Esmoriz is a small resort with a big reputation among surfers. Join a surf camp to perfect your skills while learning how the ocean works or take lessons with experienced instructors.
A new sustainable park has sprung up south of town and boasts ponds, boardwalks and groves of maritime pine. There’s also a lagoon and two observation towers.
Beaches
The beaches in Esmoriz Portugal are great for those looking to get away from the crowds. The extensive belt of sand is edged by sandy cliffs and protected by the high groves of maritime pines. Lifeguards patrol the beach in summer but swimming here requires a lot of care as these waters are rough and turbulent.
Surfers are increasingly noticing this small town on the coast between Aveiro and Porto. Praia da Barrinha has consistent beach breaks, attracting newbies and old hands alike. There are two surf camps in town offering a full range of packages, including week-long stays with non-stop surfing sessions.
The lagoon just south of the town is a paradise for nature lovers with six ponds, an environmental education centre and paths winding through groves of maritime pines. Visitors can also hire bikes for a ride around the lagoon or stroll along the beachfront promenade and take in the stunning sea views.
Water sports
The sheltered bay of Esmoriz is calm and serene, a beautiful natural wonder and great for water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. The beach is backed by high maritime pines, with spacious areas of sand and plenty of room for everyone to spread out.
Surf enthusiasts will love it here too, with consistent beach breaks and waves suitable for beginners. The beach is patrolled in summer, and there’s a brand new sustainable park with 20 hectares of ponds, wetlands and pine forest that’s worth exploring.
The locals are relaxed and friendly and the surf camps are a little smaller than some of their counterparts in bigger cities, offering an intimate experience. The usual programme is a week of surfing, with two sessions a day and board and wetsuit hire included. Other activities include a pool and relaxation area, movie nights and day trips to Porto. This UNESCO World Heritage city has sights, nightlife and culture to last you more than one day.
Nightlife
Many restaurants and cafes offer a good variety of options to enjoy the nightlife of Esmoriz Portugal. The town has a special charm with its historic properties from the 17th and 18th centuries. It is also famous for its pristine nature and the countless bird species that can be observed here.
Surfing is also very popular here and the local beaches have reliable beach breaks for both beginners and experienced surfers. It is also the perfect place for a family holiday as the nearby golf courses and the cultural metropolis of Lisbon can be visited easily.
In addition to the great surfing possibilities, the city offers a great variety of leisure activities. Whether it is a trip to the casino, a visit to the old town or the many bars and clubs, there is something for everyone here. In addition, the city has a large selection of rental homes that are ideal for families and groups.
Restaurants
This stunning stretch of Portugal’s Silver Coast is a destination where visitors can relax and enjoy year-round good weather, beautiful beaches, and charming towns. With modern amenities, a variety of activities, and excellent cuisine, it’s no wonder that the region is becoming a favorite travel spot.
The beach at Praia de Miramar has a 17th-century chapel embedded in the rocks. It’s a great place to sunbathe away from the crowds, but be sure to check out the beach’s lifeguards and keep an eye out for sea urchins.
Like many areas in the Ovar municipality, seafood is popular. You can find the standard favorites such as bacalhau (salted cod) and caldeirada de marisco, but the area is also known for its eels. You can try them in a stew called enguias de Esmoriz, or pickled in a dish known as enguias à la plancha. The restaurants at this popular destination offer a wide selection of Portuguese cuisine.
