Ericeira
By DBP Adventures
11 October 2023
Updated 1
Ericeira, a charming coastal town located just 35 kilometers northwest of Lisbon, invites you to experience the perfect combination of a cozy atmosphere, enchanting beaches, world-class surfing opportunities, authentic local food, and a variety of shopping options. Welcome to a true seaside paradise!
Surfing and Beaches in Ericeira
Ericeira has gained international recognition as one of the world’s premier surf destinations and achieved the status of the first World Surfing Reserve in Europe and the second in the world in 2011. This recognition is due to the town’s unique coastline, impressive wave conditions, and its deeply rooted surf culture.
Famous surf beaches:
- Ribeira d’Ilhas is an iconic surf beach in Ericeira known for its consistent waves and beautiful surroundings.
- Coxos is another popular beach that attracts experienced surfers with its challenging and demanding waves.
The best surf beaches:
In addition to Ribeira d’Ilhas and Coxos, there are other fantastic surf beaches like Praia dos Pescadores, Praia do Sul, and Praia de São Lourenço. Each beach has its own unique features suitable for surfers of all levels and is perfect for spending the day sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.
Advice on the best times for surfing throughout the year:
For beginners, it’s best to surf in the summer when the waves are smaller and more forgiving. Experienced surfers can enjoy the fall and spring when the waves are larger and more powerful. Winter is best suited for experienced surfers due to the big waves.
We offer surf trips to Portugal all year round, and you can find them on our website under surf trips. We have our special family surf trip to Ericeira during the summer to experience more beginner-friendly waves.
Surf Events:
Ericeira hosts a variety of local and international surf events throughout the year. Some of these include competitions, surf camps, and festivals celebrating surf culture. It’s worth checking local updates and event calendars to participate in these exciting events.
Ericeira is a true surfer’s paradise, and its World Surfing Reserve status attests to its significance as one of the best places to experience this thrilling sport and its unique coastal environment. Surfing in Ericeira and the surrounding area caters to all skill levels, and you can always find the perfect wave for every level.
Cultural Dining Experiences in Ericeira
Local Specialties to Try: Ericeira is renowned for its excellent seafood. You can expect to taste freshly caught fish and seafood at local restaurants. “Bacalhau” (codfish) is one of Portugal’s most iconic dishes and comes in various preparations in Ericeira. A well-known local dessert, “Pastéis de nata,” are delicious cream tarts that are a must-try in Portuguese pastry. We recommend having a Pastéis de nata with a good cup of coffee after a great surfing session.
Ericeira offers a multitude of dining and hangout spots to suit various preferences. Here are some recommendations:
- Quicksliver boardriders – here, you’ll find good food, surf shopping, and a popular spot to hang out by the skate bowl.
- Furnas Restaurant – offers delicious fresh fish.
- Green is Good has a good selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes and delicious smoothie bowls.
Wines and Drinks: Try the local wines, including “Vinho Verde” and “Douro wines.” If you prefer something sweeter, “Ginjinha” is a traditional Portuguese liqueur made from sour cherries and brandy that you can also taste.
Ericeira offers excellent seafood, delightful desserts, and local beverages, all of which can be enjoyed at various dining establishments in the town. Of course, there are many different restaurants to choose from as well if you don’t prefer to eat Ericeira’s local cuisine.
Shopping in the Surf Town
Surf Shops:
The town boasts a plethora of surf shops offering a wide range of equipment and clothing for surf enthusiasts. Some well-known major surf shops include “58 Surf Shop” and “Boardriders.” At Boardriders, we suggest taking your time to relax, shop in the store, enjoy some of the delicious food they make, and simultaneously watch the talented local skaters in action on their skate ramp. You can also rent or buy a skateboard to try it out yourself. In these surf shops, you can expect to find everything from surfboards and wetsuits to accessories like wax, fins, and leashes. In Ericeira, you’ll also find a number of smaller surf shops that create a cozy surf atmosphere and have a pleasant vibe.
Local Markets:
Ericeira offers colorful local markets like the “Ericeira Municipal Market,” where you can purchase fresh local products such as fruits, vegetables, fish, and cheese. There are also craft markets like “Mercado das Artes” featuring unique handmade goods from local artists and craftsmen.
Unique Souvenirs:
To bring back a memento from Ericeira, consider buying items such as ceramics, textiles, jewelry, or local delicacies like Portuguese ceramics, handmade fishing nets, and a bottle of “Ginjinha” (Portuguese cherry liqueur). You can also find surf-related souvenirs like t-shirts, hats, and mementos from local surf shops.
Fashion and Lifestyle:
Ericeira reflects a laid-back beach lifestyle, and there are stores specializing in surf and beach fashion. You can also find local fashion boutiques offering Portuguese designs and textiles.
Ericeira is not just a surf destination but also a shopping paradise for both surf enthusiasts and those seeking local products and souvenirs. Whether it’s surf gear, fresh produce from the markets, or unique mementos, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to leave Portugal with something special to remember your journey.
In addition to the impressive surfing, gastronomy, and pleasures that Ericeira has to offer, there are also a number of spectacular sights in both the town and its surroundings. You can explore the heart of Ribeira or hike over the mountains from Foz do Lizandro to Sao Juliao. The landscape along the coast is incredibly beautiful and can be accessed from both ends. So, whether it’s a pure surf trip or a journey that combines a bit of everything, we highly recommend Ericeira.
Come with us, DBP Adventures, on a surf camp in Portugal and experience the magic of the town.
