Guide to Ericeira, Portugal
December 2, 2024Ericeira, the Mecca of European surfing, is located only 40 minutes north of Lisbon. With an intimate town center offering loads of restaurants & entertainment options; Ericeira is a favorite with surfers and life lovers from around the world. Read on for our best tips and tricks for success in Ericeira.
BEST BEACHES IN ERICEIRA
Ericeira was declared a World Surfing Reserve in 2011 by the Save the Waves Coalition as the second Reserve to be distinguished worldwide. Today it remains the only one in Europe, offering the most amazing beaches and surf one could ever dream of.
Foz do Lizandro
Our home beach Foz do Lizandro is located only a couple hundred meters from Quinta Lizandro. ‘Foz’ has everything you’d expect from the best beach in Ericeira with its picturesque sand dunes, excellent surf and plenty of places to eat and drink at the beach. A standout option for lunch and afternoon nibbles is Limipicos, situated at the very end of the boardwalk, overlooking nothing but the beach and the Atlantic.
Praia do Sul
Very popular amongst locals and tourists alike, Praia do Sul, or South beach is within walking distance to everything in town, only a few minutes walk from our camp. We love it for the fantastic surfing conditions, perfect for our Level 2 and Level 3 courses. During the summer this spot is absolutely buzzing with life!
Matadouro
Compact, beautiful and perfect for taking your surfing to the next level, Matadouro beach is popular with our Level 1 and Level 2 courses. It works on most tides and provides a long, enjoyable ride. Located immediately north of town it’s a great spot to hang out with friends and family to enjoy the beach.
Ribeira d’Ilhas
Ribeira is probably the most consistent surf spot in Europe. It’s also a great find for those who aren’t that keen on surfing, but more interested in reading a book in the lounge restaurant, chill on the beach or go for a scenic walk along the headland.
WHERE TO EAT IN ERICEIRA
Nalu Bowls
Whether it’s breakfast or lunch, Nalu Bowls near South Beach is where we go for acai & granola bowl cravings in Ericeira. Open from morning until sunset, their friendly staff will serve you up some fabulously fresh flavors of everything from dragon fruit to peanut butter in their trademark coconut bowls. Our favorites on the menu are ‘Mavericks’ and ‘Jbay’.
Pao d’alho
Our favorite Italian restaurant in Ericeira. Family owned and operated since forever, Luis, Maria and Luis Jr will take good care of you, serving up a tasty menu of pizza, pasta, lasagnas, and steaks – all with a flavorsome wine selection. Tip, don’t bring up Benfica or Sporting Lisbon with Luis unless you’re prepared for a passionate conversation
Prim
Portugal is renowned for their fresh fish and succulent meat. Andre and his team at Prim serve up the best of both. We’ve brought our guests here for years, always sure of a great experience. Their specialty ‘hot stone steak’ is unique in town.
Green is Good
This all-green restaurant has quickly become a favorite for vegetarian food and vegetarians, vegans and green food lovers in Ericeira. Check it out to find out why.
Mar a Vista
Rated as many as the best seafood restaurant in Ericeira. Alberto and his family & friends have been serving out the best fish, crabs and spidercrab since 1950. Be sure to check out the local local specialty barnacles or ‘percebes’ for a unique dining experience.
Tik Tapas
Somewhat of a hidden gem, although considered the best in town by many, Tik Tapas is a cozy tapas restaurant with great food and excellent service. Typically for an Ericeira restaurant, the menu offers a wide range of yummies, in this case; a variety of specialties and more traditional tapas dishes. Squid Algarve style, spicy meatballs or filled, roasted peppers? YES, PLEASE!
SHOPPING IN ERICEIRA
58 Surf Shop
Our go-to surf shop in Ericeira, located conveniently by the main road. Well stocked in all your surfing needs from daily hardware essentials like leashes, fins or wax to sunblock and wetsuits. Beyond that, find the surfboard of your dreams from Firewire, Channel Islands, Lost, JS, Pyzel and others in their massive selection of new and second-hand boards.
Billabong Ericeira
Whether you’re looking for a new outfit for a night out or just keen to check out the latest in surf fashion, the Billabong flagship store in the center of town got you covered. They carry all flavors of surf-inspired clothing and footwear from Billabong, RVCA and Vans.
ACTIVITIES IN ERICEIRA
Located just outside the city center, Quiksilver Boardriders have a fantastic, free-to-use skate park at their flagship store across the road from Matadouro beach. It’s a great place to skate, hang out, grab some food and update your wardrobe before hitting parties later in the evening.
In addition to amazing surf, food and Goodtimes, Ericeira offers some spectacular sightseeing in town and the surrounding areas.
Explore the headland at Ribeira or walk the hills from Foz do Lizandro to Sao Juliao, the coastal landscape on both ends is accessible and nothing short of breathtaking. In close proximity, you’ll also find cultural treasures like Sintra and Mafra.
For more info, please contact our booking department or ask one of our friendly staff members. We look forward to surfing with you!
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