Co-Founder, General Manager & Surfboard Specialist

António “Leo” Leopoldo was born in 1967 and is the co-founder and manager of Peniche Surf Camp.

Born and raised in Peniche, Leo has been immersed in the ocean since childhood. He started surfing in the late 1970s and quickly developed a passion not only for riding waves but also for understanding surfboard design and performance.

With more than four decades of experience in surfing and surfboard manufacturing, Leo is one of the most experienced figures in the Peniche surf community. Throughout his career he has worked as a competitive surfer, lifeguard, surfboard shaper, surf school operator, surf coach, and entrepreneur.

In 1993, Leo founded Phynix Surfboards, a respected Portuguese surfboard brand that continues to produce high-quality custom boards. Over the years, he has shaped surfboards for surfers across Europe and gained international experience working in renowned surf destinations such as South Africa’s Jeffrey’s Bay and Hossegor, France.

Leo was also among the pioneers who helped develop surfing in Peniche, contributing to local surf clubs, competitions, surf schools, and community projects. His extensive knowledge of local surf conditions, board design, and wave selection makes him an invaluable part of the Peniche Surf Camp experience.

Together with his brother Ricardo, he founded Peniche Surf Camp in 2004 with the goal of sharing their passion for surfing and showcasing the world-class waves of their hometown.

Today, Leo continues to combine his love for surfing, shaping, and the ocean while helping thousands of visitors discover why Peniche is considered one of Europe’s premier surf destinations.