Why Guincho Beach is One of Portugal’s Best Surf Spots

For more than 20 years, Guincho Beach has been home to Moana Surf School. Located just outside Cascais and only a short drive from Lisbon, Guincho is one of Portugal’s most iconic surfing beaches.

The Guincho beach surfing experience close to the most Western point of mainland Europe is something very special. Alex has so much experience of the coast, waves and the area that he will make sure you have a the safest and best time possible on you surfing holiday here in Portugal. It is one of the best surf spots in Portugal and what a bonus to have it so close to Lisbon.

What makes Guincho so special?

What makes Guincho so special is the combination of consistent waves, stunning scenery and space. Whether you are taking your first surf lesson or already have surfing experience, Guincho offers waves for all levels throughout the year.

The beach sits within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and is famous for its wild beauty, powerful Atlantic Ocean energy and breathtaking sunsets.

Over the years we have welcomed surfers from all over Europe — Portugal, Norway, Germany, France, the United Kingdom and many other countries. Many visitors come for a surf lesson and return year after year because of the unique atmosphere of Guincho Beach.

At Moana Surf School we believe surfing is more than standing on a board. It is about spending time in nature, challenging yourself, meeting new people and creating unforgettable memories by the ocean.

The best time to visit

Whether you are looking for your first surf lesson, a family surf experience, a surf holiday or simply one of the best beaches near Lisbon, Guincho Beach leaves a lasting impression. Guincho beach is wild and has no buildings nearby. You feel free and away from the traffic and chaos of city beaches. Best time to come and learn to surf with us at Moana Surf School is from May to beginning of September. On the inside at low tide we have  great small waves to learn. To surf on the outside depending on the day we have waves for those more experienced. But the summer months are really great for families to learn to surf and enjoy the long sandy beach and our beach bar and restaurant.

You don’t need to swim to surf

We teach around low tide so you do not actually know have to swim to lean to surf! You will be in shallow water.

“It was strange — I learnt to surf before I learnt to swim! I was scared of the ocean and couldn’t swim, but Alex and the team persuaded me it was safe. I stood on the board and rode wave after wave. I fell in love with surfing and the ocean.”
— Lucas, 18 years old, first-time surfer

Ocean therapy — helping others

We also do work with many centers with adults and children with learning and physical problems. From paralyzed people to blind people of all agers we have taken them in to the ocean and they have felt the glide of the surfboard in the ocean whilst being helped and supported. They feel the sand under their feet on the beach and between their toes they small the sea air, feel the sea air on their face and feel the salt water on their body.  Standing or just lying on the surfboard  the experience of being a the beach and in the ocean is a therapy for them and for us. As helping others and seeing their joy and pleasure is one of the most rewarding parts of life.  A major part our journey in life should and must be to help others for real human benefits for all those involved.