Garys Surf school
Costa de Lavos

Hi! My name is Gary and I have been passionate about surfing since the 1970s when I stood on my first wave. I channeled my love for the sport by starting a career in surf coaching and I opened a surf school in Cape Town, South Africa in 1985. Since then, we have taught thousands of people of all ages to surf.

I spent 30 years competing in all surfing disciplines: shortboarding, kneeboarding, and longboarding, and I had the privilege of surfing in the World Longboard Championships in Biarritz, France. I also had the privilege of coaching the Junior Western Provincial team for National Championships in South Africa for 10 years and working to turn talent into champions. However, competitive surfing is not for everyone. As you all should know, the best surfer is the one who is having the most fun, and we strive to achieve this!

I am excited to report that I am bringing my love for surf coaching to Portugal. During my travels, I fell in love with Portugal. It feels like home with its great quality surfing, its weather, and its friendly people. I particularly fell in love with the area around Figuera da Foz and the beautiful fishing village of Costa de Lavos.

Figuera de Foz is situated halfway between Porto and Lisbon and is only one hour from Nazare. There are surf spots all along the coastline catering for everyone from beginners to intermediates to experts. You can always find a spot to paddle out with minimal crowds. Not many places like that exist today!

Costa de Lavos and surrounding beaches are beginner friendly on the right tides and swell. This is where you will find Gary’s Surf School, Portugal. We provide transport from nearby areas including Figuera de Foz. A friendly reminder that the water is fresh, and you will need a wetsuit (which you can always rent from us).

So give us a call or book your surfing lesson online! We look forward to putting a smile on your face and getting you stoked! See you soon in Portugal.