Europe's Only World Surfing Reserve

Ericeira Surf

8km of coastline. 7 world-class breaks. 300+ surf days a year. This is the most consistent surf in Europe.

Photo by Jarno Colijn
01 - Overview

Why Ericeira

In 2011, Ericeira became Europe's first - and still only - World Surfing Reserve, joining Malibu on a very short global list. The designation protects 4km of coastline between Pedra Branca to the south and Praia de São Lourenço to the north, encompassing seven world-class breaks that work on almost any swell direction.

The waves are powered by the open Atlantic, with consistent swells from the northwest all year. Water temperatures range from 14°C in winter to 18°C in summer. The coast faces west, meaning offshore winds on easterly days - which in Portugal means most of the year.

02 - The Breaks

The Lineup

01
Coxos
Reef Break
Portugal's best right-hand reef break. A fast, hollow wave that barrels over a shallow rock shelf. Heavy, powerful, and not for beginners. Works best on medium northwest swells with east winds. The paddle out alone will test you.
02
Ribeira d'Ilhas
Point Break
The jewel of Ericeira. A long, peeling right-hander that hosts WSL events. Works on any swell size, making it accessible to intermediates while still delivering performance-grade walls on bigger days. The most consistent wave in the reserve.
03
Pedra Branca
Reef Break
A powerful left and right peak breaking over a rock reef. Named after the white rock visible at low tide. Short, intense rides with barrel sections. Best at mid to high tide with a solid northwest swell.
04
Reef
Reef Break
Right in front of Ericeira town. A versatile reef break with multiple peaks offering both lefts and rights. Popular with locals and easily accessible - you can check it from the cliffs above while drinking coffee.
05
Crazy Left
Reef Break
One of the best lefts in Portugal. A fast, hollow wave that breaks along a rocky ledge. Needs a solid swell to work but when it does, it's world-class. Sharp reef makes it experts-preferred.
06
Foz do Lizandro
Beach Break
The go-to for beginners and longboarders. A wide sandy beach at a river mouth with mellow waves and multiple peaks. Surf schools operate here daily. Also one of the best sunset spots on the coast.
07
São Julião
Beach Break
A powerful beach break south of the reserve that picks up more swell than the northern spots. Wide beach, strong currents, and punchy waves. Good for intermediate surfers looking for empty peaks.
2011
World Surfing Reserve
8km
of Coastline
300+
Surf Days / Year
14-18°C
Water Temperature
03 - Practical Info

Before You Paddle Out

Gear

What to Bring

3/2mm wetsuit for summer, 4/3mm for winter. Booties recommended October–April. Board rental available everywhere in town - expect to pay €15-25/day.

Etiquette

Respect the Lineup

Locals surf these breaks daily and have deep respect for the ocean. Don't drop in, don't snake, and if you're unsure about a break - watch from the cliff first. Coxos has a strict local hierarchy.

Safety

Know Your Level

The reef breaks are serious. Sharp rocks, strong currents, and powerful waves. Start at Foz do Lizandro or Ribeira d'Ilhas on smaller days. The cliffs make it easy to assess conditions before committing.

Live

Surf Forecast & Webcams

Check today's wave height, swell period, wind direction, and watch live beach cams before you paddle out.

Compare & Book

Book a surf lesson in Ericeira

Group and private lessons and multi-day courses from local schools, with reviews, live prices and free cancellation on most.

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04 - Go Deeper

More on Ericeira Surf

Learn

Surf Schools

Beginner lessons, intermediate coaching, and ISA-certified instructors at Ericeira's best surf schools.

Stay & Surf

Surf Camps

Week-long packages with daily coaching, accommodation, and the best waves in Europe.

Plan

Weather & Seasons

Month-by-month breakdown of air and water temperatures, swell patterns, and the best time to visit.

Book

Book a Surf Lesson

Group and private lessons and multi-day courses from local schools, with reviews and free cancellation on most.