Hey there, I’m Joana Andrade

I’m a professional surfer and teacher, and the first and only Portuguese woman in the waves of Nazaré.

I specialize in big waves, surfing at Praia do Norte in Nazaré, home to the largest waves in the world, and I am recognized as one of the top female big wave surfers globally.

I’m also an entrepreneur, running Progress Surf School in my hometown, Ericeira. My team and I teach students how to feel more comfortable and confident in the water.

As the first and only Portuguese surfer girl to surf Nazaré big waves, I decided to challenge tow-in surfing and was nominated for the Billabong XXL Awards.

Some of my awards: 4th place European Junior, 2002/2003 / vice National Champion and represented the Portuguese national selection in the Canary Islands, 2004/2005 / honored as the best teacher of the year Billabong girls, 2006/2007

Many people come to challenge their limits, face their fears, and some have never even had contact with the sea, let alone been underwater. Through these experiences, and with the training method I’ve developed, people feel much safer and have a lot of fun while learning a new skill!

Some cool facts about me and my journey.

- Surfing is my therapy.
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- I founded the first surf school for women in Portugal.
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- I meditate daily and aim to incorporate ice baths into my routine.
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- Although I’m still intimidated by the waves at Nazaré, I’ve learned how to master my mindset.

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Big Wave riders talk about our founder Joana Andrade

Joana Andrade is the only Portuguese woman surfing the big waves in Nazaré. She founded Progress Surf School in 1998 in Ericeira Portugal, being the first female surf school in Portugal!

Come Progress With Us

Progress Surf School is based in Ericeira Portugal.Our objective is to support our students in their surf progression, from beginner, intermediate to advanced surfers, while never forgetting to have a lot of fun!

Progress Surf School Ericeira: get ready to surf with us!

BIG VS SMALL official trailer

BIG vs SMALL is a modern-day fairytale stretching from monster waves in Portugal to the dark stillness of a far-north, frozen Finnish lake – it's about power and strength on top of the water and facing demons under it. It's about trust, it's about letting go, and it's about what happens when two elite champion athletes share their extraordinary talents with each other.

Joana Andrade at Nazaré - 2015 Billabong Ride of the Year Entry - XXL Big Wave Awards

Joana Andrada (Ericeira, Portugal) gets towed into a set wave at Praia do Norte, Nazaré, Portugal on November 19, 2014. Video by Humberto Santos/Nazaré Qualifica.

Surf Interviews Joana Andrade - Big Wave Pro

Safari Surf Adventures Co-Founder Jeremy Johnson sits down with Nazaré big wave surfer Joana Andrade at her home near Ericeira in Portugal to discuss big wave surfing, surf mentality and progression.

Surf is Surf no matter the size

It’s a therapy for me. When I’m in the water I forget everything, I just live in the moment.

SOMA & Progress Surf School

SOMA is a non profit organisation fighting gender inequality through a surf therapy program for girls in São Tomé island, Africa 🇸🇹.

Mission Papoa

Award: Best Short Film Madswell Festival
Best short film SAL Surf at Lisbon
‍Synopsis: The unknown has always attracted adventurers ... deep in the middle of winter arrived in Portugal one of the biggest storms ever seen, Hercules.

Bringing excellence to every lesson

Don’t just take our word for it

See what our clients are saying about their surfing experience with Progress Surf School.

"I had so much fun surfing with Progress. The instructors were great and I definetely recommend this school. The equipment provided was top-notch, and the location is perfect with beautiful, consistent waves."

Sol Marques

"I recently took a 5-day beginner course at Progress, and it was an incredible experience! The instructors were knowledgeable, patient, and super enthusiastic, making every lesson both educational and fun. The small group allowed for personalized attention, which really helped me improve quickly."

Maria José

"Progress exceeded all my expectations! From the moment I arrived, the staff made me feel welcome and excited to hit the waves. The lessons were well-structured and catered to all skill levels, making it a great choice for both beginners and advanced surfers. My instructor was fantastic, offering insightful tips and constant encouragement, which boosted my confidence immensely. "

Paul L.