My SUP Journey – From Guincho Waves to Surfnpaddle Cascais 🌊
I first discovered stand up paddleboarding (SUP) around 2008, on a 10-foot NSP board. I learned to paddleboard at Guincho Beach, just outside Cascais, Portugal — and to be honest, I almost gave up! 😅
But persistence paid off. With a background in windsurfing and surfing, I slowly found my balance and confidence on the board. Before long, I was completely hooked.
2009 Cascais
One of my favourite early adventures was paddling from Guincho to Cabo da Roca, exploring the hidden caves and stunning cliffs along the way. Even now I ask myself, why haven’t we done that again? The coastline here in Cascais and Sintra is truly spectacular and full of places waiting to be explored.
For me, SUP surfing is pure excitement — one of my greatest passions — but SUP cruising has its own magic. It’s a calm, adventurous way to discover Portugal’s coastline, see wildlife, and explore hidden beaches that most people never reach.
How Surfnpaddle Cascais Was Born 🏄♂️
SUP was still a niche sport in Portugal back in the early days. I wanted to offer something different — something beyond the typical kayak experience. Stand up paddle felt like the perfect mix: the freedom of surfing, the movement of windsurfing, and the simplicity of just standing and gliding over the water.
In 2010, I opened the first SUP school in Cascais, right through John David’s Bar. It started small — I’d load 15 paddle boards on top of my car every morning and head to the beach. It was a lot of work, but I was determined to make it happen.
Eventually, I had the chance to open a fixed location in 2015, and that changed everything. From there, Surfnpaddle Cascais grew into what it is today — a year-round paddleboarding school and community by the sea.
Seventeen years later, I still love every part of it. Every session teaches me something new. Running a paddleboard business means always adapting — to the weather, the ocean, and to people — and that’s what keeps it exciting.
Why Choose Surfnpaddle Cascais? 🌅
At Surfnpaddle Cascais, our goal is simple: to use our years of experience to help you enjoy stand up paddleboarding in Portugal safely, confidently, and with a smile.
We operate all year round (weather permitting), and yes — we have wetsuits available, so you can paddle comfortably even in winter.
What’s Coming Up Next
🏝️ SUP Cruises & Tours – Explore new and classic locations like Arrábida, Foz do Arelho, and Cascais Bay. Perfect for those who love adventure and scenic paddling.
🏄 SUP Lessons & Refresher Courses – Improve your paddle technique or build confidence on the board. We even include video analysis for faster progress.
🌊 Special Package Deals – Tailored SUP Wave, SUP Clinics, and Beginner Courses to fit your schedule and goals.
🤝 Monthly SUP Meet-ups in Cascais – Join a friendly community of paddlers, share experiences, and get inspired for your next SUP adventure.
If you’re ready to experience the best of stand up paddleboarding in Cascais, or just want to try something new, we’d love to have you join us!