Surfing Near Lisbon in Autumn & Winter: Where to Find Shelter, Quality Swell and Consistent Waves

Autumn and winter transform the Lisbon coastline into one of Europe’s most reliable surf zones. The water cools only slightly in Portugal, Atlantic swells arrive like clockwork, and the beaches empty out. Creating the perfect window for intermediate surfers who want clean shoulders, more punch in the waves and space to progress.

But: the wind can be strong, the swell can get big, and choosing sheltered surf spots becomes essential. This guide helps you find the right places when the weather turns wild.

Why Lisbon Works So Well in Autumn & Winter

• Consistent Atlantic swell — high-quality waves nearly every day.

• Mild temperatures — often sunny, rarely freezing; water ~15–17°C.

• Plenty of sheltered corners — crucial during north wind or heavy swell.

• Fast access from the city — 20–40 minutes from Lisbon to most spots.

For many surfers, this is the best season to visit. You avoid the summer crowds and unlock the real power and beauty of the Portuguese coastline.

The Best Surf Spots Near Lisbon (Autumn & Winter Edition)

1. Carcavelos — great when the wind behaves

Carcavelos is usually the first spot people check in winter. It’s a powerful beachbreak, and when the north wind drops or turns offshore, the waves can be excellent.

Autumn/Winter conditions

• Works well with clean north or northeast winds.

• Can get too big during heavy swells — then look for sheltered alternatives.

• Fun shoulders for confident intermediates when the banks line up.

Shelter factor:
Low. It’s exposed, so on stormy days it closes out quickly.

2. Costa da Caparica — long coastline with hidden sheltered banks

Caparica stretches for kilometres, which means you can often find a bank that handles the swell better — especially in autumn and early winter.

Why it’s good this season

• Multiple sandbanks and jetties create pockets of shelter.

• On big days, head further south towards Praia da Rainha or Praia da Sereia for more protection.

• Early mornings often offer the best conditions before the wind picks up.

Shelter factor:
Medium. Jetties and the southern stretch help block some wind and organize the swell.

3. Guincho — powerful winter surf (only good when very calm)

Guincho is stunning but extremely exposed. In winter, the combination of swell and north wind often makes it unsurfable.

When it works

• On rare calm, offshore winter mornings (NE–E winds).

• For advanced surfers who like punchy beachbreaks.

Shelter factor:
Very low. Guincho is one of the windiest beaches in Portugal — avoid it on stormy days.

4. Cascais & the Estoril coastline — your go-to shelter in winter

When the swell is too big for Carcavelos and Caparica, locals head here. The rocky coves and small beaches around Estoril can handle larger swell and block strong winds.

Good winter spots include:

• Praia da Poça

• Tamariz (rare but fun on small takeoff zones)

• Azarujinha — one of the most sheltered options when everywhere else is blown out.

Shelter factor:
High. These small bays offer protection from both swell and wind.

5. Ericeira (40 min from Lisbon) — winter paradise with protected reefs

Ericeira is technically outside Lisbon, but too important not to include. In winter, its reefs and points provide consistency and shelter that the beachbreaks near Lisbon sometimes lack.

Best sheltered spots for intermediates:

• Foz do Lizandro — handles winter swell surprisingly well.

• São Julião — good when the wind is offshore.

For advanced surfers:

• Ribeira d’Ilhas — long, predictable walls.

• Coxos — world-class, only for experts.

Shelter factor:
High to very high, depending on the reef and wind direction.

When to Surf Lisbon in Autumn & Winter

September – October

• Warm water

• Consistent, manageable swells

• Great for progression

November – March

• Stronger swells

• Frequent offshore mornings

• Best overall quality for confident intermediates

• Wetsuit: 4/3, occasionally 5/4 in January–February

• Practical Tips for Stormy Days

  • Go early — most spots are cleanest around sunrise.

  • Use coastal geography — bays and coves are your friend.

  • Avoid Guincho in winter storms — it gets chaotic fast.

  • Check tide carefully — many spots in Lisbon are tide-sensitive.

  • Wind apps matter — offshore wind can turn a heavy swell into magic.