Steer clear of the crowd-filled surf town in Portugal, boasting stunning coastlines
Aljezur, a charming surf town nestled in Portugal's southwest corner, offers a unique blend of rugged coastline, chill surf vibes, and proximity to pristine beaches that cater to a variety of wave types and difficulties.
Aljezur: The Surfing Hub
This historic town, characterized by whitewashed walls, orange-tiled roofs, and a narrow river bisecting the town, serves as the perfect base for surf enthusiasts. With its remote location, Aljezur is surprisingly accessible, with Faro International Airport being an hour and twenty minutes away by car.
The Ideal Spots for Beginners: Arrifana
About 6 miles southwest of Aljezur, the picturesque fishing village of Arrifana stands out. Its sheltered bay offers gentle waves that make it an ideal spot for beginners. Surrounded by charming bars, restaurants, and surf hostels, Arrifana is a perfect chill spot both in and out of the water.
Challenging Waves for Experienced Surfers
For more experienced surfers, Praia do Amado and Praia da Bordeira, further afield from Aljezur, offer bigger, rougher waves with consistent swells. These beaches, popular for surf competitions, are more exposed and provide stunning cliff views.
Family-Friendly Surfing: Praia de Monte Clérigo
Praia de Monte Clérigo, just 10 minutes from Aljezur, is a family-friendly beach that offers some cafés and restaurants nearby, making it convenient for visitors.
Taste the Local Seafood
Given that these areas are traditional fishing villages, restaurants commonly serve fresh local seafood caught daily. Typical offerings include grilled sardines, bacalhau, seafood rice, octopus and shellfish dishes, reflecting the Atlantic bounty. The village of Arrifana especially retains a sleepy fishing community vibe, ensuring that the seafood is fresh and locally sourced, enjoyed in small charming eateries near the beach.
In summary, around Aljezur, the best surf towns like Aljezur and Arrifana offer beautiful beaches with waves suited to all levels, stunning natural scenery, and authentic seafood cuisine deeply tied to the coastal lifestyle and surfing culture. For surfers looking for both quality waves and excellent fresh seafood, this area is among Portugal’s top choices.
[1] [Source 1] [3] [Source 3] [4] [Source 4] [5] [Source 5]
While exploring the surf town of Aljezur, travelers can find various travel guides that focus more on outdoor-living and sports, offering detailed information about the diverse waves for both beginners and experienced surfers. In addition, these guides may highlight home-and-garden tips for vacation rental accommodations and recommend local lifestyle experiences, including tastings of fresh home-caught seafood at the nearby restaurants.
