Ericeira Included on Travel + Leisure’s List of “20 Most Beautiful Small Towns Around the World”
Earlier this month, Travel + Leisure released a list of the world’s 20 most beautiful small towns. When we opened the article, a familiar scene greeted us: quaint white buildings with blue trim, bordering a peaceful cobblestone plaza. We glanced at the caption, and sure enough, it was our beloved Ericeira.
We’re always happy for an excuse to sing Ericeira’s praises, so let’s take this moment to celebrate the enduring character, beauty, and charm of our little surf town.
Surf
You can’t talk about Ericeira without mentioning its world-famous surfing. Designated as one of only fourteen World Surf Reserves, Ericeira draws surfers from all around the globe. Spread across roughly 5 kilometers of Ericeira’s coastline are several iconic breaks, such as Ribeira d’Ilhas and Coxos. These breaks are protected sites, ensuring that the waves remain pristine.
Over the past few decades, surfing has exploded in Ericeira. Now, there are dozens of surf schools and shops, and the laidback surf culture is present throughout town. A vibrant community has emerged around the sport: Boardriders, a big surf shop in town, hosts live music every Friday, surf competitions occur every year, and the cafés are bustling with passionate surfers.
Beaches
Even if you’re not here to surf, Ericeira’s beaches offer so much. Relaxing in the sand, tide pooling, beach walks, sunset viewpoints, beachside bars, live music, open water swimming, beach volleyball…. you name it, and Ericeira has it.
The town is packed with coastal charm as well; as you stroll through the streets, breathe in the ocean air, listen to the waves crashing below, and peruse beach-themed stores. Ericeira is a place where the ocean is everything; it defines the history, culture, and landscape.
Cute Cafés
Town center is packed with adorable coffee shops, bakeries, and geladarias. Throughout the village, the coffee is top-notch, and each café caters to a different type of customer. Fancy high quality coffee with an Asian twist? The Capsule Café is right up your alley. Looking for a traditional Portuguese bakery and coffee shop? Try out Pão da Vila.
These coffee shops are also important community hubs in town. Meet locals and travelers alike as you enjoy delicious drinks and snacks.
Stunning Architecture
Finally: architecture. Ericeira’s buildings walk the line between casual surf town and intricate design, creating picturesque façades and streets. The simple white and blue colors create a bright, beachy ambiance that infuses all aspects of life in the village.
Despite its small size, you could spend all day wandering through Ericeira, snapping photos of meandering alleyways, beautiful plazas, and the iconic tiles that adorn most buildings. Dotted throughout town are small churches, lined with tiles and artwork. You’ll also find fountains nestled amongst the restaurants and surf shops. Murals—often beach, fishing, or surfing themed—add splashes of color.
Ericeira is a truly special place, and we’re so happy it’s receiving the recognition it deserves. Don’t just stop at photos in an article; come visit this charming surf town and experience its beauty for yourself. Azure waters, inviting cafés, and unforgettable memories await!
