Our History

Founded in 2017, Enjoy Surf School began as a dream shared by Gonçalo Cunha, an experienced local surfer and instructor, and Ida Svendsen, who fell in love with the natural beauty of Santa Cruz. With years of global surf experience and a passion for sharing their love of the waves, they created a welcoming surf school where everyone, from beginners to advanced surfers, could feel at home in the ocean.

From the very first day, our mission has been simple: to provide high-quality surf lessons in a fun, safe, and supportive environment, while fostering a connection with nature and the Santa Cruz surf community.

White flag with "ENJOY surf life" waving on the beach in Santa Cruz, Portugal, with surfboards and students in the background preparing for surf lessons at Enjoy Surf School.

Our Edge: What Sets Us Apart and Makes Us Better

  • Surf 4 All

    Surfing is for everyone! Fun, safe, and inclusive lessons for all ages and skill levels.

    Young girl in a wetsuit standing on a surfboard at the shore in Santa Cruz, ready for a kids surf lesson at Enjoy Surf School.

  • Sustainability

    Eco-friendly practices, reduced plastic use, and mindful efforts to protect the ocean we love.

    Eco-conscious moment at Enjoy Surf School, student wearing gloves holding seaweed on Santa Cruz beach during a surf lesson.

  • Local Economy

    We support local businesses, hire local talent, and keep Santa Cruz’s surf culture alive.

“The ocean is my second home, and our top priority is safety—because in the end, the ultimate goal is simple happiness.”

— Gonçalo Cunha

Meet Our Team: Passionate Surfers, Dedicated Experts

  • Surfer smiling while carrying a surfboard on the beach, wearing Enjoy Surf School gear after a group surf lesson in Santa Cruz.

    Gonçalo Cunha

    CO FOUNDER

    Passionate surfer and Level 2 instructor, Gonçalo co-founded Enjoy Surf School to turn his love for surfing into a business.

  • Surf instructor in Santa Cruz wearing wetsuit and cap, guiding students during a surf lesson at Enjoy Surf School, surfboards and ocean in background.

    João

    SURF INSTRUCTOR

    Level 1 instructor with 5 years' experience, João moved to Santa Cruz for his passion for surfing and teaching. Gonçalo’s right hand.

  • Surf instructor kneeling on a blue surfboard during a group surf lesson on Santa Cruz beach, guiding a student at Enjoy Surf School with waves in the background.

    João

    SURF INSTRUCTOR

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Have a Question?

Need help booking, planning an event, or have questions? Contact us—we’re here to help!