Blessed with a rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs and golden sand beaches, Lagos is home to some of the best surf camps on the Algarve Coast.
Surfing hotspots like Porto de Mós and Meia Praia are the main ones in the area, but Sagres and the rest of the Western Coast being just a 30-minute drive away, you’ll never have to worry about a flat day.
As well as surfing, you’ll find interesting museums, lively bars and restaurants and cool street art in and around Lagos. For more on that, please click here.
Now check out the best Lagos’ surf camps listed below and get ready for your next visit.
Travelling around Portugal? Check some of the Best surf camps in Portugal.
We think everyone should stay at a surf camp at least once in their lifetime.
Whether you’re a more experienced or are just learning to surf, surf camps offer a memorable experience, because you’ll be sharing the love for this sport with other like-minded people.
Surf camps are also because that’s where you’ll get all of these in one go:
Book accommodation: Jho’La Surf Camp
Expect surf vibes galore and a chill atmosphere at Jho’La Surf Camp.
Closest to Praia da Luz, Jho’La is set in a traditional Portuguese whitewashed house dotted with cool, colourful touches, from the hammocks at the entrance to the room design.
While their experienced team of instructors will look after you in the water, their ground staff will make sure your stay is comfortable, and your belly is full at all time.
There’s more to Jho’La than just about surf. If learning how to dive or perfecting your downward facing dog skills is what you want, these folks have you covered with diving or yoga packages.
And because Jho’La is committed to reduce their carbon footprint, they use solar and photovoltaic panels to generate water heating and electricity for their guests. They’re also serious about recycling, composting and avoiding the use of unnecessary single-use plastic. In addition to that, they upcycle their surfboards at their very own shape room and organise beach clean-ups as well.
Website: jholasurfcamp.com
Book accommodation: Soul & Surf
Founded in India back in 2010, Soul & Surf’s first opened the doors of their location in Western Algarve in 2019.
This surf and yoga retreat is set in a traditional quinta (Portuguese farmhouse) steeped in the hills and surrounded by orchard and beautiful gardens. It provides the perfect backdrop for those in-between surfing activities like chilling by the pool and savouring an alfresco meal.
The interior of the building is equally stunning. Classic features, such as exposed beamed ceilings, are elevated by the contemporary, minimalist décor, and, most importantly, comfortable furnishings.
And, when it comes to coaching, they’ve also raised the bar. Surfers are placed in small groups, divided into four categories, to match their skill levels. Except for the basic level, everyone gets a video analysis, which is a wicked way to help you hone your craft.
Website: Soul & Surf
Book accommodation: Tiny Whale Surf Lodge
Surf, sun, swim, repeat. That’s what life looks like at the Tiny Whale Surf Lodge.
Just a 10-minute drive away from Lagos Old Town, Tiny Whale Surf Lodge is more than only a camp, it’s a surf holiday experience with a hint of luxury.
A mouth-watering feast and wine tasting upon greeting? Check. Spa treatments? Check. Yoga classes to help with your sore muscles? Check.
Surrounded by luscious vegetation, the lodge is equipped with the right facilities, such as a movie lounge and chill out garden spaces, to keep you comfortable and entertained. The accommodation options include garden cabins, shared rooms, and luxurious safari tents that were carefully thought-out to ensure you’ll have plenty of rest and relaxation during your stay.
The same level of care has gone into their surfing lessons, so you can get more out of your time in the water. You’ll never be placed in a group with more than 4 students per instructor and, on top of that, you’ll receive video coaching and theory lessons.
Website: Tiny Whale Surf Lodge
Book accommodation: Kitehouse Algarve
Kitehouse Algarve is the home of water sports in Lagos. That’s where you can get surfing, windsurfing, wakeboarding, wing foiling, stand-up paddleboarding and, of course, kitesurfing lessons all under one roof. Since 2006, they’ve been one of the longest-running kitesurfing schools in Portugal, so you’ll definitely be in good hands.
The camp offers a choice of comfortable, well-equipped dorms, twins, bungalows and apartments, but the highlight at this villa are the communal areas, such as a pool, BBQ facilities and an on-site bar. The property is located in a quiet area that’s so close to the beach you can see the Atlantic Ocean from the terrace. Lagos’ Old Town, the marina and Meia Praia, the longest of all beaches in town, are all within a 5 to 10-minute walk distance. Besides that, there are also 20 different kite and surf spots within a 30-minute ride.
Website: Kitesurf Algarve
That’s a wrap! We hope you liked our selection of the best surf camps in Lagos.
And because we want to make sure you’ll be able to enjoy surfing in Lagos without having to worry about the fine print, remember to always check all details carefully, such as specific offerings, reviews, and availability based on your preferences and requirements before you hit the book button.
Don’t fancy any of these surf camps in Lagos? Have a look at other surf schools and book a surf lesson here.
Exploring other parts of beautiful Portugal? Then have a look at our Portugal page for some ideas!
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