Hotels in Ericeira

Ericeira: Portugal's World Surfing Reserve on the Atlantic Coast

Ericeira sits on a clifftop above the Atlantic, 50 km north of Lisbon in the Mafra municipality. In 2011 it became only the second World Surfing Reserve on the planet — after Malibu — protecting a 4 km stretch of coastline that includes eight named breaks: Ribeira d'Ilhas, Coxos, Reef, Cave, and four others. That designation draws competitive surfers from across Europe between September and April, when Atlantic swells peak.

Where to Stay

Hotels cluster in two zones. The historic village centre — whitewashed lanes above the harbour — suits travellers who want seafood restaurants and the Sunday market within walking distance. The Ribamar and São Sebastião corridor, 1–2 km south, sits closer to the surf breaks and attracts longer-stay guests with self-catering studios. Properties range from small guesthouses to 4-star coastal hotels.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Mafrense buses run from Lisbon's Marquês de Pombal every 60–90 minutes; journey time is approximately 75 minutes.
• Surf seasons: Best swells arrive October–March; summer offers calmer water for beginners.
• Pack layers: Atlantic wind drops temperatures 4–6 °C below Lisbon even in July.