WHEELS & WAVES

A cruise along the central western coast of Portugal uncovers a unique but growing classic car scene driven by surfers, who chase the swell in vintage vehicles

- John Silcox 

AVW camper with a surfboard on the roof used to be the height of beach cool, but in Portugal it’s starting to lose its appeal. Here in Europe's waveriding mecca, resentment is growing towards the van life’ crowd hipsters who live and travel in specially converted vehicles. These ever-bigger machines block the narrow coastal paths and hog the best parking spots. During Covid lockdowns, things reached a peak and an influx of foreigners rained down on this small country, leaving the local police no alternative but to crack down on people sleeping in their vans outside official spots.

 As a result, a growing community of local surfers is choosing to distance itself from this traditional surfing stereotype by driving different classic cars to the waves. Popular beach car parks are becoming unofficial miniconcours shows, with unique and bespoke vehicles on display, but before you start imagining Pebble Beach let’s set a few things straight: in this world, getting to the waves with a board and wetsuit is still the priority. Bumps and scratches on bodywork are also part and parcel of things but nevertheless these vehicles remain a glorious expression of individuality, freedom and style. While there is a significant grassroots element, with many surfers restoring under-appreciated vehicles to original condition, the movement is defined by professionally prepared cars that share a pastel-hued aesthetic. Crack out the factor 50 sunblock: it’s time to head to the beach and find out more.

Tyson Ballard, Lisbon

1959 PORSCHE 356