Stand up paddleboarding in Lisbon

Lisbon is Portugal’s coastal capital city, known for its exquisite architecture and beautiful views of the Tagus River.

The wide but shallow body of water opens up to the Atlantic Ocean, making Lisbon the perfect place to take part in outdoor and water activities.

One of the most popular excursions is a stand-up paddleboarding tour in Lisbon, to explore the coastline and all the ancient area has to offer.

Up next, you can consult our comprehensive guide on stand-up paddle tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Lisbon.

What are the most popular stand-up paddle tours in Lisbon?

Stand-up paddleboarding on Oeiras Coast in Lisbon

This popular paddle-boarding session takes place along the Oeiras Coastline just west of Lisbon. The 2-hour activity begins with a meet-up at an outdoor center near the harbor, where you’ll join your guide.

From there, you’ll be outfitted in a wetsuit and life jacket and provided a paddle, board and leash to use for the duration of the day. You’ll kick off the tour by learning the basics of stand-up paddleboarding right inside the Oeiras Marina with the help of your expert guides.

After you feel confident in your abilities, you will head out a bit further into the sea, enjoying stunning views of the coastal city and the Mediterranean waters. During this exciting excursion, you’ll learn how to balance, steer, paddle and even fall correctly.

Stand-up paddleboarding through Arrábida in Lisbon

This unique paddle adventure takes place in the breathtaking Arrábida Natural Park, a protected area known for its breathtaking scenery, historical sites, rugged cliffs and award-winning beaches.

The tour begins at a common meeting point where you’ll greet your guide and listen to a brief introduction, during which they’ll select the best beach of the day for your excursion to take place. From there, you’ll head out to the water on your board, paddling past awe-inspiring landscapes.

Through the crystal blue waters, you’ll spot all sorts of tropical marine life until you reach your first destination of Anixa Island. Your guide will snap GoPro photos and videos of your excursion as you explore some of the best beaches in all of Portugal. Grab a snorkel or enjoy some free time before a picnic lunch and the journey back to shore.

Stand-up paddleboarding at Albufeira Lagoon in Lisbon

The lagoon at Albufeira consists of a group of rivers set right behind the Atlantic Ocean, creating a one-of-a-kind marshy area waiting to be explored. One of the best ways to peruse the lagoon is with a stand-up paddle-boarding tour to soak up the beauty of the area while gliding along the water.

Begin with a pickup in Lisbon from where you’ll travel with your guide to Albufeira Lagoon. When you arrive, you’ll admire the golden sand beaches and lush pine forests that build the majestic ecosystem.

From there, you’ll gear up and follow your instructor out onto the water to observe the natural state of the lagoon and the wildlife that resides there. Finish with a ride back to shore and finally with transport back to Lisbon.

How much do stand-up paddleboarding tours in Lisbon cost?

Stand-up paddleboarding tours range in price depending on location and other inclusions.

An afternoon stand-up paddle-boarding tour along Oeiras Coast just outside of Lisbon costs about €45 per person. For a journey through the Arrábida, you can expect to pay around €77 per person, with a two-person minimum in order to participate.

For a paddle-boarding adventure through the Albufeira Lagoon, tickets are priced at around €90 per person for a 5-hour tour.

Is paddle board rental included? What else is covered in the price?

All stand-up paddleboarding tours include the equipment necessary for the trip, such as the paddle, board, wetsuit, life jacket and leash. All excursions also include help from a professional instructor along the way.

Trips to Arrábida and Albufeira Lagoon include a snorkel and mask for exploration, insurance for the ride and GoPro footage to take home. If you choose the Arrábida tour, you’ll also receive traditional Portuguese snacks and water for refreshment throughout the day.

Where is the meeting point for stand-up paddle board tours in Lisbon?

Stand-up paddle tours along the Oeiras Coast typically begin at an outdoor center in the Oeiras Harbor. Excursions in Arrábida will meet at Praia Creiro in the nature park, while Albufeira Lagoon tours begin with a meetup at the Lisbon Zoo for transportation to the starting point.

How long does it last?

Tours that take place right along the Oeiras coast usually only last about 2 hours, while a visit to Arrábida will take around 6 hours from start to finish. Stand-up paddle-boarding tours in Albufeira Lagoon usually last about 5 hours including transportation to and from the area.

When is the best time to go stand-up paddleboarding in Lisbon?

The best time for a stand-up paddleboarding tour is in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these periods, the water temperatures are cool and comfortable, and there will be fewer crowds than in the high summer season.

Is it safe?

Paddleboarding is safe, and tours are led by expert guides. However, you need to be a confident swimmer in order to partake.

Are children allowed?

Children are allowed, but some tour operators require children to be a minimum of 10 years old to join. Check beforehand to ensure the whole family can participate.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Should the weather prove unsuitable for stand-up paddleboarding, you can typically request a full refund or complete your tour on an alternate date.

Which other water activities can be done in Lisbon?

• Boat tours in Lisbon
• Surf lessons in Lisbon
• Lisbon kayaking tours
• Dolphin watching in Lisbon
• Snorkeling tours in Lisbon

Travel tips

• Wear sunscreen and sunglasses for protection from the sun, even in cloudy weather.
• Before heading out, always check the weather forecast and tidal conditions, especially if you're planning to paddle along the coast.
• Bring water, especially during the summer months.
• Do not disturb local wildlife, and avoid trampling on sensitive habitats.