Well there must be a million articles about what to take on holiday, but this one is about the self-styled wave capital of Portugal. As local surfers we have some great tips for you on the less obvious things to take on a surf holiday to Peniche. No more slogging around the supermarket as soon as you arrive. Instead get straight to the beach, perfectly equipped for the day!
The essentials
Beach essentials for both surfers and non-surfers:
- Reusable water bottle, obviously. Sadly plastic bottled water is cheap and plentiful in Portugal, but there’s no need to join in. The tap water is fine to drink here. There are some incredible beach spots in quiet parts of the coast with no cafes or shops nearby so it’s good to carry your own water.
- A sun hat that doesn’t blow off. It’s quite often breezy here so you’ll need something that stays put. And make it a good one, because around here the standards are high.
- Something stable to swim in. This sounds odd, I know. Anyone who’s tried swimming in decent sized waves in a delicate bikini will know what I mean though. A frolic in the breakers is brilliant fun but not when you’re constantly checking that everything’s still in place. Also you’ll be wearing this under your wetsuit so make sure it doesn’t have any knots or clasps that will dig into your skin.
- A waterproof valuables pouch. Peniche and Baleal have wonderful long stretches of beach that are perfect for a stroll, especially at low tide. Leave your towel on the sand but keep your important stuff with you.
For the surfers
Whether you’re a seasoned surfer planning on many hours in the water, or a beginner looking to try it out for the first time, don’t forget these surf essentials.
- Sun protection for water sports, the stuff that doesn’t rub off easily. Normal sun cream won’t cut it when you’re out on the water for hours.
- Your own wetsuit if you have one. Of course there are loads to hire, and some very good quality, but it’s much nicer to have your own isn’t it? A 4:3 will work all year round, although it can feel a bit hot on the hottest summer days when a 3:2 is the best option.
- A surf poncho for easy post-surf changing. Even better if you can find a lightweight one instead of normal towel fabric, because it’ll be easier to carry and faster to dry. You can also use it like a normal towel to sit on the beach.
- A car to get to the best waves. It doesn’t matter where you stay in Peniche, there’s always a chance that the waves are better in a different place. With a car you can drive to at least 10 different surf breaks within about 10 minutes, plus you can explore places like Óbidos and Nazaré which are easily reached from Peniche.
Away from the beach
- Bring something warm for the morning and evening. Even in the summer the mornings here are quite often cloudy and slightly cool before the sun breaks through. Something to do with the Peniche microclimate. Anyway, a hoody or similar will take care of that. If you’re coming in the winter then obviously expect much colder temperatures and probably rain, although you can get lucky with some stunning sunny winter days.
- If you like a bit of yoga with your surf then rest assured that Peniche has lots of yoga places like Yoga Centre Peniche, so don’t forget some comfy clothes for all those moves. Boards shorts will not give enough mobility! Even if you don’t do yoga, a bit of stretching in between surfs will be really good for your recovery.
And if those are 10 less obvious things to take on a surf holiday to Peniche then don’t forget all the more obvious ones like a beach bag, sunglasses, bag for wet things and flip flops. Then you’re 99% set for a trip to one of the world’s premier surf destinations! All you need now is some decent swell and a place to stay. On the theme of less obvious, check out our previous blog about the little village of Ferrel which offers a truly authentic base for your holiday, quieter than Peniche and better equipped than Baleal. Happy travels!
By Clare
