Where are the best places to surf in Cascais?
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The town of Cascais is a great surfing destination as it combines great waves, good infrastructure, and proximity to Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. Let’s take a look at a few of the main top surfing spots to consider for your vacation.
An Introduction to Cascais Surfing
Cascais has all the conditions for water sports enthusiasts. The main advantages of Cascais are:
- A multitude of spots are designed for both beginners and experienced athletes.
- Availability of surf schools and specialized camps with different conditions and features at each spot.
- Great infrastructure – surfers will easily find everything they need for training.
- Favorable climate for recreation and surfing, namely suitable surf waves.
- Affordable prices for training and accommodation in Cascais surf camps.
Surf Spots in Cascais
In Cascais, known as one of the best surfing spots in Europe, you will find many Surf beaches located along the coast. These beaches are characterized by steep waves and excellent conditions for practicing surfing.
Carcavelos
The wide beach of Carcavelos, located about halfway between Lisbon and Cascais, is the largest beach near Lisbon and Cascais. Its strong waves and surf schools attract surfers and bodyboarders, and its more than 1km of sand is quite popular with volleyball and beach soccer players, who find nets waiting for them. The promenade also attracts skateboarding and jogging enthusiasts, and even in winter, there are tourniquets and other exercise equipment. From May to September, you can rent wicker umbrellas and take advantage of massage services. Many restaurants and bars are open all year round.
Sao Pedro Do Estoril
São Pedro do Estoril beach is a small sandy strip surrounded by cliffs and rocks at either end. Along the western end of the beach is an elevated concrete esplanade that runs past a couple of beach stores and cafes. The cafe closest to the parking lot has plenty of outdoor seating and has always been one of my favorite spots for mornings.
While the Estoril Coast is sandy, once you enter the sea you will find that the bottom is rocky. While this makes it great for snorkeling and isn’t a problem during high tides, it can be a bit hard on the feet. It also means that at low tide there are plenty of rock pools for the kids.
Easy access to San Pedro is one of the features that make it so popular. There is ample parking for cars above the beach, and there is a train stop within walking distance. The descent to the beach also means that San Pedro is a popular place to launch jet skis and small boats. Praia de San Pedro is also a good place for surfing in Cascais.
Parede
Praia da Parede beach, although small and rocky at first glance, has several interesting features:
- Iodine-rich air and water. The water and air at Praia da Parede beach contain high concentrations of iodine, which is beneficial for respiratory and joint health. This is due to the history of the beach, as at the beginning of the 20th century it was home to a tuberculosis sanatorium, and later to the Sainte Anne Hospital, which specialized in orthopedics.
- Special surfing mood. Thanks to its sunny position and protection from the wind, the beach of Praia da Parede creates a special atmosphere. This makes it a popular vacation spot, despite the small strip of sand. The enjoyment of holidaymakers here is enhanced by the fact that the beach is always crowded and only a narrow strip of sand, 120-130 meters long, remains after high tide.
- Facilities and interesting archaeological finds. Despite its small length, Praia da Parede beach is equipped with all the necessary amenities. This includes Blue Flag for water quality and service, lifeguards, umbrella rental, showers, parking, and wheelchair ramps. Dinosaur footprints have also been found on the beach in the form of circular depressions 40-50 cm in diameter on the surface of the slabs, which have become an object of interest for children and researchers of the marine world.
To visit the beach you have to pass through three tunnels, and it is a 10-minute walk from the nearest train station.
Surf Camps in Cascais
The Salty Pelican Retreat
The Salty Pelican Retreat is a unique surf camp that offers an unforgettable vacation in an intimate setting by the ocean. Here is a brief description of its features:
Description
The Salty Pelican Retreat is the place where you can fully enjoy the beauty of the ocean and the beautiful surfing waves. Here you will find cozy rooms, spacious common areas, and a friendly atmosphere designed to make you feel at home.
Interior and Exterior
The interior of The Salty Pelican Retreat features a stylish and contemporary design blended with elements of nature and a beach atmosphere. The cozy rooms are tastefully furnished and equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay. The camp’s exterior is also impressive – the surrounding nature and ocean views create a magical atmosphere of privacy and tranquility.
Resort offer
The Salty Pelican Retreat offers a variety of tour packages that include different activities, surf instruction, yoga, meditation, and more. Each package is tailored to different interests and fitness levels so that each guest can find something perfect for them. The camp also organizes excursions and recreational activities so guests can experience the local culture and attractions. The Salty Pelican Retreat is more than just a vacation destination, it is an opportunity to experience a world of adventure, surfing, and harmony with nature.
Papaya Surf Camp
Papaya Surf Camp is a cozy surfing retreat located on the picturesque coastline. Here is a brief description of its features:
Description
Papaya Surf Camp is the perfect place for those who want to not only learn to surf but also enjoy the unique atmosphere of a beach vacation. Here guests can relax from the hustle and bustle of the city, plunge into the world of the ocean, and recharge with the energy of nature.
Interior and exterior
The interior and exterior of Papaya Surf Camp are designed with love for the ocean and nature. The cozy bungalows and rooms are decorated in a nautical style, with colorful accents and elements reminiscent of life on the shore. The camp’s exterior is impressively beautiful and in harmony with the surrounding nature.
Tour packages
Papaya Surf Camp offers a variety of tour packages for guests of all skill levels. From intensive surf courses for beginners to advanced training for experienced surfers, there is something for everyone. The camp also organizes local sightseeing excursions, yoga sessions on the beach, and other recreational activities to ensure guests enjoy their stay to the fullest. Papaya Surf Camp is more than just a place to learn to surf, it’s an opportunity to spend an unforgettable time in nature, surrounded by like-minded people and guided by experienced instructors.
