Santa Cruz, Portugal

WHERE TO STAY:

What started as a restaurant and surf school evolved into a laidback eco hotel as of 2018. Since then, Noah's Surf House become a coveted staple amongst city creatives from Lisbon and Vans-wearing youngsters hitting the skate park. Find digital nomads mingling with families watching their board-carrying kids learning to surf, while locals pop by for live music nights. There is a warm sense of community amongst the shared space – eight rooms and 13 bungalows, each with an up-cycled industrial interior. With so much to do, you’re likely to spend the day in and out of the pool or beach so pack clothes that layer well over your swim or wetsuit. Can’t go wrong in our Ultra-Light Shorts is a summer, wear anywhere, game changer.

WHERE TO EAT:

Set yourself up for the day with an awakening pre-breakfast vinyasa flow or try the floating board liquid balance that really tests your abdominal strength. Afterwards, wander down to the original Noah’s Beach House restaurant right on the water for fresh fish caught along the coast while the health conscious can opt for the ‘Healthy & Soul’ menu – superfood bowls, grilled fish – designed specifically for surfers, yogis and runners.

WHAT TO DO:

Nazaré may have stolen the limelight, but it’s not all about the high adrenaline big waves. Santa Cruz is at the centre of the coast with deserted beaches and crowdless waves, suitable for all levels of surfing. One thing to note is it’s an exposed beach, so it picks up a lot of swell but is also sensitive to the wind.

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