MEO Rip Curl Pro
Drop into exclusive VIP access and expert local guides at the World Surf League’s MEO Rip Curl Pro. Witness the thrill of world-class athletes competing at legendary waves of Supertubos, Peniche—one of the most exhilarating stops on the WSL Tour.
Beginner
4 days / 3 nights
Peniche, Portugal
Rio Do Prado
Rio Do Prado
Supertubos, known for its powerful, barrel-riding waves, is a stage for the world’s best surfers on the Championship Tour. This year, twelve lucky fans will get exclusive access to the MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal. Take your seat in the VIP area, connect with WSL competitors out of the water, and when the heats are on hold, local surf legends will guide you to the right spots for each traveler to experience this iconic surf destination firsthand.
Trip Highlights
Enjoy VIP access to the MEO Rip Curl Pro and a local’s welcome to Peniche. Explore local breaks with expert guides Ricardo Lourenco, Guilherme Fonseca, and Pedro Fernandes.
VIP access to MEO Rip Curl
VIP access at all MEO Rip Curl heats. We’ll hang in the VIP area, with great sight lines, comfortable seats, and complementary food and drink.
Hang with Frederico Morais
Portugal’s own Frederico Morais invites you to an exclusive, behind-the-scenes gathering, where you’ll connect with one of the sport’s top athletes in a relaxed, intimate setting.
Surf Guide: Ricardo Lourenço
A passionate local surfer with deep ties to the ocean, Ricardo has spent over 15 years guiding luxury surf trips worldwide. Now, he’s returned home to share his love of Portugal’s waves with this VIP group, ensuring you’ll have an epic experience at the WSL event and throughout Peniche.
Surf Guide: Guilherme Fonseca
A Peniche local, began surfing at 7 and quickly rose to prominence, winning national championships and excelling at Supertubos. In 2022, he made history with a 4th place finish at the ISA World Games, the best result by a Portuguese surfer, and is now a key contender for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Surf Guide: Pedro Fernandes
Expert guide and founder of the Surf Academy, Pedro Fernandes was born and raised in Praia da Areia Branca and has been dedicated to surfing since the age of 13.
Photographer: Tomas Bello
A celebrated local from Peniche, Tomas will capture your experience, allowing you to relive every epic moment. Known for his stunning imagery, Tomas expertly documents the raw beauty and power of the ocean, offering a unique perspective on Peniche’s waves and surf culture.
Jet Ski Nazare
A jet ski ride you’ll never forget. Get up close to Nazaré’s legendary giants and feel the rush of the waves as you approach the iconic lighthouse. Guided by pro surfer Nic Von Rupp and his expert team, you’ll experience the thrill of these massive swells while ensuring your safety at every turn. *Additional fees apply
Award wining winery
Enjoy a wine tasting at Quinta do Rol, known for its exceptional wines and rich history. Savor the flavors of bold reds and crisp whites as you soak in the stunning views at this renowned estate. *Additional fees apply
“The energy of the waves at Supertubos is unmatched, and there’s nothing like surfing in front of such passionate crowds. Beyond the competition, I love introducing friends to the unique charm of this place. From exploring the rugged coastline and hidden beaches to sunset over Baleal.”
—Frederico Morais
Why surf Peniche?
Peniche is a renowned surf destination on Portugal’s rugged coastline, where world-class surf meets rich local culture. While this fishing town is known for the iconic barrels of Supertubos, its coastline offers waves suited to every surfer. With its tight-knit community of locals and surfers from around the world, Peniche offers a laid-back, authentic vibe. Whether you’re surfing or wine tasting, Peniche is sure to give you an unforgettable cultural experience.
Hometown Hero
Surfing with Guilherme Fonseca feels like having a backstage pass to Peniche’s surf scene. Born and raised here, Guilherme’s roots run deep in the iconic waves of Supertubos, where he’s become a local legend. From winning national junior championships to representing Portugal on the global stage, his journey has earned him respect both locally and internationally. With Guilherme by your side, you’ll gain insider knowledge of Peniche’s best breaks, along with the passion and expertise of a surfer who knows the coast like no one else.
Luxurious Haven
After a day of adventure and discovery, retreat to serene luxury. Nestled in the heart of nature, just a short drive from Peniche, this luxury agro-tourism hotel combines contemporary comfort with sustainable, eco-friendly design. Surrounded by lush greenery, you’ll unwind in spacious, elegantly appointed rooms, take a refreshing dip in the pool, or enjoy breathtaking views of the pristine landscape. The hotel’s restaurant, dedicated to sustainability and featuring locally sourced ingredients, offers a mouthwatering journey through Portugal’s rich culinary traditions.
When do WSL heats run?
The 2025 MEO Rip Curl Pro window will be open from March 15 – 25. Within this window, the WSL will pick optimal dates to run heats, and the heats will run over 4 to 6 days. We’ve collaborated with the WSL to pick trip dates that maximize the number of heats travelers can attend, and if you’d like to extend your trip for all the days of the competition window, we’d be glad to accommodate that.
What is a typical day on the trip?
Ricardo and our crew of guides will lead the group over to the event to watch the heats from the VIP booth and take in the scene. On off days, we’ll break into smaller groups based on surf skill and interest to find the right breaks for surfers of every level. While Peniche has heavy waves like Supertubos, there are also lots of spots better suited for beginners and intermediates. And beyond the surf, Peniche offers a wide variety of outstanding culinary and natural experiences. A Nazare Jet Ski experience and wine tasting at an award winning estate can be added onto your trip.
How well do I need to surf?
Surfers of all abilities can find fun waves on this trip. With multiple guides, we’ll break into smaller groups so everyone can surf the right waves for them. Tour surfers have said that Peniche is the best and most consistent stop on tour for the lay days, there are always pumping waves somewhere. With our local guides you’ll have the best possible experience.
What heats will I be able to watch?
We’ll have VIP access to all WSL heats. You are invited to come to as many events as you’d like!
*Your booking includes a VIP access pass for the duration of the event (March 15 – 25).
Can I arrive early or stay
through the weekend, after March 22, to be there for the entire competition window?
Yes. Let us know if you’d like to extend the trip.
What airport do I fly into?
We recommend flying into Lisbon, which is about a 1 hour drive from Rio Do Prado hotel. Airport transfers will be arranged based on your arrival and departure times. If your flight times align with other guests, transfers may be shared. For the best experience, we suggest arriving by 12 PM on March 16th and departing after 3 PM on March 22. There will also be an option to surf half-days on both the arrival and departure days.
Can I travel solo?
Absolutely. We’ll have a welcoming group, and this is a great way to connect with other surfers and WSL fans!
How many travelers will be in the group?
We’ll have a maximum of 12 travelers. Come solo or bring a friend. The trip will run no matter what size group.
OK, how much?
The trip costs $3,995 per person based on double occupancy. If you are traveling solo (or with a companion but want separate rooms), there is a $1,500 additional fee. You can cancel anytime 30 days prior to the trip’s start date for a full refund including your deposit.
What are the 2025 trip dates?
The trip is scheduled for March 16 – 22, 2025. If you’re interested in going but can’t make these dates, please reach out. We have other WSL trips coming up.
Are non-surfers welcome on the trip?
Yes, all are welcome! Between the heats, the Rio Do Prado, and all the activities in the Peniche area, non-surfers will have plenty to do!
What is included?
VIP access to all MEO Rip Curl Pro heats, meet-and-greet event with WSL athletes, daily surf guiding led by Ricardo, 6 nights at The Rio Do Prado, board rental, photography and transportation to WSL events, surfing and experiences, and airport transportation.
What is not included?
Nazare jetski experience, wine tasting are not included but can easily be added on for an additional fee. Flights and meals are not included. You’ll have excellent dining options at your hotel. Also, we don’t include travel insurance (but will gladly suggest some options for you).
Who is organizing this trip?
This trip is organized by Thermal. Thermal’s community of guides – Ricardo Lourenco, Guilherme Fonseca and Pedro Fernandes – will ensure travelers feel at home in Peniche, and Thermal’s traveler support team stands by to ensure travelers have a memorable experience. The World Surf League is providing insider access to the event and helping arrange time with athletes.