Lisbon Bodyboarding Experience

Trying out bodyboarding in Lisbon is one of those memorable ways to connect with the Atlantic ocean’s lively waves. Whether you’re a complete beginner or someone looking to sharpen your skills, this 2-hour session offers a fun, safe, and personalized introduction to bodyboarding. We’ve taken a close look at what makes this experience stand out—and what you should keep in mind before booking.

What we love:

The personalized support from a coach with over 20 years’ experience, ensuring safety and skill development.
The all-inclusive package—full equipment, wetsuit, fins, and insurance—means no extra costs or hassles.
The small group setting (limited to six participants) offers plenty of individual attention and a more relaxed vibe.

A possible consideration:

The activity takes place in the ocean with waves, which can cause discomfort for those unaccustomed to the sea. Also, you don’t need to be a strong swimmer, but feeling comfortable in water is essential.

Who is this for?
This experience suits travelers eager to try bodyboarding for the first time, those who want a guided lesson in a beautiful beach setting, or anyone looking to boost confidence in the water with expert support.

This experience made our article of 5 Best Tours & Experiences In Carcavelos (With Reviews & Prices).

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Key Points

Expert Instruction: Led by a coach with over 20 years of professional experience, focused on safety and development.
All Equipment Provided: Including bodyboard, wetsuit, fins, and insurance, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Ideal for Beginners & Intermediates: Adapted teaching makes it suitable for all skill levels.
Small Group Size: Limited to six participants, creating a relaxed, personalized environment.
Location & Meeting Point: At Nova Praia in Costa da Caparica, a vibrant, easily accessible spot.
Duration & Flexibility: 2-hour lessons with multiple start times, plus flexible cancellation policies.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Lisbon Bodyboarding Experience

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The Setting: Nova Praia and Costa da Caparica

The activity begins at Nova Praia, just next to the traffic circle at the end of Avenida General Humberto Delgado, close to the CCCA campsite. This sandy stretch is a fantastic place to learn, with consistent waves suitable for all levels. Costa da Caparica itself is famed for its long beaches and surf-friendly conditions, making it a popular spot among locals and visitors alike.

The meeting point is straightforward to find, and arriving 5 to 10 minutes early ensures you’re ready to start on time and catch the best conditions. The surroundings are lively but not crowded at the start of this activity, giving you space to prepare and get comfortable.

The Coach: Experience You Can Trust

João Pedro Andrade Rosa Dias, the experienced instructor, is the main guide behind this tour. With over 20 years of professional coaching, he brings not only technical expertise but also a passion for sharing his love of the ocean. His approach is safety-first, but he also emphasizes fun and progression, which makes a significant difference in how learners feel about the activity.

What’s Included & Equipment

The cost covers everything needed for the lesson:

Bodyboard: Properly sized to your level and built for stability and fun.
Neoprene Suit: Keeps you warm and comfortable in the water.
Duck Feet (Fins): Help you control and maneuver more easily on the waves.
Insurance: Personal accident and civil liability cover your safety during the session.

This comprehensive package means you won’t need to worry about bringing or renting gear elsewhere, making it a convenient option. Many reviewers appreciated the attention to detail, noting that all equipment felt well-maintained and suitable for different body types and skill levels.

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The Lesson: What You’ll Learn

The core of this experience is tailored to your level, but expect to cover:

Safety rules in the ocean: Essential for enjoying bodyboarding responsibly.
Board control: How to balance and maneuver on your bodyboard.
Wave catching: Techniques to identify and ride waves effectively.
Making turns and gliding in style: Enhancing your technique to improve your flow.

While the focus is on fundamentals, João’s coaching style is patient and encouraging. Reviewers noted that they felt confident by the end of the session, and many left with a big smile and a new appreciation for surfing sports.

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The Experience: What to Expect

The session typically lasts 2 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability. The environment is lively but not overwhelming, with waves suitable for learners and intermediates. Water comfort is important—if you’re not comfortable in the ocean, you might find the waves a bit challenging, but the instructor is attentive to your limits.

Participants don’t need to be expert swimmers, but feeling at ease in water is recommended. The waves can cause some initial discomfort, especially if you’re new to the ocean, but most people find that once they get on the board, the experience becomes exhilarating.

Authentic Feedback from Reviewers

One reviewer shared, “João’s patience and clear instructions made me feel safe and excited to try catching waves for the first time.” Others appreciated the environment, describing it as relaxed and friendly, ideal for beginners. Many mentioned that the focus on safety and individual support really helped them progress quickly.

Practical Tips for Participants

Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen—though equipment and wetsuits are provided.
Arrive early to maximize your time and enjoy the best conditions.
Dress comfortably and be prepared for the water’s coolness, especially in spring or autumn.
Remember, you don’t need to know how to swim perfectly, but confidence in water is helpful.

The Value of the Experience

Priced reasonably considering all equipment, instruction, and insurance included, this tour provides excellent value. For just two hours, you’ll gain practical skills, enjoy the stunning coast, and create fun memories. It’s a chance to connect with nature in a safe, supportive setting, with plenty of room for improvement regardless of your initial skill level.

Who Should Book This?

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a guided, safe introduction to bodyboarding, especially if you’re new to water sports. It’s perfect if you prefer small groups and personalized attention. More experienced surfers can still enjoy the tailored coaching, but beginners will find it particularly beneficial.

It’s also a great activity for those who want to combine a beach day with learning a new skill in a beautiful setting. However, if you have mobility issues or are under 18, this might not be suitable.

FAQs

Do I need to know how to swim for this activity?
You don’t need to be an expert swimmer, but feeling comfortable in water is important. The instructor will help you stay safe, but some water confidence is recommended.

How long is the lesson?
The session lasts 2 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

Are the equipment and insurance included?
Yes, all necessary equipment, wetsuits, fins, and personal insurance are provided as part of the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. It’s also good to wear comfortable clothing and arrive early.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to a maximum of six participants, which allows for personalized coaching and more individual attention.

Can children participate?
No, this activity is not suitable for children under 18 or people with mobility impairments.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to fit your plans.

Where exactly do we meet?
At Nova Praia, near the traffic circle at the end of Avenida General Humberto Delgado, next to the CCCA campsite.

Final Thoughts

The Lisbon Bodyboarding Experience offers a well-rounded, beginner-friendly way to get into the water with expert guidance. The combination of professional coaching, all-inclusive gear, and a stunning coastal setting makes it a fantastic choice for those eager to learn or improve their bodyboarding skills without the hassle or excess costs.

Whether you’re in Lisbon for a short visit or looking for a unique outdoor activity, this session is a great way to make your trip memorable. It’s especially worthwhile if you value safety, personalized support, and a friendly atmosphere on your adventure.

If you’re ready to catch your first wave or just want to enjoy some time by the ocean in a relaxed environment, this tour hits the sweet spot between fun, learning, and value.