catching the salty breeze on your face.
The surf culture in Ericeira is alive and buzzing. The narrow streets are lined with surf shops, cool cafés, live music bars, and the energy of stoked surfers from around the world. It’s not just about the waves — it’s about the lifestyle.
But here’s a little secret…
Surf Lessons in Santa Cruz – Escape the Crowds at Praia Azul
While Ericeira is a must-visit, many of our surf lessons take place just 25 minutes away — at the stunning Praia Azul, in Santa Cruz. Why? Because it’s peaceful, uncrowded, and just as epic.
Santa Cruz is a hidden gem. You can park your van literally in front of the beach, fall asleep to the sound of the ocean, and wake up ready to paddle out — with no traffic, no hassle, and no crowds. It’s the perfect spot for learning and progressing in a chill environment.
Our certified local instructors know the beach inside out. Whether you’re catching your very first wave or trying to perfect your turns, we tailor the lessons to your level. And after your session? Just relax on the sand, grab a bite from the beach café, or crack a cold one with your crew while the sun sets over the sea.
Explore our surf packages for full lesson details.
The Best of Both Worlds: Surf & Camper Freedom
With Atlantic Coast Campers, you get the best of both worlds — the surf culture and nightlife of Ericeira, and the peaceful wave-riding experience in a idyllic sandy beach – Praia Azul. Cruise between coastal villages, explore hidden beaches, and always sleep where the waves are.
Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups. Want to chase a swell north or explore the cliffs of Peniche? Go for it. Feel like a rest day soaking up the sun by your van? That’s the beauty of it — total freedom.
And if you’re traveling with friends or your partner, there’s nothing more memorable than sharing life on the road, cooking meals by the beach, and surfing together every day.
It’s an unbeatable chance to surf in one of Europe’s prime surf spots while experiencing the magic of Ericeira firsthand. Our guests have been loving it and do it all the time!
Local Tips: Where to Eat, Sleep & Chill in Ericeira
Let’s take a look at our top must-dos when visiting Ericeira, Portugal
Explore the world surf reserve
Currently, there are 11 World Surfing Reserves, with Ericeira established as the very first European reserve back in 2011.
Chosen for its high density of quality surf breaks and unique environment, Ericeira’s World Surfing Reserve covers a 4-kilometre stretch of coastline and seven separate surf zones, including famous waves like the Coxos and surfing beaches like Praia dos Pescadores.
Checking out the many cliffs, small bays, and surf breaks that fall within the reserve is a must.
Sample some of the freshest seafood in Europe
Portugal’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. This means that many of the best restaurants in Ericeira are seafood eateries where you can try grilled sardines, octopus salad or any one of the hundreds of dishes that feature cod (or bacalhau in Portuguese). So, trying out the regional cuisine is one of the most popular things to do in Ericeira, among our guests.
There are also fish markets to lose yourself in and local festivals to attend that celebrate Ericeira’s heritage as a fishing village. If you’re wondering why the seafood tastes so fresh, chances are it’s because your meal has only just been plucked from the ocean that morning. Hot tip: keep an eye out for daily seafood specials down by the harbour.
Skate Next to the Ocean
There aren’t many things that compare to the feeling of surfing, although skateboarding is about as close as you’ll get while on dry ground. If you consider yourself a skateboarder, then this is definitely one of the fun things to do in Ericeira. You’ll be pleased to know that Ericeira boasts one of the most picturesque skateparks in the world.
Located in downtown Ericeira, only a block from the ocean, is Boardriders Ericeira, a Quiksilver brand store with a bar, terrace, and an expansive concrete skate park that’s open to all ages and skill levels.
This spot provides a great place for those who want to try their luck at riding concrete instead of waves. From here, you can check what the waves are doing across the road at Matadouro and even take in the epic sunset.
Check out the Extravagant Portuguese Palace at Mafra
Between the excitement that comes with learning to surf and all the other awesome things there are to do in Ericeira, you may want to check out the little town of Mafra.
Mafra is just over 10km/6 miles from Ericeira village, the A21 national highway connects Ericeira right to Mafra. Be advised that there are tolls.
Mafra National Palace (Palácio de Mafra) is the town’s main site of interest. Tourists from all around Portugal travel from near and far to marvel at the Palace’s stunning architecture. The convent itself is also famed for its magnificent Baroque architecture and staggeringly beautiful basilica, replete with a complex carillon, which is a large mechanized musical instrument that plays church bells.
Mafra’s splendour is a testament to the incredible amount of wealth that resulted from Portugal’s colonization of Brazil as well as the autocratic rule of D. João V. Only a powerful, rich monarch could erect such a splendid, sumptuous structure as the Mafra National Palace in so little time – 13 years.
Once used as a secondary residence for the Portuguese royal family, the National Palace is a vast tract of land (Tapada de Mafra, beautiful woods if you’re more into nature) and includes as well a massive monastery and a decorative basilica, in addition to a library that’s estimated to house over 36,000 ancient texts. Before you ask – “”No, there aren’t any surf magazines within their library…” – we’ve already checked.
Enjoy the Nightlife like a Local
As the sun dips below the horizon, Ericeira transforms, buzzing with energy as locals and travellers come together to enjoy live music, great food, and good vibes.
Many of Ericeira’s bars and lounges offer live music throughout the week, providing the perfect backdrop for a casual evening out. Here, you can sip on expertly crafted cocktails, exchange surf tales, and soak in the atmosphere that makes the town so unique.
Beyond the live music scene, Ericeira boasts an incredible food landscape. The town is filled with great restaurants catering to all tastes, from vibrant vegan food to mouthwatering Portuguese classics. Picture yourself diving into dishes like bacalhau (salted codfish), grilled sardines, and hearty soups, all crafted with the freshest local ingredients.
The experience is heightened by Ericeira’s inviting venues, where inexpensive drinks, delicious food, and warm smiles guarantee a wonderful time. For all these reasons and more, a night out in Ericeira, Portugal, is one of our favourite things to do in this small village.
Food & Drinks Tip: Grab a fresh seafood dish at Tik Tapas, or go for veggie vibes at Dear Rose Café. For sunset beers and live tunes, check out Boardriders or Tubo Ericeira.
Spend some time at the Local Beaches
When you need a break from the nonstop action—whether it’s wine tours, surf lessons, or skateboarding—take a little time to unwind at one of Ericeira’s beautiful beaches and explore nearby surf shops.
Or, if you just got a surf rental after finishing our surf course, and want to put in practice what you learned on our surf lessons: free surf time!
Each year, surfers flock to the town of Ericeira for the waves just as much as for the dreamy vibes. This spot easily competes with the best of them as it caters to the world’s best surfers as well as intermediate surfers.
Intermediate should head to Foz do Lizandro at low-medium tide for a fun beach break wave. Catch either lefts or rights, while marveling at the stunning scenery. As one of the southern Ericeira beaches, it offers nice waves from low to mid-tide.
Skill level: Intermediate to Expert
The beach sits at the mouth of the Lizandro River, which creates a unique landscape with both river and ocean access, offering the perfect setting to stretch out with a book and enjoy the sea breeze.
But if you’re craving the energy of the town, Central Beach, AKA Praia do Sul, is Ericeira’s main beach and the place to soak up the local vibe. Framed by cliffs, this beach combines a lively scene with a sandy shore, ideal for both locals and tourists alike.
Elsewhere, if you’re looking for other beaches, there’s Matadouro Beach or Praia do Matadouro, a popular beach (and crowded!) located just north of Ericeira, Portugal. Known for its rugged coastline and consistent surf, it’s a favourite spot for surfers of various skill levels.
See Ericerira’s natural amphitheater from Ribeira d’ilhas beach — World-class right point break with panoramic cliff views. Be advised, it’s a rock bottom surf break with the odd sea urchins chilling under the waves 😊.
Day Trips: Explore the cliff trails of Cabo da Roca
Cabo da Roca — The westernmost point of mainland Europe. Just a short drive away, this dramatic viewpoint lets you stand at the edge of mainland Europe, surrounded by breathtaking cliffs and vast ocean views.
Wanna surf another spot?
Peniche — Another legendary surf spot just an hour north.
Best time of the year for learning to surf in Ericeira
- April–October: Ideal for beginners and intermediates. Warmer water, smaller swells.
- Winter: Bigger swells — better for advanced surfers. Don’t worry, we’ll guide you to the right spots, even if it’s your first time surfing.
Choosing the right surfboard & wetsuit
- Water temp: 17–22°C
- Recommended: 4/3mm wetsuit year-round
- Not sure what board to choose? We’ve got you covered with a full range and local advice at our base.
Check our surf extras to gear up before you go.
Surf with a Conscience
Traveling in a van is one of the most sustainable ways to explore. Less infrastructure, lower footprint. Respect nature, respect locals, and take your trash with you.
And you connect more deeply with nature. We encourage respectful, leave-no-trace travel.
Surfing is about moving with the ocean — not against it.
Hit the Waves and Learn to Surf
We can’t finish without talking about the number one reason why people gets one of our vans in Portugal and visit Ericeira – to catch some epic waves surrounded by good friends in a beautiful location.
With just about everything you need at your disposal, including wetsuits, surfboards, leashes and wax (link extras). In addition to decades of local knowledge, you should always be in the right place at the right time. Our surf lessons and activities (link surf packages) are the ground zero for good times and unforgettable surfing experiences.
Ready to turn your dream of visiting Ericeira, Portugal, into reality?
If you’re dreaming of salty hair, sunrise surf sessions, and freedom on four wheels, then it’s time. Book your Atlantic Coast Camper now, and add surf lessons to make your trip unforgettable.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or group of friends, this is your chance to ride waves, roam wild, and live the van life you’ve always imagined.
Start your surf road trip in Ericeira. Discover Santa Cruz. And never look back.
👉 Add surf lessons at Praia Azul
Moritz Surf Road Trip with Atlantic Coast Campers: “We loved our erratic routine of going for a dinner and some drinks in a nice restaurant and some fun party on the bars in Ericeira. Next day going to score some uncrowded waves on the surf lessons in Praia Azul, chill at the beach and repeat everything again. And off course, enjoying a beer on a sunset in many different spots! Thanks to the team at Atlantic Coast Campers”
