Frequently asked questions
General Information
What services do you offer?
We offer surfing lessons for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
Our services also include equipment rentals, surf camps, private lessons, group lessons, and guided surf tours.
Where is your surf school located?
Our Surf School base is located at Caminho de São Roque – Machico.
Is there a Free parking place around?
Yes, there is.
If the lesson is at São Roque Beach, you can park here and go through Dom Pedro Hotel reception and take the lift to the the sea level, we are at your right at Dom Pedro Hotel building.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/1gdH5vKF7bwSCH2T9
If we must move the lesson to other location, normally there are always free parking available, and we will share with you the pin with the location.
Where are your surf lessons happening?
Our school is located at São Roque Beach - Machico, where we prefer to give our lessons.
In case there are no conditions at São Roque Beach, then we try to figure out where we have better conditions for the surf lesson.
We choose locations based on the best surf conditions for the day and surf level of participants.
It can be at Maiata Beach or Alagoa Beach at Porto da Cruz, or Seixal Beach at Porto Moniz or Baia dos Juncos at São Vicente.
How do I contact you?
You can contact us via email at info@aroundfreedom.pt or call us or WhatsApp at +351 961 874 993. We are also available on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
What happens if the conditions are bad on the day of my lesson?
If the weather or surf conditions are unsuitable, we may reschedule your lesson. We will notify you as soon as possible and arrange an alternative time or day, in last instance and if we cancel it or do not find any other date available for you, we will do a full refund.
Surf lessons
What’s included in the group surf lesson?
Our group surf lessons include softboard, wetsuit, leash, one certified surf coach per 6 persons, insurance, and 2 hours lesson.
How long are the lessons?
Our lessons last for 2 hours, which includes a briefing, warm-up, theory and security (~30min), and water practice – surfing (~90min).
However, and if we must move to another beach, or anticipate/delay the Lesson, it can take up to 4/5 hours. So, you must count with some unforeseen situations when you go surfing.
Do I need to have prior surfing experience?
No prior experience is necessary. We offer lessons for all skill levels, including complete beginners.
What should I bring to my lesson?
You should bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, flipflops, and water. We just provide the surfboard and wetsuit; any other necessary equipment you might need you should bring.
How many people are in a group lesson?
Our group lessons usually have a maximum of 6 students per coach to ensure personalized attention and safety.
Where do the group surf lessons take place?
Normally at São Roque Beach at Machico or Maiata Beach at Porto da Cruz.
In case there are no conditions at São Roque or Maiata Beach, then we try to figure out where we have better conditions for the surf lesson. It can be changed to Alagoa Beach at Porto da Cruz, or Seixal Beach at Porto Moniz or Baia dos Juncos at São Vicente. When there are no conditions on ours surf slots, we try to choose locations based on the best surf conditions for the day and surf level of participants, and availability in the surf slots attributed to the other schools.
SURF PACKAGES
What’s the difference between the 5-lesson and 10-lesson packages?
The number of lessons!
Can I split my lessons over several days or weeks?
Yes, you can. After you buy any package, you will receive a code to book the dates you want to have on our booking system.
What happens if the weather or surf conditions are bad?
If surf conditions are not good and we cancel the lesson, we will propose a new date. In case we cancel it and if there is no possibility at all for you to do the lesson in the new proposed date, a partial refund can be done. In case you do less than 5 lessons of any package (5 or 10 lessons package), the normal price of a surf lesson will be applied per made lesson - 60€, and refund the remaining amount.
Can I share a 5 or 10 Lessons package with someone else?
Yes, you can.
PRIVATE SURF LESSONS
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes, we offer private lessons for individuals or small groups seeking personalized instruction.
Can I book a private surf lesson for a small group (friends or family)?
Yes, you can.
ADVANCED SURF LESSONS
What level of surfing experience is required for advanced lessons?
Intermediate / advanced surf level is required. You should be able to catch and choose your own waves, have a good take-off technique, know how to use the turtle-roll or duck-dive, and at least know how to bottom turn.
What is the difference between a surf lesson and an advanced surf lesson?
The major difference is that in an advanced surf lesson we will focus on the surf skills you want to improve, giving you tasks to help you to achieve the results you want.
SURF GUIDED
Do I need to bring my own surfboard for the guided surf tours?
No, we also have all surf gear to rent, however might not be exactly what you are used to surf.
How do you choose the surf spots for the day?
We choose the surf spots accordingly with your surf skills feedback, and best surf conditions for what we think it is your surf level, based on your feedback.
Is transport included in Surf guiding?
No, but in case you need transportation, we can organize it for you.
An extra fee will be applied accordingly with your accommodation address.
Surf camps
Can I join now?
Yes! While our farm-based camp is under construction, you can join our surf program with accommodation at Hotel Dom Pedro Madeira.
When will it open?
We’re aiming for late this year or early next. You’ll be the first to know once it’s official.
Do I need to bring gear?
Bring your board if you like – we’ll also have high-quality boards and equipment available.
Is this camp suitable for beginners?
Yes – this camp is ideal for all levels: beginners, intermediate and advanced surfers.
Surf Rentals
Can I reserve a specific surfboard model in advance?
Yes, you can.
What is the rental policy for damage or loss of equipment?
Broken fins: €25 (other brands) / €75 (Firewire, FCS, Shapers); Dings and damages: from €20 (other brands) / from €40 (Firewire); Broken or lost board: €250–450 (other brands) / €600 (Firewire)
Can I change board during rental?
No, when you rent one board you are renting that board, so make sure that you know what you need.
If I deliver the rented board before the date, do I get a refund?
No, except if there is a major reason, like health situation or a similar justified situation.
Booking and payment
How do I book a lesson?
You can book a lesson through our website, by phone, or via email.
Through our website, choose the service, select your preferred dates, and complete the booking form.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard), bank transfers and cash.
Can I cancel or reschedule my booking?
Yes, you can cancel or reschedule your booking. Please refer to our cancellation policy on our website for specific details.
If I cancel a booking, do I get a refund?
In case you cancel your booking, you will be full refunded if you do it until 48h before the activity time. Any other situation you will have to present an official declaration explaining the cancellation reason, like sickness, early departure because of any unforeseen situation, serious injury or death of a relative.
Is it possible to get a lesson without scheduling long beforehand?
Yes, it is possible to get a lesson without scheduling long beforehand, but you run the risk of we have no availability. We would recommend to book at least one week beforehand, and we also recommend you to not let it for the last days of your stay.
Equipment and Safety
Do you provide equipment?
Yes, we provide all necessary equipment, including surfboards, wetsuits, and leash for the lessons and also for rentals.
Is surfing safe?
While surfing carries some risks, our coaches prioritize safety. We provide thorough briefings and ensure all students are aware of safety protocols. Our surf coaches are certified by the FPS - Portuguese Surf Federation and IPDJ - Portuguese Institute of Sports and Youth, and experienced surfers.
What if the weather is bad?
If the weather or surf conditions are unsuitable, we may reschedule your lesson. We will notify you as soon as possible and arrange an alternative time or provide a refund in case we decided to cancel and there is no possibility of rescheduling it.
Other questions
What age groups do you teach?
We teach students from 8 years old, and good swimmers or very comfortable in the sea with waves.
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes, we offer private lessons for individuals or small groups seeking personalized instruction.
What languages do your instructors speak?
Our instructors speak multiple languages, including English, Portuguese and French, eventually German if our German speaker surf coach is available.
Please let us know if you have specific language requirements.
