Sagres Surf Guide – The Algarve’s Top Surf Town Explained
The 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 you get access to both the south coast and the west coast for bigger and smaller wave setups.
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 straight from the swell powerhouse that is the North Atlantic.
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, and there’s plenty more to explore as you head north out of town for 10-20 minutes, at beaches like Carrapateira or Ponta Ruiva.
Different angles on the beaches also make the spots here versatile in different wind conditions. 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, 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 packed with upcoming surf schools, lovely villas, and has a laid-back Mediterranean vibe to it. It’s hardly a surprise it’s become something of the de facto capital for those who crave 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
- Two coastlines – Sagres has access to a south-facing and west-facing coastline, so there are waves for all levels and fantastic consistency.
- Great surf camps/schools – This is one of the best places to learn how to surf in Portugal
- Climate – More sunny days in the Algarve than anywhere in Western Europe!
What you’ll find in this guide
Sagres surf spots
There are two main breaks within walking distance of the town center itself: Tonel, Martinhal, and Mareta.
They each offer something different, with Tonel generally better for more advanced surfers and the others for learners.
That said, the really good thing about Sagres is the fact that it’s a base for exploring a whole load more spots along the south coast of the Algarve and the west coast of the Algarve.
Let’s take a look at everything, including town spots and ones that are up to 50 minutes’ drive away…
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. Good fun though.
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 Arrifana proper.
We’ve got a complete guide to surfing in Arrifana
Carrapateira/Bordeira
About 25 minutes’ drive to the north of Sagres will transport you to some of the best surfing the west coast of the 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 big undertows. Best in autumn and rarely crowded.
We’ve got a complete guide to the Carrapateira surf right here
Cordoama
Cordoama is a secluded beach break that’s very rarely busy. In fact, the last few times we surfed it we were alone.
The other thing to note is that the whole beach is a total swell magnet. It can work brilliantly in the summer with anything west or north in the swell.
Watch out for northerly winds that spray everything all over the place, though. Beware of rips. And it will get massive in the winter – like bombs.
Castelejo
Castelejo is basically the south end of Cordoama and it’s a great little spot.
Not as busy as anything you’ll get in central Sagres but with fantastic beach break waves that can be good for beginners on smaller swells and really nice rippable waves for intermedaites when larger.
Super pretty spot, super chill. One of my favorites in the area. There’s parking right on the beach.
Read more about Castelejo Beach right here
Beliche
Beliche works either on big NW or huge southerly swells. When it is on, it’s one of the best breaks in the whole region for advanced surfers.
The main wave is on the reef at the western end of the bay. It curls into a pretty neat barrel close to the shore for quick fun rides with mini cover ups.
There’s also a fact wedge wave that’s mainly for bodyboarders.
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.
Read more about surfing in Beliche
Tonel
Probably the most famous surf spot in Sagres is this beacuse 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 or southwest 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
Martinhal is the most protected of the three main beaches in the Sagres town area. 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 regulalry take 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 one of the top spots on the south coast of the Algarve. It’s about 10km down the coast from Sagres. It’s south facing, so works on S swells, but is really best with big winter NW swells.
Zavial peaks at a mid to low tide, when waves hollow out really nicely to offer punchy and fast rides that have mini barrels. If it’s anything over 3 foot then the lowest tide will be really heavy and dumpy.
The best wave is at the west side of the bay, below the cliffs. It’s known for its localism but is real quality – barreling regularly on big winter NW pulses.
When the swell is smaller (like under 3 foot), expect a string of nice calm, beginner-friendly waves up the beach to try your first Portuguese waves.
We have a complete guide to surfing in Zavial for you to read right here
Carvoeiro
Carvoeiro takes you nearly 60km along the shores of the Algarve to the east of Sagres. It seems like a hefty drive to make but the town is in the middle of a string of bays that work nicely on south swells.
What’s more, the conditions are generally excellent for total beginners around here as swells need to work a bit harder to break into the beaches, most of which are flanked by high cliffs.
Some locations around Carvoeiro aren’t great – lots are just pounding shorebreaks.
The ones that do work are really for learners. If that’s you then contact King Neptuno’s Surf School, who offer fantastically rated packages that promise to take you to the spot that’s working best on any particular day.
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 holiday 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 the whole of 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…
- Sagres Natura Surf Camp – Probably the most legendary surf camp in Sagres. This one’s super-social, offering communal dining in the eve and party nights in Sagres with new surf buddies. You do 5x surf lessons across the week with highly qualified instructors. It’s our top pick.
- 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.
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!
Where to stay in Sagres?
Sagres has lots of great hotel options.
We won’t presume to know how you like to travel. The town can offer self-catering apartments, cheap hostels, but also
- Aldeia Caiçara Surf House – If you’re looking for a chilled surf house run by the best people, you’ve got it in Aldeia Caiçara. It’s a proper local place with great vibes. They organize regular surf trips to beaches up and down the Algarve, and even have their own tattoo studio.
- 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. It’s a great bargain option that’s homey and just all-round nice.
- Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort Hotel – The top option for families who want a bit of comfort. This fantastic hotel has a pool overlooking the best beginner beach in town. They’ll help you organize lessons and you have some serious luxuries to enjoy after/before surf sessions.
When to surf in Sagres?
Sagres is a year-round surf destination, but the summer (June to August) is better suited to beginners while winter (November to March) is better for more advanced surfers. That said, beginners and learners can still come in the winter because you can head out to the south coast to find more sheltered spots.
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.
Autumn (September-November)
The autumn 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 tend to be tamer than in the depths of winter, but there’s also enough pumping for shortboarders on the nearby West Coast breaks at Cordoama and up to Arrifana for sure – it’s rare that you’ll find anything flat.
We recently spent a month surfing here in Oct-Nov and counted just one unsurfable 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 when there’s bigger elements of south in the swell.
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 surf in Sagres can get particularly heavy during the winter months.
Beaches like Tonel can be heavy work, with high overheads and big closeouts when there’s onshore winds and the strongest low-pressure systems moving through the North Atlantic.
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 some boots though.
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.
We alternate between 3/2 and 4/3 in spring.
One thing we wouldn’t skip on is sunscreen.
I use Suntribe’s blocks because they’ve made a real effort to strip out any unneccessary chemicals.
Plus, they offer Surf Atlas readers 10% off orders with code Surfatlas10.
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…
- SantoLoco Sagres – The best shop in town if you ask us. SantoLoco have lush boards and a great space filled with merch. You won’t wanna leave.
- 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.
- 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. You’ll get a good range of stock, from accessories to leashes to wax and more.
Travel essentials for Sagres
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.
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. Basically, it’s a fantastic – like, the best – end point of surf road trips out of Lisbon and a great base for exploring stacks of great regional surf spots in the south.
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.
Top things to see and do in Sagres (when you’re not surfing)
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, Sagres has loads to do beyond the surf.
In fact, we’d say it’s one of the funest surf towns in the whole of Portugal.
- 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 over other Portuguese surf towns 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 (one of the most famous beaches in the country) backed by golden cliffs and washed by turquoise seas. They’re both within an hour’s drive.
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!
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.