Surf Seasons in Costa da Caparica: When to Book Your Surf Camp at Lost Caparica Surf House
If you’re dreaming of perfect waves, warm sun, and a vibrant surf community, Costa da Caparica in Portugal should be at the top of your list. Just 15 minutes from Lisbon, our beautiful stretch of coastline welcomes surfers of all levels—whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your skills.
If you are a first timer or an early intermediate you should know that whatever the season you book your stay we will always make sure we will teach you in waves according to your level where you will feel confoortable and have fun, the purpose of it all.
In this post, we break down the surf seasons of Costa da Caparica so you can plan your trip at the best time for your surfing goals. Whether you’re looking for mellow beginner waves or challenging winter swells, Costa da Caparica delivers year-round surf—and we’ve got the local knowledge to help you make the most of it.
Why Surf Costa da Caparica?
If you’re looking for a surf holiday without the crowds and chaos of more famous surf destinations, Costa de Caparica should be high on your radar. Unlike many popular spots where limited coastline leads to overcrowded lineups and a fight for every wave, Caparica boasts a long, uninterrupted stretch of beach that runs for over 15 kilometers. This means there are countless surf spots to explore — from mellow waves ideal for beginners to punchier peaks for more advanced riders — all spread out enough to give you space to actually enjoy your session. Whether you prefer surfing alone, with a few friends, or discovering a new break every day, Caparica gives you that freedom. It’s a rare kind of surf destination where you can walk a few hundred meters and find an empty peak — a luxury that’s becoming harder to find in well-known surf zones.
On top of the wave quality and space, the weather in Caparica is reliably sunny for much of the year, especially compared to other famous portuguese surf towns such as Ericeira or Peniche that often suffer from grey skies and stormy conditions. Even in the winter surf season, you’ll often score clean, sunny days with mild temperatures — ideal conditions for long sessions in the water and relaxed beach time afterward. This combination of sun, space, and surf makes Costa de Caparica a standout destination for anyone wanting a hassle-free, wave-filled holiday.
At Lost Caparica Surf House, we offer personalized surf coaching, comfortable accommodation, and a warm community vibe that brings surfers from around the world together.
Now let’s dive into what each surf season looks like in Costa da Caparica.
Spring (March – June): Great for Learning and Light Crowds
Spring is a fantastic time to join a surf camp in Costa da Caparica, especially if you’re a beginner or intermediate surfer. The Atlantic swells start to mellow out after the winter, bringing more manageable waves—perfect for learning or improving your fundamentals.
What to Expect:
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- Consistent waist- to shoulder-high waves
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- Mild air and water temperatures
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- Fewer crowds in the water
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- Beautiful natural light for surf photography!
Best For: Beginners, intermediates , travelers looking for a peaceful surf experience.
Summer (July – August): Surf, Sun & Social Vibes
Summer in Caparica is all about long sunny days, warm water, and vibrant beach life. While the waves are generally smaller, this is the ideal season for first-time surfers and families, or anyone looking to combine a surf holiday with a classic Portuguese summer experience.
What to Expect:
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- Smaller, clean waves ideal for beginners
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- Water temps around 18–21°C (no thick wetsuits needed!)
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- Buzzing local surf scene, beach parties, and cultural events
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- Daily surf lessons in mellow conditions
Best For: Beginners, solo travelers, social surf camps, summer sun lovers.
Autumn (September – November): Prime Surf Season
This is our favorite time of year at Lost Caparica Surf House. The ocean stays warm from the summer months, and the Atlantic begins to wake up again, sending consistent swells with clean conditions. Fewer tourists, golden sunsets, and excellent surf—it’s the perfect time to sharpen your skills or push into more advanced surfing.
What to Expect:
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- Shoulder- to head-high waves for all levels
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- Warm water and ideal weather
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- Less crowded lineups
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- Great for surf progression and video coaching
Best For: Intermediate surfers, return guests, travelers seeking the best balance of waves and conditions.
Winter (December – February): Cold BUT MAGIC
Winter is the season when Portugal truly becomes Europe’s surf mecca. While famous big wave spots like Nazaré grab headlines, Costa da Caparica quietly shines with consistent swells and uncrowded breaks, making it a great place for intermediate surfers looking to challenge themselves under the guidance of experienced local coaches. Fortunately we have some surf spots in town more sheltered from the swells so begginers will find their waves too!
What to Expect:
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- Powerful, consistent Atlantic swells
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- Cooler water (bring your 4/3mm wetsuit!)
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- Ideal time for intermediate to advanced training
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- Peaceful atmosphere and focus on surf progression
Best For: Intermediate/advanced surfers, digital nomads, off-season travelers seeking good surf.
So, When Should You Come?
No matter when you visit, Lost Caparica Surf House has the waves, the vibe, and the coaching to make your surf trip unforgettable. Whether you want to learn to surf in Portugal, improve your skills with expert instructors, or just relax with a good book after a surf session, we’ve got you covered.
If you are a first timer planning your surf holidays in Autumn or even Winter rest assure that we will take you surfing waves that fit your level and where you will feel safe and confortable. And fun, the goal of it all!
No matter the season or location, surfing always depends on nature’s mood so stay open, adaptable, and ready for anything.
Why Stay at Lost Caparica Surf House?
- Surf coaching for all levels
- Daily lessons with certified instructors
- Comfortable, social accommodation
- Steps from the beach and 15 mins from Lisbon
- Delicious healthy breakfasts and community dinners
Ready to Ride?
If you’re looking for an unforgettable surf experience in Portugal, join us at Lost Caparica Surf House, the ultimate surf camp in Costa da Caparica. Whether you’re learning to surf or looking to improve, we’ll make sure you leave with better skills, new friends, and great memories.
Book your surf trip now and find out why Costa da Caparica is one of the best year-round surf destinations in Portugal.
