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7 best eco-hotels in Portugal for a surf-inspired vacation

ByEcoOceanEscapes

Looking for the best eco-hotels in Portugal and surf-inspired resorts? Discover 7 inspiring places to stay, all of which are within easy reach of the breaks.

Stretching down the western side of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal’s dramatic coastline is hit by powerful swells generated in the Atlantic Ocean.

This stunning corner of Europe offers an incredible array of surf experiences, from the big-wave breaks of Nazaré to the beginner-friendly beaches of Ericeira.

Beyond the surf, Portugal’s captivating seaside towns and wild natural scenery make it a dream destination – one that is only increasing in popularity. 

To help preserve the country’s natural wonders, there are a growing number of sustainable hotels and resorts popping up across Portugal. Many are located just a stone’s throw from the breaks.

Whether they’re utilising renewable energy sources, implementing water conservation measures or sourcing organic food locally, each is doing its bit to minimise their environmental footprint. 

To help you plan a sustainable surf vacation, we’ve put together a list of the best eco-hotels in Portugal. Perhaps you’re seeking the camaraderie (and affordability) of an all-inclusive surf camp or want to explore Portugal’s breaks independently from a luxury boutique hotel. Trust us when we say there are options for everyone.

A whitewashed town cascades down to the coast at one of the best places to surf in Portugal
A whitewashed town cascades down to the coast at one of the best places to surf in Portugal

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Bukubaki Eco Surf, Peniche

Best eco-friendly surf camp in Peniche

Surrounded by forest just inland from Peniche, this eco-friendly Portugal surf camp was designed with a focus on sustainability and resource efficiency.

It features a handful of beautifully crafted wooden houses and Canadian tents that cater to couples, surf buddies and travelling families. All are built using natural materials. 

The onsite surf and bodyboard school offers comprehensive lessons on the beaches of Peniche, with small group sessions to help you progress quickly.

Aside from surfing, Bukabaki boasts a saltwater swimming pool and a skate bowl for guests to use. Bicycles are also available for rent to explore the nearby Costa de Prata Ecological Reserve. 

After a long day in the water, you can rejuvenate in the traditional Finnish sauna or indulge with a massage at Bukubaki Eco Surf’s wellness centre. Yoga classes are also available, reflecting this Portuguese eco resort’s philosophy of promoting a healthy lifestyle in connection with the natural world. 

As part of its commitment to sustainability, Bukabaki recycles and separates out all of its food waste. Much of the produce is sourced locally and organically.

LED sensor lights are used throughout the property to reduce energy use and there’s a water filling station so guests can minimise their purchasing of plastic bottles. 

“We had the most incredible stay here and would definitely come back again.” – Kirsty (read more reviews here)

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One of the glamping tents at Bukubaki Eco Surf in Peniche, Portugal
One of the glamping tents at Bukubaki Eco Surf in Peniche, Portugal (photo courtesy of Expedia)

LemonTree Eco Surfhouse, Sagres

Best eco-friendly yoga and surf house in Portugal

Surfing, yoga and sustainability combine at this Portuguese eco retreat, which is located in the centre of Sagres.

It’s located just 200 metres from both Tonel and Mareta beaches. This gives you the flexibility to surf when you want and where you want, depending on the day’s conditions.

Each of the rooms at the LemonTree Eco Surfhouse is decorated with vintage finds and the design is inspired by the colours of the Algarve coast. There are mosquito nets for the summer months and heating for the winter, making this a year-round destination for a surf vacation in Portugal.

At this boutique Sagres hotel, you have access to a fully equipped kitchen, making this ideal for self-catering surfers. Bicycles are available for getting around, as are surfskate sessions.

Group and private surf lessons can be arranged on site or you can simply take advantage of their rental boards. Yoga classes (both vinyasa and yin) are held three times a week.

When it comes to sustainability, the LemonTree Eco Surfhouse provides clean drinking water to all guests (no single-use plastic bottles required here). It has also made a conscious shift towards offering locally sourced and organic ingredients.

Eco-friendly cleaning products are used throughout the property and all food waste is composted to feed the surrounding garden. 

If you’re staying at this eco-friendly Sagres hotel, numerous restaurants are located within walking distance.

“Super friendly and kind owners, you can feel they love what they do and are happy to share their knowledge about the place with the guests.” – Jessica (read more reviews here)

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Best eco-hotels in Portugal for surfers: An elevated view of a surf break in Portugal
Best eco-hotels in Portugal for surfers: An elevated view of a surf break in Portugal

Maceda Surf Camp, Porto

Best eco-friendly surf camp near Porto

Built by a Portuguese surfer from 70% recycled materials is this eco-friendly Portugal surf camp. It lies just a stone’s throw from Maceda Beach, a short drive south of Porto.

It offers a back-to-nature experience on the beautiful Costa Verde, surrounded by emerald pine forests and rolling sand dunes. 

When you book a stay at Maceda Surf Camp, you can choose from their doubles, triples and dorms or overnight in one of the glamping tents.

Complimentary Wi-Fi is provided throughout the property and breakfasts include a good choice of vegetarian and vegan options. In addition, there is a fully-equipped kitchen for guests to use and the closest supermarket is just five minutes away on foot. 

Maceda Surf Camp is a great place to learn to surf in Portugal, with four-hour lessons led by fully qualified instructors. Aside from their surf packages, you can opt for the “freesurfer” experience, which includes equipment and transfers to the beach.

Daily yoga sessions are also available and perfectly scheduled so as not to coincide with surf lessons. 

“The place was amazing, nice people, good vibes. The breakfast was abundant and flexible to our needs. The surf lessons were great, with good teachers that really focused on our progress.” – Clara (read more reviews here)

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Best eco-hotels in Portugal for surfers: Cliffs back a popular surf beach in Portugal
Best eco-hotels in Portugal for surfers: Cliffs back a popular surf beach in Portugal

Dreamsea Surf House, Sintra

Best pet-friendly eco-surf hotel in Portugal

Overlooking the rolling hills of Sintra, this eco-conscious surf house is a great choice if you’re travelling with a car. It’s also a pet-friendly Portuguese hotel, with pets welcome to stay with their humans in Dreamsea Surf House’s private rooms.

Alternatively, you can opt for one of their beautifully appointed glamping tents and still take advantage of the property’s facilities. 

Surf lessons are held at nearby Magoito Beach. But there are plenty of other breaks to discover along the surrounding coastline. Point Break, Praia Grande and Carcavelos are among the options available for those exploring independently during their surf vacation in Portugal.

The surf lessons here are comprehensive, with the inclusion of surf skating, fitness and video analysis included in some packages.

When you’re not out in the ocean, you can relax beside Dreamsea Surf House’s sparkling pool or curl up with a book in one of the property’s cosy nooks.

Yoga classes and retreats are regularly held at this eco-friendly Portuguese surf camp and the storied castles of Sintra are within easy reach. While basic rates include bed and breakfast, there are also all-inclusive stays available.

As part of Dreamsea’s social responsibility program, a portion of each booking goes to support environmental initiatives. All of its properties promote low impact constructions, reduced energy consumption and the sustainable use of resources.

Additionally, stays contribute to the ocean plastic-removing activities of Gravity Wave.

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One of the domed tents at Reserva Alecrim EcoSuite & Glamping, an eco-friendly surf camp in Portugal
One of the domed tents at Reserva Alecrim EcoSuite & Glamping, an eco-friendly surf camp in Portugal (photo courtesy of Expedia)

wecamp Reserva, Sines

Best eco-friendly glamping resort in Portugal

While not dedicated to surfing, this eco-friendly retreat near Sines makes our list for its spectacular domed glamping tents.

Reserva Alecrim is tucked away between Melides and Santiago do Cacem, backed by the breathtaking beaches and rolling dunes of the Alentejo coastline. Surrounded by 28 hectares of protected land, this is the first glamping resort to be established in the area.

Aside from the unique domed residences, there are also safari tents, eco houses and suites for guests to choose from.

Additionally, this eco-friendly Portuguese hotel boasts three swimming pools, including a biological pool. There’s also a peaceful lagoon where you can go paddleboarding or simply relax on a deck chair. 

wecamp Reserva Alecrim is particularly renowned for its sunsets. The best place to watch is with a G&T in hand at the Sunset Lounge.

Breakfast baskets featuring local delicacies are available on request and there’s a relaxed pizza bar offering family-friendly cuisine. For something more elevated, you can book in for a meal at Foggo. 

As part of its dedication to sustainability and social responsibility, Reserva Alecrim takes pride in preserving its surrounding environment and supporting the local economy.

All of the accommodations have been built with respect to the existing landscape. Additionally, the property aims to reduce its chemical use wherever possible. 

“The large natural swimming pool was lovely. Beautiful sunsets from our balcony.” – Sarah (read more reviews here)

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One of the multi-level rooms at Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort, an eco-friendly hotel in the Azores
One of the multi-level rooms at Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort, an eco-friendly hotel in the Azores (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort, Azores

Best luxury eco-friendly resort in Azores

Set along the north coast of São Miguel Island, the Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort is an incredible eco-friendly hotel in the Azores. Featuring a collection of beautifully appointed eco-villas, the resort provides guests with the ultimate in sustainable luxury accommodations. 

Each villa has been designed and decorated using natural and recycled materials. The result is a warm, inviting ambiance that seamlessly blends with the resort’s serene surroundings.

Step inside and you’ll find a complete kitchenette perfect for preparing meals after your surf, as well as a spacious living area for relaxing and a private balcony offering ocean views. 

Not only does this eco-friendly Azores resort boast direct access to an unspoiled beach but also a refreshing swimming pool. On site is a bar serving up crafted cocktails and light bites.

Additionally, there’s a wellness centre where you can get a pampering spa treatment or massage. It’s the perfect way to end a day spent exploring São Miguel’s surf breaks. 

The use of natural building materials and energy efficiency are at the core of Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort’s sustainability practices. It also prides itself on offering a farm-to-table dining experience that highlights locally grown, organic ingredients and participates in regular beach cleanups. 

“The resort is well designed and integrated and uses organic materials that give it a sustainable identity.” – Andre (read more reviews here)

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A serene dining space at Hotel FeelViana in Viana do Castelo, Portugal
A serene dining space at Hotel FeelViana in Viana do Castelo, Portugal (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Hotel FeelViana, Viana do Castelo

Best eco-friendly resort in Portugal for an active vacation

Located well off the beaten track is the FeelViana Sport Hotel. It offers an unparalleled escape for those seeking an active and eco-friendly holiday in Portugal.

It overlooks the pine-dotted sands of Cabedelo Beach in the charming town of Viana do Castelo. Since its opening, it has established itself as a haven for watersports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. 

The hotel’s sustainable design seamlessly blends with the surrounding natural landscape, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease.

Its rooms, suites and bungalows have all been constructed from wood and perfectly frame the surrounding landscape with their large glass windows. 

At this eco-friendly Portugal resort, you’ll find a wealth of recreational opportunities to indulge in. There’s everything from kitesurfing and windsurfing to standup paddleboarding and cycling along scenic coastal trails.

And for those seeking a more relaxing experience, the hotel’s indoor and outdoor pools, steam room and sauna provide ample opportunities to unwind and recharge.

Complementing the resort’s active offerings is a culinary experience that celebrates locally sourced ingredients.

The on-site restaurant serves up sustainable dishes that cater to a range of dietary preferences. Meanwhile, the beachside tavern and wake park bar offer stunning ocean vistas to enjoy alongside healthy refreshments.

“The hotel is absolutely amazing. Perfect location. Forest, ocean, birds, wind… what else is needed!” – Paula (read more reviews here)

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Best time to surf in Portugal

The best time to surf in Portugal is from September through April. This is when the country’s Atlantic coastline is exposed to consistent, powerful swells. While this coincides with cooler temperatures (the water can be chilly), it’s when big wave spots like Nazaré are firing.

That being said, the summer season from May to August is the most popular time to visit Portugal. This is a great time for beginner surfers to hone their skills.

During these warmer months, the water temperatures are far more inviting and the waves tend to be smaller and more manageable.

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About the authors

We are a team of passionate divers and surfers with decades of combined experience in the water and travelling to all corners of the globe. After years of chasing waves and descending into the deep blue, we’ve created this resource to highlight sustainably run surf camps, eco-friendly dive resorts and conservation-focused ocean trips to help inspire your next adventure.

Eco Ocean Escapes was born out of a love of the ocean, an obsession with travel and a concern about the impacts of our adventures on the environments we explore. Despite the benefits that surf and dive tourism can bring to local communities, we recognised that ocean-based adventures are not always managed in a sustainable manner.  

Through our articles, we hope to inspire those seeking a responsible surf or dive trip that is all about supporting local communities, preserving our coastal environments and the incredible marine species that inhabit our oceans. 

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