Why bodyboarding in May and October in the Algarve is Perfect for Waves, Culture, Food, and Unforgettable Sessions
If you’re dreaming of sun-kissed beaches, endless Atlantic swell, good food, and one of Europe’s top spots for bodyboarding, Portugal’s Algarve region should be on your radar. Nestled on Europe’s south western edge, this stretch of coastline delivers a blend of beach breaks, scenic cliffs, warm water, and a rich coastal culture steeped in maritime history, a region that feels both relaxed and vibrant, perfect for bodyboarding adventures.
Having lived in Portugal for almost 20 years and bodyboarding up and down the country almost daily, I could write this guide with my eyes closed. So it’s a great pleasure to share my insights on bodyboarding in Portugal, particularly this precious corner of the country that I call home and where Bodyboard Holidays runs its biannual boogie trips.
Whether you’re a beginner craving fun, manageable waves or an experienced rider chasing air-propelling wedges and deep barrels, the Algarve region has something for you. Add historic towns, fresh seafood, and golden sun into the mix, and you’ve got the ideal blend of bodyboarding adventure and travel experience.
So what is it about Portugal, and especially the Algarve, that makes it such a magnet for bodyboarders from around the world?
Why Portugal Is a Bodyboarder’s Playground (and why the Algarve stands out)
From north to south, Portugal is packed with bodyboarding waves; powerful wedges, fun beach breaks, perfect reef setups, and hair raising slabs. It’s no wonder the country is seen as the epicenter of bodyboarding in Europe, if not the world. And so, no coincidence that two-time world champion Pierre Louis Costes and IBC tour rider Maxime Castillo call this part of the Iberian Peninsula home, which the former pays tribute to in his film Obrigado.
Further south, year-round swells funnel into the Algarve. From May through October, conditions strike a near-perfect balance: plenty of swell energy without the raw power of mid-winter Atlantic storms. The south western coastline wraps swells around its headlands, creating a variety of break types within a short drive, from mellow, peaky beach breaks for progression to world class wedges for advanced riders.
Combine this with warm weather (mid-teens to mid-20s Celsius) from spring through autumn, and you have near-ideal bodyboarding conditions in Europe.
But waves alone don’t make a destination special. What truly sets Portugal apart is the culture that’s grown up around them.
Portuguese Bodyboard Culture
Portugal has a rich and passionate bodyboarding culture that’s respected in a way few other countries can claim. Unlike in many places where bodyboarders are sidelined or underestimated, here surfers and bodyboarders share mutual respect.
The culture itself is a mix of styles and influences. Traditionally, Portuguese riders inherited the fast, aggressive, explosive approach of Brazilian bodyboarding, but in recent years, they’ve blended it with the smooth lines and fluidity of Australians, producing some truly radical riders. Publications like Vert Bodyboard Magazine celebrate this creativity and skill, documenting the ever-evolving local scene, which has produced a new wave of stylish, world-class talent including Antonio Saraiva, Steph Kokorelis, and Antonio Cardoso, to name a few. Our own João Veiga is deeply passionate about bodyboarding fluidity and technique, and it shows in his coaching throughout our bodyboard coaching trips.
The bodyboard community is tight-knit and welcoming. Personally, I’m fortunate to have countless bodyboarding friends, while a stand-up surfer, ex-pat friend who’s been here as long as me, counts his surfing friends on one hand. There’s a genuine fraternity here, low ego, wave-focused, and committed to progression. Portugal is also home to dedicated bodyboard schools and clubs, including Nova Onda, CULT, Boogie Chicks, and NBZM Bodyboard Club, ensuring a next generation of strong riders. Simply put, bodyboarding isn’t just alive in Portugal, it’s thriving.
“In Portugal, bodyboarding isn’t just a sport - it’s part of our cultural fabric. From the earliest pioneers exploring the coast to the vibrant local scenes that thrive today, Portuguese bodyboarding is rooted in community, passion, and a deep connection with the ocean.”
Lagos & Sagres: The Heart of Our Bodyboarding Trips
That sense of community and shared stoke is exactly what first drew me south to the Algarve, and ultimately to Lagos and Sagres, the heart of our Bodyboard Holidays trips. After my first visit years ago, invited down by local friends, I was completely blown away, so when it came time to launch a new trip, there was no better place to start.
Lagos – Charming Base, Great Beaches
Lagos is an alluring coastal town full of charm and character. Cobblestone streets wind past pastel-painted buildings, historic churches, and vibrant plazas, giving the town a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Staying here means you can wake up to ocean views, grab a strong Portuguese coffee, and wander through local markets before heading to the beach.
The beaches around Lagos are ideal for all levels of bodyboarding. Meia Praia and Porto de Mós offer beautiful scenery and mellow waves perfect for progression, while nearby spots can provide punchier sets for more experienced riders. Beyond the surf, Lagos is packed with cafes, seafood restaurants, and boutique shops, making it easy to spend afternoons exploring or relaxing after a day in the water. Evenings come alive with music, fresh food, and a welcoming local vibe that makes every stay feel special.
Sagres – Where the Atlantic Roars
Just west of Lagos lies Sagres, where the raw power of the Atlantic is on full display. Its unique dual coastlines offer endless options: the exposed west coast delivers consistent swell across peaky beach breaks, while the more sheltered south coast serves up bodyboard-friendly wedges ideal for mixed skill levels. If it’s too big on the west, we head south, and vice versa. With a network of south-coast coves facing different directions, we can always dial in the right wave for your level.
Sagres also boasts historic landmarks like the Sagres Fortress and Cape St. Vincent, Europe’s most south western point, offering dramatic cliffside views. Out of the water, there are opportunities for hiking, kayaking, dolphin spotting or simply watching the sunset over the Atlantic.
Together, Lagos and Sagres provide a perfect blend of culture, convenience, and world-class waves. But timing matters, so when is the best time to experience it all?
"The surfing's been great. Coaching team's been fantastic, they’ve really helped me come along. Accommodation’s been fantastic. And I think the thing that's really made it for me has been the group that we've been with. Everybody's getting on really well."
Best Time to Visit: May and October
On every Bodyboard Holidays trip I run, I’m always asked: “Which month is best?” And honestly, it’s a tough call-because both offer something special, just in different ways.
May – Spring Swell & Warm Days
May marks the start of the season, with playful, consistent swells and longer, sunnier days. The water’s waking up, the beaches are quieter, and the conditions are ideal for dialing in technique while still scoring plenty of fun waves.
October – Autumn Lines & Cleaner Conditions
October brings a more refined feel. The crowds thin out, the Atlantic starts firing more regularly, and consistent offshore winds deliver cleaner faces and longer rides.
Whichever month you choose, you’ll be perfectly placed to enjoy not just the waves, but also the culture, food, and off-water adventures that make Portugal unforgettable.
Why Portugal Delivers More Than Just Waves
Of course, what makes a bodyboarding trip truly memorable isn’t just what happens in the water. In Portugal, bodyboarding is a full sensory experience.
Taste Portugal – The Portuguese are genuinely proud of their food, and it shows in every dish. Portuguese cuisine is a delight, and the Algarve is a treasure trove of fresh, local flavors. Start your day with a strong espresso and a warm pastel de nata, savor grilled sardines at lunch, and enjoy fresh seafood platters or local wine in the evening. Budget around €40/day for café meals or self-catering, though a seafood feast is worth every extra euro.
Explore the Algarve – Beyond surfing, the coastline is made for adventure. Take cliff walks, kayak to hidden caves like Benagil, or explore historic towns such as Lagos, Silves, and Tavira. Local markets, artisanal shops, and vineyards offer authentic experiences for culture and food lovers alike.
Relax and Recharge – Sometimes the best part of a bodyboarding trip is simply slowing down, reading next to the pool on our roof top terrace, having a masseuse visit our accommodation, sinking a Sagres beer at sun down or treating yourself to a little retail therapy…
Bodyboard Shops in the Algarve
…And if that retail therapy turns surf-focused, the Algarve’s strong bodyboarding culture has you covered. From boards and fins to local advice, you’ll find everything you need, and you might even bump into local World Title winner Joana Schenker while browsing, as we’ve done more than once.
With this network of shops, it’s easy to find everything you need, from gear to local tips, so you can focus on enjoying your waves.
Lagos & Sagres
- Lagos Surf Center
- Surf Planet Sagres Surf Shop
- Wavesensations – Sagres Surf Shop & Surf School
- Board Trader Algarve – Sagres Surf Shop
- Ana Gomes Surf Shop (Ana, a pioneer of Portuguese bodyboarding)
- SW Surf Shop (Aljezur)
Lisbon
- Bodyboard Center – Carcavelos
Price comparison
Another reason so many riders keep coming back to Sagres is simple: your money goes a long way. Sagres is one of Europe’s best-value bodyboarding destinations. Everyday costs like coffee, lunch, and drinks are noticeably lower than in the UK or the US, which means your travel budget stretches further once you’re here. In practical terms, that translates into longer stays, better accommodation options, and more flexibility to chase conditions on both the west and south coasts, without overspending on daily essentials.
Once you’ve got a feel for the value Portugal offers, a little preparation goes a long way in making the most of it.
Across everyday essentials like coffee, lunch, beer, and wine, Sagres comes out significantly cheaper than both the UK and the US. Based on the prices above, you’re looking at roughly 50% lower day-to-day costs than the UK, and around 60% cheaper than the US. It’s one of the big reasons riders feel like their money stretches further here, whether that means staying longer, upgrading your accommodation, or simply having more freedom to chase the best conditions without stressing about the small daily spend.
Once you’ve got a feel for the value Portugal offers, a little preparation goes a long way in making the most of it.
Practical Tips for Your Portugal Bodyboarding Trip
A little preparation goes a long way in making your trip smooth, safe, and fun. From packing the right gear to getting the most out of a guided trip, these tips will help you focus on what really matters, catching waves.
What to Pack
- Wetsuit: A 3/2mm is perfect for spring through autumn.
- Bodyboard & Fins: Bring your own or hire from us.
- Sun Protection: SPF, rash vest, and a hat for downtime on the beach.
- A good book for afternoon downtime
All of this becomes even easier, and far more rewarding, when you’re travelling with people who know the coastline inside out.
Why a Guided Bodyboard Holidays Trip Makes It Better
Choosing a guided Bodyboard Holidays trip in Portugal takes the stress out of logistics and lets you maximize your time in the water. With local knowledge, coaching, and accommodation and transport included, you can focus entirely on waves, progression, and having fun, while discovering hidden spots you might never find on your own.
"This is my fifth bodyboard holidays’ trip, my third trip to Portugal. I cannot tell you enough about how fabulous it is, great coaches, great waves, great company, you got to do it!"
Getting to Lagos
Whether you’re visiting for a week, a month, or something longer, getting here is refreshingly simple.
It couldn’t be easier to get to Lagos, the gateway to your Algarve bodyboarding adventure. The town is well connected by air, rail, and road, so whether you’re flying in from Europe or further afield, you’ll be on the sand in no time.
Fly to Faro (Recommended) – Faro Airport is just over an hour from Lagos. Bodyboard Holidays provides free transfers from Faro straight to your accommodation.
Just in, new direct flights between New York/Newark and Faro were introduced by United Airlines starting in May 2025, marking the first-ever direct nonstop U.S. to Faro route, with four flights per week.
Fly to Lisbon – Options include:
- Train: Faro (~3 hours), then our pickup to Lagos.
- Bus: Direct bus (~5.5 hours), where we’ll meet you at the station.
No matter your route, getting to Lagos is straightforward, leaving you ready to focus on waves and adventure.
For some, Portugal isn’t just a trip, it becomes a place to call home.
Why Americans Are Moving to Portugal
Recent changes to Portugal’s visa programs, including the popular D7 and digital nomad visas, have made it easier for U.S. citizens to live and work in the country, sparking a noticeable rise in relocations. Many Americans are drawn by Portugal’s lower cost of living and high quality of life, enjoying affordable healthcare, excellent services, and a safe, stable environment. The country’s mild climate, relaxed pace, and vibrant expat communities appeal to retirees, remote workers, and families alike.
Long time Bodyboard Holiday customer and friend Jeremy Elisson moved from California to Lisbon 3 years ago and here’s what he had to say when I recently caught up with him for a surf in Sagres.
“After ten years in California, I was done. I was burnt out on the superficiality and the endless grind. I wanted a life that actually felt human. Lisbon has that balance. I can spend the day gardening and cooking fresh food with my girlfriend, but the nightlife here is intense. The parties have more energy and stamina than anything in the States.
The ocean sealed the deal. I am twenty minutes from world-class bodyboarding breaks. The water is colder, but the waves are heavy and the lineups are much better. It is not aggressive and commercialized like Newport, San Clemente, or Huntington Beach. I am not just passing through. I am learning the language and fully settling in. It finally feels like home.”
Other Surf & Bodyboarding Hotspots in Portugal
While our Bodyboard Holidays trips focus on Lagos and the Algarve, Portugal is dotted with legendary spots worth exploring, especially if you’re arriving early or staying for a few extra days.
Peniche – Supertubos
Known as the “European Pipeline,” Supertubos delivers powerful, barreling beach breaks. Nearby points, bays and reefs offer waves suitable for all levels, making Peniche a must-visit.
Nazaré – Praia do Norte
Famous for its giant waves, Nazaré is extreme and awe-inspiring. Not for beginners, but witnessing these colossal walls of water is unforgettable. And on a smaller day, is a bodyboarding skate park.
Lisbon Coast – Costa da Caparica and nearby beaches
Offering a mix of beach breaks and reef waves, the Lisbon coastline provides year-round sessions. Great for progression and exploring Portuguese surf culture outside the Algarve.
Ready to Ride Portugal?
The Algarve delivers accessible waves, sunny skies, rich culture, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Bodyboard Holidays trips in May and October are designed to make the most of this unique coastline, perfect waves, delicious food, new friends, and unforgettable experiences included.
Whether you’re a beginner chasing fun beach breaks, or an advanced rider seeking wedges and barrels, the Algarve has it all. Pack your board, grab your fins, and get ready to discover why bodyboarding in Portugal isn’t just a sport, it’s a way of life.
Before you go, here’s who you’ll be sharing the waves with…
Meet our coaches in Portugal
Matt Mave Davies
Hey, I’m Matt, or Mave, as my friends call me, and writer of this blog. I originally came to Portugal on a 9-month work contract, drawn by the waves, but it didn’t take long for me to stay. Twenty years later, I’m still here! I love the great climate, perfect waves, strong coffee, friendly people, slower pace of life, and being close to the UK where my family is. I enjoy sharing my second home, its coastline, and everything else this amazing country has to offer with our Bodyboard Holidays guests.
João Veiga
Born and raised in Portugal, João is a respected member of the Portuguese bodyboarding community. He started bodyboarding at 12 and now has over 27 years of experience. His greatest passion is sharing Portugal’s incredible waves with guests on Bodyboard Holidays trips. His favourite part of the job? Spreading the stoke for bodyboarding with awesome people.
Fun fact: João was training to be a lawyer when the waves called – he dropped the books to follow his passion for bodyboarding and hasn’t looked back. When not leading trips, he coaches surf and bodyboard in Portugal.
7 Fun Facts About Portugal
- Portugal has over 300 days of surfable conditions a year With consistent Atlantic swell and multiple coastlines, there’s almost always a wave somewhere, especially in areas like Sagres.
- The Portuguese drink more coffee per person than almost anywhere in Europe. Coffee is fast, strong, and affordable, usually taken standing at the counter for around 70 cents.
- Portugal is home to the biggest waves ever ridden Nazaré holds world records for wave size, with winter swells producing waves over 20 metres.
- You can cross the entire country in under 6 hours Portugal’s compact size makes it easy to chase swell, wind, and better conditions without long travel days.
- Wine is often cheaper than bottled water In supermarkets and local restaurants, a decent bottle of Portuguese wine can cost less than water.
- Portugal is one of the oldest countries in Europe. Its borders have remained largely unchanged since the 12th century, making it one of Europe’s longest-established nations.
- Dinner starts late, and no one’s in a rush. Evening meals typically begin around 8–9pm and are meant to be enjoyed slowly and with family.
Portugal Bodyboarding Holiday FAQ
Do I need prior bodyboarding experience to join a trip?
No experience is necessary! Bodyboard Holidays caters to all levels.
When is the best time to visit for bodyboarding?
May and October are ideal. May offers playful, consistent spring swells and warm days; October brings cleaner conditions, fewer crowds, and offshore mornings.
What kind of waves can I expect in the Algarve?
Variety! Mellow beachbreaks, punchy wedges, and hidden reef setups are all within a short drive.
Do I need to bring my own gear?
- Not necessarily. You can bring your own or rent from Bodyboard Holidays.
How long is a typical session each day?
Sessions vary depending on conditions and group preference, but typically one 4 hour session or two, 2 hour sessions.
Are trips suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The tight-knit bodyboard community and friendly group atmosphere make it easy to meet like-minded riders.
What else is there to do besides bodyboarding?
Cliff walks, kayaking, exploring historic towns, tasting wine, and enjoying local cuisine are all part of the Algarve experience.
How do I get to Lagos?
Fly to Faro (1+ hour) or Lisbon (train or bus), with Bodyboard Holidays providing transfers from Faro.
Ready to Experience Portugal with Bodyboard Holidays?
Portugal is one of those rare places where everything lines up. Consistent waves, warm water, rich culture, incredible food, and a bodyboarding community that genuinely welcomes you in. When you add local knowledge, expert coaching, and a great group of like-minded riders, it becomes more than just a trip. It becomes an experience you carry with you long after you leave.
Our Portugal bodyboarding trips in May and October are designed to help you get the very best out of the Algarve. The right waves for your level, the right spots on the right days, and the freedom to focus on progression, fun, and connection, both in and out of the water.
Whether you are joining us for your first bodyboarding holiday or returning for another hit of Atlantic energy, we would love to welcome you to Portugal.
Explore our Portugal bodyboarding trips and secure your place
