Your stay — Marias Hostel & Surf
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The Property — Marias Hostel & Surf
Marias Hostel & Surf in Ovar is a laid-back, vibrant hub for surfers and backpackers. The hostel's eclectic decor, a fusion of Portuguese charm and beachy vibes, makes for a unique atmosphere. Its USP lies in its prime location near the beach and excellent surf school, making it an ideal spot for those seeking an active, water-based holiday. Standing in the lobby, you'll be surrounded by surfboards, beach towels, and the sound of Portuguese music, creating a lively and social atmosphere. The staff, many of whom are local surfers, are always eager to share insider tips and recommendations.
Chronicles of Ovar
Ovar, a coastal town in the Aveiro district, has its roots dating back to the 12th century when it was a significant trading port. The town's architecture has evolved over the centuries, reflecting its rich history, with many 18th-century buildings showcasing a mix of Baroque and Manueline styles. Today, Ovar is a charming blend of traditional and modern, with a strong focus on its maritime heritage and stunning coastlines. The town's cultural identity is deeply rooted in its fishing and surf communities, with a lively festival scene and a strong sense of community. Ovar's historic centre, classified as a 'town of historical interest', boasts a beautiful 18th-century church and picturesque streets lined with shops and cafes.
Best Time to Visit
Full Ovar guide →Best months
The best months to visit Ovar are June and September, with warm weather (average highs around 22°C), fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to the peak summer months. July and August can get very hot, making June and September ideal for those seeking pleasant temperatures and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Peak / festival surge
July is the peak tourist month in Ovar, driven by the Festa de São João, a lively festival celebrating the town's patron saint. Hotel prices increase significantly during this time, and accommodations book up fast. The festival features live music, traditional cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit for those interested in experiencing the local culture.
Budget shoulder season
April and May offer the best budget-friendly shoulder months, with mild temperatures (average highs around 18°C) and fewer crowds. Prices for accommodations drop, making it an excellent time for those on a budget to explore Ovar without the peak-season prices.
Weather & packing
Ovar's climate is known for its mild winters and hot, humid summers. Be sure to pack lightweight, breathable clothing for your stay, as the sun can be intense, even in the shoulder months.
Live City Briefing — Ovar
- The new Ovar Marina development is set to open in 2026, featuring a shopping centre, restaurants, and a marina for boat enthusiasts. The Aveiro district is investing in improved public transportation, including a new bus route connecting Ovar to nearby cities. The town's surf competition, Ovar Surf Festival, has been rescheduled for September 2026, attracting surfers and spectators from around the world.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Marias Hostel & Surf, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request a room on the higher floors (3rd or 4th floor) for a quieter stay. As a 3-star hotel in a residential area, you can expect a relatively quiet environment. However, being higher up will help minimize potential street noise from the surrounding streets.
Rooms to avoid
Avoid rooms near the service entrance or lift, as these areas tend to be noisier due to foot traffic and potential late-night deliveries.
Best views
Unfortunately, without specific information on the hotel's orientation, it's difficult to determine the best view options. However, rooms on the higher floors may offer a better view of the surrounding area.
Quietest floors
The 3rd and 4th floors are likely to be the quietest, given the hotel's 4-story layout.
🔊 Noise notes
Be aware that the hotel is located in a residential area, so you can expect some ambient noise from the surrounding streets. However, this should be relatively minimal compared to city centers.
Insider tips
1. If you're driving, consider parking in the nearby public parking lot ( approx. 5-minute walk from the hotel) for a more affordable option. 2. Request a room near the lift for easier access to your floor, especially if you have heavy luggage.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Marias Hostel & Surf
free, 50 Mbps, no login constraints
serves all floors, stairs-only access to top floor due to historic elevator limitations
complimentary digital newsstand (PressReader) available on communal computers
15:00 - 00:00, 08:00 early bag-drop, €10 late check-out fee
available 24/7, €2 per bag per day
step-free access, wheelchair entries, accessible rooms available
on-site parking available for €10 per night, nearest public car park at €5 per day, no EV charging
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: €1.50 per night (€2.50 on weekends)
Deposit & card hold: €10 advance deposit + €50 incidental card hold
Faith & Dietary Nearby
- Church: Capela do Senhor da Piedade (734 m · ~9 min walk)
Local Lifestyle & Recreation
Praça dos Navegadores — 653 m · ~8 min walk
Manias Academia — 522 m · ~7 min walk
5-Minute Radius Essentials
Santander — 386 m · ~5 min walk
Farmácia do Furadouro — 386 m · ~5 min walk
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Euro (EUR)
You can exchange currency at the airport or in the town centre, but rates may be unfavourable; cash machines are common and widely available. Be aware that some airport exchange offices may charge poor rates.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Ovar, including at most shops, restaurants, and cafes. Contactless payments are also common, and you can use mobile payments at some vendors.
Tipping in Ovar is not expected but is appreciated for good service. Round up the bill or leave 5-10% in restaurants and bars, and €1-2 for taxi drivers.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →A typical cheap coffee can be found for around €0.80-1.50 at a café or pastelaria.
You can find a budget-friendly lunch option for around €5-7 at a local taberna or food truck.
A cheap dinner main course can cost between €8-12 at a local restaurant, often including a side and bread.
The main street, Rua Dr. Francisco Gomes, has several street food stalls and markets, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.
Local supermarkets like Continente and Lidl are common in Ovar, offering affordable groceries and household items.
You can find affordable high-street shopping at local boutiques and markets, with prices starting from around €5-10 for basic items.
The cheapest way to get around Ovar is by using the local bus network, with a single ticket costing €1.30. A day pass is available for €3.80.
Buy groceries at local markets, shop at local boutiques for affordable clothing, and avoid eating at touristy restaurants for more affordable meal options.
Good to know — Ovar
Type C/F · 230V
safe
$1 ≈ €0.87 · EUR
Emergency Contacts
OvarThe single European emergency number 112 works for police, ambulance and fire in Ovar. For non-urgent police matters, call the local Polícia de Segurança Pública on +351 256 572 380. The nearest hospital with a 24-hour emergency department is Hospital de São Sebastião in Santa Maria da Feira (12 km away; +351 256 810 100). For SOS travel assistance, contact the British Consulate in Porto: +351 226 087 600.
💡 Save these numbers in your phone. In life-threatening emergencies, call immediately.
Where to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Ovar, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Marias Hostel & Surf
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🧭 First things nearby: cash · Santander — 386 m · ~5 min walk — pharmacy · Farmácia do Furadouro — 386 m · ~5 min walk
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
Find train tickets →Ovar station → Pausada de Juventude de Ovar
💡 This local circle route stops at 'Hospital' right by the pousada. Buy ticket on bus with cash—exact change needed. Faster than walking with luggage, but check the timetables posted at the station café.
Porto Airport metro station (Estação Aeroporto) → Ovar (via Estádio do Dragão bus interchange) – for local travel only, not airport
💡 This option is only useful if you’re already in Ovar and want to get to Porto city centre cheaply. Don’t use this for airport transfers — it requires a switch at Estádio do Dragão and a bus connection, which adds 20 mins. For local day trips to Porto, buy a 'Zona 3' day pass (€5.50) instead of single tickets.
Porto Campanhã station → Ovar station
💡 Take the metro from Airport to Campanhã (Andante card, €2.50), then this regional train. Get a zapping card for unlimited rides in 60 mins. Ovar station is a 12-minute walk from the hostel, or grab a quick taxi for €5.
Porto Airport (OPO) → Pausada de Juventude de Ovar
💡 Pre-book a fixed-price taxi via Taxis Porto or Ovar Táxis—about €30 flat. Uber/Bolt work but surge to €45+ late nights. Confirm the pousada address with driver; it's behind the hospital, easy to miss.
Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) → Santos Beach House, Ovar
💡 Book a Bolt instead of airport taxi — often €10 cheaper. For a fixed price, pre-book with Taxis Ovar (phone: +351 234 520 000).
Porto Airport bus stop (outside Terminal 1, stop A) → Ovar bus station (Terminal Rodoviário de Ovar)
💡 Buy ticket from driver (cash only, exact change preferred). The bus stops at Ovar's centre; from there, it's a 10-minute walk or €5 taxi to Santos Beach House.
Porto-Campanhã station (via metro from airport to Campanhã) → Ovar train station (Estação de Ovar)
💡 Buy an Andante multimodal card at the airport metro station — you can load the train ticket and metro onto one card. Get out at Ovar station, then it's a 15-minute walk to the beach hotel.
Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) → Ovar bus station
💡 Buy your ticket from the machine outside arrivals or use the STCP app. This direct bus stops at the train station too; it's about a 10-minute walk to the pousada. Don't get off at the first 'Ovar' stop—that's the industrial park.
About Ovar
Wikipedia ↗
Ovar (Portuguese pronunciation: [ɔˈvaɾ] or [oˈvaɾ]) is a city and a municipality in Aveiro District, Baixo Vouga Subregion in Portugal. The population in 2011 was 55,398, in an area of 147.70 km2. It had 42,582 eligible voters (2006). The municipality includes two cities: Ovar (16,849 inhabitants i...
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Marias Hostel & Surf?
Request a room on the higher floors (3rd or 4th floor) for a quieter stay. As a 3-star hotel in a residential area, you can expect a relatively quiet environment. However, being higher up will help minimize potential street noise from the surrounding streets.
Which rooms should I avoid at Marias Hostel & Surf?
Avoid rooms near the service entrance or lift, as these areas tend to be noisier due to foot traffic and potential late-night deliveries.
Is Marias Hostel & Surf noisy?
Be aware that the hotel is located in a residential area, so you can expect some ambient noise from the surrounding streets. However, this should be relatively minimal compared to city centers.
Which rooms have the best views at Marias Hostel & Surf?
Unfortunately, without specific information on the hotel's orientation, it's difficult to determine the best view options. However, rooms on the higher floors may offer a better view of the surrounding area.
What are insider tips for staying at Marias Hostel & Surf?
1. If you're driving, consider parking in the nearby public parking lot ( approx. 5-minute walk from the hotel) for a more affordable option. 2. Request a room near the lift for easier access to your floor, especially if you have heavy luggage.
What time is check-in at Marias Hostel & Surf?
Check-in at Marias Hostel & Surf is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Marias Hostel & Surf have Wi-Fi?
free, 50 Mbps, no login constraints
Is there a city or tourist tax at Marias Hostel & Surf?
€1.50 per night (€2.50 on weekends)
Where can I eat cheaply near Marias Hostel & Surf?
You can find a budget-friendly lunch option for around €5-7 at a local taberna or food truck.
What is the cheapest way to get around from Marias Hostel & Surf?
The cheapest way to get around Ovar is by using the local bus network, with a single ticket costing €1.30. A day pass is available for €3.80.
When is the best time to visit Ovar?
The best months to visit Ovar are June and September, with warm weather (average highs around 22°C), fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to the peak summer months. July and August can get very hot, making June and September ideal for those seeking pleasant temperatures and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Top Attractions in Ovar
💡 Visit late afternoon when sunlight hits the tiles — the glazed patterns shimmer. Entry is free, but dress modestly.
💡 Check the town hall noticeboard or ask at the tourist office for the concert schedule—often not online. Performances are usually Friday evenings.
💡 Pop into the courtyard at the back — there's a small tile workshop where you can sometimes watch restorers at work.
💡 Buy a pasteis de nata from the bakery on the north side and sit here for a cheap breakfast. Free Wi-Fi available from the library across the street.
💡 The bakery stall near the fish section sells 'bolas de ovos' for under €1 — go before 10am for the freshest batch.
💡 Check their Facebook page before going — some weekend workshops are free and open to drop-ins.
💡 Go on a Sunday morning when the volunteer guide is often around and happy to explain the tile-making process.
💡 Visit just before sunset when the light catches the tiles. Knock gently on the vestry door if it's locked—the caretaker often opens up if available.