European beginner surf paradise: Baleal Beach, Portugal

Let’s talk Portugal—specifically Baleal Beach, one of Europe’s most beginner-friendly surf zones. Just outside Peniche and about 1.5 hours from Lisbon, this mellow beach break has it all: consistent swell, soft takeoffs, walkable surf town vibes, and post-surf pastéis de nata (trust me on those).

In this episode, I’ll walk you through what to expect if you’re thinking of surfing Baleal for the first time: when to go, where to rent boards, what to wear, and why the north vs. south side of the peninsula matters. Plus, solo traveler tips, surf hazards (don’t worry—no sharks), and a few non-surf adventures for your rest days.