About

TIME TO SURF

WHO WE ARE

Three friends sitting together on a beach, posing for a photo. They are all wearing sunglasses and smiling. The background shows sand, the ocean, and a blue sky with some clouds.
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Time to Surf – More Than Lessons,
A Surfing Journey

Since 2004, Time to Surf has been delivering dedicated surf coaching—from Praia da Mata, Costa da Caparica, to surf spots around the world. Our mission is to help you tap into a genuine surfing experience, progressing with confidence while building lasting connections.

Led by Gonçalo (head coach & surf trip guide) and Mauro (senior coach & yoga master), our team combines top-tier technical training with a laid-back vibe. Focused and methodical when coaching, relaxed and easy-going when it’s time to enjoy the ride.

Book a surf lesson
Two men in wetsuits and surf gear standing on the beach, talking, with a group of surfers in the water behind them.
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TIME TO SURF

TIME TO SURF •

OUR VALUES

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Empathy

— the ability to adjust to every single person as unique

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Sustainability

— by contributing to safer line-ups and better skilled surfers

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Commitment

— to the core values of Surfing, to coaching, to nature, to life

An aerial view of a beach showing ocean waves, sandy shore, and a parking lot with cars and trees.
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Location

Costa da Caparica –
Lisbon’s Laid-Back Surf Escape

Just 30 minutes from Lisbon, Costa da Caparica offers an unbeatable mix of natural beauty, great waves, and a relaxed coastal vibe. Stretching for miles along the Atlantic, it’s the most unspoiled beach area near the city, making it perfect for both surfers and those who simply love the ocean.

The waves here break year-round, with conditions suited for all levels—from first-timers to seasoned surfers looking for quality sessions. The long, sandy coastline gives plenty of room to spread out, so you can focus on surfing, progressing, and having fun.

Beyond the waves, Caparica has a vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere, with beachfront cafés and restaurants where you can unwind after a session. Whether you’re here for the surf or just to enjoy the sea breeze, you’ll find yourself coming back for more.

We provide transportation from Lisbon, but getting here is easy with public transport, and we’re happy to share the best routes—just ask!

Praia da Mata, Costa da Caparica, 2825-308, Portugal

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YOUR COACHES

Meet Your Coaches:
Lifelong Watermen & Mentors

Gonçalo and Mauro aren't your typical surf coaches. With rich backgrounds, from engineering to sports psychology and fitness, they bring a unique blend of technical precision and natural intuition to their teaching. But beyond their decades of expertise, they're surfers at heart who live and breathe ocean life. Whether they're in the water, at the exercise room, or exploring nature, their passion for movement and personal growth shapes every session. As dedicated mentors, they're committed to helping you build confidence and skill at your own pace, while sharing the authentic joy of surfing

Gonçalo Cintra

Founder & Surf Coach

A man walking on a beach holding a surfboard, wearing sunglasses, a beige cap, a bright blue hoodie with 'Time to Surf Portugal' written on it, gray sweatpants, and black sneakers, with beach huts and sandy dunes in the background.

Gonçalo and Mauro aren't your typical surf coaches. With rich backgrounds, from engineering to sports psychology and fitness, they bring a unique blend of technical precision and natural intuition to their teaching. But beyond their decades of expertise, they're surfers at heart who live and breathe ocean life. Whether they're in the water, at the exercise room, or exploring nature, their passion for movement and personal growth shapes every session. As dedicated mentors, they're committed to helping you build confidence and skill at your own pace, while sharing the authentic joy of surfing.

Person surfing on a wave in the ocean.

Mauro Oliveira

Lead Surf Coach

Gonçalo and Mauro aren't your typical surf coaches. With rich backgrounds, from engineering to sports psychology and fitness, they bring a unique blend of technical precision and natural intuition to their teaching. But beyond their decades of expertise, they're surfers at heart who live and breathe ocean life. Whether they're in the water, at the exercise room, or exploring nature, their passion for movement and personal growth shapes every session. As dedicated mentors, they're committed to helping you build confidence and skill at your own pace, while sharing the authentic joy of surfing.

Book a Surf Lesson