The surf camp
The Atlantic Riders surf camp is operated close to Bordeira, in the middle of the National Park of the South-West Algarve. From our surf camp we have quick access to the many beaches in the Algarve and the Southern part of the Alentejo. Our staff bring you to the surrounding beaches daily, different spots can be visited on a day, dawn patrolling, sunset surfing, you name it.
The surf camp works the same as the surfing safari. Every morning starts with a great breakfast with
fresh coffee (no instant!), fresh rolls, fruit, cereal, etc. Then we're off to the beach. Surf classes will be given to those who need surf lessons. The surf breaks we visit are again suitable for all levels. Surf classes are always kept close to the beach in maximum waist-deep water, just to make sure that you are safe and that you feel safe. Experienced surfers paddle out to the line up and surf reefs, point breaks or the many beach breaks.
The advantage of surfing in the south western corner of the Algarve is that it offers similar characteristics to a peninsula, in a radius of just 30 to 40 kilometers. For instance with on-shore winds on the west coast we have good opportunities to find an off shore beach on the south coast. When waves get too big or unsurfable on the one coast we simply drive to the other coast and enjoy whats available there.
The Atlantic swells hit the European mainland first in Portugal and offer a huge variety of waves in the south western Algarve. This makes this corner of Portugal a unique place in Europe.
Bigger swells hit from October until April with water temperatures above 16 degrees celsius. Water temperature year round is pretty consistent, above 16 degrees in the winter months. Summer sees 18 to 21 degrees water temperature and surfing in board shorts is common.
On a flat day the surrounding places offer loads of different entertainment, like hiking, mountain biking and exploring the local coastline.
The surf campThe camp is run on sustainable energy of solar panels. We have our own water supply system and waste treatment system. We also try to make a conscious effort in purchasing products with minimum packaging materials and recycle our waste. We have converted 20 foot ocean freight containers into properly insulated and wood finished cosy cabins.
Atlantic Riders also donates to the Surf Rider Foundation.
Our surf camp is located in a pristine valley where you find an oasis of beautiful plants, birds, boar, owls and other wild life. This means that we are away from bars, clubs and shops. The surf camp has a special vibe, a place where you can relax, feel good, mesmerizing in a hammock thinking back about the waves you have surfed during the day. Evenings are spent chilling under the moon and thousands of stars, sitting around the bbq enjoying good food, good company and good music.
Prices seven nights surf camp (in Euro):
| May, June | € 479 |
| July, August and Sept | € 489 |
| October - April | € 479 |
- Seven nights stay, Saturday afternoon until to the following Saturday morning
- Saturday is airport transfer day. No surf on Saturday.
- Surf instructions from certified experienced staff
- Accommodation in two person cabins
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily starting with dinner on day of arrival until breakfast of the last day. All meals are of high standard. Read our testimonials
- Tuesday and Thursday we dine out in a local restaurant. Charges are at your own expense. Usually 10 euro per person including drinks.
- A wide variety of BIC-sport surfboards including: 10 ft Nose Riders, 9 ft Classic Long boards, 7'9" Malibu's, 7'3" Mini~Malibu's, 6'7" Short boards and 5'1" fish. No mucking around on rubber deckers or sponge boards.
- O'Neill wetsuits in all sizes for ladies and men
- All soft drinks
- Daily transport to the beach
- Free drop off in Lagos
- Highly recommended travel insurance, see our disclaimer
- Your ticket to Faro (FAO)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Pick up and drop off other than Lagos
- Private surf classes, one on one, available on request