Ericeira highlights: hotels, restaurants & things to do
Until not long ago, I had never heard of Ericeira. A good friend told me about this picturesque fishing village on the Portuguese coast, about a 40-minute drive from Lisbon. He even has plans to move there. After so much enthusiasm, I decided to change my travel plans in Portugal and explore Ericeira. And yes, I am a fan too now. Ericeira is a digital nomad heaven and bursting with creatives. Freelancers from all over the world find a seat in beautiful coworking spaces, surf occasionally to de-stress and enjoy the many good restaurants in the evening. The fairytale city of Sintra is a 30-minute drive away. These are my favorite Ericeira highlights and the best things to do!
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Best boutique hotels and surf houses in Ericeira – Ericeira Highlights
– Click on the names for rooms and rates –
Ericeira has a lovely mix of surf hostels, guesthouses and boutique hotels. Book early, especially in summer, as the best accommodation options fill up fast.
Laneez Ericeira Surf House
Laneez is a hostel with excellent rooms and the best view in town. One of my favorite places to stay in Ericeira. I stayed for a week in one of the beautiful private rooms. Great spot to meet other (solo) travelers.
ROOMS AND RATES LANEEZ ERICEIRA
The Immerso Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels
Immerso Hotel is a stunning design hotel perched above the Atlantic with breathtaking ocean views. Every detail has been considered, from the architecture to the restaurant. This is Ericeira at its most beautiful.
Aethos Hotel Ericeira
Beautiful Aethos Ericeira is a wellness-focused boutique hotel with a beautiful pool and excellent spa facilities. The vibe is calm and intentional, which makes it the perfect antidote to a full day in the surf. Ideal for those who want to combine wave chasing with actual relaxation.
The Salty Yoga & Surf Retreat
The Salty combines daily surf lessons with yoga sessions and plenty of mindful downtime. Because of the great social atmosphere, it is easy to meet people here, so it is a great option if you are travelling solo and want to connect with like-minded travellers.
Swellnest
Lovely Swellnest is a cozy, surf-inspired guesthouse with a warm community feel. The kind of place where you end up chatting with fellow guests over breakfast and suddenly have plans for the rest of the week. A true home away from home.
You & The Sea
You & The Sea is the place for a little more luxury. The design is beautiful and the atmosphere is relaxed without feeling too polished. Keep an eye on their events too: there are often fun markets, open air cinema nights and even a skate camp for those who dare.
Praia FLH Hotels Ericeira
Praia FLH Hotels is perfectly located in the heart of Ericeira, steps from the main beaches and the best restaurants. A solid choice if you want to be right in the middle of everything.
More great options
Ocean House Ericeira is a stylish stay with sea views, Chill In Surfhouse is a colourful hostel with surprisingly characterful rooms, and Ericeira Soul Guesthouse is a charming, more intimate option. All excellent choices at different price points.
Laneez Ericeira | Surf House Ericeira
Best things to do in Ericeira – Ericeira Highlights
Ericeira earned its status as Europe’s only World Surfing Reserve in 2011, and that says everything about what makes this place special. The waves here are world-class, the sights range from cobbled streets to wild Atlantic coastline, and the attractions go well beyond the water. These are the best things to do in Ericeira:
Surf lessons at Ericeira World Surfing Reserve (top rated)
The waves around Ericeira are among the best in Europe, and the surf schools here are excellent. Beginners love Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas, while more experienced surfers head to Coxos and Pedra Branca for the more powerful waves. Book a top-rated surf lesson directly at the World Surfing Reserve and you are in very good hands. Pro tips: arrive early for the best conditions and always confirm wetsuit rental is included. Ready for your first nosedive? Book your surf lesson here.
Explore Ericeira by e-scooter – Ericeira highlights
Go green, go free: renting an e-scooter is one of the best things to do in Ericeira if you want to explore at your own pace. Zip along the coast, discover hidden beaches and reach viewpoints that most visitors never find. Book your e-scooter rental here.
Pena Palace and Regaleira private tour with hotel pickup
The fairytale architecture of Sintra is one of the most spectacular sights near Ericeira. A private tour to Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, with hotel pickup included, means you get the full experience without any of the logistical headaches. The palace and its grounds are unlike anything else in Portugal. Book the Sintra private tour here.
Lisbon countryside food tour on a vintage car
One of the most unique things to do around Ericeira: a food tour through the Lisbon countryside on a vintage car. You taste local wines, artisan cheeses and traditional pastries in the Mafra region, which is practically on Ericeira’s doorstep. Book the vintage food tour here.
Traditional crochet experience
Ericeira has a rich tradition of handmade lace and crochet, and joining a traditional crochet workshop is a lovely way to connect with the local culture. A wonderfully different attraction for those who like to go beyond the obvious. Book the crochet experience here.
Day trip to Nazaré with a former pro athlete
From Ericeira, a day trip to Nazaré is absolutely worth it, and going with a former pro athlete makes it exceptional. You learn about the giant waves, the surf culture and the town from someone who has lived it. Book the Nazaré day trip here.
ALL ERICEIRA TOURS AND ACTIVITIES
Best beaches in Ericeira – Ericeira Highlights
Ericeira’s central beach is Praia dos Pescadores, ideal for swimming and sunbathing on golden sand. Praia do Sul is another sheltered option, also with golden sand. To the north, Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas is the surf mecca: part of Europe’s only World Surfing Reserve, it has attracted the best surfers on the planet. A short drive south, Praia de São Julião is a slightly wilder option with impressive waves and open sights across the Atlantic.
Family beaches and practical tips – Ericeira highlights
Praia da Foz (Foz do Lizandro) is the best family beach, with a river, sand dunes and a boardwalk full of restaurants, and one of the calmest spots for a swim. Among the best free attractions on this stretch of coast, Praia da Foz is an easy short drive north from town. A wetsuit is non-negotiable in the Atlantic even in summer. Beginner surf lessons start around €40 for a half day, board hire around €15. Late spring and early June are the sweet spot for visiting.
Grab an ice cream at Nutwood Gelataria, check events at You & The Sea and follow Ocean Sisters on Instagram for local surf and skate lesson groups. There is also a skate camp for the brave. I looked at it, imagined myself with a split lip, and ordered another gelato.
Pro tip: watch out at seaside restaurants where you choose your fish before entering. We had no idea what the price would be and paid €60 per person for two courses. Restaurants with a printed menu are a safer bet.
Best brunch spots and restaurants in Ericeira – Ericeira Highlights
Best brunch spots in Ericeira
Sunset Bamboo feels like you are in Bali. The coffee is excellent. Gig (Green Is Good) serves delicious veggie and vegan dishes, although the coffee is less impressive. Reservations are recommended as it fills up quickly. Other great options for brunch and breakfast: Purple Açai, Brunch Me, Nalu Bowls and Croissant da Vila Ericeira. Dear Rose is popular but I found it a bit overpriced compared to the others.
Best restaurants in Ericeira for lunch and dinner
UNI Sushi is the best sushi I have ever had. Seriously. Cucina 37 is a romantic Italian restaurant that offers blankets when it cools off at night. Order the pasta with gambas and pistachio. El Chilito is highly recommended for both lunch and dinner: the Sayulita Taco with grilled prawn and pico de gallo is outstanding, and the signature Margaritas are dangerously good. Ay Mamita is a homey Mexican restaurant where it is easy to meet other travelers thanks to the flamboyant owner. Avó Restaurante is pricey but incredibly good: a family recipe restaurant passed down from grandmother to grandson. Fresh fish is always the move here. Also worth trying: Onegai Sushi Bar, Balagan, Secret Oven, Calavera Mexican Food, Maika’i and Tik Tapas (popular, reservations required).
Sunset Bamboo and Gig | best brunch spots Ericeira
Drinks and nightlife in Ericeira
Enjoy a drink while watching the sunset at Mar das Latas, the best sunset spot in town.
5 e Meio Taproom
Jukebox Bar
Jolly Ericeira Bar
Nightlife in Ericeira also includes Ouriço, one of Portugal’s oldest nightclubs, as well as live music venues like Adega Bar and Tubo.
Coworking spaces in Ericeira – Ericeira Highlights
Ericeira is one of the best digital nomad destinations in Europe. The coworking scene is excellent: The Base, Kelp, The Salt Studio and Create are all solid options with fast wifi and good community vibes.
Follow me on Instagram for more travel photos from Ericeira and beyond.
Best shops in Ericeira
Ericeira has numerous surf shops and cafes throughout the town, catering to the surf community.
Wana
Saints at Sea: would have loved to put every single item in my suitcase. Harvest Moon: beautiful new concept store with creative jewelry, clothing and skin oils. Mothersurf
Magic Quiver Surf Shop
Wavegliders Surf Shop
Be U: large, organic supermarket with delicious, fresh products. Ericeira’s Mercado Municipal offers a variety of fresh local produce, including freshly caught fish, cheeses and vegetables, making it a great spot to experience local daily life.
COUNTRYSIDE FOODIE TOUR WITH VINTAGE CAR
Ericeira | shops and things to do
Surf retreat near Ericeira: Dreamsea Surf House Sintra
If you are looking for a surf retreat nearby, book your stay at the Dreamsea Surf House. I had a fantastic week here. After a week in Ericeira, I spent a week sleeping in one of the beautiful glamping tents and ended my vacation with 3 days in Lisbon. The Surf House is quieter than Dreamsea’s surf camps and attracts a slightly older, mostly female crowd. No wild parties here, but peace, friendliness, excellent food and a lovely pool. The old town of Sintra is within walking distance, a short walk from the front door. You can even see the famous palace from the pool!
Old Town Ericeira – Ericeira Highlights
Ericeira’s old town is compact, cobbled and completely charming. Start at Praia dos Pescadores, where fishing boats bob in the Atlantic and locals still haul in the daily catch of fresh fish. From there, wander into the maze of whitewashed streets lined with surf schools, good coffee and the kind of small shops you actually want to browse.
Surf culture here is serious; Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas has hosted the World Surf League and seen legends like Kelly Slater carve up its waves. Coxos is considered home to some of the most powerful waves in Europe, a genuine spectacle even for non-surfers. Among the top sights of the area: the clifftop views over the reserve are absolutely worth the short walk. Even if a board is not on your agenda, watching the surfers from the cliffs is a perfectly valid way to spend an afternoon, and it counts as one of the best free attractions in Portugal. When hunger strikes, Uni Sushi does melt-in-your-mouth seafood and Mar das Latas serves the Atlantic with a view. As the evening rolls in, Adega Bar is where digital nomads, locals and travellers all end up, usually with live music and no particular plan to leave.
Climate and best time to visit Ericeira – Ericeira Highlights
The area around Sintra has a unique microclimate. When it is 33 degrees in Lisbon, just half an hour away, it can be foggy and 21 degrees in Ericeira. August in particular can be somewhat unpredictable, with wind and sea mist rolling in from the Atlantic. The best months for a visit are May, June and September: warm enough, quieter than July and August, and the surf conditions are excellent.
Staying connected in Portugal is easy. I always travel with Saily, which lets you download an eSIM in minutes and stay connected as soon as you land. No roaming fees, no SIM card stress. Order your Saily eSIM here.
How to get to Ericeira from Lisbon – Ericeira Highlights
Lisbon is just a 40-minute drive from Ericeira. I have lots of recommendations and tips for a city break online! For car rental in Portugal, Discover Cars always offers the best prices. From Lisbon, there is also a direct bus connection (Mafrense line) that runs regularly throughout the day and serves as reliable public transport for visitors without a car.
For transfers directly from Lisbon airport, WelcomePickups is the most reliable and stress-free option.
THE BEST RENTAL CARS IN PORTUGAL
Ericeira | beaches and coastline
Looking for more of Portugal? Discover the Alentejo, explore Porto or head south for surfing in the Algarve. For the city, browse all my Lisbon tips and favorite restaurants in Lisbon.
Ericeira highlights: frequently asked questions
What are the best things to do in Ericeira?
The best things to do in Ericeira include taking surf lessons at the World Surfing Reserve, exploring the coast by e-scooter, visiting Pena Palace and Sintra, joining a food tour through the Mafra countryside and wandering the cobbled streets of the old fishing village. A day trip to Nazaré with a former pro surfer is also highly recommended.
Is Ericeira good for beginners at surfing?
Yes. Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas is the main beginner beach, with several certified surf schools offering lessons for all levels. The World Surfing Reserve status means the wave quality is outstanding across all skill levels.
How far is Ericeira from Lisbon?
Ericeira is approximately 40 minutes from Lisbon by car. There is also a direct bus connection. Sintra is about 30 minutes away, making Ericeira an ideal base for day trips.
Is Ericeira good for digital nomads?
Very much so. Ericeira has a thriving digital nomad community with excellent coworking spaces, fast wifi in most cafés and a relaxed lifestyle that makes it easy to stay for weeks or months. It consistently ranks among the top digital nomad destinations in Europe.
ROOMS AND RATES AT AETHOS HOTEL
- Find the best hotels in Ericeira at Booking.com
- Book the best tours and activities via GetYourGuide
- Rent a car in Portugal via Discover Cars
- Book a transfer from Lisbon airport via WelcomePickups
- Buy your eSIM at Saily
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