Olá! A warm welcome to all travellers that love sun, sea and seriously awesome hostels. This is your epic guide to the best surf hostels in Portugal. When a country offers up hostels dedicated to surfing enthusiasts and beginners alike, how could we resist?
Honestly, we love Portugal and we know you will, too.
It’s a top European destination to visit no matter your style. Solo travellers, couples, adults, party animals and 5 star hostel seekers – it’s all to be found in this corner of the world.
We also collected the absolute best hostels in Portugal for you to check out.
Alrighty, are you ready for outdoor swimming pools, stunning design, privacy-led dorms and easy access to the beach? Let’s go!
On the menu we have for you the following destinations hosting epic surf hostels in Portugal:
- Porto
- Peniche/Ferrel
- Ericeira
- Costa da Caparica (near Lisbon)
- Cascais (near Lisbon)
- Carcavelos (near Lisbon)
- Aljezur
- Lagos
- Sagres
We put all of the surf hostels Portugal has to offer on a map.
This map is here to help make your planning easier. It lists all of the above locations, with each surf hostel added to the map. Simply tick/untick areas you’re interested in visiting and find the best surf hostels in that area.
What else we cover in this guide:
- Map with all hostels
- How to book surf hostels in Portugal
- Flights to Portugal
- Promo codes and Discounts
List of the Best Surf Hostels in Portugal
Now we’ve got the details covered, let’s jump in to the juicy stuff.
We’ll start from the north of Portugal and make our way south.
This list includes everything from the best surf hostels, to the #1 surf hostel Lisbon and surf camps Portugal.
Best Surf Hostels in Porto
Is it a surprise to see Porto listed as a great surf destination? The best known surfing spot near the city is Praia Internacional do Porto.
As it’s so close to the city, this makes it an easy access beach.
We’ve found 3 great surf hostels in Porto for you to choose from:
Check out our full guide to the best hostels in Porto.
1. Douro Surf School (Porto)
The family at Douro Surf School are passionate about surf, sea and nature. They designed their hostel so that they could offer a unique experience of Porto to their guests.
This typical Portuguese building has had a facelift, renovated with surf soul and decor. It’s rad, man!
Great services include surf classes, wakeboard sessions, SUP and skate lessons.
Choose to sleep in one of the 3 cosy dorms, or opt for a private room. We love the common area that brings people together.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Fishtail Sea House (Porto)
Less than 10km north of Porto, in a fishing town named Matosinhos, is the wonderful Fishtail Sea House.
It’s a great choice if you don’t fancy being right in the middle of the city, yet super close to the waves.
This area is renowned for surfing, kite-surfing and diving.
In fact, stay here and you’ll be a mere 3 minute walk to Matosinhos International Beach!
Some inclusions are a breakfast, free wifi and linen & towels for everyone.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. Surfivor Porto Surf Hostel (Porto)
The Surfivor Porto Surf Hostel is open all year round and offers lesson for beginner and intermediate surfers.
This hostel is certainly in one of the best locations. It’s at the beach promenade in Foz do Douro, one of the city’s oldest and most beautiful quarters.
And look at all of these awesome things to join:
- Yoga for surfers – 2 free sessions each week
- Welcome BBQ on Mondays (wine, food & laughter)
- Guided tour of Porto
- Free use of skateboard & balance boards
Both shared dorms and private rooms are on offer. Common areas include a kitchen, library and living room.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
4. Golden Waves Surf & Yoga Lodge
Prepare for a life-changing event. The local surf instructors will be your trustworthy pals in the water and promote a safe approach to this watersport.
The villa’s exquisite interior and exterior will be your luxurious hideaway home. We designed a wonderful interior for the house and the guests. They provide private double rooms and family suites for families, luxury shared bedrooms and private suites for single travellers looking for a shared experience.
Unwind in our yoga lounge and enjoy 6 yoga sessions with foreign instructors and 6 surf lessons with local experts. You’ll ride your first wave and understand the surfer’s passion.
Compare prices and read reviews at: BookYogaRetreats
Around the areas of Peniche and Ferrel are some really great surf spots. Depending on your level will depend which one you head to. Peniche is know as the ‘wave capital’ of Portugal!
Supertubos Beach is the place to be in Peniche.
No worries, just speak with the staff at your favourite hostel. They’ll point you in the right direction!
Here are the best surf hostels in this area:
1. 33 Hostel (Ferrel)
33 Hostel is in fact a home to a beautiful family that go out of their way to make you feel welcome.
It’s easy to fall in love whilst you enjoy a family dinner with other travellers.
They also organise day trips to nearby towns and attractions, so don’t miss out. There’s even a pub crawl now and again!
Ask about surf lessons and how to reach the beaches of Almagreira, Pico da Mota and Baleal.
There’s a really good selection of mixed, female-only dorms and privates on-site.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Selina Peniche
Fancy mixing sandy feet with a luxurious sleep? That’s easily done if you choose to stay at Selina Peniche.
This Selina property offers all of the usual mod-cons and impressive design that suits a wide range of traveller types. We think couples and female solo travellers will especially like it here.
Look at just some of the highlights:
- CoWork space
- Cinema room
- Rooftop terrace & bar
- Outdoor swimming pool
Start the day with yoga and finish it with some live music and a cold drink. Sounds good, eh?
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Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Freesurf Camp & Hostel (Ferrel)
Why should you consider booking your stay with Freesurf Camp & Hostel? Maybe because of the…
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Surf lessons w/ certified teachers
- Sea views over Berlengas Island
- Free breakfast
It has a superb location, too.
Situated between Almagreira and Baleal beach, you’ll have sun, sea, surf and nightlife all on the doorstep. Yet it’s far enough away from the noise and bustle.
Shared dorms and private rooms are available here.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
4. Moniz Surf Lodge (Ferrel)
Let us just quickly mention how much we love the modern, bright design at Moniz Surf Lodge – what do you think?
The team here invite you to enjoy:
- Sunset surf sessions
- Cosy bonfires and BBQ evenings
- Community spirit at the lodge
Seasoned surfers can make use of the board and wetsuit storage, and daily transport to the local spots.
Beginners and intermediates can ask at reception about quality surf lessons on offer. Everyone wins!
Breakfast is included, reception is open 24/7 and it’s located a stone’s throw from Peniche Bay.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
5. Pineapple Surf House (Peniche)
Back in 2017 Pineapple Surf House opened its doors just 10-minutes from the famous Supertubos Beach.
Avoid the crowd; enjoy the beach.
When you’re not hitting the waves, relax at the hostel and enjoy an on-site bar, shared kitchen and a wonderful outdoor courtyard. Spot the pizza oven!
For a few extra euros you can enjoy a yummy breakfast.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Surf Hostels in Ericeira
Just 35km northwest of Lisbon is a seaside resort and fishing community named Ericeira. It also happens to be a brilliant spot for surfing!
The beaches in this area boast waves between 5 and 11ft high!
Foz do Lizandro, Pico do Futuro, Praia do Sul and Praia do Algodio are the best surf spots in this area of Portugal.
Let’s have a look at the surf hostels on offer:
- Chill in Ericeira Surf House
- Hostel & Surfcamp 55
- República Surfhouse
- Surf Vilas by Laneez Ericeira
- WOT Ericeira Surf Hostel
- Selina Boavista Ericeira
- Omassim Guesthouse
We also have a guide with more information: coolest surf hostels in Ericeira.
1. Chill in Ericeira Surf House (Ericeira)
If you stay with Chill in Ericeira Surf House you’ll never want to go home – true story from many that have stayed here!
This hostel has done seriously well to balance out epic experiences out on the waves, and a memorable, homely stay at the property.
From the windows you can see the village, best surf spots and the western point of Europe.
There are 15 double/twin rooms and 2 dorms on offer here, with a total of 50 people at one time.
Enjoy the outdoor courtyard, BBQ, free Wi-Fi and fun activities such as pub crawls and evening entertainment.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
2. Hostel & Surfcamp 55 (Ericeira)
For a more cosy option, we suggest staying at Hostel & Surfcamp 55.
Here they can accommodate a total of 22 guests in 7 thematic rooms that all boast a sea view!
Surf lessons, guiding and equipment rental is all available on-site.
The lounge area is a great place to hang out and use the free Wi-Fi after a big day at the beach.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. República Surf House (Ericeira)
Welcome to República Surf House; a hostel for surfers, by surfers. You’ll be in good hands here!
The team here offer surf lessons, massage, yoga, SUP paddle and daily surf reports.
What else?
- Living room with fireplace
- Shared kitchen
- Big garden w/ BBQ & hammocks
- Free Wi-Fi, cable TV
It’s just a 10-minute walk to the best surf spots, restaurants and great coffee shops.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
4. Surf Vilas by Laneez Ericeira
Everything at Surf Vilas by Laneez Ericeira has been thought out through the traveller’s eyes so that you can…
“…Come enjoy a little piece of heaven and recharge your batteries at one of the most beautiful homely places on earth. ”
You might be tempted to spend all day in the pool or in the sunny garden.
Just make sure you also ask the staff about surf lessons and yoga opportunities.
There’s a male-only dorm as well as a female-only – how cool is that? Cosy couples can also opt for gorgeous private rooms.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
5. WOT Ericeira Surf Hostel (Ericeira)
WOT Ericeira Surf Hostel is a brand new hostel spread over 3 floors, just 10-minutes from the beaches and restaurants.
This hostel is even part of our “best beach hostels worldwide” list.
There is so much to get excited for. Here’s a handy sum-up:
- Ocean view swimming pool
- Bar with sunset views
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Pool table, beer pong & board games
- Free breakfast
If that’s not enough, all dorm beds are privacy-pods, and every room comes with a private bathroom!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
6. Selina Boavista Ericeira & Surf Club
How about sleeping just minutes from three of the best beaches in the area? Selina Boavista Ericeira is located in a quiet street called Rua da Boavista not too far from the town center.
This hostel actually has its very own Surf Club offering plenty of guided surf lessons no matter what your level.
Prefer a relaxing day? Hang out by the pool or on the rooftop area instead!
There’s a wonderful range of family, shared dorms and private rooms here – something for everyone.
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Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
7. Omassim Guesthouse
Yoga helps balance the nerve system, body, and mind, and strengthens the lymphatic system. They offer Vinyasa Flow which is a mild form of Hatha Yoga that focuses on synchronising breath with postures. A calm yoga session lets you unwind and escape your busy daily routine.
Read: Best Beach Hostels in Europe
With the ground’s support, you can hold asanas for up to 7 minutes. You may relax your muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and psyche. Let your own breath guide you through a lesson full of relaxation.
You can also relax in their garden with a saltwater pool, sunchairs, and hammocks, or go along the shore and breathe in the atlantic air. Nothing is more calming than watching surfers catch the perfect wave.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | BookYogaRetreats
Best Surf Hostels in Costa da Caparica
Let’s now move on to Costa da Caparica which is located in the municipality of Almada. It’s also less than 20km from Lisbon.
Read: our full guide to the best hostels in Lisbon
Some of the most gorgeous surf hostels Portugal has to offer are here.
We also have a dedicated guide to the best surf hostels in Lisbon.
1. Vila Maria Hostel (Costa da Caparica)
Comfortable and cosy, Vila Maria Surf House by HOST-POINT is without doubt a top choice for surf, beach and fantastic views.
If walking 4-minutes to the beach sounds like too much, just laze by the outdoor pool instead. Tough choice.
And you’re going to love the dorm beds! They’re privacy-led and made from super sturdy wood.
In the garden area there is a hammock, outdoor seating and a huge grassy area to lounge on.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Kali Vice Surf Villa (Costa da Caparica)
You’re going to want to stay at Kali Vice Surf Villa. Why?
- On-site bar & restaurant
- Rooftop area
- Surf board hire
- 10 mins from the beach
There’s also a great range of rooms. From 4-bed mixed dorms to twin, double and suites with private bathrooms.
Check out the affordable meal deals on offer during your stay.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
Best Surf Hostels in Cascais
The area of Cascais is just west of Lisbon, and roughly a 40-minute drive or train ride to the city.
Some of the best surf hostels Portugal has to offer are right here:
- Nice Way Cascais & Surf Camp
- Free Spirit House Cascais – Surf & Yoga Retreats (closed)
1. Nice Way Cascais & Surf Camp (Cascais)
Who’s keen for an outdoor swimming pool and pod-style dorm beds?
Nice Way Cascais & Surf Camp has a team of locals eager to settle you in. This is supported by the…
- Thematic dinners 3x a week
- Burgers & ‘light meals’ @ the bar
- Music playing in the garden
- Surf lessons
Everything you need is within a short walking distance from here.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
CLOSED: Free Spirit House Cascais – Surf & Yoga Retreats (Cascais)
The thing is, there doesn’t seem to be anything Free Spirit House doesn’t offer.
Yoga, surf lessons, outdoor pool, bar, Sintra tours – just some of the things you can expect to enjoy.
Super cool: there is a male-only dorm alongside a female-only.
It’s located just minutes from epic beaches, great nightlife and the historic sights you’ll certainly want to see.
Best Surf Hostels in Carcavelos: Carcavelos Surf Hostel
Carcavelos is just 12km outside of Lisbon, which makes it a great destination to enjoy the beach and the city.
There is one main beach here, so choosing a surf spot is easy.
As for where to stay, that’s easy: Carcavelos Surf Hostel.
This big house is just 150 metres from Carcavelos beach, and it’s a cosy stay with a maximum of 26 people.
The team here offer surf lessons for all levels, equipment for hire and safe storage for your surf material.
Oh and there happens to be a big swimming pool in the garden.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Surf Hostels in Aljezur: HI Arrifana Destination Hostel
Aljezur is in the Faro region of southern Portugal. And Praia da Arrifana is a great year round surf spot!
HI Arrifana Destination Hostel is the one and only hostel you’re going to need.
The surf is awaiting you just 5-minutes down the road.
Fill up on a free (yet simple) breakfast, and return for an afternoon dip in the outdoor pool before treating yourself to an affordable dinner on-site.
Wi-fi, linen and parking are included for everyone.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Surf Hostels in Lagos
Right down on the south coast of Portugal’s Algarve Region is Lagos. It’s a gorgeous mix of walled old town, cliffs and Atlantic beaches.
The cool thing about staying in Lagos is you get to enjoy the beautiful city, and still be close to the surf.
Read: our full guide to the best hostels in Lagos.
We searched high and low and found these great accommodation options:
1. Bura Surfhouse (Lagos)
Bura Surfhouse offers the comforts of a home, yet still close enough to the town centre, beaches and nightlife.
Solo travellers will have an easy time meeting people when they’re not out surfing.
That’s thanks to the:
- Outdoor pool & poolside bar
- Rooftop terrace w/ sunset views
- Affordable nightly dinners
- Wrap around balcony
The team also organise surf lessons, yoga, wine tasting and other fun activities.
Good To Know: If you want to surf, relax and do yoga, you can join 7 Day Surf, Wine, and Yoga Holiday in Lagos.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | BookYogaRetreats
2. Quinta Bonita
This family-run hotel overlooks Lagos and Praia da Luz bays. The grounds include multilevel sun patios and a heated pool.
Quinta Bonita has free WiFi and air-conditioned rooms. Each granite bathroom has an organic bathrobe and underfloor heating.
Breakfast includes organic orchard fruit and locally made bread. Quinta Bonita Hotel offers daily lunches and weekly dinners, including a protected BBQ area.
The grounds contain cobblestone walks, fountains, and a gigantic chess set. When it’s cold, visitors may enjoy free tea and cake by the library fireplace.
The owners hire cars and bikes and propose restaurants and tours. 10-minute drive from Lagos and Praia da Luz Beach.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | BookYogaRetreats
Best Surf Hostels in Sagres
And last but not least, let’s venture to Sagres and check out some awesome surf hostels in Portugal.
They are:
1. Algarve Surf Hostel Sagres
This large villa has had some renovations to kick start 2020 including customised beds and double-glazed windows.
Algarve Surf Hostel Sagres offers every guest a free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
In the outside area you’ll find a BBQ area, tables and lounging area perfect for some afternoon beers.
It’s the staff that really stand out at this hostel. And the fact that the beach is just a few minutes away by foot!
Read: coolest surf hostels in the Algarve
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Sagres Sun Stay – Surf Camp & Hostel (Sagres)
We love the bright and quirky design of Sagres Sun Stay!
Amenities such as a T-shaped swimming pool and a bar really boost the likelihood of choosing to stay here.
There are three dorms for 6, 8 and 12 people. Though the twin rooms seriously win as they include heated floors, ensuite bathroom and breakfast.
Good To Know: If you want to surf, relax and do yoga, you can join 8 Day/7 night Relaxing Yoga Experience in Sagres, Faro.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | BookYogaRetreats
3. Wavesensations – Sagres Surf House (Sagres)
Wavesensations means:
“the road to paradise, a surfing spot in Algarve where lovers of water sports and adventure will find both adrenaline and peace.”
This surf house is a mere 600m from the beach. Investing in surf lessons here is a great investment and not one to regret.
Each morning starts with a free buffet breakfast. After a surf day, watch the sunset from the terrace or take a yoga session in their yoga dome.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
My Best Hostels in Portugal for Female Traveler on a Map + Sights
As promised, here is a map with all of the mentioned surf hostels pinpointed under their relevant destination.
We always find maps handy for getting to know a country. We hope you’ll find this useful, too.
Handy tip: Simply tick/untick areas you’re interested in visiting and find the best surf hostels in that area.
(Open the full map here)
How to Book Surf Hostels in Portugal?
In every destination guide and review we give you the different options to book. We are not a booking platform, and we will help you to book in a smart and safe way.
For the hostels in this guide we give you the most popular booking platforms, and ways to get better prices. The websites are:
- Booking.com
- Hostelworld.com
- Airbnb (yes, we found some nice hostels in Airbnb too!)
Read our guide on how to book hostels (with websites to use). Here’s our guide on how to book with Hostelworld.
Any Discounts?
From time to time, I receive special promo codes for booking platforms, hotels, or hostels. I will be sharing these here once received. Bookmark this page to get an update.
How to book?
The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.
I included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
I recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Portugal best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.
Summary: Best Surf Hostels in Portugal
Now, we would love to help.
Obviously we tried to make this hostel guide for surf hostels Portugal as useful as possible. Yet, we are humans and you may have questions we did not think about.
Perhaps we missed an epic surf hostel that deserves to be in this list?
So, let us know!
Just drop us a line and we will get back to you asap.
Happy surfing!
– – –
pin it now, read it later
CLOSED: The Surf Embassy Hostel (Peniche)
Update: The Surf Embassy Hostel has permanently closed its doors.
For all those that seek the soul surfing lifestyle, you’re going to love it at The Surf Embassy Hostel.
Indeed it does have a surf-theme throughout the property and it’s just a 12-minute wander to the beach.
Qualified instructors are eager to take you for a surf lesson and get you trying Stand Up Paddle and scuba diving.
Just ask the friendly staff when you’d like a lift to the beach in their super cool 1968 surf van!
Other perks include free Wi-Fi, a fully equipped kitchen and living room with patio and balcony. Sorted.
CLOSED: Blue Boutique Hostel & Suites (Cascais)
Update: This hostel permanently closed its doors in 2020.
The 5 storey Blue Boutique Hostel & Suites offers
“outdoor terraces, indoor and outdoor bars, wonderful balconies, a relaxing garden for a sunset chill out and 24 hour reception service.”
There’s also:
- Free breakfast
- Home cooked meals
- Games area
- Surf lessons
Family rooms, female-only dorms and large 12-bed mixed dorms are on the menu.
CLOSED: Sea for Yourself Hostel (Costa da Caparica)
Update: This hostel has closed. We’ve kept this content here for your information.
What a cool hostel name, and certainly something you want to listen to.
Book a stay and Sea for Yourself why this is a top choice if you love posh design and easy beach access.
Sign up for a surf lesson and then head back to chill by the pool in the afternoon.
Make use of the shared kitchen, free bicycle rental and complimentary breakfast each morning.
CLOSED: Algarve Surf Hostel Lagos
Update: This hostel has closed. We’ve kept this content here for your information.
Located in the more peaceful part of town, Algarve Surf Hostel…
“…find the right mix between having a fun house, and also being able to get up in the morning to adventure or surf all day!”
Just ask the friendly staff about surf lessons and other watersports in the area.
You’re also really going to enjoy the outdoor swimming pool and cosy privacy-bunks in the shared rooms. These guys know what they’re doing.
