Caruma Surf Hostel

This is my second stay at Caruma Surf Hostel in Matosinhos, and if anything I like the place even more the second time around. I felt at home almost immediately on my first visit, and coming back confirmed that it wasn't just a first impression. The atmosphere is creative and relaxed, with Persian rugs, surfboards, artwork, exposed rafters and a large painting area. It is stylish without feeling overly polished or precious. There is something slightly "perfectly imperfect" about it that makes it very easy to relax. Luis, who runs the hostel, is a high-level surfer, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and champion, and an artist. He is warm and friendly but also focused on making sure the important things actually work — rooms, bookings and helping guests when they need something. He has personally helped me with a Portuguese Multibanco payment and has given me genuinely useful local information. Cristiano is often at the desk and is extremely friendly and attentive. He keeps an eye on the practical details and makes people feel welcome. Even small things are handled thoughtfully — for example, when they were doing their regular complete clean-out of the guest fridge, he made sure I had labelled my food so it wouldn't accidentally be thrown away. Magda also deserves a lot of credit. I have actually watched her clean rooms after checkout, carefully going into every corner and even steam-cleaning them. After staying here more than once, I can say that the cleanliness isn't just for appearances — the standard is consistently very high. The social atmosphere is probably my favourite part. I don't personally surf much, but I've met surfers, people who came specifically to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Camino de Santiago walkers, athletes and travellers from all over the world. There is a wide mix of ages as well. The conversations tend to go well beyond normal hostel small talk.

The location is great for the beach and all sites in Matosinhos (I was there for conferences and stayed for surfing and free sardines at the folkloric fishermen's festival). You could describe this hostel is a cross between an art gallery and surf club (i.e., paintings and boards cover the walls) with a cool, funky, eclectic vibe. The staff are all great and helpful and the way the space is set up you will meet people there. Luis sets a great tone for everything and I highly recommend a surf lesson with him!

Christian checking in was friendly and chilled. The beds were super comfy.

It was great for one night.

The design in the main area is amazing! the toilets and shower were clean. I felt safe, as a woman travaling alone.

3 things made it a bit disappointing - 1. I pretty sure there were flees in the bed, in the morning bites appeared a on my legs, and on my next locations there were no additional bites. 2. the locker for personal stuff (I stayed in shared dorms) was too narrow for my Camino bag. 3. There wasn't someone at reception and felt kinda alone in that manner (like had questions about the kitchen and didn't know who to aaproach).