Surfing Lessons With Amazing Instructors in Madeira Island

Imagine standing up on your first wave, feeling the rush of the Atlantic waters and knowing you’re sharing that moment with the stunning scenery of Madeira’s coast. For $82 per person, you can enjoy a 2-hour surfing lesson designed for all skill levels—whether you’re a complete novice or someone wanting to sharpen your technique. The experience is run by Madeira New Wave, a friendly outfit with certified coaches, good equipment, and a reputation for safety and fun, all set against the backdrop of Madeira’s year-round consistent waves.

What we really like is the personalized approach—small groups mean more individual attention, and the inclusion of pictures lets you relive your splashy debut. Plus, the warm waters and beautiful coastline promise a memorable adventure. Of course, the lessons depend on tides and weather, so you might need to be flexible with your schedule, but that’s just part of the charm of surfing in a place with such reliable surf conditions.

This experience suits travelers looking for an authentic, active day that combines sport, scenery, and a splash of Portuguese hospitality. It’s perfect for those who want a safe, well-guided introduction to surfing without the hassle of organizing equipment and safety protocols themselves.

This experience made our article of Our Picks For The 6 Best Tours In Porto Da Cruz.

Key Points

• Experienced instructors prioritize safety and skill development.
• Small group sizes ensure personalized coaching.
• All equipment and pictures included for a hassle-free experience.
• Flexible scheduling based on tide and weather conditions.
• Suitable for beginners and intermediates—not for children under 10 or non-swimmers.
• Stunning coastline and warm waters create an ideal surf environment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect When Booking a Madeira Surf Lesson

When you sign up for a surf lesson with Madeira New Wave, you’re signing up for more than just catching waves. The process begins at the designated meeting point at Alagoa beach, where you’ll find the team’s white Renault van parked and ready. From there, the experience kicks off with a briefing from your instructor—a friendly face who will go over safety procedures, the plan for the session, and answer any questions you might have.

The lesson is a balanced mix of dry land training and water practice. You’ll first change into your wetsuit—usually provided—and then warm up with some stretching and basic drills. Your instructor will then teach you the fundamental techniques of paddling, balancing, and popping up on your board. The focus here is on safety, body positioning, and understanding ocean dynamics, which is especially valuable for beginners.

Once in the water, your instructor will be with you constantly, ensuring you’re comfortable and safe. They aim to foster confidence and help you get those first successful rides. And if you’re lucky, you’ll be caught on camera by a dedicated photographer, capturing your triumphs and wipeouts alike—these photos are included, so you can share your story long after your trip.

The entire session lasts about two hours—from the initial warm-up to the final wave—and concludes back at the meeting point. The timing can vary because lessons are scheduled on the best tide and weather days, but the goal is always to make the most of Madeira’s consistent surf.

The Itinerary in Detail

Arrival and Setup: Upon arrival at Alagoa beach, you’ll meet your instructor and the rest of your group next to the van. The informal briefing helps set expectations and builds a friendly atmosphere—perfect for easing first-timers.

Dry Land Training: Before hitting the water, you’ll spend around 20-30 minutes on land. Here, you’ll learn essential safety tips, paddling techniques, and how to pop up on your board. This part is crucial; it’s where you develop the muscle memory that will serve you in the water.

In-Water Practice: Once suited up, you’ll transition into the Atlantic. Your instructor will be close by, providing hands-on guidance and encouragement. Madeira’s warm waters make this part enjoyable, and the consistent waves mean you’ll have multiple chances to catch a wave. Many reviews praise the professionalism and patience of the instructors, with one stating, “Learned from experienced guides who focused on safety and skill-building.”

Photo Session: During the lesson, a photographer captures your efforts. These pictures are a nice bonus, letting you relive your surfing debut. Many find that having photos taken adds a layer of fun and motivation.

The Sum Up and Back to Base: After about two hours, you’ll head back to the starting point. Expect to leave with new skills, great memories, and photos of your surfing adventure. The experience is designed to be accessible for all, with no previous experience required.

The Value of This Surf Lesson

At $82, this experience combines value and quality. The price covers the certified coaching, all necessary equipment, insurance, and the photos—a package that saves you time and hassle. For many travelers, paying for guided lessons is a smarter move than trying to rent gear independently or figure out ocean safety on your own.

The small group setting ensures personalized attention, which is particularly beneficial for beginners or those who want to refine their technique. The inclusion of professional photos also offers a tangible memory of your Madeira surf journey, something you’ll appreciate long after your trip ends.

On top of that, Madeira’s reputation for consistent waves and warm waters means you get more reliable conditions than in many other Atlantic destinations. This sets the stage for a satisfying, confidence-building experience, regardless of your skill level.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re a first-timer eager to try surfing in a safe, supportive environment, you’ll find this lesson ideal. It’s also suitable for those with some surfing experience wanting to improve their technique. The focus on safety and small group size makes it accessible for older children (10+) and non-swimmers who are comfortable in the water—although it’s not designed for those with mobility issues.

Travelers who appreciate authentic, active experiences—especially lovers of scenic coastlines—will enjoy the combination of learning and sightseeing. The friendly guides and professional approach make this a memorable, worthwhile addition to your Madeira itinerary.

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The Sum Up

This surfing lesson in Madeira offers a well-rounded mix of professional guidance, stunning scenery, and fun. It’s ideal if you want to try surfing without the stress of organizing everything yourself. The focus on safety, small groups, and photos makes it a thoughtful choice for travelers looking for a supportive environment that’s packed with value.

While weather and tide conditions might require a bit of flexibility, Madeira’s reliable surf makes it a great place to learn. Whether you’re after your first wave or simply want to enjoy a water-based adventure in Portugal’s beautiful Atlantic archipelago, this experience delivers.

If you’re looking to combine a physically engaging activity with the chance to soak in Madeira’s natural beauty, this surfing lesson is a solid pick. It delivers authentic fun with a practical, professional touch—something you’ll remember long after you leave the beach.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners? Yes, the lessons are tailored for beginners and intermediates, focusing on safety and fundamental skills.

How long does the lesson last? The entire session is approximately two hours, starting with warm-up, dry land instruction, and water practice.

Are equipment and photos included? Yes, all surfing gear and pictures taken during the session are included in the price.

Can I join if I don’t know how to swim? It’s not recommended for non-swimmers, as comfort in water is necessary, and the activity isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or children under 10.

What should I bring? You should bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water to stay hydrated.

When are lessons scheduled? The timing depends on tide and weather conditions, with sessions possibly scheduled in the morning or afternoon.

Where do I meet the instructor? You meet at Alagoa beach, next to the white Renault van of Madeira New Wave.

Is there any flexibility in booking? Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What languages are spoken? Lessons are conducted in English and Spanish, making communication easy for most travelers.

This Madeira surfing lesson balances the thrill of catching your first wave with the comfort of expert guidance and scenic beauty. It’s a practical, fun, and memorable way to engage with the island’s stunning coastline—and a perfect choice for those eager to add a splash of adventure to their trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: