ERICEIRA
TOURISM
IMPACT OF SURFING ON TOURISM
Since 2011, surfing has been the main driver of tourism in Ericeira .
The recognition of Ericeira as the first World Surfing Reserve in Europe in 2011 marked a turning point for local tourism. Since then, the town has undergone a profound transformation, both in the flow of visitors and in population growth.
With approximately 10,260 inhabitants in 2011, the population of Ericeira increased to 12,351 in 2021, representing a growth of over 20% in just one decade. This increase is directly related to the growing attractiveness of the village, which has become a preferred destination for tourists, national and foreign residents, professional surfers, and digital nomads.
Meanwhile, it is estimated that the village receives between 100,000 and 150,000 surfers annually, coming from all over the world in search of its iconic waves. During the summer months, the population triples, highlighting the strong seasonality of tourism.
The EriceiraWSR+10 study, coordinated by the Ericeira Surf Club and funded by the European Union, confirmed that surfing has enhanced the town's international reputation, boosted tourism, and fostered greater environmental awareness. However, the same study highlights the importance of implementing sustainable management strategies to avoid the risks of overpopulation and urban pressure.
Thus, surfing not only projected Ericeira as a global tourist destination, but also had a direct impact on the growth of the resident population, revealing its importance not only as an economic and tourist engine, but also as a factor of social and urban transformation.
Photo: Ericeira Mag / WSL
EXPERIENCES AND DIVERSIFICATION
Although surfing is Ericeira 's main attraction, the town has established itself as a diverse tourist destination, capable of attracting different types of visitors. In addition to world-class waves, the region offers beaches suitable for families and swimmers, such as Praia dos Pescadores and Foz do Lizandro, combining leisure, gastronomy, and wellness activities.
Fishing tradition remains one of the great cultural attractions. Fresh fish and seafood are part of the local gastronomic identity, which intertwines with traditional festivals, crafts, and the authenticity of the narrow streets lined with white and blue houses. This combination of tradition and modernity has established Ericeira as a benchmark destination for those seeking genuine experiences.
The cultural and gastronomic program is also a pillar of local tourism. Events such as the International Sea Urchin Festival, the Mafra Bread Festival, the Ericeira Surf Film Festival, and the Festivities of Our Lady of Good Voyage attract thousands of visitors every year, reinforcing the cultural identity of the municipality and creating a direct link between local heritage and contemporary tourism.
In 2023, Ericeira was recognized by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) as one of the Best Tourism Villages[1], an international recognition that underlines the authenticity of its offering, the quality of local life and the commitment to sustainability and small-scale tourism.
Another recent phenomenon is the growing arrival of digital nomads and international communities who choose the village to live and work, attracted by its proximity to Lisbon, good digital connectivity, coworking spaces and, above all, the healthy lifestyle by the sea. This trend has brought new dynamism to local commerce and consolidated Ericeira 's image as a cosmopolitan and innovative destination.
The offerings are further diversified through wellness and nature activities, such as outdoor yoga classes, coastal trails, hiking, and cycling tours, which complement the tourist experience and attract those seeking active and sustainable tourism.
Thus, Ericeira establishes itself not only as the surf capital, but as a destination that offers a multitude of experiences — from the sea to culture, from tradition to innovation — always maintaining its authenticity.
