As surfers ourselves, we’re always chasing that perfect spot – the elusive blend of glassy swells, breathtaking surroundings, and pure freedom. Picture this: waking up to the rhythmic sound of waves rolling in, the salty breeze mingling with the scent of tropical blooms. At sunrise, you paddle out, carving through pristine waves as golden light dances on the water. And by sunset? It’s all about indulgence – from savouring a gourmet meal by the ocean to melting into relaxation at a world-class spa. This is luxury surf travel at its finest.
We’ve handpicked five extraordinary destinations where epic surf meets exceptional hospitality. But these bespoke escapes aren’t just for surfers. If your idea of paradise leans more toward relaxation and discovery, there’s a whole world waiting to be explored. From wandering through lush jungles and indulging in private dining under the stars to uncovering hidden gems beyond the shoreline, the magic extends far beyond the waves – offering the perfect blend of adventure and indulgence.
If paradise had a private wave, this would be it. On Laucala Island in Fiji, surfing is an exclusive affair – just you, the reef break, and the warm South Pacific water. The island is so private that Kelly Slater himself has surfed here, and if it’s good enough for the GOAT, you know it’s special and one of the most exclusive surf spots around the world.
When you’re not riding the waves, this luxury surf resort offers a range of exclusive experiences. Snorkel colourful coral reefs, dive with PADI certified instructors or explore the island by mountain bike. Hike through a national park, cool off at the stunning Tavoro waterfalls or tee off on a private championship golf course. Prefer the sea? Take a sunset cruise over the turquoise waters. End the day in a secluded spa sanctuary. Designed for privacy, sustainability and luxury, Laucala is more than a surf destination – it’s a private island paradise.
Laucala Island is home to some of the best breaks in Fiji and the resort has boat access to untouched, uncrowded waves.
Wai ni Maqai features both left- and right-hand reef breaks, with a long right-hand wave ideal for intermediate to expert surfers.
Snorkel vibrant reefs, kayak or paddleboard, sail the ocean, trek rainforests, and enjoy farm-to-table dining. Tennis, cultural activities, deep sea fishing – there’s something for everyone.
Surfing at Laucala Island is available year-round, with smooth, glassy waves and consistent swells from November to April, while May to October delivers larger swells.
Remote, raw, and culturally rich, Sumba is unlike any other surf destination in Indonesia. With its untamed landscapes and deep traditions, the island offers more than just waves. Beyond the surf, explore traditional villages, hidden waterfalls, and untouched beaches – Sumba isn’t just a surf trip – it’s an experience.
Staying at Nihi Sumba means barefoot luxury meets wild adventure. Recognised as one of the best hotels in the world, it offers more than just waves – explore unspoilt nature, ride horses along secluded beaches, visit ancient villages or set sail on a sunset cruise. Unwind on a jungle spa safari, rejuvenate with beachfront yoga or simply soak up the island’s raw beauty.
Home to Occy’s Left, a legendary reef break, with only twelve surfers allowed per day for a truly exclusive experience.
Long, left-hand reef break with machine-like consistency.
Ride Sumba’s wild landscapes on horseback, visit local villages for a cultural deep dive, or relax in a cliffside spa overlooking the ocean – and so much more
Sumba’s coast consistently catches Indian Ocean swells, with prime waves from April to September and glassy days from October to December.
A private boat. A perfect wave. Not a soul in sight. Surfing in the southern Maldives is all about exclusivity – remote breaks, crystal clear waters, and uncrowded waves accessible only by boat. With its turquoise lagoons, white sand beaches and vibrant marine life, this island nation is paradise in and out of the water.
At Six Senses Laamu, life dances to the rhythm of the ocean. Mornings start with serene overwater yoga at sunrise, followed by fresh, organic breakfasts overlooking the endless sea. Whether you’re riding untouched waves, snorkelling through vibrant coral gardens, or unwinding with world-class wellness treatments, every moment is crafted for pure relaxation and adventure. As the day winds down, enjoy sunset cocktails, starlit beach dinners, and the gentle lull of waves beneath your villa. This is luxury surfing in the Maldives at its finest!
The best surf spots are only accessible by boat, ensuring a private and untouched surf experience in crystal-clear waters.
Left and right reef breaks with long rides and playful sections.
Dive with manta rays, explore overwater wellness treatments, or take a sustainability tour to see how the resort protects the local ecosystem.
The best time to surf the central Laamu Atoll in the Maldives is during the southeast monsoon, which runs from April to October.
Where emerald jungles meet the Pacific Ocean, Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit offers a perfect blend of consistent waves and stunning natural beauty, and world-class surf for every level – from rolling point breaks to powerful beach waves. After your session, track humpback whales breaching offshore, explore ancient forest trails, or immerse yourself in vibrant mercados. This stunning Mexican destination balances exceptional surfing with authentic cultural experiences that showcase the region’s rich heritage.
Hand-picked for its beauty and cultural charm, One&Only Mandarina offers the pinnacle of luxury along this stunning coastline. Retreat to architectural masterpieces – cliff-top villas and treehouse sanctuaries – nestled in breathtaking natural surroundings. Unwind in horizon-edge infinity pools or indulge in bespoke experiences that celebrate this spectacular setting. With exceptional style and service framed by mountains and ocean breezes, every moment here is truly unforgettable.
A surf paradise along Mexico’s Pacific coastline, offering punchy waves framed by stunning jungle backdrops.
The Riviera Nayarit coastline boasts surf spots for all levels, from gentle beginner waves to powerful breaks and long rides.
Dive over volcanic rocks, cruise at sunset, watch whales, or enjoy unforgettable fishing experiences.
The best time to surf in Riviera Nayarit is May to October, when consistent swells from the south provide excellent waves.
Portugal’s surf capital, Ericeira, is raw, authentic, and effortlessly cool. As a World Surfing Reserve, it offers waves for every level, from beginner-friendly rollers to adrenaline-pumping reef breaks. But Ericeira isn’t just about surfing – it’s a charming seaside escape where cobbled streets, fresh seafood, and ocean views set the scene. Beyond the waves, explore hidden coves, wine country, or Lisbon’s vibrant culture just a short drive away. Ericeira is where adventure meets laid-back luxury.
Stay at Aethos Ericeira, a boutique retreat blending surf culture with sleek contemporary design. Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic, this stylish escape offers panoramic ocean views, an infinity pool, and an atmosphere of effortless luxury. Wake up to the sound of crashing waves, enjoy locally inspired cuisine, and unwind in beautifully designed spaces that feel both sophisticated and laid-back. Whether you’re chasing waves or simply soaking in the coastal charm, Aethos Ericeira is the perfect seaside retreat.
Ericeira is a World Surfing Reserve, known for its seven world-class waves within a few kilometers, making it Europe’s premier surf destination.
Variety – from mellow beach breaks to heavy barrels at Coxos. Ideal for beginners up to advanced surfers.
Wander the cobbled streets of Ericeira, sample fresh seafood, or explore Lisbon’s vibrant cultural scene just 45 minutes away.
For intermediate surfers, Ericeira’s waves are perfect from June to September. But if you’re chasing powerful swells, the prime season for advanced surfers is September to April.
As surfers ourselves, we get it – every wave is unique, and so is every traveller. Whether you’re chasing uncrowded reef breaks, hidden surf spots, or the perfect blend of a luxury surf trip and adventure beyond the board, we’ll make sure you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Lisbon, Portugal
The capital of Portugal is one of Western Europe’s oldest cities but it’s anything but stale. Lisbon is a tapestry of tangled lanes, azulejo tiles, cutting-edge museums and rickety yellow trams that take you to the top of the city’s seven hills. You’ll realise this while watching the sunset with a ginjinha (local cherry liqueur) at a rooftop bar, indulging in some retail therapy in a flea market or listening to soulful fado in the barrio of Alfama. We are sure you’ll want to come back for more.
It would be criminal to leave Lisbon without sampling a pastel de nata (flaky Portuguese custard tart) but they taste even sweeter if you’ve made them yourself. We can arrange for you to learn how to make your own under the tutelage of an expert local chef at the iconic Pastéis de Belem, where the sugary delicacy originated.
Leave Lisbon’s crowds behind and see the city from a different perspective on a private river cruise. Enjoy unique views from the River Tagus of the city’s blockbuster sights such as São Jorge Castle, Se Cathedral, Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower, while sipping champagne and relishing the undivided attention of your guide.
Fado, with its powerful tales of longing, is Lisbon’s most famous musical form. Immerse yourself in this music with a private tour of the Fado Museum followed by a visit to a top Fado club. Here the melancholy singing is paired with an authentic Portuguese meal served in a traditional space decorated with beautiful tile panels. Simply unforgettable.
Our favourite way to get around Lisbon is aboard one of the creaking yellow trams. The most famous is Tram 28, and Cosa can organise a private tour for you. Expect to pass the colourful Feira da Ladra flea market at Campo de Santa Clara, as well as atmospheric neighbourhoods including Graça, Alfama and Baixa. Todos a bordo.
Despite being on the western edge of Europe, Portugal’s capital has a turbulent history. The city endured an earthquake and tsunami in 1755, followed by the abolition of the monarchy then autocratic rule until 1974. Today Lisbon has shaken off its past and reinvented itself as one of Europe’s most scenic cities, with its cobbled streets, ornamental facades and coastal views. It often features in rankings for cities with the best quality of life, something its half a million inhabitants would agree with.
Southern Europe
All year
Historic architecture
Colourful markets
Fado music
Belem
Alfama
Tram 28
Porto & the Douro Valley, Portugal
Meandering rivers, sleepy villages unchanged for ages, whitewashed quintas, sprawling olive groves and vine-filled terraces that produce the grapes for the region’s world-famous port and wine – a holiday in the Douro Valley is seductively slow. And the appeal of this corner of northern Portugal hasn’t gone unnoticed: Unesco has declared the Alto Douro a World Heritage Site. Get ready to discover some of the most unspoilt scenery in Europe, alongwith one of its great unsung cities, Porto.
With its red-tiled roofs, cobbled streets and atmospheric waterfront packed with pavement cafés and wine cellars, Porto is easily one of Europe’s prettiest urban landscapes. Portugal’s second-largest city sits at the mouth of the River Douro and is best enjoyed with your mouth appreciating a glass of its eponymous tipple, port.
Rio Douro roughly translates as ‘river of gold’ and, when the light is right, you’ll soon see why: the water flows like liquid gold. Cosa can arrange a private cruise along the Douro, which doesn’t have the crowds of the Danube or the Rhine. Relax while gliding along the river and drinking in the stunning scenery of steep gorges and small villages.
The early 18th-century Casa de Mateus is a must-see. Set in formal gardens, the palace with its rooftop pinnacles is considered to be one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Portugal. Chances are you might recognise Casa de Mateus as the Portuguese mansion which adorns the label of the legendary rosé wine.
No visit to the Douro Valley is complete without a winery or two, and this region has plenty on offer. Maybe drop in on one of the lodges where the famous port is aged? Or take a guided hike through terraced vineyards to a handsome quinta? Or even stay overnight in a wine hotel, with tastings included, naturally.
Located in northern Portugal, the Douro Valley is one of the world’s oldest demarcated wine regions, created in 1756 by the Marquis of Pombal to preserve the reputation of port wine. There’s no bad time to visit: even during July and August, the river breeze keeps you cool. That being said, September is harvest time and a good month for oenophiles to visit. Whether you explore by boat, by train (the Linha do Douro is a scenic railway) or by car, the Douro Valley is waiting for you.
Southern Europe
March to November
Wineries
Romantic cities
River cruises
Porto
Port lodges
Casa de Mateus
For a relatively small country, Portugal has a diverse landscape, with gorgeous coastlines and heritage towns, along with some truly delicious cuisine. Take your pick from calm sheltered coves and busy beaches to places where Atlantic waves crash ashore. Travel north to Porto and on to vineyards zig-zagging up the hills of the Douro valley. Head to vibrant Lisbon with its lively cafés and fado bars. Or maybe go south for a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Let Cosa find the perfect Portugal for you.
Southern Europe
March to November
Great beaches
Historic towns
Lovely scenery
Lisbon
Douro Valley
Sintra
Taking the yellow tram that trundles up Lisbon’s hills is one of the capital’s delights. Indulging in a traditional custard tart is another. Let us indulge you.
A magical beautiful place where the vines cling to the hillsides, the river flows into the sea and the wine flows easily into your glass.
Discover the Douro with us
You can play golf on an acclaimed course, stay in a spa, walk along the coast or linger over a seafood lunch in Faro. Tempted?
The Pena Palace is a flamboyant fairy-tale place, a strawberry-and-lemon castle perched high up above the pretty town of Sintra.
In addition to its splendid coastlines, Portugal is also rich in heritage towns, with Lisbon and Porto the two must-see cities. We suggest also checking out the old university town of Coimbra or the medieval delights of Evora, historic capital of the Alentejo region. Whether you want to cruise gently along the Douro River, take a scenic road trip across the country, or whizz between destinations on the high-speed Alfa Pendular train, ask us for details. Your perfect Portuguese holiday is waiting for you.
Portugal (population: 10 million) shares a land border with Spain but it’s the sea that shaped the country. Many Portuguese explorers set off around the world, conquering places like Brazil or Goa. And Portugal also includes the Atlantic Ocean islands of Madeira and the Azores. Alongside tourism, the pulp and paper industry plays an important part in the national economy. Not forgetting the port wine business: there’s no better way to enjoy Portugal than sipping a glass of port by the sea.
UTC +1
3 hours from Switzerland
Euro
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