Matosinhos is a lively seaside town just outside Porto, known for its long sandy beaches, excellent seafood, and a strong surf culture. It’s a place where you can learn to surf, explore underwater worlds, or indulge in creative pursuits—all within a short ride from the city center. We’re particularly impressed with the surf lessons, especially the one with a certified instructor offering personalized attention, and the chance to try scuba diving in the Atlantic. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pro, Matosinhos offers a variety of experiences that suit every interest and skill level.
If you’re after adventure, the surf lessons at different schools stand out, especially those emphasizing safety, small groups, and passionate local guides. For a more artistic or relaxing escape, the “Give Yourself Permission to Art” workshop or a private hot yoga session can be perfect ways to unwind. And for underwater explorers, the U-boat dive offers a uniquely historic and marine encounter. Now, let’s dive into each experience to see what makes them special.
1. Matosinhos: Surfing Lesson with Equipment
At number 1, this surf lesson offers a fantastic introduction to surfing with a certified school boasting 18 years of experience. For just $35 per person, you get a 1.5-hour session led by passionate instructors who love sharing their knowledge of the local coast. The lesson is tailored for beginners eager to catch their first wave, with all necessary equipment included.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on small class sizes, which allows for personalized coaching. You’ll learn basic techniques, safety tips, and how to read the ocean—all in a relaxed environment that emphasizes fun and safety. The instructors truly love what they do, which creates a welcoming vibe. Many reviews highlight how students ride their first wave during the session, making it highly rewarding. This experience suits travelers who want a quick, affordable introduction to surfing while soaking in the scenic beauty of Matosinhos’ coast.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for beginners who want a professional, friendly, and affordable surf lesson with a high success rate in catching waves.
2. Porto: Surf Lesson with the First Surf School in Porto!
This surf lesson is run by Porto’s oldest surf school, with 30 years of experience. It offers an authentic experience steeped in tradition and passion for the ocean. Available in 1.5-hour sessions, the lessons are perfect for those who want personalized guidance from instructors who are as enthusiastic about surfing as they are about sharing their love for the Atlantic.
Guests rave about the patience and clear instructions from instructors like Joao, noting that even complete beginners feel comfortable and well-supported. The small groups ensure personalized feedback, which accelerates learning. Besides the technical skills, you’ll gain insights into the best spots to surf in the area, making this both an educational and enjoyable experience. The reviews emphasize how friendly and welcoming the team is, making new surfers feel at home.
Value for money: For a relatively short session, the personalized attention and the instructors’ extensive experience justify the price. It’s ideal for first-timers who want to build confidence.
Bottom Line: A top pick for beginners and those seeking a traditional, well-respected surf school with friendly, expert guidance.
3. Porto: Surf Lesson in a small group
This small group surf lesson offers a more intimate and focused experience. Limited to just a few students, it guarantees personal attention from an experienced teacher eager to help you master the basics. All equipment, insurance, and licenses are included, simplifying the process for travelers.
What makes this tour unique is the emphasis on learning how to catch waves and stay on the surfboard, making it ideal for those who want tangible progress in a short time. During the 30-day window, you can check availability to find a session that fits your schedule. The reviews are glowing, with one calling it “the best adventure of your life,” which speaks to the memorable and empowering nature of this experience.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a small, focused lesson that ensures rapid skill development and plenty of instructor interaction.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who prefer a highly personalized, small-group environment and a fun, memorable introduction to surfing.
4. Matosinhos: Surf Lesson for All Levels
Offering a 3-hour session, this surf lesson for all levels provides a comprehensive introduction or refinement of your skills. For $35, you’ll get expert instruction on the beach and in the sea, with all equipment included.
What sets this apart is its flexibility—perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers alike. The small group format ensures you receive tailored feedback, helping you progress regardless of your experience level. After your lesson, you can enjoy exploring local eateries, making it a great way to combine activity and relaxation.
The lesson emphasizes the basics of surfing, including paddling, wave reading, and balance, making it ideal for those new to the sport or looking to sharpen their skills.
Bottom Line: A solid, value-packed choice for a longer, more immersive introduction to surfing in Matosinhos.
5. Matosinhos: Give Yourself Permission to Art Workshop
If you’re craving a creative outlet, this art workshop is a refreshing change from active pursuits. Led by Charlie, the workshop encourages you to explore painting as a form of therapy and self-expression. Over 3 hours, you’ll learn techniques and use a variety of materials to create your own artwork.
Guests find the atmosphere relaxed and supportive, making it easy to unlock your creativity, no matter your skill level. Many describe it as a fun and liberating experience that helps break through creative blocks. Participants leave with a tangible piece of art and a new appreciation for art as a healing tool.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to relax, express themselves, and create something meaningful to take home.
Bottom Line: A unique, calming experience perfect for art lovers or anyone looking to discover a new form of self-care.
6. Porto: Private Surf Lesson
For those seeking a personalized experience, the private surf lesson offers a tailored 3-hour session. It includes a scenic transfer from Porto to Matosinhos and focused coaching on both theory and practical skills. The instructor works closely with you, regardless of your experience level, ensuring you get the most out of the session.
Guests appreciate the flexibility, as you can choose the focus areas and enjoy a more relaxed pace. The lesson’s highlight is the custom attention, which helps build confidence quickly—especially beneficial for nervous first-timers or those who want to refine their technique. After the lesson, many head to local eateries to celebrate their newfound surf skills.
This experience is best for travelers who value privacy, custom instruction, and a more relaxed, in-depth learning process.
Bottom Line: Ideal for individuals or couples who want a private, focused surf experience with scenic transfer and personalized coaching.
7. Porto: Private Hot Yoga Birthday Class with Cake
Celebrate your special day with a private hot yoga class in a heated pod, available for groups up to five. This 1.5-hour session offers a choice between an energizing flow or a calming, grounding practice, customized for your group. The heated environment (37°C) plus calming scents and music create a soothing atmosphere.
Guests can add a birthday cake to make the celebration even sweeter. This experience is suited for those who want to combine wellness and celebration in a private setting. Many reviewers mention how relaxing and uniquely memorable this birthday activity is, especially with the option to customize the session according to your energy level and experience.
It’s perfect for small groups seeking a healthful yet fun way to mark a special occasion.
Bottom Line: A memorable wellness experience ideal for celebrating birthdays with a personal touch and a relaxing twist.
8. Porto: My First Scuba Dive in the Ocean
Dreaming of breathing underwater? This scuba dive experience offers a safe and friendly introduction to the underwater world of Porto. Led by a certified instructor, the 2-hour adventure includes a safety briefing, a boat ride to the dive site, and a 30-minute dive suitable for first-timers.
Many describe it as an unforgettable experience, especially since it’s their first time breathing underwater. The Atlantic Ocean offers a different underwater scenery than tropical destinations—more rugged, with intriguing marine life. The instructor ensures safety and comfort, making it accessible for those without previous diving experience.
This tour suits travelers who want a unique, hands-on experience that combines education and thrill in a relaxed environment.
Bottom Line: For adventure seekers eager to try scuba diving, this is an accessible and memorable way to explore the Atlantic’s marine life.
9. From Porto: Matosinhos Surf Lesson with Transfers
This surf lesson with transfers from Porto simplifies logistics by including transportation to Matosinhos. The 3-hour session features expert instruction, all equipment, and a scenic drive that takes you straight to the surf spots.
Guests rave about the convenience and the small group setting, which fosters rapid learning. The experience is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time and avoid the hassle of organizing transport separately. After surfing, many enjoy exploring local cafes or seafood restaurants in Matosinhos.
It’s a particularly good choice for visitors staying in Porto who prefer an all-in-one package.
Bottom Line: Best suited for visitors who want an easy, hassle-free way to experience surfing with transportation included.
10. Dive the U-boat 1277 – the Most Iconic Dive in Portugal
For certified advanced divers, this U-boat 1277 dive is a must-do. It combines history, marine life, and dramatic underwater landscapes over a 3.5-hour excursion. Led by experienced local guides, you’ll explore the WWII German submarine sunk off the coast of Porto.
This dive is quite different from others, offering a chance to see a historic wreck teeming with marine life. It requires certification as an Advanced Open Water Diver (AOWD) and involves two dives, each lasting around 30-40 minutes, with safety briefings and boat rides included.
The highlight is the opportunity to explore a WWII wreck that has become an underwater landmark. Divers rave about the rich marine environment and the thrill of exploring such an iconic site.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for experienced divers who want a blend of history and marine exploration.
How to Choose
Choosing the right experience depends on your interest level, budget, and physical fitness. If you’re a beginner seeking a quick introduction, the surf lessons or from Porto surf with transfers are great options. For a relaxing, creative break, the art workshop or hot yoga fit the bill. Experienced divers or adventure travelers should consider the U-boat wreck dive.
Plan ahead—especially for popular activities like scuba diving or private lessons—and book early during peak seasons. Consider your fitness level, as some tours involve physical activity, but many are suitable for most levels with proper instruction.
Final Thoughts
Matosinhos offers a rich variety of tours and experiences that go beyond just enjoying the beach. Whether you want to learn to surf, explore underwater, create art, or celebrate with yoga, there’s something to match your style. The surf lessons stand out for their professionalism and fun, making them perfect for beginners or those looking to improve. For a quieter, more artistic experience, the art workshops and yoga classes provide a relaxing retreat.
For adventure seekers, the scuba diving and U-boat wreck dive are unforgettable highlights. No matter what you choose, booking early ensures you secure your spot in these popular activities. So, plan your trip, pick an experience that excites you, and get ready for a memorable time in Matosinhos.