View over Ribeira d'Ilhas
Offering some of the world’s best surfing waves, this beach has become quite a cosmopolitan place. It attracts people from all over the world to its surfing competitions, which have taken place here since 1985 (usually in September).
Ribeira d'Ilhas is where you can watch surfing competitions in Ericeira
It’s located 3.5km to the north of the center of Ericeira, and has good facilities, connected to a surfing school.
It’s a natural amphitheater, in a valley with a stream (“ribeira”) that gave it its name, so it’s the perfect stage for events.
Ribeira d'Ilhas has a rocky shore
There are all types of waves, both at low and high tide, and you’ll find surfers throughout the year. They’re welcomed by a monument of a surfer holding a board, placed by the terrace that overlooks the ocean, close to the steps that lead down to the beach.
Monument to surfers above the beach
Further to the north are the beaches of Coxos and São Lourenço, which are considered part of the World Surfing Reserve, but technically already outside Ericeira.
Beach for: Surfers, Couples
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: Yes
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Ribeira d'Ilhas Beach
Ribeira d’Ilhas is Ericeira’s northernmost beach, about a 30-minute walk up the coastal road from the center of town, or a less-than-10-minute drive. On your way, you’ll pass by other, less crowded beaches. To see its exact location, see the Ericeira beaches map.
Hotels by Ribeira d’Ilhas Beach
Surprisingly, for such a popular beach, there are no hotels in Ribeira d’Ilhas. The coast here becomes wilder, and is protected from development. If you’re a surfer looking to spend a few days at this beach, look for surfing camps and hostels in the region in the Ericeira surfing guide.