Surfing in Portugal
Lessons that make a difference
We offer top surf lessons for beginners and intermediates — personal, fun, and far from mass tourism. With 300+ days of waves and uncrowded beaches, Santa Cruz is ideal all year round. Soft, sandy breaks make learning safe and easy. 350+ five-star Google reviews speak for themselves — our surf lessons are the guest favorite.
Fall in love with Surfing
With over 10 years of experience, we know exactly how to help you improve – and enjoy every moment in the water. Most importantly, your safety always comes first.
Our surf package includes five extra-long surf lessons from Monday to Friday. A typical session includes a wave check, warm-up, and hands-on tips from our coaches. Then 1.5 h of surfing, a short break, followed by another hour in the water – before we head back to the camp for a wrap-up. All in all, a surf day takes between 4 to 5 hours.
The Cliff Surf Method
We’re proud of our unique concept, which has helped many of our guests successfully learn to surf. Our method combines structure, personal attention, and a deep passion for the sport.
1. The level check
In your first lesson with us, you’ll go through a level check and be placed in the right group based on your skills.
2. Small groups
Small groups, big progress – our 6-to-1 ratio means more personal coaching for you.
3. Your personal file
We create a digital progress sheet for each student – tracking your level, gear, and improvements. If you come back, we know exactly where to continue.
Our Surf Coaches
Certified Surf Instructors
At Cliff Surfhouse, we’re proud to work exclusively with certified coaches who hold the official Portuguese surf instructor license issued by the Federação Portuguesa de Surf (FPS).
This local certification ensures that our instructors meet the highest national standards, are thoroughly trained in safety, and are authorized to teach in Portuguese waters. Unlike many other camps that rely solely on the international ISA license, we choose to go a step further — out of respect for local regulations and our own commitment to quality.
All our coaches are professionally employed, insured, and trained according to the latest guidelines. With us, you’re not just learning to surf — you’re in the hands of a highly professional team that values safety, skill, and integrity above all.
Years of Experience
With over 10 years of experience in surf coaching and hosting, we know what it takes to create the perfect surf experience.
From reading the ocean to building confidence in the water, our team combines deep local knowledge with a passion for teaching. We’ve spent the past decade fine-tuning our approach — and it shows in every lesson, every wave, and every smile.
At Cliff Surfhouse, you don’t just learn how to surf — you become part of a community shaped by years of dedication, professionalism, and love for the ocean.
Passionate coaches
Being a great surfer doesn’t automatically make you a great coach.
At Cliff Surfhouse, we work with instructors who don’t just surf well — they love to teach. Our coaches are passionate about sharing their knowledge, supporting your progress, and celebrating every little success with you.
They’re patient, encouraging, and genuinely care about helping you grow, no matter your level.
Coaching with Care for Every Individual
Surfing is more than just riding waves — it’s a mental and emotional journey.
The ocean has a unique way of helping us let go, build confidence, and find clarity. For many, it’s even a form of therapy. That’s why our coaching goes beyond technique.
We support each guest with patience and care — even those who may feel anxious or have a fear of the water. Everyone learns at their own pace, and we’re here to guide and encourage every step of the way.
Best Surf Equipment
Premium Equipment included
We work exclusively with high-quality gear — no compromises.
When you surf with us, you’ll be equipped with premium surfboards, leashes, and wetsuits that meet the highest standards.
Surf Board
With over 55 surfboards in our quiver, we’ve got the perfect board for every level and style. From classic hard boards to hybrid models (hard inside, soft outside) and a wide range of softboards — we make sure you’re matched with the right size and shape for your progression.
Wetsuit
The Atlantic keeps it cool — with water temperatures between 16–19°C all year round. That’s why we always surf with wetsuits, and we equip you with high-quality 4/3mm suits for optimal warmth and flexibility. Sure, getting into a wetsuit can feel like a workout on its own — but once you’re in, you’re ready to surf and enjoy an extra layer of protection out in the waves.
Beach Essential
To make your surf day smooth and comfortable, don’t forget a few basics: Bring a towel big enough to change under, comfortable swimwear that fits well under your wetsuit (no bulky straps or metal parts), and of course reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin.
The Surf Levels
Many of our guests are beginners when they join us. But we also always have an intermediate group – and in some cases, even advanced students.
Whether it’s your very first time on a board or you’re still riding the foam, this level is made for you.
In our beginner sessions, we focus on all the essentials: understanding ocean safety, board handling, paddling technique, and the pop-up. You’ll learn how to catch whitewater waves, find your balance, and ride with control.
This level is all about building a strong foundation and gaining confidence in the water — with lots of encouragement, fun, and patient coaching along the way.
You’re already catching whitewater waves and can paddle out to the line-up on your own? Then this is your level.
We’ll focus on wave selection, positioning, and paddling technique to help you catch unbroken waves with more control. You’ll learn how to angle your take-off, trim along the wave face, and start working on your first turns.
Our coaches support you step by step — helping you read the ocean more confidently and make the most of every session out back.
You’re confident in the line-up, catching green waves regularly, and want to refine your technique? Let’s go further.
Together, we’ll work on maneuvers like bottom turns, cutbacks, and improving your timing and flow. You’ll get detailed feedback, both in the water and on land, to help you push your surfing to the next level.
It’s all about precision, control, and evolving your style – wave by wave.
The Surf-Package: Designed for real progress
From Sunday to Sunday – our surf package combines coaching, ocean time, and surf-focused activities to boost your progress.
5 surf lessons
Monday to Friday, incl. equipment & beach shuttles
surf theory lesson
Get important knowledge about surfing
Video Analysis
Once a week to improve your surf skills
Functional Surf Training
Train your body for exactly what you need in the water
Surfskate lesson
Master surf technique on solid ground
Surf factory visit
To see how boards are made
