Ericeira, Portugal
Ericeira is a charming fishing town located on the western coast of Portugal, about 45 minutes north of Lisbon. It's a popular destination for surfers, beach-goers, and those looking to experience the laid-back Portuguese lifestyle.
Ericeira is known for its stunning beaches, which offer some of the best surf breaks in Europe. The town is home to over a dozen beaches, each with its unique characteristics and waves. Some of the most popular beaches in Ericeira include Praia dos Coxos, Ribeira d'Ilhas, and Foz do Lizandro. These beaches attract surfers from all over the world, and you'll find plenty of surf schools and rental shops in town.
Beyond the beaches, Ericeira has a charming historic center with narrow streets, white-washed buildings, and traditional Portuguese tiles. The town's main square, Largo da Misericórdia, is a bustling hub of activity, with cafes, restaurants, and shops selling surf gear, local crafts, and souvenirs.
Ericeira is also known for its seafood, and there are plenty of excellent restaurants in town that serve fresh fish and seafood dishes. Try the grilled sardines or the seafood rice, which are local specialties. If you're in the mood for a sweet treat, be sure to try the traditional pastry called "travesseiro," a pillow-shaped pastry filled with almond cream and dusted with powdered sugar.
One of the best things about Ericeira is its relaxed vibe and friendly locals. The town has a strong sense of community, and you'll often find locals chatting and enjoying a coffee or a glass of wine at the local cafes. The pace of life is slow and relaxed, making it the perfect place to unwind and soak up the Portuguese sun.
If you want a more upscale yet relaxing stay, consider staying in the ever-beautiful Aethos hotel. This hotel offers unparalleled views of the coastline as well as various activities such as yoga, massage therapy, and surf lessons! Not only is Aethos geared towards the ultimate fun and relaxing vacation, but it has friendly staff and fun activities to make your stay even more memorable.
If you're planning a trip to Ericeira, the best time to visit is between May and September when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you're a surfer, the best waves are in the winter months, from November to February. I visited this beautiful surfing town at the end of October and had great waves to surf all weekend long. Aethos’ surf guides were extremely helpful for beginners and allowed for time and patience with those who needed a little extra guidance navigating the water. For the more advanced surfers, the waves vary along the coast so depending on your skill level, there is a wave for you!
Another great thing to do if you are without a car in Ericeira is to rent e-bikes and travel through the windy roads of the beautiful coastline. Luckily, Ethos has bikes you can use for free and it is a great way to spend an afternoon getting a little bit of sunshine and wind in your hair as you explore all that Ericeira has to offer.
Overall, Ericeira is a beautiful and welcoming town that offers plenty of activities for surfers, beach-goers, and those looking to experience Portuguese culture and cuisine. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Ericeira has something to offer everyone.
