Where to Stay in Ericeira

Ericeira is a whitewashed fishing town turned surf capital, under an hour from Lisbon. It sits within a World Surfing Reserve, and its cobbled lanes are full of seafood restaurants and surf shops. Here’s where to stay, whether you’re here to surf, eat or just slow down.

Quick answer: stay in the old town for restaurants, sea views and walkable beaches. Surfers often prefer Ribamar and the coast to the north, close to Ribeira d’Ilhas and Coxos. Families may like the quieter south side near Foz do Lizandro. See places to stay in Ericeira.

The best areas

The old town

Blue-and-white houses, little squares, clifftop views and the fishermen’s beach. It’s walkable to Praia dos Pescadores and Praia do Sul, and full of restaurants. This is the best base for most visitors.

Ribamar and the north

A village just north of town, near the famous surf breaks of Ribeira d’Ilhas and Coxos. There are surf houses, guesthouses and apartments here. Choose this area if surfing is the priority.

The south side and Foz do Lizandro

Calmer, with a wide river-mouth beach that suits families.

Surfing

Ericeira has waves for all levels. Beginners should book lessons at the gentler beaches, while Ribeira d’Ilhas and Coxos are for experienced surfers. See Ericeira surf lessons. See surfing in Portugal.

Things to do

• Eat seafood: shellfish and grilled fish are the speciality.
• The Mafra Palace, a vast baroque palace and library, is nearby.
• Sunsets from the clifftop old town.

See the Ericeira day trip guide, or see Ericeira and Mafra tours.

Getting there

Buses run from Lisbon (Campo Grande) and take about an hour. By car it’s around 45 minutes. Ericeira also combines well with Sintra.

More: where to stay in Sintra, where to stay in Cascais and the best beaches near Lisbon.

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