Algarve Surf Camps have it all! Every surfers find their perfect wave here, whether it be crashing reef breaks, hollow barrels or gentle rollers. All within Portugal’s southern microclimate, with consistently sunny, dry weather.
Unlike Peniche and Ericeira, Algarve Surf Camps can boast both a West and Southern Coast. Meaning, there is always some area of coastline to pick up Atlantic swells, or shelter from unfavourable winds.
Although much of the Algarve is now overrun with tourists flocking to it’s white sandy beaches and cheap restaurants, a surprising number of small towns have retained tradition.
Small fishing villages pepper the coastline, and some hold a few hidden gem surf spots. There are many surf shops and businesses in the Algarve, meaning there’s no need to buy or bring equipment from home – it couldn’t be easier to hire it out here! Local knowledge and expertise are assured should you book from one of Algarve Surf Camps below.
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Taah Billa Guest House
This property is practically touching the coastline, not only is it just three minutes from the beach, but it is four minutes from Tavira castle and just 200m from the harbour boats that take people to the Island of Tavira. For this reason, the property is recognised on Booking.com for it’s brilliant location. Not only is it ideal for surfers, but it’s not far from other attractions. For example, Benamor Golf is 6.2 km away, Tavira Gran Plaza Shopping Centre is 1.1 km away, while Hell’s Pool is 5 km from the property.
Guests couldn’t find it easier to get around, explore the coastline and discover hidden surf spots. The bus station is five minutes away, and the train station just ten minutes. Restaurants, cafes and bars are all within walking distance, but those looking for a quiet night in are welcome to use the shared kitchen. Visitors also share a living and dining area, making the hostel very social! For this reason, solo travellers rate it 9.3/10.
Double, triple and family rooms are available for booking. Guests can opt for rooms with a river, garden or city view, as well as ones with a private bathroom (although this may be external). Each room is equipped with air conditioning and a private or shared bathroom with a hair dryer.
Carrapateiramar Guest House
If you love natural beauty, you’ll love this property. Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park is 1.7 km from the apartment. This offers remarkably untouched landscapes and natural wildlife that offers peace and serenity while being just a stones throw from the beach. This beach is just a 12 minute walk from the house, and offers an array of breaks and spots to satisfy any surfer!
The property boasts an outdoor pool should the crashing ocean be too much to swim in! Cycling and fishing excursions can also be sorted by the front desk. Staff attentiveness, and the fact this hotel has thought of things that others wouldn’t have – mean it has an exceptionally high guest rating on Booking.com.
Each room comes in the form of a studio mezzanine, holding either a double or twin beds. All studios comprise a seating area, dining area, and fully equipped kitchenette on their ground floor. The kitchenette holds various cooking facilities, including a microwave, toaster and fridge. A stovetop and kettle are also available on request.
International Surf School & Camp
This property certainly has the laid-back, beach vibes that suits some travellers. Not only is the decor bright and cheerful, but so are the staff! This is mentioned frequently in reviews of the hostel. Guests can cook together in the communal restaurant, or socialise in a shared lounge area, with sofas, a cable TV and an Xbox 360 gaming console.
Guests who prefer to just relax after a day on the surf can retire to a sun terrace, which offers an array of comfy chairs and hammocks in which to unwind with a book. Free wifi, and a hearty breakfast each day maximises comfort for each guest and prepares them for a long day of surfing the Algarve’s very best waves!
All group sizes are catered for here, with single beds in both mixed and female dorms available for booking. Alternatively a twin, double or triple room can be booked. Decor is light and bright, and each room has a wardrobe and shared bathroom facilities. For very large groups, a seven bedroom house that sleeps seventeen on a mixture of single and double beds can be hired.
Hostel A Casa da Árvore
This is one of few Algarve Surf Camps to hold a spot in the heart of the old town. Faro is a picturesque, cobbled settlement which has much culture and history to offer beyond just surfing. That being said the property is just 6km from Faro Beach, and many guests make the trip down for the brilliant waves on offer.
The property is a stones throw from several well-known attractions. Lethes Theatre is 600m away, it is just a 10-minute walk to Faro Hospital, and just 900m away is Carmo Church & Bones Chapel and the Cathedral of Faro. A taste of traditional Portugal can be had from Faro Marina – just 1km from Hostel A Casa da Árvore. Although this can equally be experienced from within the hostel itself – which offers Portuguese decor and a sun terrace.
Pairs can book either a twin or double room, whilst groups and individuals may opt for a bed in the mixed dormitory rooms. Each room has access to shared bathroom facilities, and boasts magnificent views of the city from traditional style shutters.
Mareta Beach – Boutique Bed & Breakfast
This stunning B&B lies in the South West of the Algarve and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, offering the best of both coastlines. The nearest beach is just 200m away, easily accessible on foot or by bike – which can be hired from reception. Staff are available from reception 24 hours a day to offer expertise on nearby available activities, attractions as well as the breathtaking surrounding scenery. On the flatter days kayaking is great activity to do in this region.
Adjoining the hotel is D’Italia Pizzeria – serving fresh pizza, pasta, salads, and homemade desserts, and Café Espresso. Here guests can enjoy homemade pastries, sandwiches, and cakes. The Ocean Bar is also attached to the complex, serving refreshing drinks and tasty light snacks.
All rooms here are doubles, but have a variety of views. Guests can choose from land, ocean or partial sea views – some panoramic and some from a terrace. The air-conditioned rooms here feature a minimalist interior decor, each with a minibar, satellite flat screen TV, and en-suite bathroom.