Surf Training School Matosinhos, Porto - Image 1
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Surf Training School Matosinhos Porto

4.8
·84 reviews·Porto, Portugal

Learn to surf at Matosinhos Beach, Porto's premier spot for beginners, with patient instructors and gentle waves. All gear included!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more waves

CrowdLow
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Surf Training School Matosinhos, Porto - Image 1

Surf Training School Matosinhos Porto

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more waves

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Learn to surf at Matosinhos Beach, Porto's premier spot for beginners, with patient instructors and gentle waves. All gear included!

4.8
(84 reviews)

"The instructors are super friendly, professional and fun, and the staff is very helpful."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Ahead for Lessons

Secure your spot by booking lessons in advance, especially on weekends. :admission_tickets:

Beginner-Friendly Waves

Matosinhos offers gentle waves perfect for learning. Don't worry if you're new to surfing! :ocean:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Catch Your First Wave

Catch Your First Wave

Matosinhos Beach

Experience the thrill of riding a wave with patient instructors guiding you every step of the way. Perfect for absolute beginners!

Professional Surf Instruction

Professional Surf Instruction

Surf Training School

Learn from friendly, patient, and professional coaches who offer personalized tips and safety briefings before hitting the water.

All-Year-Round Surfing

All-Year-Round Surfing

Matosinhos Beach

Enjoy the waves regardless of the season. The school is open year-round, offering a chance to surf even during the winter months.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Surf Session in Advance

Matosinhos is a popular surf spot, especially for beginners. Booking your surf lesson or board rental ahead of time, particularly during peak season or weekends, is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Many schools offer package deals for multiple lessons.

Embrace the Beginner Waves

Matosinhos beach is known for its gentle, consistent waves, making it an ideal location for learning to surf. Don't be discouraged by initial attempts; instructors are patient and experienced in guiding absolute beginners to catch their first wave. The focus is on fun and progress.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more waves
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon Lessons
Why
Sunnier, good for beginners
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Asking the cute Portuguese surf instructor to teach me how to pop up… for educational purposes, obviously #seixalmadeira #madeiraisland #solotravel #surfing #surftok #madeira #howtosurf #popup #surfingtips @madeirasurfcenter
@travelingwithtals
29.7K likes • 371.7K views

Book Ahead for Lessons

Secure your spot by booking lessons in advance, especially on weekends. :admission_tickets:

Beginner-Friendly Waves

Matosinhos offers gentle waves perfect for learning. Don't worry if you're new to surfing! :ocean:

If you didn’t already know, learning to surf is humbling. But with a cutie girl gang that cheers you on, it’s that much better <3 @citybeachgirl #surftrip #surftok #portugalsurfcamp #surfretreat #surfretreatportugal
@emmygoesplaces
20.8K likes • 141.2K views
reddit.com

Surfing.

Package Deals Available

Consider multi-lesson packages for better value and faster progress. :euro:

All Gear Provided

Wetsuits and surfboards are included in lesson prices. Just bring your swimwear! :wetsuit:

reddit.com

Surfing around Porto

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Ahead for Lessons

Secure your spot by booking lessons in advance, especially on weekends. :admission_tickets:

Beginner-Friendly Waves

Matosinhos offers gentle waves perfect for learning. Don't worry if you're new to surfing! :ocean:

Package Deals Available

Consider multi-lesson packages for better value and faster progress. :euro:

All Gear Provided

Wetsuits and surfboards are included in lesson prices. Just bring your swimwear! :wetsuit:

Patient & Fun Instructors

Coaches are praised for their patience and ability to help you stand up. :smiley:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(84 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Surf Training School Matosinhos for its professional, patient, and friendly instructors who make learning to surf an enjoyable experience, even for absolute beginners. The school's location on Matosinhos Beach, with its ideal waves for learning, and the value offered through lesson packages are frequently highlighted as major positives. While most experiences are overwhelmingly positive, some may find the initial learning curve challenging, but the supportive environment helps overcome this.

"On the last Sunday(9th of April 2023) was my first surfing session. My choice was Surf Training School because a friend of mine had her first session there too and she told that it was very good. I messaged them on Instagram and they told me that the next class would be the next day at 11:00 a.m. I arrived early because they asked me to be there 15 minutes in advance.

There were six students in the class, including me. We were provided with suits and boards. There was a detailed briefing, safety instructions and we practiced a little on the sand before entering the water.

In the water coach João helped each of us to stand on the board for the first time. With his help I was able to catch a wave the first time! It was wonderful!
Catching waves on my own proved to be more difficult, but João, being at a physical distance, told me when to stand up and corrected me, so I was able to catch waves on my own, without his pushing.

The cost of the class was 15€, I was also offered a package of 5 classes for 60€. The duration of the class was about 2 hours - it was enough for me, because it was the first time and I was a little tired. The 4 steps of how to get up on the board is not very difficult, but I need to train my muscles and everything will work out.

If you have not tried surfing yet - I definitely recommend to try at Surf Training School, especially since the season is open, the waves are good. Motosinhos is a good place to start surfing!"

Nicole Gutsul

"If you are looking for a profesional surf school, it’s a perfect place! All coaches I had classes with are patient and great teachers. Additionally, there is a discount for Erasmus students. I’ve also got a change to take part in the surf trip and it was an unforgettable experience (huge plus was a video analysis). Highly recommended!"

Karolina Jędraszek

"Got a lesson as an absolute beginner together with my wife. The equipment is included and seemed very good. After some instructions on the beach the friendly teacher gave instruction in the water. Felt safe and had a load of fun."

Benjamin Kisliuk

What People Like

Patient and professional instructors
Great beginner waves
Good value lesson packages

What People Dislike

Initial learning curve can be tough

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can easily reach Matosinhos by taking the Metro line A (Blue Line) from Porto city center towards Senhor de Matosinhos. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes and the school is a short walk from the Matosinhos Sul station. Many visitors also opt for ride-sharing services or taxis for a more direct route. Reddit

Yes, there is street parking available in the Matosinhos area, though it can be competitive, especially during peak times. Some paid parking lots are also located nearby. Arriving by public transport is often more convenient. Reddit

The Metro is a very popular and cost-effective option for reaching Matosinhos from Porto. It's efficient and drops you close to the beach. Many travelers also find ride-sharing apps convenient for door-to-door service. Reddit

Absolutely! The Matosinhos Sul Metro station is just a few minutes' walk from the beach and most surf schools, including Surf Training School. It's a pleasant stroll, especially on a nice day. Reddit

Yes, several bus lines also serve the Matosinhos area from Porto. While the Metro is often preferred for its directness and frequency, buses offer an alternative if they align better with your starting point. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

A single surf lesson typically costs around 15€, with a package of 5 lessons available for approximately 60€. Erasmus student discounts may also be offered. It's best to check their latest pricing directly. Reddit

It is highly recommended to book your surf lesson in advance, especially if you plan to go on a weekend or during busy periods, to ensure availability. Reddit

The price of a surf lesson usually includes the use of a wetsuit and a surfboard. You'll also receive a safety briefing and instruction on the beach and in the water. Reddit

The school is open all year round, so you can surf during any season. Specific lesson times will vary, so it's best to check their schedule when booking. Reddit

Yes, surf schools in Matosinhos typically offer surfboard rentals for those who already have some surfing experience and wish to practice on their own. Reddit

🎫 🏄 Onsite Experience

Weekday mornings often have fewer crowds, offering a more relaxed learning environment. Afternoon lessons can also be great, with pleasant weather and good light for practice. Reddit

Yes, Matosinhos is renowned for its gentle, consistent waves, making it an ideal spot for learning to surf. The conditions are generally forgiving for newcomers. Reddit

You'll be provided with a wetsuit, so you just need to wear your swimwear underneath. Bring a towel and a change of clothes for after your session. Reddit

A standard surf lesson usually lasts around 2 hours, which is ample time for beginners to get a feel for the sport and practice catching waves. Reddit

Yes, children can take surf lessons. Instructors are experienced with younger surfers, and the gentle waves of Matosinhos are suitable for kids. One reviewer mentioned their 6-year-old was very happy. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Matosinhos Beach offers scenic views with surfers in action, the coastline, and the Atlantic Ocean. It's a great spot for capturing dynamic surf shots or relaxed beach scenes. TikTok

Some surf schools offer video analysis as part of their surf trips, which can be a great way to review your technique and get memorable footage. It's worth inquiring about this service. Reddit

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can also be good for capturing the action with clear skies. TikTok

The beach itself offers plenty of vantage points to photograph surfers. You can also find elevated spots along the promenade for a wider perspective of the surfing action. TikTok

You can capture the excitement of learning to surf, instructors helping students, the beautiful beach scenery, and the joy of catching waves. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Matosinhos Beach is a fantastic destination for families looking to introduce their children to surfing. The gentle, consistent waves are perfect for young learners, and instructors are experienced in teaching kids. Many schools offer family-friendly lessons, ensuring a fun and safe experience for everyone. Reddit

Consider booking a family package for a more cohesive experience. The beach itself is spacious and has amenities that make it comfortable for families. It's a great way to create lasting memories and encourage an active lifestyle for your children in a beautiful coastal setting. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Surf Training School Matosinhos offers excellent value for money, especially with their package deals. A 5-lesson package for around 60€ is a very affordable way to learn a new skill. Reddit Traveling to Matosinhos from Porto via the Metro is also extremely budget-friendly. Reddit

Matosinhos itself has many affordable eateries, particularly for fresh seafood, making it easy to manage food costs. By utilizing public transport and taking advantage of lesson packages, you can have an incredible surf experience without breaking the bank.

👫 Couples

Learning to surf together can be a wonderfully romantic and fun activity for couples. Matosinhos provides the perfect setting with its beautiful beach and supportive surf schools. Imagine catching waves side-by-side and celebrating your progress together! Reddit

After your lessons, you can enjoy a stroll along the promenade or indulge in some of the famous local seafood restaurants. It's an ideal way to combine adventure with relaxation and create shared memories.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Learning to Surf: A Beginner's Guide

Matosinhos Beach is a prime location for anyone looking to learn how to surf, thanks to its consistent, gentle waves that are perfect for beginners. Surf schools here are well-equipped to handle first-timers, offering comprehensive lessons that cover the basics of paddling, popping up, and riding waves. Instructors are known for their patience and personalized guidance, ensuring a safe and fun learning experience. TikTokReddit

Before hitting the water, you'll typically receive a thorough safety briefing and practice the fundamental movements on the sand. This preparation is crucial for building confidence and understanding the mechanics of surfing. The goal is to help you catch your first wave and experience the exhilaration of gliding across the water. Even if you don't stand up on every attempt, the process of learning and the supportive environment make it a rewarding activity. Reddit

Many schools offer packages for multiple lessons, which are highly recommended for solidifying your skills and making significant progress. The investment in a few sessions can transform your experience from tentative attempts to confident wave riding. Remember to stay hydrated and listen to your instructor's advice – they are there to help you succeed and enjoy the sport. Reddit

Why Matosinhos is Ideal for Surfing

Matosinhos Beach, located just north of Porto, is celebrated as one of Portugal's best spots for learning to surf. Its geographical position shields it from the harshest Atlantic swells, resulting in smaller, more manageable waves that are ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers. The sandy bottom also contributes to a safer environment, reducing the risk of injury compared to rocky surf breaks. Reddit

The consistent nature of the waves here means that you're likely to find rideable conditions year-round, making it a fantastic destination for a surf trip regardless of the season. This reliability is a major draw for surf schools and students alike. The beach is also spacious, allowing for ample room for multiple surf schools and individual surfers without feeling overly crowded, especially during weekdays. Reddit

Beyond the waves, Matosinhos offers a vibrant atmosphere with a lively promenade, numerous seafood restaurants, and easy access from Porto via public transport. This combination of excellent surf conditions, a supportive learning environment, and convenient amenities makes it a top choice for anyone wanting to experience the joy of surfing in Portugal. Reddit