FAQ

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What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in starts at 4:00 PM, and check-out is at 12:00 PM. If you arrive early, you are welcome to leave your luggage at reception and enjoy our common areas. If you are leaving later in the day, you may still use the shared bathrooms after your final surf or yoga session.

What if I arrive after reception is closed?

We offer a convenient self check-in service for late arrivals. Detailed instructions and access codes will be included in our Welcome Email, which you will receive one week before your arrival.

How do I get to the guesthouse from Lisbon?

We support our guests every step of the way. In your Welcome Email, you will find useful information on how to reach us by public bus from Lisbon to Peniche, as well as details on how to book a private transfer with our trusted local taxi partner.

Do I need a car to stay in Consolação?

The guesthouse is just 300 metres from the beach, so you can easily walk to the surf and nearby restaurants. However, if you would like to explore the world-class surf breaks of Baleal and Peniche town centre, both around 10 minutes away, or follow the tides and make the most of the conditions, we recommend renting a car.

Can I rent a bicycle or surfskate?

Yes. We offer bicycles and surfskates for rent at the guesthouse. They are a fun and sustainable way to explore the coastline and improve your balance between surf sessions.

Is free parking available?

Yes. There are plenty of free public parking spaces directly outside the guesthouse.

What does a typical day look like?

While we follow the rhythm of nature and the ocean, a typical day at Boa Onda usually begins with a healthy communal breakfast. Surf lessons generally take place in the morning to make the most of the best tide conditions, while yoga sessions are held in the late afternoon — the perfect way to stretch and unwind after a day in the water.

When do the activities included in my pack begin?

We have designed our programs so you can feel the “Boa Onda” vibe from the moment you arrive.

1. Your arrival day: If your pack includes yoga, your experience begins with your first session on the afternoon of check-in. It is the perfect way to ground yourself before your first surf session.
2. Your surf journey: Regardless of which pack you choose, surf lessons usually begin on the morning after your arrival.
3. Your final day: For 3-night stays (Surf or Surf & Yoga), a final surf session is included on your check-out day so you can make the most of your time with us.
   • For 7-night stays, the program usually ends the day before departure, giving most guests a slow and relaxed final morning to enjoy one last breakfast and the beach. The exception is our 7-night Surf Pack, which includes a final surf session on the last morning.

What is the atmosphere like at the guesthouse?

We pride ourselves on being a relaxed, slow-living retreat in Portugal rather than a party hub. Life here is intentional, peaceful, and connected to the rhythm of the ocean. To ensure a restful stay for everyone, we kindly ask guests to keep noise to a minimum after 11:00 PM.

Is Boa Onda suitable for solo travellers and couples?

Absolutely. Around 50% of our guests travel solo, while the rest are couples, friends, or families. Our guesthouse is designed to create a natural sense of community through shared surf sessions, sunset yoga, and our communal breakfast table.

Can I work remotely from the guesthouse?

Absolutely. We offer fast WiFi throughout the house and in all guest rooms. During the day, the atmosphere is usually very quiet while many guests are out, making the common areas ideal for focused work. Several of our ensuite rooms also include small desks.

What should I bring, and what is provided?

We provide bed linen, one large towel, and one small bathroom towel. Please bring your own beach towel, as house towels are for indoor use only. Hairdryers are available at reception, and Portugal uses Type F European two-pin plugs.

Are there laundry facilities, and is the tap water safe to drink?

Yes. Tap water in Portugal is perfectly safe to drink. For laundry, there is a self-service laundrette just 50 metres from the guesthouse, with three washing machines and dryers available.

Can I bring my pet?

Generally, pets are not allowed. However, during the low season, we may be able to make exceptions depending on availability, as we have multiple locations and an apartment. It is always worth sending us an email to check.

What is included in the healthy breakfast?

We serve a nutritious homemade breakfast every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, featuring fresh fruit, homemade cakes, granola, eggs, and vegan-friendly options. Please let us know about any allergies or dietary requirements before your arrival.

Are there other meals available, or are there restaurants nearby?

On selected evenings, we host a Dinner Service that guests can sign up for during the day. For other meals, there are five to six restaurants within walking distance in Consolação. You are also just a 10-minute drive from the seafood restaurants of central Peniche, the trendy cafés of Baleal, and around 20 minutes from the medieval town of Óbidos.

Can I use the shared guest kitchen?

Yes. Outside of professional prep hours, guests have access to our fully equipped kitchen for light meal preparation. We also provide complimentary coffee, tea, and fruit throughout the day. We kindly ask everyone to follow the posted hygiene rules and help us keep the space clean and tidy.

What is included in the surf lessons?

Each surf lesson lasts 2 hours. We provide all the necessary equipment, including a surfboard and wetsuit, as well as transport to the best local surf spots and beaches around Peniche. Our instructors choose the location each day based on the tides and swell to ensure the best possible conditions for your level.

What is the student-to-instructor ratio?

Your safety and progress are our priorities. While the official Portuguese legal limit is 8:1, we work with a maximum ratio of 5 students per instructor. This allows for more individual attention and a higher-quality experience in the water.

Where do I store my gear?

To help keep the rooms tidy and dry, we provide a dedicated drying room for wetsuits and a secure board rack for private boards. Our reception team is always happy to help with the logistics. Rental gear is also available for free surfing outside lesson times.

Can children join the surf lessons?

Children under 13 cannot join adult group lessons on their own. A parent must attend, and we strongly recommend that families book private surf lessons for a safer and more personalised experience.

Do I need to bring my own yoga equipment?

No need. We provide professional-grade props from Manduka, ReYoga, and Bodhi. All equipment is available for use during scheduled classes and outside class times as well.

Do you accept credit cards?

No. We operate on a cash-only basis for local payments. Many nearby restaurants also do not accept cards, so we recommend arriving with some cash. There are ATMs in Peniche town centre, as well as local options in Consolação.

Is there a key deposit?

Yes. We require a €10 cash deposit for each key (€10 note preferred), which is returned immediately at check-out.

How can I keep my valuables safe?

In our dorm rooms, each bed has its own individual lockable box for personal belongings. We do not provide traditional safes, so we recommend that all guests travel with insurance for extra peace of mind.

What is the cancellation policy?

For full details on cancellations, refunds, and booking changes, please refer to our Terms & Conditions page.