Portugal Women's Surf Camp

Seven nights / From £1,999 Book now

Join us for a seven night, accommodation inclusive women-only surf camp on the sun-kissed shores of Lagos, Portugal. You’ll receive expert coaching from our all-star ISA qualified instructors at some of the best surf breaks in Europe.

Why choose to go surfing in Portugal?

Unlike other surf camps, Women + Waves surf trips are tailored to suit your needs and abilities. Your surf instructors will choose the best surf spots and waves for you, with first-hand experience of the beginner and progressor beach breaks around Lagos, they’ll guide you to take the next step on your surfing journey.

What to expect

With Women + Waves everything is organised for you; from delicious lunches, optional group dinners, to a stunning apartment, all you have to do is show up and enjoy the sunny vibes and good times. These trips are fully insured and have received over 350 5-star reviews from customers so you can be sure of being in safe hands.

Who’s this course for?

This girls-only surf trip is suitable for beginner, progressor and low-intermediate surfers. We provide as much support as you need to overcome any barriers. Everyone is welcome, 90% of participants arrive solo and over 40% are over forty; so there’s nothing to stop you becoming the surfer you always dreamed of.

What level am I?

Cultural Secrets

You’ll learn to surf on Lagos' golden beaches, discover its historic charm, experience the vibrant nightlife and scenic beauty, all with local guides, and a group of like-minded women, the perfect ingredients for a life-changing surf experience.

When to go

Lagos enjoys deliciously warm, sunny weather from May to October and year-round swell, perfect for beginners and progressors. You will only need a 3/2mm wetsuit or shorty for surfing these balmy breaks.

Quick facts

Water Temp

19°C

Climate

16 - 25°C

Wave Types

Beach Breaks

Language

Portuguese

Accommodation

You can choose from two self-catering apartments ideally located near Lagos' historical old town and modern harbour, perfect for exploring. The luxurious apartments feature communal facilities including outdoor swimming pool, a gym, and kitchen for self-catering convenience.

Show all photos Portugal surf camp accommodation

What people say

"I honestly couldn’t have dreamt of a better week! I had previously attended UK weekends as a novice surfer and I couldn’t believe I was standing in my first lesson. I was initially a little nervous flying out alone but as soon I stepped off the plane into the sun and warmth I was instantly in my element and I didn’t stop smiling the entire time! It is so lovely meeting like-minded women with a love for travel and surfing and we all instantly connected. I cannot wait to attend another overseas W+W camp, and I will try to make it a yearly occurrence in my calendar! "

Lauren-Ashleigh

"Had a stellar time on a week-long surf camp in Portugal! As a solo traveller, I especially appreciated the chance to connect with lovely, like-minded females and the chance to get coached by skilled and attentive instructors who tailored their advice based on people’s individual goals. The week was very well planned - while the focus was on the surf, there was a good blend of organized meals, time for exploring the city and breaks. Truly felt lucky to be a part of it and recommend to folks looking for an inviting and supportive surf community!"

Vicky

"I'm returning from the amazing trip to Portugal and am overflowing with smiles! This was my first W+W trip abroad after having had such amazing weekends with them. So many things I could absolutely wax lyrical about but standouts for me were the total rockstars that are the coaches, who never fail to bring the good vibes and make everyone feel so very relaxed and welcome. Secondly was the quality of the teaching that you get over the week; the group is big enough to feel like a mini party everyday but not so big that anyone goes without really focussed direction to help improvement and progress! "

Nina

"This trip was hands down one of the most amazing and life-changing experiences I’ve ever had. The team were incredible, knowledgeable, and beyond supportive. The amount of progress I made in such a short time could only accredited to having such fantastic people to learn from. Even on the days I felt I wasn’t doing my best the instructors were right there lifting me up, reminding me that even when I’m struggling I’m progressing. If anyone is hesitant to bite the bullet, I say do it! It is worth every penny and more. You’ll meet the most incredible people and walk away with a new lease on life!"

Sarah

Itinerary

Please note, sometimes we need to be flexible as some activities will be weather and condition dependent – but don’t worry, we’ll always do our very best to ensure you get the very best out of the trip! All our surf days and suggested activities are completely optional – you can enjoy as much or as little as you desire. This is not a boot camp!

Day One - Part One

Touch down in Portugal! You’re about to spend seven nights surfing some of the best waves the Atlantic has to offer with an amazing group of like-minded women. Expect golden beaches, sunshine, great food and plenty of Portuguese culture thrown in for good measure. Our instructors are all ISA qualified and trained lifeguards - so you’ll always be safe in the water.

The trip will officially start at 4pm.

Day One - Part Two

After being shown to your room to settle in, there’s plenty of time to freshen up before a chilled welcome meeting. In this meeting we’ll discuss what you’d personally like to get out of the trip, whether that’s standing up for the first time, mastering your backhand or sampling the finest Portuguese cuisine, we’re here to make this happen for you! Then it’s a relaxed evening, a chance to meet the other women on the trip and share the stoke for the days ahead.

Please see our Travel section for more information on arrival and transfers.

Day Two - Part One

Today your surf coaching begins!

Each day based on the conditions, your instructor will decide where the best waves are, suited to your ability. There’s a variety of beach breaks on the South and the West coast, so you’re spoilt for choice!

You’ll have your first meeting over fresh morning coffee to set your surf goals for the week using your brand new bespoke Women + Waves log book.

Day Two - Part Two

Once your goals are set, we’ll go over the plan to achieve them on the beach. Then you’ll jump straight into the ocean for your first surf session with your trip leader and the team. After a fun session there’s chill time on the beach where you can enjoy a packed lunch picnic overlooking the waves. This is a great time to reflect on what you’ve just learnt. You can also grab a coffee or ice cream from the beach cafe, chill out, talk surfing and grab some rays!

You can then head back to your accommodation, where you’ll pick up even more knowledge in a video analysis session and we’ll deliver our first surf workshop, focusing on paddling and other board handling skills in the swimming pool.

This will be followed by one of our two included yoga sessions.

In the evening, it’s time to chill out at an optional group meet up for sunset drinks and a delicious evening meal at the local beachside restaurant.

Day Three - Part One

After your first day of surfing, you might be feeling a little tight, so we start the day with some great surf stretches on the beach!

After reflecting on your video analysis from the day before, we will troubleshoot any challenges with your surf technique. With small group coaching sessions of max five guests to one instructor, we really curate bespoke tuition so you’ll see big gains from day one!

Day Three - Part Two

Time to demolish your delicious veggie packed lunch and after some beach hangs, return to the accommodation. We always follow up the water session with video analysis to help you celebrate your achievements and visualise the next tier of improvements. This will be followed by our second surf workshop back at camp. We look at surf etiquette and ocean awareness, tailoring the session to each individual's needs.

There is plenty of free time to jump in the pool before kicking back with a couple margaritas and dinner at our favourite buzzing Mexican restaurant ‘The Green Room’. The burrito bowls are next level and the quesadillas are what cheesy dreams are made of!

Day Four - Part One

Today is your rest day! It’s time to look after yourself. Have a little lie-in and then dive in for a fresh morning dip in the sea if you fancy!

Today you’ll be joining your trip leader heading into Lagos for breakfast, enjoying the best coffee in town at Black & White cafe. Picture-whitewashed walls, cool tunes and a full Aussie vibe. You can expect delicious and nutritious food like fresh avo on toast or sweet Eton-mess pancakes.

After breaky, you may want to explore the old port town with its historic churches and a coastal tour towards the Ponta da Piedade lighthouse. You’ll have an aerial view of some of the best golden beaches in Lagos. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the iconic viewpoint of Mirador Del Faro ( beautiful rock stacks) which offer the perfect photo opportunity. Keep walking and you may even spot a hidden beach or two! Alternatively, you can take the time to chill at the pool or bask in the sunshine on the beach.

Day Four - Part Two

Once you’ve worked up an appetite all over again, you have the option to head to Twin Fin – a surf cafe and bar offering fresh juices, and salads or opt for something a little stronger like their classic Mimosa – you’re on holiday after all!

After lunch why not enjoy some retail therapy? Lagos hosts some amazing independent boutiques and surf shops.

Want to get salty? No problem, we can help organise a kayak or stand-up paddleboard tour to explore the grottos and caverns (this will incur a further cost).

Day Five

Wake up and dive into another surf lesson, you’ll be picking up from where you left off and continuing your progression! You’ll be able to tick a few more boxes in the logbooks followed by video analysis and surf workshop number 3, where you can work on confidence building and techniques that will help you overcome any fears in the surf.

Before dinner, it’s time for our post-surf stretches to really unwind and release all the tension from your well-worked muscles.

You choose to spend the evening at the beach where you can enjoy spectacular views of the awesome sunset. This will be followed by a walk into town for dinner at our favourite modern Asian fusion restaurant – Gorilla. From vegan ramen, vegetable tempura, spicy Thai curries to busting bao buns – what’s not to love?!

Day six

Another fun morning at the beach, scoring waves and receiving instruction from your instructor team. For many of you, this will have been the first step of your surfing journey, so after today’s surf session, you’ll sit down (with a coffee and a pastel de nata of course) and discuss your next steps for your future surfing and where to go from here. We want you to go away with a clear understanding of how to continue your surf progression and what to put into practice. We’ll also hold a workshop on ⁠surf forecasting and how to plan your next surf sessions in the area of the world that you live.

Later on, the group reconvenes for sunset drinks around the pool, and an optional night out to our favourite tapas house called Meu Limao, they combine traditional Mediterranean recipes with modern cooking methods – super yummy fresh local produce with plenty of veggie or vegan options, plus they also make a killer homemade lemonade or sangria! All in a lush historic setting!

This will be followed by one of our two included yoga sessions.

Day seven

Back to your favourite surfing beach for more awesome surf tuition in a productive but low pressure environment. It’s your final day in Portugal, so the perfect chance to practise everything you’ve learnt so far. Unless, of course, you want to chill. This is your trip – so you can surf as much or as little as you like! We’ll be looking back to see how much you’ve improved in your final video analysis session. We’ll then do a big open Q&A where you have a chance to ask us anything you like about surfing.

For your last evening, we’ll head to Mar d’Estorias terrace bar and restaurant – here you’ll find the perfect combination between sea breeze and historical inspiration brought on by the rooftops of the adjoining monuments. The restaurant is decorated with traditional Portuguese tiles where you can chow down on your favourite local food, grab a drink, and watch the sun as it sets on your last night in Portugal.

Day eight

After an epic trip, it’s time to say goodbye to Portugal (for now!) and fly home. We’ll drop you to the airport at 9 am so you are relaxed and ready for your flight home.

Don’t want to leave so early? See our travel section for more details.

What’s included

Your trip includes seven nights of self-catered accommodation at an epic location, a short walk to the historical old town and modern harbour.

You will be staying in one of two awesome apartments which serve as an ideal base to explore the captivating beauty of Lagos, renowned for its pristine beaches, shimmering sea, limestone cliffs, and laid-back cafes.

Situated within a larger condominium, your apartment comes with a range of communal facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool perched on the terrace, providing breathtaking views of the town and the expansive ocean – a perfect haven for a morning coffee or a spot of sunbathing. The condominium also boasts an indoor heated swimming pool and a gym for your convenience.

These thoughtfully designed apartments are furnished to a high specification, featuring open living spaces, large windows that invite the warm Portuguese sunshine, and plush sofas for your relaxation. The well-equipped kitchens offer the flexibility of self-catering.

Additional features include complimentary WiFi, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, a dishwasher, and all towels and bed linens included – ensuring all the essentials you need for a safe and comfortable stay in the heart of this traditional Portuguese town. There are limited private rooms and twin rooms available, so please book as early as possible if you require a private room.

Five days of expert surf coaching delivered by The Surf Experience school and our awesome, female trip leader.
Photo and video analysis.
Small class ratios with 3 instructors to 10 guests, ensuring you get personalised and tailored coaching.
A Women + Waves surfing log book to track your progress and accelerate your improvements.
Surf conditions chosen specifically for you to get the most out of your sessions.
All equipment included – a wetsuit and board will be waiting for you in Portugal to suit your experience and skills.
Remember you can surf as much or as little as you want throughout the trip, and pick and choose which social outings you’d like to join – this is a no-pressure camp with a focus on fun!
ISA Qualified Coaches with lifeguard training.
All female supportive environment.
Tried and tested locations with local guides.
Two yoga sessions

We mix up the workshops related to guests requirements, so you’ll always have something specific to you and your ability

Your bespoke surf skill workshops will often be delivered during the analysis sessions and will cover everything from building confidence to tips on bodysurfing, breathing techniques and how to surf bigger waves. If you’ve been on a trip with us before, we will tailor these sessions to new and relevant topics to suit your progression, so you’re always learning.

Extra Workshops will include:

Surf forecasting and travel
Surf skating
Equipment (the right board for you and building a quiver)
Ocean safety and building your surf confidence.
Pop-up progression
How to gain and maintain speed
Paddling and turtle rolling workshop
Surf etiquette and how to handle a line-up
If you are a Progressor surfer, we’ll tailor the coaching to your needs

Not sure what level of surfer you are? Take our quiz to find out!

Watching yourself surf is a fantastic way to improve your performance. Every day you’ll watch footage back with your group and share in the great waves and the wipeouts! You’ll get to take a photo and video package home with you at the end of the week too, which is a helpful tool for your on-going progress and an epic memento of your trip.

Your surf camp doesn’t stop at just surfing, also included are two surf skating sessions (all safety kit and surf skateboards are supplied). Freddie, our trip leader, delivers this super fun session, and we guarantee you’ll be skating by the end of it! Learn a sport which is taking the surf community by storm, alongside your new surfing sisters. Surf skating is an invaluable tool to develop the dynamic body movements you require during surfing. It helps you improve your balance, generate speed and navigate through turns. Our instructors will deliver a series of drills that enable you to practise toe and heel control, opening your shoulders and using your arms to draw clean lines through your turns. These workshops will increase your time spent on a board simulating these manoeuvres. Which in turn, will increase your balance, strengthen your muscle memory and increase your rate of progression on a surfboard.

Other optional activities

Morning sea dips
Explore Lagos – it’s a quick (under ten minutes) Uber ride to the centre of town.
Shopping
Sunset drinks on the beach
Surf stretching before and after you hit the waves.
Coastal walks
Optional paddleboard and kayak tours are available (not included in the price)
Optional organised meals at our favourite local restaurants (not included in the price)

You will receive a tasty packed lunch supplied by the surf school each day that you have surf lessons. Other than that, food isn’t included in the trip price.

With self-catering facilities in your accommodation, you have the flexibility of making breakfast and cooking dinner if you want to. Lunch will also be on-the-go, normally munched on the beach in front of the waves.

You’re in for a foodie sensation on this trip. Not only is the local Portuguese fare extremely delicious, varied and healthy (if you want it to be!) it’s also super affordable. A coffee, ‘tosta mista’ (ham and cheese melt) and pastel de Nata from a beach cafe will generally cost you around €4 – better value than anything you’ll find in many other beach cafes around the world.

For dinner, we’ll mix it up with a blend of eating out as a group and suggesting places for you to explore individually. Some of our favourites include Gorilla, an Asian restaurant with brilliant vegetarian and vegan options. Tuck into everything from gyoza dumplings to surf n turf ramen. For a caffeine fix or brunch, Black and White is an Australian-style coffee house serving dishes like avo toast and Eton Mess pancakes.

Travel

You will need to fly into Faro Airport.

The airport collection time for your transfer is 3:00pm.

The trip will officially start at 4:00pm.

To start your trip off in the most relaxed and stress-free way possible, you’ll be greeted at airport arrivals by a member of our transport team at 3:00 pm and whisked away to your base for the week (around a 40-minute journey from Faro Airport). So no need to worry about having to organise any transfers yourself!

Please note if you are not able to join our airport transfer at 3:00pm there will be an additional cost of 60 € each way for your airport transfer based on 3 people.

If you’re coming in on your own outside of these times, you can simply book the alternative transfer options:

Yellow Fish Transfers
A Taxi – between 110-140€
Uber – A cheaper alternative than a taxi
Bolt – Similar to Uber, another cheaper option than a taxi.

The trip will officially end at 9am on the last day of the trip.

On departure day, we’ll drop you back at the airport by 9am.

If you want to stay for longer, you can arrange your own transportation back to the airport, here are some recommendations:

Yellow Fish Transfers
A Taxi – between 110-140€
Uber – A cheaper alternative than a taxi
Bolt – Similar to Uber, another cheaper option than a taxi.

If your flight includes a stop, please allow enough time to make your connection and factor in short delays. It’s best to book a ticket that transports your luggage directly to the airport in Portugal if possible.

If you’re worried about booking your flight and you’re based in the UK, give our good friend Lee at Dial A Flight a call on 020 7295 1556. Lee’s been booking our flights for the last 10 years and will find you the best deal and connection time. He can even book the whole trip for you, so you can relax and just rock up to the airport!

Once you’ve booked we’ll send you further information on how everything works upon your arrival. We’ll also be tracking your flight and keeping you informed over our WhatsApp group so you’ll be in contact with the Women + Waves team on the ground the whole time.

Once you’ve arrived at your accommodation, checked into your room, and have had a chance to freshen up, we’ll have a brief group meeting to chat about the week ahead and start getting excited for waves! During the welcome meeting everyone has a chance to introduce themselves and go over the itinerary so you can make the most of your time in Portugal.

Take a closer look

Show all photos Portugal surf camp ocean view

Dates and prices

Date
4th - 11th October 2025

From £1,999

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Date
2nd - 9th May 2026

From £1,999

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Date
1st - 8th August 2026

From £1,999

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Date
3rd - 10th October 2026

From £1,999

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FAQs

We offer 3 easy ways to pay!
1. Pay In Full – Pay the full amount in one, that’s it your done! (Available online)

2. 50/50 – Pay a 50% deposit and the remaining 50% 12 weeks before the trip starts. (Available online)

3. Payment Plan – Pay an initial deposit and the rest in instalments! (Contact us using our online chat or email us for this option)

We can’t guarantee your place until we receive payment (in full or a deposit). Once you have made a payment, you’ll then be sent a trip confirmation email.

Of course! 95% of our guests attend alone! We pride ourselves on being super welcoming and friendly. You’ll arrive solo and leave with a whole heap of new surf friends for life!

Due to this trip being in high demand and having limited spaces, we can only hold your space for up to 24 hours without payment.

You are welcome to attend for a shorter period to suit your personal schedule, however, the package price will remain the same.

ASAP! These holidays fill up quickly and, with super limited spaces available, sell out fast. We operate on a first come first serve basis. If you want to secure your place on the trip, it is advised that you pay as soon as you can.

We pride ourselves on Women and Waves being inclusive to all. We have a great mix of all ages and backgrounds.

If you wish to bring a non-surfing partner with you, that is absolutely fine, however, please be aware that this is a women-only trip, please contact us via our online chat to discuss this.

You’ll have to pay for one lunch and all your breakfasts and dinners. Five packed lunches are included (on your surfing days). With self-catering facilities, plus some great restaurants nearby, there are options to suit every budget.

We choose the time of year and location for our events based on local knowledge and historical swell data. In the event of flat waves or stormy conditions, we will offer alternative activities and day trips to help you get the most out of your holiday.

We may adjust the format of the trip. For example, choosing to run more surf sessions on the days that the waves are at their best.

Please visit our T&Cs for more information

With decades of experience and knowledge within our team, we pick the best dates when the surf conditions are consistently fun and will be most suitable for the group. We’ll send you a brief predicted forecast in the pre-trip email. We pride ourselves in having you in the right place for the best waves for your ability each trip. Your morning surfs will be a blissful experience!

You’ll be coached by your Women + Waves trip leader and the team from The Surf Experience surf school.

We do not offer a discount for bringing your own equipment.

Remember to check the baggage size and weight allowance with your airline. Read their guidance for carrying surfboards. Baggage handlers can be unforgiving so you need a tough travel bag and pack it well.

Firstly, pack your board(s) in a protective, padded board bag, and write FRAGILE and TOP LOAD ONLY on it with the largest, most permanent marker you can find. Make sure you wrap your towel and clothes around your board inside the bag for added protection.

Place your shampoo and other wet toiletries in a separate sealed bag in case of leakage. We also recommend locking your bag zips with a padlock.

If you are an EU/EFTA citizen, you do not need a visa to enter Portugal. You can stay in Portugal for three months. You have 90 days in a 180-day period to spend in Portugal, for tourism, visiting family, work, etc. Family members of EU/EFTA nationals are also allowed to travel without a visa for 90 days. See more info here.

Please contact your travel agent or airline if you have any further questions. It’s a good idea to carry copies of your important documents. Pack them separately. We also suggest scanning copies and emailing them to yourself for extra reassurance.

If you are under 18 we will need to chat with you on the phone and you will need to be accompanied on the trip by a parent or guardian throughout the holiday (although they don’t need to participate in the surfing). If you are 60 or over we’d love to chat with you about the trip before you book. Please email us to arrange a time and we’ll contact you. Or you can call us on +44 (0) 7544 094518.

On the day you travel please keep your mobile phone handy so that we can stay in touch in case of delays and flight changes. Please inform us if you’re early or delayed for any reason.

If you need help booking your flight then just drop us a line.

If you can’t find our representative at the airport, stay there and wait, they won’t be far away having tracked your arrival time. However, if you’re having difficulties finding them, please call +44 (0) 7544 094518 or follow the instructions in your preflight email. One of us will locate you.

As with any holiday, full travel insurance is a requirement for all guests booking a trip with the company.

Please also ensure that your policy covers you for ‘disruption to travel’ and ‘cover for cancellations’ as standard.

For further help please read our helpful blog post about travel insurance.

You may need to add additional cover for surfing, it is essential that your insurance policy covers you for all activities during your stay. Failure to take out travel insurance breaks the contract between Women + Waves and the client.

If you are joining one of our trips and you are native to the country of its location (i.e you live in Lisbon and are joining our Portugal trip) you do not need to take out medical travel insurance. This is as long as you have your own personal healthcare plan or are covered by your country’s National Health Service. Although, we kindly request that you still take out trip disruption and cancellation insurance to cover all possible eventualities.

Visit Gov.uk: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/portugal for more information.

The Euro.

We are a UK-based company that delivers trips all over the world welcoming travellers of all nationalities.

Yes! You can find out the latest safety and security advice for Barbados from Gov.uk: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/portugal

If you’re based outside the UK and want to chat through the trip details, you can contact us on our online chat.

If your circumstances change and you can’t join the trip, please let us know as soon as possible via email. Your cancellation notice will start from the date we receive it.

Cancellation terms:

We hold part or full costs, depending on when you cancel:

If you cancel 12 weeks or more before the trip we retain 50% of the total cost
If you cancel with less than 12 weeks before the trip then its 100% of the total cost
Cancellation may fall under the terms and conditions of your holiday insurance policy and you may be able to claim.

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