Ericeira is one of Portugal’s most iconic resort towns, and there are many reasons for it. The magnificent beaches, the proximity to Lisbon, the charming historical center, the delicious seafood, and obviously, the waves. In this article, we will explore the best things to do in Ericeira, and if you follow our advice, your trip to Ericeira will be memorable.
Things to do in Ericeira
#1 Explore the charming town center
This seaside town comes to life in summer, attracting thousands of people, but its center is wonderful all year. With whitewashed houses, small alleys, and cobbled streets, the center of Ericeira is much more charming than it looks at first sight.
Everyone expects the beaches and waves of Ericeira, yet the most striking feature of this town is the beauty of its old center, which is filled with old houses converted into bars, restaurants, shops, and Airbnb. Ericeira is beautiful. Don’t believe it? See it for yourself.
The heart of Ericeira is Praça da República, also known as “Jogo da Bola,” and its surrounding streets are pedestrian-only. There, you’ll find shops, cafes, pastries, and restaurants.
#2 See the cliffs, escarpments, and caves of Ericeira
If the central area of Ericeira is beautiful, the seaside will not be far behind. Besides the beaches, this area is known for its rocky cliffs, escarpments, and caves.
The city has a mix of high cliffs and sandy beaches, creating a very scenic location. Besides the amazing pics for Instagram and the beautiful sunsets, the area is also very pleasant to walk around and on the rocks, exploring the lookouts, the ancient canons, and the caves.
#3 World Surfing reserve
The coast of Ericeira, or a part of it, was declared a World Surfing Reserve on October 14, 2011. This 4km area was only the second reserve distinguished worldwide listed by the international organization “Save the Waves Coalition.” In fact, it remains unique in Europe and only one of the 11 in the world!
The quality and consistency of the waves, the culture and importance of surfing in the community, the environmental richness of the area, and, of course, the strong mobilization of the community contributed to this recognition.
In these short 4 km of coastline, it is possible to find seven fabulous waves that attract thousands of surfers every year. From south to north, the waves included in the world reserve are Pedra Branca, Reef, Ribeira d’Ilhas, Cave, Crazy Left, Coxos, and São Lourenço.
To learn more about the reserve and the waves, you can visit the Interpretation Center of Ericeira World Surf Reserve in Praça da Republica, Ericeira.
#4 Learn how to surf
What better place to learn how to surf than the best surfing region in Portugal? There are dozens of surf schools in Ericeira, where you can have very reasonably priced surf lessons. Or, if you already know how to surf, you can rent a board easily. A lesson should cost about 30 Euros, while a week-long pack should be a little over 100 Euros. So, a week of surfing and beach in Ericeira can be a perfect way to have a nice, inexpensive escapade.
Ribeira d’Ilhas, São Lourenço, and Foz do Lizandro are the best beaches for surfing lessons. Foz do Lizandro isn’t part of the reserve, but it’s a fabulous beach with several surfing schools and constant lessons. Yet Ribeira d’ilhas is even more popular, with hundreds of surfers at a time.
#5 The wonderful beaches of Ericeira
In addition to Surf and Surf beaches, there are several very high-quality beaches in this region – both in the city and to the north and south. In another article, we have already thoroughly explored the ten best beaches in Ericeira, so it is not worth repeating. However, it is always worth noting that there are beaches for all tastes and kinds of travelers in Ericeira, although they always have cold water!
#6 Hike or cycle the coast
The whole region around Ericeira, including the area of the World Surfing Reserve, is very scenic and suitable for hiking and cycling. Along the coast, there’s a beautiful sidewalk built for runners, hikers, and cyclists.
In Ericeira, there are several shops where you can easily rent a bike and cycle to most of the beaches and waves (not all of them are located on beaches). Take the most of it by entering in the BTT trails, it’s fun. However, you need to note that this is a hilly area, and some of it is quite steep (but short). It isn’t too difficult, but you’ll need to be in some shape as it’s a bit harder than just strolling on a plane course.
#7 Go to Ouriço
We usually don’t include discos in this kind of article; it really isn’t our thing, but going to Ourico is a little more than simply clubbing. Besides being the oldest disco in the country, it’s situated in an old house above Praia dos Pescadores, with an amazing view, making the whole experience a bit different from your usual night out.
Ouriço plays eclectic music with sounds for every taste, generating good vibes for visitors.
The exterior walls of Ouriço are always painted with high-quality street art. We are not talking about trashy graffiti but truly amazing works of art. Check below the amazing 3D painting we found in 2020.
#8 Try the local delicacies
In general, restaurants in Ericeira are famous mainly for fish and seafood, which is not surprising given that we are talking about a typical fishing village. Of course, grilled fish is usually delicious, as are clams, shellfish, and other seafood. But we really have to emphasize the size and price of the octopus. We were delighted with the octopus served in some restaurants, such as Prim and Casa Portuguesa, and surprised by the relatively affordable price (14-15 for a whole octopus).
Ouriços (translates to Urchins) are probably the most typical sweets in Ericeira, and they are well worth trying, as they are rich in eggs, almonds, and honey. Besides the famous ouriços, it is not difficult to find some of the most traditional sweets and pastries in Portugal, as there are many pastries in the historic center.
Check also our recommended desserts in Portugal
#9 Visit the Palace-Convent of Mafra
One of the most exciting things about Ericeira is that it’s very close to Mafra and its UNESCO heritage sites. Thus, you really shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit the monumental Palace-Convent of Mafra.
Built-in the 18th century, the palace has about 1,200 rooms, more than 4,700 doors and windows, 156 staircases, and 29 courtyards and lobbies. It is a huge building, but also aesthetically very appealing due to the Baroque style, with Roman and Germanic influence. Since 2019 it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with the Jardim do Cerco and the Tapada de Mafra.
We strongly advise that in addition to seeing the exterior of the Palace, take the opportunity also to explore the visitable wings inside. Inside, you can see the king’s room, the audience room, and some of the interior courtyards and staircases. However, the big star is undoubtedly the Joanina Library. Take some time to get a good look at this room, as the Joanina library is considered one of the most beautiful in the world, and it was built to be a knowledge center of all the main intellectual subjects of Baroque culture.
#10 Discover Tapada de Mafra
Finally, we must mention the other star of Mafra, the tapada (hunting park). Created in 1747 as a leisure area dedicated to hunting for the entertainment of the royal family and nobility, the National Park of Mafra covers 1187 acres and has a 21 km long wall. This property has many animals like wild boars, roe deer, and deer.
Today, visiting Mafra’s hunting park on foot, by bicycle, and on a tourist train is possible. Thus, this is a nice destination for all types of travelers, from more adventurous and athletic to children or even people with little mobility. There are marked routes with different degrees of difficulty. Given the size of the property, we advise you to visit it in at least one morning or afternoon. It is well worth the time.
Best time to visit Ericeira
Summer is definitely the best time to visit Ericeira, as it is when the village comes to life with Portuguese and international tourists. It is also when you can truly enjoy the beaches and surf.
Ericeira is also a good place to take a day trip from Lisbon in summer as it can become hectic.
During winter, the experience will be completely different as Ericeira becomes a sleepy beach town with few people and little to do. It’s relaxing and beautiful too, but probably not what you want.
Where to stay in Ericeira?
As a traditional holiday resort town, Ericeira has many accommodation options, from local accommodation to hostels, cheap hotels, or luxury hotels. As almost always, we advise you to stay close to the center, though, in Ericeira’s case, the historic center is quite small. Thus, staying in the surroundings won’t be too bad, as long as you are within walking distance from the center and/or the beaches.
Casa das conchas
Casa das Conchas is a great option for those who want a room for a good price. It has good conditions, sea views, and the possibility of using the kitchen. It isn’t in the center, but fairly close, so you can simply walk there.
Selina Boavista Ericeira
Selina Boavista Ericeira is our favorite hostel in the region. As always, the Selina hostels offer good vibes, relative comfort, and accessible prices. For those who only need a bed in a dormitory room, this is the best option. Book here.
Casa dos Barcos
Casa dos Barcos is a great option for families and bigger groups who want to have a big private space for themselves. It is in good general condition, is a nice value for money, and it’s very close to the center. As it has a terrace and ocean view, it offers spectacular sunsets.
Hotel pedro o pescador
Pedro o Pescador is our go-to option in Ericeira when looking for a cheap but ideally located hotel. The value for money is excellent as it’s very central. It’s perfect for those wanting to stay close to the action. All of this runs out very quickly, so book it as soon as possible. Check here if it’s still available.
Vila Galé Ericeira
Vila Galé is the big hotel in Ericeira. The location couldn’t be better, right in front of the ocean and next to the center. Some of the rooms include a balcony, while others have ocean views. All of them have air-con, cable TV, minibar, and Wifi. The breakfast and restaurant are very good, as it had to be in a quality hotel. Check prices and availability here.
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