Drivalia at Norte Surf Fest 2026 in Matosinhos
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From 1 to 6 September, Norte Surf Fest 2026 took place at Leça da Palmeira Beach, bringing together competition, culture, ocean-related experiences and thousands of visitors.
Drivalia was present in Matosinhos, joining another event dedicated to surfing and reinforcing the brand’s connection with experiences linked to mobility, travel and discovering different regions of Portugal.
For those visiting Northern Portugal to attend events like this or explore the region, renting a car in Porto can also be a practical way to reach Matosinhos, Leça da Palmeira and other destinations along the coast.
Norte Surf Fest brought the World Surf League to Matosinhos
Over six days, Norte Surf Fest brought together international surfing competition and a range of experiences linked to surf culture.
The 2026 edition featured a stage of the World Surf League Qualifying Series International 6000, bringing athletes from different countries to Matosinhos and placing Leça da Palmeira on the international surfing calendar.
But the event went beyond competition.
The programme also included initiatives and activities related to surfing, culture, the ocean, sustainability and entertainment, helping to create a relaxed atmosphere open to different audiences.
According to data shared by the organisers with Drivalia, around 80,000 people visited the Leça da Palmeira area during the event.
It was therefore an opportunity to bring athletes, visitors, partners, the local community and brands together in the same space.
Drivalia’s presence at Norte Surf Fest
Drivalia was present at the event through several brand touchpoints.
Drivalia vehicles were parked near the event venue, in an area with regular visitor traffic, helping to increase the brand’s visibility throughout the event.
The Drivalia identity was also featured across different communication materials, including tents and other branded elements installed at the venue.
This presence allowed Drivalia to connect with a context that goes beyond everyday car use and relates to some of the moments when mobility becomes particularly important: travel, events, leisure and discovering new destinations.
Clients and employees also enjoyed the WSL experience
Drivalia’s presence at Norte Surf Fest also extended to clients and employees.
During the event, daily hospitality passes were made available, including lunch and access to the VIP tent.
This gave clients and teams the opportunity to follow the competition more closely and experience the atmosphere of the World Surf League in a setting different from the brand’s usual context.
The initiative also created a new touchpoint between Drivalia, its clients, employees and partners.
Matosinhos was Drivalia’s first stop on the Portuguese surf circuit
Norte Surf Fest marked the beginning of a series of surf events in which Drivalia will be present across Portugal.
After Matosinhos, the brand will continue this journey with new stops in Ericeira, Peniche and Nazaré, three destinations closely associated with surfing and the Portuguese coastline.
Each event will have its own characteristics and will give Drivalia the opportunity to explore new ways of engaging with the public and activating the brand.
Matosinhos was the first chapter.
The next ones will be written along the Portuguese coast.
Visiting Porto or Northern Portugal?
From Porto city centre to the beaches of Matosinhos and Leça da Palmeira, having a car available gives you greater freedom to plan your journeys and travel at your own pace.
If you are planning a visit to Porto or Northern Portugal, Drivalia offers a range of car rental solutions in the city and surrounding areas, suitable for both short and longer trips.
