Once a famed fishing port, Peniche has gained its reputation as a surfing destination in the mid-80s, drawing surfers from far and wide to ride its internationally acclaimed tubular waves.
Today, Peniche stages tournaments and hosts the world’s top surfers on its shores.
If you’re one of those people aspiring to surf where legends have carved their paths, choosing the right surf camp is paramount.
That’s why we’ve listed the best surf camps in Peniche to make sure your stay matches the greatness of its waves.
For inspiration on where to surf in Portugal, head to our page Best surf camps in Portugal.
Whether you’re a total beginner or an advanced boarder, surf camps are guaranteed to be the experience of a lifetime. A surf camp is a one-stop shop where you get:
But staying at surf camps is much more than just learning to surf or developing your skills: it’s a place for like-minded people to meet, have fun while doing what they love the most: surfing.
Medão Beach is also known as Supertubos, or super tubes, which is pretty much what every other person that visits the area is after.
Every year, Supertubos hosts the WSL’s MEO RipCurl Pro competiton where you can see the likes of Caitlin Simmers and Gabriel Medina in their natural habitat.
There are a couple of reasons why most of the surf camps are located in Baleal.
Less developed than Supertubos, Baleal has a distinctive laid-back surf town vibe and, due to its unique geographic position, there are also plenty of surfing opportunities.
Book accommodation: Salty Pelican Yoga & Surf Retreat
Born from the bond of three friends who share a passion for surfing and the outdoors, The Salty Pelican first opened its doors in Cascais, Lisbon.
Success quickly followed, and the trio launched this branch in Peniche, one in Ericeira and another one in Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka.
Salty Pelican offers exceptional facilities, ranging from a chic terrace to modern rooms with stunning garden or ocean views.
It’s also very well-located, just opposite the beach and near shops and bars. Though with an all-day poolside menu, a rooftop bar, and a cinema room with bean bags and Netflix, you won’t need to pay a visit to the nearby stores very often.
They offer a variety of surf packages that combine high-quality instruction with relaxing yoga sessions, creating a well-rounded experience for surfers of all levels.
Website: saltypelicanretreat.com
Book accommodation: Bukubaki Eco Surf Resort
If you’ve ever wanted to live in a tree house, you can make your dream come true at the Bukubaki Eco Surf Resort.
In addition to cool suspended wooden houses, you have also the choice to stay in a glamping tent, a one-of-a-kind bungalow or a luxurious villa. So picking a room at Bukubaki can be a tough task!
But not matter the room you choose, Bukubaki’s forest settings create the most magical atmosphere where you feel as one with nature.
And to ensure their impact on the environment is minimal, the whole place is built from sustainable materials. On top of that, they use renewable energy, electric transportation and organic produce among other things.
Besides surfing, there are loads of outdoor activities available, promoting the relationship between people and nature. Oh! And did I mention there’s a skate bowl on-site? How cool is that!?
The property is a few miles away from Baleal, but it’s easily accessible by car, so, for this reason, there’s also a bike rental service and free parking facilities for guests.
Website: bukubaki.com
Book accommodation: Selina Peniche
Selina Peniche combines modern design with unbeatable comfort, thanks to the high standards of one of the biggest hospitality chains in the world.
Set in a dreamy traditional whitewashed Portuguese building, Selina Peniche is more like a surf hostel than a camp.
Think ‘grammable co-living spaces, relaxed atmosphere and like-minded people under one roof. Plus a bar where you can hang out and socialise after spending a full day in the water.
They offer surf packages, skate lessons, wellness treatments and over 25 tours and activities in the area for you to choose from.
Website: Selina Peniche
Book accommodation: Alex Surf Hostel
Named after its founder, Alex Silva, you can’t talk about surfing in Peniche without mentioning Alex Surf School.
Alex had been visiting Peniche since he was a child, so it came as no surprise when he decided to move to the area in 2009 to open his very own surf school and hostel.
Led by his passion for the sport and excellence in training, Alex Surf School aims to provide an exclusive and personalised surfing experience. That’s why the school only teaches small groups, so each student can get the attention they deserve.
For an even more authentic experience, the school operates alongside Alex Surf Hostel, an accommodation run by surfers to surfers.
With a mix of private and shared rooms, the hostel is minutes away from Baleal Beach, so you’ll never be too far from the shops or the waves.
Website: Alex Surf School
Book accommodation: RIDE Surf & Spa
Let me start by saying that RIDE isn’t just for surfers. But if you do want to surf, you’ll get the best of both worlds here.
RIDE is more than a place to stay, it’s an experience. With its focus on surf and wellness, you get to catch some waves by day and unwind at their spa whenever you fancy.
And at any time in between, you can choose from taking a dip in the pool, playing with friends in the game room or, I don’t know, conquer a climbing wall if your muscles can take it.
For a pre-surf energy boost or a post-beach refuel, you can count on the resort’s restaurant, WOW, to wow you (excuse the pun) with some deliciously fresh food.
When it’s time to rest, you won’t be short of comfort or style. Fitted with A/C and high quality mattresses, all rooms have a slick design with pop art images decorating the walls.
Website: Ride Surf Resort
Once you chose your favourite among the best surf camps in Peniche listed on this article, check all details carefully. Have a look at specific offerings, reviews, and availability based on your preferences and requirements.
Then you can pack your swimsuit, grab your board (or rent one there!) and get ready to ride the waves in Peniche.
Didn’t like any of the Peniche’s surf camps listed? Have a look at other surf schools and book a surf lesson here.
Travelling elsewhere in the country? Then check out our Portugal page for more inspiration!
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