Portugal vs. Morocco: Where Should You Surf This Winter?

By the time November hits, almost every surfer in Northern Europe starts asking the same question: Is it better to fly to Lisbon or Agadir? It’s the classic winter dilemma. Both destinations are accessible and offer world-class waves, but the experience couldn't be more different.

Portugal in winter is for the dedicated. The Atlantic creates massive swells that light up Ericeira and Peniche, but it requires preparation for the cold. You are looking at 4/3 wetsuits, boots, and crisp mornings. The upside is significant: the summer crowds disappear. You can often find spots like Coxos or Supertubos with a fraction of the usual lineup. The infrastructure is solid—fiber wifi is standard in most hubs, the coffee culture is booming, and if it rains, modern villas offer a comfortable retreat. It’s often considered the safer bet for digital nomads who need reliability.

Morocco offers a completely different experience. Landing in Agadir feels like stepping into a different world. It’s warm enough to surf Anchor Point in a 3/2 or even a shorty on good days. The culture shock is part of the adventure. Taghazout has grown massively in popularity, meaning the main points can get busy, but the sheer volume of right-hand point breaks is hard to beat.

The trade-off in Morocco has historically been reliability, though internet speeds have improved drastically. If work is a priority, booking a verified stay is crucial to avoid connectivity issues. For pure adventure, endless right-handers, and incredible food at great prices, Morocco is the place.

The Bottom Line: Choose Portugal for high-performance waves and reliable infrastructure. Choose Morocco to trade the cold for culture and long point breaks.