Top 5 beaches for beginner surfers in algarve

Hey, wave chasers! If you’re dreaming of catching your first waves on a pristine beach with a salty breeze, you’re in luck! Algarve, Portugal’s southern gem, is home to some of the best surfing beaches for beginners. Whether you’re taking your first steps on a surfboard or looking for a relaxing surf trip, this coastal paradise has it all. As your friendly hosts at Algarve Watersport, we’re here to share our top picks and tips to make your surfing adventure unforgettable!

Praia da Arrifana is another must-visit beach on your surf tour in Algarve. Set in a beautiful bay, the beach offers gentle waves and unique scenery, making it a favorite among both beginner and experienced surfers. The variety of wave conditions suits all skill levels, providing a great learning ground for newcomers to the sport.

The beach’s variety of breaks, from mellow point breaks to beach breaks, helps beginners experience different types of waves and improve their overall surfing abilities. Praia da Arrifana is the best to visit on high tide with waves over 0.8 meters.

Praia da Arrifana’s stunning backdrop includes dramatic cliffs and clear waters, enhancing the overall surfing experience and providing opportunities for capturing beautiful memories. The beach also offers a range of amenities such as beachside cafes, restaurants, and parking facilities, making it an accessible and enjoyable destination.

With relatively consistent surf conditions, Praia da Arrifana provides suitable waves year-round for beginners, allowing them to progress steadily in their surfing journey. This beach is a perfect spot for beginners to soak up the natural beauty while building their surfing skills.

*Surf Tip:* The beach has a rocky shoreline so stick to clear paths to avoid sharp rocks. To stay comfortable in the chilly water, a wetsuit is a must, and consider a quick warm-up on the beach to make your surf more enjoyable. As for the limited space, hit the waves early to beat the crowds and have more room to practice. After your surf session the bar “Ti Raul” is a must-see.

Located in Lagos, Meia Praia is one of the largest beaches in the Algarve, offering plenty of room for surfers to spread out. The open coastline provides consistent surf conditions and a variety of waves for newcomers to practice their skills. Check out the live situation here.

The best conditions to visit Meia Praia are usually when there are waves from the southeast after strong Levante winds in Tarifa. However, the waves typically last for only 2-3 days, and the beach often accumulates a lot of seaweed. Also, keep in mind that when the waves are over a meter and a half, you can surf at Meia Praia at any tide, otherwise it only works at low tides.

The spacious beach offers room for surfers, allowing beginners to learn without feeling crowded even during peak seasons. The gentle beach break creates waves that are perfect for those new to surfing.

*Surf Tip:* Don’t forget to take a wetsuit with you since the water in Portugal stays pretty cold all year round. Book a lesson with us to have an all inclusive experience and get a head start on your surfing journey!

Porto de Mós is a stunning beach located just outside Lagos. This beautiful setting makes it one of the most scenic beaches in the Algarve and an excellent spot for both surfing and soaking in the natural beauty.

One of the standout aspects of Porto de Mós is its relatively calm surf conditions, thanks to the shelter provided by the cliffs. This creates a more calm experience in the water, ideal for beginners who want to focus on improving their surfing technique. We suggest you visit this specific beach when the waves are big on the west coast or when the swell is from the west. It usually works at low tide unless the waves are too big. The beach is also easily accessible by car or on foot from Lagos, with limited parking available nearby.

Overall, Porto de Mós combines the perfect blend of natural beauty, manageable waves, and convenience, making it a top choice for beginner surfers in the Algarve. Whether you’re catching your first wave or enjoying the coastal scenery, Porto de Mós is a must-visit beach for any surf fan.

*Surf Tip:* There’s a right hand reef brake with consistent waves, but watch out because there are rocks underneath.

Praia da Amoreira, located near the town of Aljezur, is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscape. The beach is surrounded by sand dunes and features a tranquil lagoon that flows into the ocean, creating a unique and serene environment.

For beginner surfers, Praia da Amoreira offers smaller, gentle waves that provide a safe and welcoming introduction to the sport. The nearby river creates a dynamic surfing experience, offering a mix of freshwater and saltwater environments. This natural blend provides a touch of variety to your surf session, making Praia da Amoreira a versatile destination. The best time to surf there is on higher tide. Its important to know that around a wave energy over 200KJ its complicated to paddle out, as also there is not a defined current.

In addition to its excellent surf conditions for beginners, Praia da Amoreira is an ideal spot for beach lovers who appreciate unspoiled landscapes and tranquil settings. The beach is relatively untouched by development, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the surroundings.

Praia da Amoreira’s combination of gentle waves, scenic beauty, and tranquil atmosphere makes it a top choice for beginner surfers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re new to surfing or looking for a peaceful retreat, this beach offers a memorable and enjoyable experience.

*Surf Tip:* If you take the drive on the Aljezur road and cross the river, then follow Google Maps to Paraiso do Mar, you won’t need to climb to reach Amoreira Beach. If you take the other road though to the other side, you will have to climb to reach the beach, but you’ll also have easier access to other nearby beaches.

Monte Clérigo is a captivating beach nestled near the town of Aljezur in the western Algarve, known for its untouched natural beauty and charming, laid-back vibe. The beach is renowned for its consistent, gentle waves, making it an ideal destination for beginner and intermediate surfers to hone their skills in a safe and welcoming environment.

The beach’s sandy break offers excellent conditions for learning to surf, with a range of wave sizes to suit various experience levels. Keep in mind though that for beginners its easier to visit on higher tide. Additionally, Monte Clérigo’s coastal landscape features dramatic rocky outcrops and cliffs, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your surfing adventure and a serene atmosphere for relaxation.

Visitors to Monte Clérigo can also enjoy exploring the diverse marine life and tide pools at low tide. The beach’s unspoiled nature attracts wildlife enthusiasts who appreciate observing a variety of bird species and marine creatures.

Amenities at Monte Clérigo include beachside cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine and refreshments while taking in the stunning ocean views. The beach is easily accessible by car, but parking can be limited during peak times, so arriving early is recommended.

For those seeking a less crowded and more peaceful surfing experience, Monte Clérigo is a top choice in the Algarve. Its environment, combined with consistent surf and scenic beauty, make it a must-visit destination for surfers and nature lovers alike.

*Surf Tip:* Be cautious of strong currents.

So, there you have it, friends! The Algarve is a dream destination for beginner surfers throughout the months of June to September, offering a variety of beautiful beaches and surf conditions to suit your needs. Whether you’re in the mood for serene landscapes or lively beach towns, you’re sure to find your perfect surf spot here. On the other hand, if you believe surfing is only for the young and athletic, it’s time to reconsider. Many individuals begin surfing in their 30s, 40s, and even later in life. We wholeheartedly agree that age should not be a barrier—if surfing is your passion, you can start at any age.

Ready to hit the waves? Join us at Algarve Watersport for an unforgettable surf experience! We’ll provide you with all the gear and tips you need to make your surfing dreams come true. See you on the water!