The small town of Peniche in Portugal is a haven for surfers. This little fisherman village has gained its fame thanks to the international surfing contests hosted here almost every year. In the recent years surfers from all over the world started to come here to ride some of the best waves in Europe. Peniche became more than just a surf destination though. Now it’s also a great place to combine surfing and remote work – simply perfect for digital nomad surfers. With its consistent waves, vibrant surf culture, and growing infrastructure for remote work, it’s an ideal destination for those looking to balance work and play. Whether you’re chasing barrels or deadlines, Peniche will a special place on your map of travels. Don’t come only for a surf trip but stay here for longer and soak the great vibe of this small but lively town.
Why Peniche?
Located on Portugal’s Silver Coast (Costa de Prata), Peniche is a small seaside town that sits on a rugged peninsula jutting into the Atlantic Ocean. Its unique geography allows it to pick up swell from different directions, making it one of the most consistent surf spots in Europe.
But Peniche isn’t just about surfing. The town exudes a laid-back charm, with cobblestone streets, historic sites like the Peniche Fortress, and a working fishing harbor. You’ll find an affordable cost of living, fresh seafood straight from the ocean, and a growing community of international travelers, surfers, and digital nomads. For remote workers, this means a relaxed lifestyle with a strong sense of community, great food, and a daily dose of sun and surf.
Top Surf Spots in Peniche
1. Supertubos
Often referred to as the “European Pipeline,” Supertubos is the crown jewel of Peniche’s surf scene. This world-renowned beach break delivers heavy, hollow waves and perfect barrels, especially during autumn and winter swells. It’s the main venue for the MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal, part of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour, which draws elite surfers from across the globe.
Supertubos is best suited for advanced surfers due to the power and speed of the waves. However, watching pros ride these tubes is a spectacle in itself and an inspiring sight for any surf enthusiast.
2. Baleal
Baleal is more than just one beach—it’s a collection of beaches and bays that offer surfable waves year-round. It’s divided into two main areas: Baleal Norte and Baleal Sul. This variety allows surfers to find waves regardless of the swell or wind direction, making it a great option for all levels.
Baleal Norte often provides long, mellow rides perfect for beginners and longboarders. Meanwhile, Baleal Sul tends to have slightly faster waves, suitable for intermediates and advanced surfers. The area is also home to many surf schools, rentals, and beachfront bars, creating a fun and sociable surf town vibe. It’s crowded but still manageable if you are a beginner.
3. Almagreira
A bit off the beaten path, Almagreira is located north of Baleal and offers a more rugged, natural setting. The beach is backed by high cliffs and sand dunes, and its multiple peaks make it ideal for surfers looking for a quieter session. Almagreira is known for its punchy beach breaks and occasional barrels. The waves here can be powerful and are better suited for intermediate and advanced surfers. It’s a great spot when the more central breaks are crowded, offering plenty of space and beautiful scenery.
4. Consolação
To the south of Peniche, Consolação offers two distinct sections: a rocky point break and a sandy beach break. The point break provides long, right-hand waves that are excellent for carving and performance surfing, especially on a mid to high tide. The beach break is more beginner-friendly but can still offer fast and fun waves on the right conditions.
Consolação tends to be less crowded than Supertubos and Baleal, and its unique structure allows for great wave quality with certain swell directions. It’s a solid choice for intermediate to advanced surfers who want more wave time and fewer people.
Surf Schools and Rentals
Peniche is a surfer’s paradise with plenty of schools and rental shops that make it easy to get started or progress in the sport. Here are a couple of renomated standout options:
- Peniche Surf Camp
One of the most established surf schools in the area, they offer group and private lessons, surf guiding, and an extensive rental quiver. Their center is well-stocked with over 200 boards for all conditions and skill levels. You can come over and book your lesson on site or visit their website. - Baleal Surf Camp
Located right on the beach in Baleal, this camp provides excellent beginner and intermediate surf instruction. They offer accommodation packages that include lessons, gear rental, and yoga classes. It’s more than just surf lessons here, you will be able to gather for drinks and dinner together with your new surfing friends. Check their website for bookings and inquiries.
Most surf schools in Peniche operate year-round and offer flexible packages. You can rent everything from soft-top beginner boards to high-performance shortboards and wetsuits for different seasons.
Extra Tip:
If you are traveling and surfing, you will have no problems finding an extra job in one of the surf schools or hostels. Great way to have a free accommodation and stay longer in the area.
Remote Work in Peniche
As a remote work destination, Peniche has been gaining popularity thanks to improved internet infrastructure and a growing number of coworking-friendly spaces.
Co-Working and Wi-Fi
- Malacuna Peniche
Ex Selina Penische, this is the go-to spot for digital nomads. It combines hostel-style and boutique hotel accommodations with co-working spaces, high-speed internet, and social events. It’s also a short walk from the beach. Check their website or come over in person while you are in Peniche to check the vibe. - Aloha Café
Tucked in the nearby village of Ferrel, Aloha Café serves great coffee, healthy meals, and reliable Wi-Fi. It has a cozy, bohemian vibe, and it’s common to see laptops out and people working between surf sessions. - Danau Surf Café
Another favorite among remote workers and surfers, this café in Baleal offers strong coffee, a great menu, and plenty of outlets. It’s ideal for setting up your laptop for a few hours while enjoying ocean views. Here you will find also accommodation options and of course, a surf school.
Most accommodations in Peniche also offer decent Wi-Fi, and mobile data in Portugal is affordable and fast. A local SIM card with generous data can be a great backup.
Living in Peniche
Cost of Living
Peniche is relatively affordable compared to other European surf towns. Monthly rent for a furnished apartment ranges from €400 to €800 depending on location and amenities. Groceries, dining out, and transportation are all budget-friendly.
Accommodation Options
- Peniche Surf Lodge
Popular among backpackers and surfers, this lodge offers dorms and private rooms with shared kitchens and communal spaces. Prices start at around $20/night. Check their website for direct bookings. - Bukubaki Eco Surf Resort
Located a bit inland, 10 minutes by car from the waves, in a pine forest, Bukubaki offers an eco-conscious experience with glamping tents and tree houses. Powered by renewable energy, it’s ideal for nature lovers and those wanting to unplug. All accommodations have a free wifi so you can work from here too. Really special and totally different from any other accommodation in Peniche. Try it for yourself! - Airbnb & Monthly Rentals
There are plenty of short and long-term rentals in Baleal, Ferrel, and Peniche proper. Many surf camps also offer seasonal deals for long-term stays. You will be able to choose among many houses, apartments with all sorts of amenities. Perfect for singles, groups and families.
Food and Amenities
Peniche has a growing number of restaurants and cafes that cater to international tastes. You’ll find everything from traditional Portuguese seafood stews to vegan smoothie bowls. Weekly markets provide fresh produce and local specialties, while supermarkets cover everyday essentials.
The town also has pharmacies, medical clinics, surf shops, gyms, and yoga studios, ensuring a balanced lifestyle whether you’re staying for a week or several months.
Getting There and Around
Peniche is about a 1-hour drive from Lisbon, making it easily accessible from the capital’s international airport. You can rent a car at Lisbon Airport for maximum flexibility, especially if you want to explore nearby towns and hidden surf spots.
Public buses also run regularly between Lisbon and Peniche. Once in town, you can get around by foot, bicycle, or scooter. Car rentals are available for day trips or surf missions to nearby breaks like Nazaré or Ericeira.
Peniche seamlessly blends the thrill of surfing with the practicality of remote work. Its consistent waves, welcoming community, and growing infrastructure make it an ideal destination for those looking to balance productivity with adventure.
Are you an advanced surfer catching barrels at Supertubos? Or just learning to ride your first wave at Baleal? Dreaming of typing away with an ocean breeze in your hair? Well, Peniche is the right place for you and it offers a lifestyle that is hard to beat. Affordable, accessible, and endlessly beautiful, it might just be the digital nomad-surf town of your dreams. And once you are in Peniche, don’t miss the most beautiful jewel of the Atlantic: Berlengas Islands. Check my recent post about one day trip to this stunning islands just a stone throw from Peniche.
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