With beaches for different levels on either side of the town, Sagres surf is up there with the best in Portugal. It’s probably best suited to a decent intermediate but can also work for complete beginners, mainly because of the quality of the surf camps. A car here will give you access to the whole Algarve – especially those west coast gems! This guide reveals the top spots, the best places to stay, and more…
An introduction to Sagres surf
The unique geography of Sagres makes it a haven for all levels of surfers.
The town straddles a high headland that pokes into the Atlantic Ocean at the far southern end of Portugal. On one side, you’ve got the relatively calm waters of the Algarve. On the other, the open ocean pumps swells over reefs, rocks, and beaches alike.
Splitting its spots between two sections of sea like this means there’s usually something working no matter the season. And something to suit no matter your level.
Surfing in Sagres for beginners is more popular on the southern beaches of Martinhal and Mareta, for example. Meanwhile, the more exposed bay of Tonel has waves for intermediates and experts. Plus, if it’s northerly then the Algarve’s south-facing sands will be offshore. If it’s easterly, then you can drive up to find beaches that face west. Options, options.
Let’s also not forget that the town is perched right on the edge of the nation, in one of the country’s sunniest, most beautiful regions. It’s got upcoming surf schools, lovely villas, and a laid-back Mediterranean vibe to it. It’s hardly a surprise it’s become something of the de facto capital for those surfing Algarve waves season after season.
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This is a part of our greater guide to surfing Portugal and surfing in the Algarve
Surfing in Sagres at a glance
The good:
The bad:
What you’ll find in this guide
Where is Sagres?
Pull out your map of Portugal. You see where the country sort of pokes its toe into the Atlantic Ocean on its far south-western edge? That’s pretty much exactly where you’ll find Sagres.
The geography alone should be enough to show just how awesome the surfing in Sagres is. You’ll find waves of different sorts to the north and the east (which we’ll take a closer look at later).
Crucially for surf-travelers, Sagres sits at the end of the N268 road. That’s the road that links up all the main beach towns on the Costa Vicentina – Arrifana, Vila do Bispo, Carrapateira. That makes it a fantastic – like, the best – end point of surf road trips out of Lisbon!
The best Sagres surf spots
There are two main breaks within walking distance of the town center itself. However, it’s common for any surf camp in Sagres to make use of the whole medley of different spots that line the coast to the north and west. They range from exposed ocean points with the potential to get BIG to pulsing beach breaks with golden sand and beginner-friendly swells. Let’s take a look at the lot…
West coast surf spots (the harder side)
The western side of Sagres is the coast that faces the Atlantic. This is where you’re likely to do most of your surfing because it’s the coast that gets the consistent NW-W swell across a 180-degree window.
You’ll hear us say this over and over again, but one of the real joys of Sagres is the fact that it’s a fantastic base for exploring the bazillions of breaks that dot the shoreline going north. It’s the reason we usually recommend plumping for a car hire if you’re not on an organized surf camp.
Aljezur/Arrifana
Arrifana is widely considered to be one of the best beaches for beginners in the Algarve.
That’s mainly down to its mellow beach break, which we’d say is decent but prone to close outs.
The nearby town of Aljezur is the hub of an area that spans about five fantastic spots. They are mainly intermediate but don’t suffer from the same crowds as the Algarve coast.
We’ve got a complete guide to surfing in Arrifana and Aljezur
Carrapateira/Bordeira
About 25 minutes’ drive to the north of Sagres will transport you to some of he best surfing Algarve can muster.
It’s a region that really begins with Bordeira and the Carrapateira cliffs. The wide beach there opens onto a left point break that can handle nice 8-10 footers in winter and gets hollow on some rides.
Further down the beach you get the fatter sets of Bordeira, which are rippable but suffer from rips. Best in autumn and rarely crowded.
We’ve got a complete guide to the Carrapateira surf right here
Cordoama
Lucky enough to have your own ride? Drop the shortboard into the van and head north to Cordoama. This secluded beach break often means way fewer people.
But it’s not just that. The summer conditions pull in swells from the N-NW to create some sculpted peaks that can turn glassy. Watch out for northerly winds that spray everything all over the place. Beware of rips.
Beliche
Bide your time and wait for the right swell (a straight southerly) direction to hit Beliche. That should make it one of the most enticing surf breaks in the Sagres region.
Peaking into a neat wedge, it’ll curl into a left-right barrel when it’s properly working. During the summer, it’s common for the Beliche surf report to read flat, flat, and more flat.
Localism here has been an issue in the past and there’s still a couple of fierce natives who are highly protective.
Tonel
Probably the most famous Sagres surf spot of all sits beneath the high cliffs on the west side of town. It braces the full force of the Atlantic but has surrounding headlands and submerged rocks to thank for the slight protection from N and E winds.
The main feature of Tonel is the huge rock stack that emerges straight out of the ocean smack dab in the middle of the bay. On the biggest days, a bomb of an A-frame works right in front of it, shoving out barreling lefts and wedgy rights.
Most of the time, the swell isn’t big enough to link up the sets on either side, which is good news because you can chase ever-so-slightly smaller waves to the right of the rock if you want to keep it easier.
Always be wary of rips at Tonel. It’s a shifty beach to the T, especially with the currents that swirl around the rock as the tide pulls back. You can use those to make paddling back out easier if you know how, but also avoid if you don’t.
South coast surf spots (the easier side)
The southern side of Sagres is actually to the east of town. What we’re really talking about here is the run of beaches that face south into the Atlantic from the south side of the Algarve.
A lot of the time these will be flat all summer and then start working properly in the winter months. That’s because they need strong NW-W swells to show any teeth and adore a nice cold northerly wind to shape up.
They are a good option for families of some surfers and non-surfers, since they have hotels that are right on the beach but are still only 20 minutes’ drive from world-class beaches in the western Algarve.
Mareta
The beginner’s surf spot in Sagres lines the Algarve to the south and east of the town. It’s neatly tucked between two high peninsulas, which means plenty of protection from westerly and north-westerly winds.
The upshot is that the waves here tend to be tamer. That’s especially true in summer when the ocean glows sky blue and its perfect for finding your surfing legs.
When a southerly push swings around, Mareta will get big – think possible overheads that roll right and left. Those are usually limited to winter.
Martinhal
Just check the map: Martinhal is the most protected of the three main beaches in Sagres. It huddles under the cliffs, facing away from dominant swell directions to the SW.
The result is a stretch of sand with much calmer waters. A few surf schools hoover up the beginners here. It’s a fine place to head if you’ve never ridden a surfboard before and fancy something really tame to get going.
Praia do Zavial
Praia do Zavial is a more classic Algarve beach that lies nearly 10 km down the coast from Sagres. It’s south facing, so picks up any swell moving up across the Atlantic.
When something is happening, the waves can get fast and high. That’s when the local rippers will make a pilgrimage to Zavial and they come from far and wide. The reason? The barrel factory of the right-hand point that works on the far western edge of the bay. It’s a fast, hollow ride that’s one of the best winter breaks in the region.
When the swell is smaller (like under 3 foot), expect a calm, beginner-friendly place to try your first Portuguese waves.
Carvoeiro
Carvoeiro surfing takes you nearly 60km along the shores of the Algarve to the east of Sagres. It seems like a hefty drive to make for much tamer waves. We only mention it here because the breaks you’ll pass along the way offer great Sagres surfing at a beginner level. What’s more, you’ll be able to explore gorgeous whitewashed Algarvian fishing villages once you’re done in the water!
The best surf camps in Sagres
Surf camps aren’t the same as the hotels we list below. These are fully pre-made packages that let you book everything you might need for a surf hol in one swoop.
They tend to include multiple guided surf lessons or surfari sessions, surf theory classes, gear rental, and even extra activities like daily yoga. Sagres happens to be one of the best places to do a surf camp in Portugal and even the whole of Europe, largely because it’s got breaks for different levels on either side of town. Here are some of the best out there…
- 7 Day Reset, Recharge, and Reconnect through Yoga and Surf Holiday in Sagres – We kinda love everything about this tailored surf and fitness package. The hotel – the Memmo Baleeira Hotel Sagres – is simply amazing (think beachfront location and an infinity pool) and there’s 3x surf lessons with the highly rated Freeride Surf School. Plus, you’ll enjoy 11 yoga sessions and guided hikes.
- 8 Day Sagres Surf Package in Algarve @ Sagres Sun Stay – A surf lodge that’s aimed at 18-35 learners in the heart of the town, Sagres Sun Stay takes care of your daily lessons but also offers a very sociable environment that’s complete with co-working spaces and an outdoor pool. It’s the one for those who like to make new buddies as they travel and share some beers once the sun dissappears.
- 15 Day Surf and Stay Package for Beginner and Intermediate Surfers in Sagres – A full two weeks of surfing the Algarve’s best breaks is what’s offered by this amazing surf camp run by Natura, one of the leading names in the country. It includes at least 10 lessons and loads of extras, from healthy breakfasts to chill time in charming local villages.
For more inspo, we also have this list of the best Sagres surf camp options and a complete guide to the very best surf camps in the Algarve!
Hotels for surfers in Sagres
The great thing about choosing somewhere to stay on your Sagres surf trip is that this loveable town isn’t just for wave aficionados. Holidaymakers also love it, so the accommodations include luxury resorts, apartments, and your rough-and-ready surf camps. Here are some that we particularly like if you’re coming for the surfing…
Algarve Surf Hostel – Sagres ($)
There’s no shortage of Sagres surf camps to pick from in this town, but we think the Algarve Surf Hostel is close to the top of the list. It’s a simple but much-loved lodge right in the heart of the town. The good vibes are the main draw. You’ll be surfing with new buddies and sharing tales of your best waves over a cold beer at night. It ticks all the boxes.
Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort Hotel ($$$)
Family surf trips hardly get better than this! This gorgeous beach resort sits at the far end of Martinhal Beach – home to some of the easiest Sagres surf going. And when the kids are hitting the waves? Parents can kick it by the pool or head to the spa for some seaweed massage treatments!
Wavesensations – Sagres Surf House ($-$$)
A perfect example of the new-breed of stylo surf houses that are uber-popular in Portugal, Wavesensations is a clean and comfy place to base yourself. The rooms are airy, bright, and resemble hotel doubles. But you also get the added enjoyment of the low-key surfer’s chillout area. There’s a healthy breakfast, and – most importantly – a huge on-site selection of rental boards and wetsuits.
Casa Azul Sagres ($$)
Housed – as the name implies – in a lovely little blue building right in the heart of Sagres, Casa Azul has some great apartment options. Spaces are modern, bright, and simple. There’s also an optional breakfast to set you up for a day in the ocean.
Step-by-step guide to planning your [yoast_kw] trip right now
Step one: Book flights to the [yoast_kw]…Lately, we like Omio for searching flights. It’s a nice interface and has lots of airline options. We also use Skyscanner because that sometimes offers deals that even beat going direct to the carrier!
Step two: Book your surf camp Book Surf Camps is the numero uno online booking platform for fully-fledged surf-stay packages on the internet right now. Then there’s Booking.com. That has consistently unbeatable rates for hotels and a nifty map feature that lets you check EXACTLY how close your hotel is to a surf break.
Step three: Get insuranceThis is kinda’ important. Not just for surf trips but for any trips. SafetyWing is great for nomad travelers. They offer rolling contracts that cover amateur surfing.
Step four (optional): Rent a car If you’re surf camping then you might not need wheels. If you’re not then we’ll just say this: We’ve never been on a surf trip that wasn’t improved by having our own car. Use RentalCars – they’re the best.
Step four: Enjoy!
When to surf in Sagres?
The seasons can alter the quality and the style of the waves in Sagres considerably. Generally speaking, the colder months equals conditions for better standards of surfers. However, there’s a more protected south coast to factor in here, which keeps Sagres a beginner-friendly option for much of the year (that’s rare in Portugal!).
Summer (June-August)
The south of the Algarve transforms into a major holiday destination in the summer months. That’s not good news for surfers because a lot of the folk come specifically for the still seas. Your best bet for finding something rideable is on the west coast. Head across to Bordeira (about 20 minutes from Sagres) or Arrifana and there’s usually a surf school offering sessions. Some days pick up some swells on the Atlantic, and can be downright lovely when they do – glassy, warm. It’s just not that reliable.
Wear: 3/2 or 2mm
Autumn (September-November)
This is when the surf in Sagres really comes into its own. Right across the Algarve, autumn usually means balmy days and loads of sun. The waves also tend to be tamer, but there’s also enough pumping for shortboarders on the nearby West Coast breaks at Cordoama and up to Arrifana. We recently spent a month surfing here in Oct-Nov and counted just one flat day. Add that to the two extra-large days that were unsurfable and you’ve still got pretty decent stats. West coast is higher. South coast is much smaller, but does have its moments.
Wear: 4/3 always and boots if you want
Winter (November-March)
Winters are rarely woolly-jumper cold this far south in Portugal. However, there are some changes to the predominant swell conditions that means the Sagres surf can get particularly gnarly during the winter months. Beaches like Tonel can be heavy work, with high overheads and big closeouts when there’s onshore winds. On smaller days it’s really cracking. Good groundswells, wide periods, and the best the Atlantic can muster comes through. Bring a thick wetty and boots too.
Wear: 4/3 with boots and a hood for windier sessions
Spring (April-May)
Spring is the Sagres surf season of change. Early on, March, it’s very similar to autumn, with strong NW swells firing on the points and beach breaks of Arrifana and Bordeira to create some mega waves for advanced surfers. Things get progressively quieter and May is usually warm and relaxed – a great time for occasional long surf sessions in conditions that are prime for intermediates.
Wear: 4/3 in the early season, down to 3/2 at the end
Surf lessons in Sagres
Surf lessons are SUPPPPERR easy to organise here.
Just walk down any street in the center and you’re likely to see 10 places offering trips. (We would advise checking their reps with a Google search before you book – the overload of options means there are some cowboys around).
Alternatively, if you’re the plan-ahead type, it’s now possible to book lessons online. The upside to that is you can check places have decent reviews and offer the bare standard of surf lessons (usually 2 hours of guided surfing with equipment and out of water training) before you pay your money.
Here are some we can vouch for…
- Algarve: 2-Hour Beginner Surf Lesson – Everything you want from a first-time surf lesson. It’s 120 hours that includes training on the beach, etiquette training (important in Tonel/Sagres) and warm ups. Plus, groups are small – like 4-6 per instructor.
- 2 x Surf Lessons in Algarve – If you’re staying at least two days then you can save some $$ by booking two lessons across two days. This package is perfect for that. It’s run by a very reputable local school, includes transfers to a beach where there’s a good wave, and all your equipment.
Surf shops in Sagres
Sagres has a growing clutch of great surf shops. There are a few that we always rely on. Drop in. They’re friendly folk with a good range of gear…
Surf Planet Sagres Surf Shop
Just off the main N268 road as it leaves Sagres to the north, Surf Planet is a fantastic stop off for both people heading to Tonel and folk heading to the waves of Arrifana further north. Look for the quirky surfboard-shaped benches outside. Inside, you’ll get a good range of stock, from accessories to leashes to wax and more.
Sagres Natura Surf Shop
Look for Natura in a charming little Algarvian cottage in the midst of Sagres town. They’ve got fins, wetsuits, and foamies in stock, along with a nice range of locally designed Sagres surf wear. They also sell skateboards for you concrete lovers, and they organise surf lessons and rentals.
Things to do in Sagres when you’re not surfing
There’s no doubt that the Sagres surf spots are an enticing prospect, no matter what level of boarder you are. But it’s not only the waves that make this a desirable destination. With its rock-ribbed cliffs, its earthy seafood eateries, and prime position right where the golden beaches of the south Algarve give way to the rugged Atlantic, there are oodles of reasons you might want to make a visit.
Lighthouse of Ponta de Sagres
Known locally as the Farol de Sagres, this lighthouse occupies a dramatic perch above Tonel Beach. It’s a fantastic place to go for sunset, with uninterrupted views across the Atlantic Ocean at the very south-western tip of the Iberian Peninsular.
Fort of Santo António de Belixe
This mighty citadel on the shoreline near Beliche is one to take the breath away. It dates back to at least as far as the 1500s, and it’s thought that the English explorer Francis Drake once attacked it from the sea. Today, you can visit to get dramatic vistas of the coast and learn about the rich history of the site. It’s only 10 minutes’ drive from Sagres town.
Go beach hopping
One of the best things about choosing Sagres surf over other Portuguese surf spots is that you get the wonderful beaches of the Algarve’ south coast on the doorstep. Cruise to the east to find places like Praia de Porto de Mós and Praia da Rocha backed by golden cliffs and washed by turquoise seas. They’re both within an hour’s drive.
How to get to Sagres?
- Low-cost airlines: Faro Airport (or the Algarve Airport) is around 75 miles to the east of Sagres. That’s the best place to land if you’re catching a low-cost airline. It’s served by the likes of easyJet, WizzAir, Vueling, and Ryanair. They offer loads of seasonal and year-round connections.
- Premium airlines: Full-frills fliers like Lufthansa and Air Swiss also run routes into Faro Airport. They have direct links to major European hubs like Frankfurt and Munich, opening up long-haul connections across to the US and Asia.
- Bus: Regional bus services from both Lisbon and Lagos to Sagres are noticeably thin on the ground. However, there are a few connections. From the latter (Lagos) you can catch the public Eva Transportes link for around €3 each way. To get in from Lisbon, head to the Sete Rios station, from where tickets cost just under €20 per person. You’ll need to check with individual companies if they’ll let you travel with a surfboard, though.
How to get around Sagres?
- Foot: Walking around Sagres is a joy. This is a pretty Portuguese coast town with low-rise cottages and cobbled pavements. You’ll find cafes on the street corners and be able to feel the breeze coming off the ocean – a gift in summer. There’s a gravel path leading down to Mareta Beach on the south side of town. To get to Tonel, follow the L-shaped track around to Tonel Beach Bar. That’s a slightly harder walk, especially with boards in tow.
- Drive: There’s not much in the way of public transport in Sagres – the town is simply too small. Instead, most people who want to explore the area’s surf spots will rent their own car. It’s an option we’d 100% recommend. It means you’ll be able to get stuck into the very best surfing Algarve has up its sleeve. Places like Arrifana to the north are only 40 minutes or so, and you get the whole south coast down to Luz and beyond.
Currency and ATMs in Sagres
The same as in the rest of Portugal. You’ll need euros (€) to pay for your surf rentals in Sagres.
There are a few ATMs in the town itself. Look for them around the Spar supermarket on Matoso Road, toward the entrance to Praia da Baleeira.
We might use affiliate links in this post. Basically, you click em’ and we get a little something from your booking or purchase. They help us keep offering more and more in-depth surf guides to awesome places all around the globe. So, thanks for that!
2 comments
Where is that spot in first youtube video,The Peace of Sagres? Is there camping there, and do you need a permit to camp?
Hey Paul – pretty sure it looks like Praia da Barriga to me but I could be wrong. It’s been a couple of years since I was back there now. It’s actually close to Vila do Bispo, about 20 minutes from Sagres.