Imagine Surf School, Praia do Pego, Comporta

The water is cold along Comporta’s Praia do Pego, but the hearts are warm among the crew of Imagine Surf School. The company offers private and group lessons for surfers of various levels, but more than that, it aims to teach the “soul surfer” lifestyle. That’s what founder Eduardo Ildefonso calls the mindset of not only learning to ride a wave but also to become a better human being every day and experience a total connection with the sea and with nature.

It sounds like idealistic talk, but Ildefonso and his team live that ethos in a way that’s so contagious that one of the earliest students is now an instructor. Like the rest of the team, she brings an encouraging enthusiasm to the proceedings, whether that’s in first-timers’ lessons with children or in longer courses (from 3 to 10 days) with adults of all ages. Of course, it’s not all good vibes: the school also has top-quality equipment, certified instructors, comprehensive insurance, and a commitment to sustainability.