FlightHub’s Tales: Surf in Lisbon

Not many people often associate Portugal with surfing. Correction: no lay-man (or lay-surfer) ever thought they could be catching waves off the shores of one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. But in Lisbon, you can do that and much more if you’re determined to catch the best wave of the day. FlightHub reviews the best spots and schools that’ll let you boogie your way onto those sweet Atlantic waves.

Check with your Hotel or Hostel

More often than not, your accommodations do more for you than just give you a place to rest your weary bones at night. Many establishments offer excursions or pre-planned weekly activities to excite their guests and have them explore the city they’re visiting. More often than not, the weekly activities will include surf lessons (as they did at the Independent Hostel, in Lisbon (below)). For about €30, you get a surf lesson with two instructors, plus three hours of playing in the ocean. FlightHub understands that this may be a little steep for some (especially dedicating this many funds to only one activity), the price is worth it when you factor in board and suit rentals, transportation, and lessons (because you’ve never surfed before).

You’re dedicated to the surf life

Forget about excursions, you planned your trip entire trip as a surfapalooza. Whether you booked your stay at the Surfinn Lisbon Surf Hostel & Surf School (below), or decided to go rogue and just rent your gear from a local shop, you’re determined to spend almost every waking moment blowing salt water out of your nose. Prices for these establishments are dependent on the season, naturally being more expensive during the seasons and the summer rather than the winter. Surf schools get you in the water every day, with lessons both in the morning and afternoon. This is an excellent option for those wishing to dedicate their time and aching muscles to surfing with proper instructors.

When’s the best time to go?

Summer is obviously a great time to visit Lisbon as it’s hot and the Atlantic water is cool against your skin. Swells brought in from the Northwestern Atlantic means that the water is cold all year round, and with an average temperature of 30°c during the day, the first thing you’re going to want to do when you get to the beach is run head first into the water. Depending on where you go and how the beach is situated in contrast the bays and other landscapes, waves and surf conditions can vary. Wetsuits are typically required year-round in the water, and waves can range between 2.5-7ft in height throughout high and low season. They may not be the big wave surfing that makes legends out of mere mortals, but these suckers will pound you if you fall off your board.

How to stay safe

No matter if you’re a novice surfer, or one that’s been around the block a few times, FlightHub encourages you to adhere to safety procedures while surfing is important at all times. Remember that you’re not the only one in the water, and so you should respect the space and ability of those around you. Always respect the parameters your surf guide tells you, and try not to swim too far out of the water. Remember that it takes a lot of energy to paddle away from the shore, and even more to paddle back.

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