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Best beaches in portugal.

From the famed beaches of the Algarve to the sun-soaked islands of the Azores, Portugal is home to an array of breathtaking shorelines just waiting to be explored. But with so many stunning beaches to choose from, it can be difficult to find the stretch of sand that is right for you. To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News took factors such as unique scenery, water quality and nearby amenities into consideration to determine the best beaches in Portugal. Help us determine next year's ranking by casting your vote below.

Tróia Peninsula

Located in southern Portugal, Albufeira is the prize of the Algarve. Praia da Falésia, one of the region's most famous beaches, features a long stretch of golden sand backed by towering copper-colored cliffs. Here, travelers will see beachgoers wading in the gentle waves or sunbathing along the shore. Other favorite shorelines include Praia de São Rafael, where travelers can kayak past stunning rock formations, and Praia dos Olhos de Água, named for the natural freshwater springs that bubble up from the sand on the eastern end of the beach.

Lagoa, situated midway between the coastal towns of Lagos and Albuferia, is perfect for travelers who want to go off the beaten path. For scenery pulled straight from a postcard, lay down your towel at Praia da Marinha. Known for its turquoise waters, hidden coves (best explored at low tide) and iconic double-arched rock formation, this breathtaking stretch of shoreline is among the most beautiful beaches in the world . Praia do Carvalho, which can be accessed through a hand-carved rock tunnel, looks out onto a sheltered bay, and tranquil Praia de Albandeira is ideal for swimming. Just don't forget to save time for a kayak tour of the famous Benagil Cave.

This scenic port city in the Algarve region of southern Portugal is brimming with remarkable shorelines worth visiting. Popular Praia da Rocha, a golden sand beach framed by sheer limestone cliffs, offers access to plenty of nearby amenities, including hotels, casinos, restaurants (grilled sardines are a must) and shops. Travelers can also relax on the sunny shoreline of Praia do Vau, a family-friendly beach with calm waters, or Praia de Alvor, which is backed by the Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve, a prime birdwatching spot. Meanwhile, Praia dos Três Castelos is known for its hidden caves and large boulders that jut up from the sea.

It's not hard to see why this windswept coastal town on the western tip of the Algarve is often dubbed "the end of the world." With dramatic sea-carved cliffs and crashing waves, Sagres – the southwesternmost tip of mainland Europe – feels like the edge of the earth. You can't go wrong sunbathing on sandy shorelines like Praia da Mareta and Praia do Martinhal, but many beachgoers choose Sagres for the terrific surfing opportunities. Top beaches to hang ten include Praia do Beliche and Praia do Tonel, whose western-facing position means it consistently boasts large waves that are best for experienced surfers.

Located roughly 50 miles south of Porto on Portugal's Silver Coast, Aveiro is known for its maze of canals, art nouveau architecture and brightly colored moliceiro boats. The city sits inland near the Aveiro Lagoon, but for those searching out the sand, the beaches of Barra and Costa Nova (which occupy a thin peninsula about 6 miles west) shouldn't be missed. Praia da Costa Nova is famous for its striped houses and is one of the best places in the area to catch a wave. Praia da Barra, on the other hand, is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. It is also home to the Barra Light, the tallest lighthouse in Portugal.

From lush forests and sapphire lakes to hot springs and lava caves, the Azores – nine enchanting islands located about 1,000 miles off the coast of Lisbon – are rich with natural wonders, including stunning beaches. Sink your toes in the sand at traveler-approved Praia Formosa on Santa Maria island, or check out one of the archipelago's magical black sand beaches (top shorelines include Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara and Praia dos Mosteiros). While you're here, keep your eyes peeled for bottlenose dolphins and blue whales; nearly a third of the world's cetaceans frequent the waters around the Azores.

Start planning your getaway to Madeira if your perfect beach vacation includes bright blue skies and wild, untouched landscapes. Loved for its mild year-round climate (it is often called the island of eternal spring), Madeira sits approximately 500 miles off the coast of Casablanca, making it closer in distance to mainland Africa than Portugal. Top beaches include Praia da Prainha and Praia do Porto do Seixal, a gorgeous black sand beach surrounded by vibrant green mountains. Just remember to set aside time for exploring Madeira's natural swimming pools. Formed by volcanic rocks and constantly refreshed by crystal-clear seawater, these unique phenomena can't be missed.

Portugal's Tróia Peninsula, only a short ferry ride from Setúbal, separates the Sado River estuary from the Atlantic Ocean. A popular destination for daytrippers come summer, the peninsula boasts several wide sandy beaches that are perfect for lounging under the sun. At Praia da Comporta, travelers can engage in water sports such as kitesurfing, and at Praia de Tróia Mar, they can splash in shallow, calm waters. If you're ready to test your sea legs, hop on a guided dolphin and whale watching boat tour. Away from the water, travelers will find ancient ruins, hiking and biking trails and a championship golf course.

Known for being one of the top big-wave surfing destinations in the world, the small fishing town of Nazaré – situated about 75 miles north of Lisbon – is not for the faint of heart. Today, the massive swells that break along the coast between October and February (primarily found at famed Praia do Norte) attract professional surfers from all around the world. But though Nazaré's surfing reputation precedes it, there are plenty of calmer beaches suitable for swimming, including Praia da Nazaré and São Martinho do Porto.

With a rich seafaring history, excellent nightlife and spectacular beaches, this vibrant coastal town has a lot to offer. While you may have to fight off other tourists for a spot on the sand come summer, the payoff will be worth it. First up on your itinerary should be the dreamy Praia da Dona Ana, which, with its massive golden cliffs and blue-green water, is often considered one of the best beaches in the Algarve. Next, head to Ponta da Piedade, another scenic shoreline popular for its kayaking. Be sure to step away from the sand long enough to try some of the region's famed clams, or conquilhas.

There are a number of reasons to plan a trip to this charming resort town, located about 20 miles west of Lisbon. In addition to its cobblestone streets and ornate 19th-century villas, Cascais boasts a bevy of picturesque beaches. Praia da Conceicao and Praia da Duquesa offer plenty of space for spreading out, while Praia do Guincho is popular with windsurfers. You also won't want to miss tiny Praia de Santa Marta, a scenic cove complete with a palace, a lighthouse and an arched stone bridge. When you need a break from the sand, head 10 miles northeast to Sintra, where you'll find the grand National Palace of Pena.

Lying a mere 30 miles southeast of Lisbon on the western coast of Portugal, Setúbal is often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors, such as Cascais and Estoril. However, this busy port town is worth visiting all on its own. The majority of the town's best beaches are located within the Serra da Arrábida Natural Park; Portinho da Arrábida boasts soft sands and remarkably clear water while Praia dos Galapinhos beckons to travelers looking for a quiet atmosphere. What's more, idyllic Praia do Creiro even has a few restaurants and bars nearby.

One of the largest traditional fishing ports in Portugal, Peniche offers an array of shorelines worth exploring. Both Praia do Baleal and Praia do Medão Grande, also known as Supertubos Beach, boast exceptional surfing, although the former has better opportunities for beginners. If you're feeling adventurous, head over to the Berlengas archipelago, which sits roughly 6 miles off the coast of Peniche. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is an excellent destination for activities like snorkeling and diving, hiking and kayaking.

Travelers visiting this lesser-known town on Portugal's Algarve coast are in for a treat. Whether you're sunbathing along Praia de Vale do Lobo or people-watching on Praia do Garrão, Almancil's beaches are sure to impress. Meanwhile, one of the region's most popular shorelines, Praia de Vilamoura, is characterized by its expansive swathe of golden sand and assortment of restaurants and bars. Close to town, travelers will also find two prominent resorts offering luxury accommodations.

If you've been dreaming of whitewashed houses, rolling hills and unbeatable ocean views, look no further than Aljezur. This pretty seaside village, about 25 miles northeast of Sagres, is a hidden gem along Portugal's southwestern coast. Beachgoers will first want to set their sights on Praia da Arrifana, which offers beginner surf lessons and a convenient selection of nearby cafes and bars. Then, head to Praia da Bordeira, a tranquil shore that is good for water sports.

This peaceful town in Portugal's Alentejo region is perfect for those who want a more authentic travel experience. Far from the crowded beach towns of Albufeira and Portimão, Almograve has been largely untouched by tourism, something that is reflected in its wild beaches. Praia de Almograve's unspoiled coastline is only broken up by its dramatic headlands and massive waves, and in the nearby town of Vila Nova de Milfontes, travelers can enjoy lounging at family-friendly Praia da Franquia.

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19 of the best beaches in Portugal

By Edwina Pitcher and Trish Lorenz

The best beaches in Portugal can be found dotted throughout the country – and while catching a wave is easy on the many vast stretches of water and their famous breakers, there are hidden pockets of tranquility, where you'll find still, crystal clear water for wading in and paddling.

No matter where you go in Portugal, you're never too far from a beach – from the scorching hot sands of the Algarve to Porto's coastline, travellers often choose to move up and down the coast to see the sands all across the country. Portugal expert Trish Lorenz and Edwina Pitcher, author of 'Wild Guide Portugal', share their tips for seeing some of the most popular – and little-known – beaches around the country.

Praia do Portinho da Arrábida

Setubal, near Lisbon

Less than an hour's drive from Lisbon is Arrábida National Park – a stunning landscape of green hills leading to bright, bright blue waters. Portinho beach is considered one of the most stunning, thanks to its fine white sand and crystal clear sea – and it tends to remain relatively quiet, due to its location away from the city. The area is less open than most of the coast of Portugal, so you don't tend to get the large waves you'll often see domineering the coastlines; not so good for surfers, but ideal for those looking to relax and swim safely. 

Get there: Fly to Lisbon and drive for 45 minutes

Costa da Caparica

South of Lisbon

A short drive from the sights of Lisbon is Caparica; a 26km stretch of coast loved by locals, who flock to the sands during the warmer summer months. Outside of peak season, though, you'll find it much quieter – the Portuguese tend to find it too chilly (although it's often perfectly pleasant to most Brits), while tourists haven't quite cottoned on yet – making April and October an ideal time to take a stroll along the soft sands. If you want to swim, it's best to do so in peak season when lifeguards are on duty, as the waves here can be overwhelming, even to strong swimmers. If you choose to stay out of the water, you'll be entertained by the local surfers catching a wave and the many chic beach bars dotted along the coast.

Get there : Fly to Lisbon, and drive 30 minutes to the coast. 

Praia de Moledo, Moledo

The far north

Close to the Spanish border, Moledo’s beach has been attracting visitors for more than a century with its long stretch of sand, pretty landscape panoramas of the Camarido Forest and views across the bay to the hills of Spain . Often windy and with strong waves, it’s ideal for kite surfers. Porto -born photographer Eduardo Leal, who knows the area well, says: ‘I love Moledo. The surf is good and it has lovely scenery. Other than in August, when it can be busy, it’s a relaxing and peaceful beach.’

Get there: fly to Francisco de Sá Carneiro then a 50-minute drive

Praia de São Jacinto, Aveiro

South of Porto

Bordered by dunes and a nature reserve, Praia de São Jacinto’s long stretch of sand is a place of escape. The dunes are home to unique plant and bird life, there are no cafés or bars, the waves are good for surfing and the seemingly endless stretch of sand, ideal for long strolls, feels pleasingly wild and deserted: bring a book, switch off your phone and savour the sound of the waves. Taking the boat from Aveiro across the river is the fastest and simplest way to get there.

Get there: fly to Porto then a 90-minute drive

Portinho da Arrabida, Sierra da Arrabida, Setubal

Deep in the Serra da Arrabida national park, about 30 minutes’ drive from Lisbon , the cove of Portinho is flanked on three sides by tall, forest-covered mountains (and on the fourth by the sea, of course). The sandy beach, gently lapping waves and plenty of rock pools to explore at low tide make it a great place for families. There are pedalos, some with slides, for hire and a small selection of restaurants and cafés . The beach is popular and parking is limited so arrive early in the summer (before 10.30am) if you don’t want to have to walk the steep road down.

Get there: fly to Lisbon then a 50-minute drive

Praia do Carvalhal, Comporta

Comporta, just over an hour’s drive south of Lisbon, has become popular with the chichi families of the capital, and Carvalhal, with its long stretch of white sand abutting the turquoise sea, is their beach of choice. There are plenty of practical additions, including umbrellas and sun loungers to rent, a tent for massages and a small library with books for all ages and daily Portuguese newspapers to read on the rustic terrace. Nearby is Restaurant Diniz, run by a former fisherman and famous for its excellent fish dishes and casual barefoot feel.

Get there: fly to Lisbon Portela then a one-hour-15-minute drive

Praia de Odeceixe, Algarve

Northern Algarve

This wide bay of sand has something for everyone. The small river that joins the ocean on the north of the beach is great for children , with calm, warmer and shallower water. The main beach is patrolled by lifeguards in the summer and the waves are usually invigorating rather than violent. Just around the southern cliffs, accessible on lower tides, is a stretch of sand designated for nudists. There is a selection of cafés and restaurants on the clifftops overlooking the beach, the pick of which is Bar da Praia, where friendly Spanish owners Pedro and Pablo serve up tasty tapas and cold beers accompanied by a mellow soundtrack.

Get there: Fly to Faro then a one-hour-45-minute drive

Praia da Amália, Brejão

You need to park the car then walk 1km or so to Praia da Amália – across small streams, through a bamboo thicket, along a sandy path to the cliff edge and down rough-hewn stairs to the beach itself. This short walk often guarantees you’ll have this wonderful beach to yourself: along with a lovely stretch of sand, there’s a waterfall tumbling down the cliffs in one corner, rocks to explore and surf in which to play. There’s no lifeguard or café here, so bring a picnic and take care in the water.

Get there: fly to Faro then a one-hour-45-minute drive

Praia da Cordoama, Sagres

Rodrigo Machaz has been visiting the Algarve since he was a child and today runs Memmo Baleeira in Sagres, the hotel of choice for international surfers . ‘My favourite spot for surfing and a great beach day is Praia da Cordoama,’ he says. ‘Start at the Miradouro da Cordoama viewpoint which has amazing views of the coast. Once you’re on the beach, the long sandy stretch is perfect for a walk at low tide and the sand banks make for good surfing, depending on the swell and tide. Bring a bottle of wine: the sunset here is wonderful, too.’

Get there: fly to Faro then a one-hour-25-minute drive

Praia do Barril, Tavira

Portugal’s best beaches are undeniably beautiful but the Atlantic water that borders them can often be chilly. Tavira, at the easternmost point of the Algarve beside the Spanish border, is your best bet for warmer bathing and Praia do Barril is a family favourite, with its long stretches of white sand bordered by dunes and calm, clear water. The area’s fishing history is evident in the many anchors that decorate the sand and the former fishermen’s cottages, now converted to cafés.

Get there: Fly to Faro then a 40-minute drive

Praia da Adraga, Sintra

North of Lisbon

Praia da Adraga sits just north of Lisbon at the base of the forested Sintra hills. Its sandy stretches are interspersed with rocks and the beach is flanked by high cliffs that provide much-needed shade in mid-summer. The wild Atlantic ocean dishes up plenty of waves, making it popular with surfers. A small restaurant overlooking the sea serves fish and seafood and, if you’re feeling active, you can hike after lunch along the cliff top to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost tip of Europe.

Get there: fly to Lisbon Portela then a one-hour drive

Praia da Baleeira, Serra da Azoia

The sea that surrounds Portugal's Costa Azul ('Blue Coast') certainly lives up to its name - it's startlingly blue against the white rockface. Hidden along the south coast, amongst wild rosemary and clifftops, this secret cove is an undiscovered gem and ideal for those who like to skinny-dip. Protected by cliffs on both sides, it remains off-the-radar due to its small size and steep climb down. Here, the wild hills of the Setúbal Peninsula fall away to the searingly blue sea, and make this cape perfect for the adventurous beach hunter. The famous 18 th -century Cabo Espichel Lighthouse and Nossa Senhora do Cabo church nearby, just 3km to the west, are also worth seeing – as are the 145-million-year-old dinosaur footprints that chase up the cliffside.

Get there: Fly to Lisbon then a one-hour drive

Praia do Carvalho, Benagil

West Algarve

The Algarve coast can be over-run in the high-season but Praia do Cavalho is a beautiful sandy cove and, surprisingly, never too busy. Sandstone cliffs flank the golden beach and the sea resembles a sapphire shard wedged in between. Access is through a tunnel, with steps hewn from sandstone. Come at low tide to laze on the sand and explore the cliffside riddled with caverns and more tunnels. At high tide the sea swirls and surges into the caves and shoots spray out through blowholes in the cliff path. Nearby Benagil is famous for its sea caves.

Get there: Fly to Faro then a 50-minute drive

Praia da Franquia, Vila Nova de Milfontes

Costa Vicentina

This secluded beach lies by the sandy banks of the Mira river as it meets the sea. A little further inland is the ancient fishing village of Vila Nova de Milfontes. The river meanders widely before the sea here and the beach is protected from the wilder waves further out. Try canoeing up the Mira river (contact Surfmilfontes , +351 928 078 950) or head into the village to feast on some of the Alentejo region's finest fish dishes. The arroz de peixe , fish rice cooked in a clay pot, is particularly good at Restaurante Porto das Barcas (+351 283 997 160).

Getting there: Fly to Beja then a 90-minute drive

Praia da Arrifana, Aljezur

Along the Algarve end of the Costa Vicentina, this sandy beach is sheltered by giant orange sandstone cliffs sloping down to the sea. Popular with surfers, brave the waves with some body surfing. In the evening the cliffsides catch the sunset over the Atlantic sea and there is a decent local restaurant, which serves fresh fish. The coastal paths of Aljezur and the Rota Vicentina wind over the tops of the cliffs. Local donkey treks can be booked with Burros e Artes (+351 967 145 306).

Getting there: Fly to Faro then an 80-minute drive

Praia de Cavaleiro, Odemira

Inhabited since prehistoric times, the Costa Vicentina has sparked the curiosity of adventurous people down the ages. As one of the most westerly parts of Europe, this was often the last shore that sailors would see as they set sail for foreign lands and the first to emerge on their return. Praia de Cavaleiro is one of many secret beaches here and has dramatic, strata rock formations. A goat track with wooden railing leads down to the sands, waves crash and seagulls, safe from Atlantic winds, chase the tide. Come here in spring to see storks building their nests. Fishermen's trails and smugglers' tracks weave their way over this coastline and the Rota Vicentina, which totals 400km of hiking routes along this coast, connects many of them. Nearby, a 2km stroll south, is Cabo Sardão, the most westerly promontory of the Alentejo region.

Getting there: Fly to Faro then a one-hour-50-minute drive

Berlengas Archipelago, Peniche

Head out over the high seas from the Peniche coast to this mysterious archipelago, just 10-15km offshore by ferry. Berlenga Grande is the largest of these islands. Pink rock and green grass slope down to the water's edge, while hundreds of seagulls wheel and caw overhead. An enigmatic 16 th -century fortress, built on the monastic remains of a rocky island, can be reached by a zig-zagging bridge out over rocks, or by a short swim. There are a couple of beautiful small beaches here, and caves with silvery fish can be reached by swimming, paddle-boarding or kayaking. Cova do Sonho is one of the best of several caves lit-up by the aquamarine water.

Get there: Fly to Lisbon then an 80-minute drive. During July and August, boats leave three times a day from Peniche harbour: call Viamar (+351 262 785 646). For diving call AcuaSubOeste (+351 918 393 444). For day trips call SUP Academy (+351 962 374 793)

Ilha da Fuseta, Faro

East Algarve

The coastline of the eastern Algarve says goodbye to cliffs and caves, and hello to 60km of lagoons, sun-drenched dunes and sandy islands between the Ria Formosa and the open sea. Ilha da Fuseta is the most beautiful of these sandy islands, protected by a little inlet (known as a barra ). At low tide, you can walk across the sand to the island. There are many shallow pools with warm water, perfect for children, and colourful fishing boats moored nearby. Just inland are the tidal marshes of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, so look out for hundreds of pink flamingos that gather near these salt-marshes.

Getting there: Fly to Faro then a 30-minute drive

Ribeira das Tainhas, São Miguel

The Açores Islands (commonly known as the Azores ) were formed by explosions of elemental force. Today their black sand beaches, pumice stone rocks, crater lagoons and lava-warmed pools are clear reminders of their wild, volcanic past. Ribeira das Tainhas is a black sand beach in a tiny cove between grassy cliffs. Within easy swimming distance is a pumice stone outcrop with rocky ledges - perfect for climbing up and jumping from into the clear blue water. The jumping rock can be popular with locals, but for a really wild beach, head 5km east to Praia da Amora, deserted but for pau santo , the sacred and deeply scented bark that falls from its trees onto empty sands. By Edwina Pitcher

Getting there: Fly to João Paulo II then a 30-minute drive

Edwina Pitcher is author of ' Wild Guide Portugal: Hidden Places, Great Adventures and the Good Life ' (£16.99, Wild Things Publishing )

Edwina Pitcher's 'Wild Guide Portugal: Hidden Places, Great Adventures and the Good Life'

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The 20 Best Beaches in Portugal in 2023 [Including Azores & Madeira]

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Table of Contents

Map of the 20 best beaches in portugal, the 4 best beaches in north portugal, the 3 best beaches in central portugal, the 5 best beaches in lisbon and alentejo, the 4 best beaches in algarve, the 4 best beaches on azores and madeira, final thoughts.

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Portugal has quietly become one of the best places in Europe to visit on a beach vacation . From going on walks on the sand to professional surfing, Portugal’s coast can offer you whatever beach vacation you might be looking for.

To help you with your planning, we’ve weighed the pros and cons of all the beach spots on the Portuguese shore. The competition was tough, but we narrowed it down to the top 20 beaches in Portugal, no matter the region.

1. Apúlia, Esposende

Apúlia’s beach is a great destination if you want to make sure you’re near the action. You can walk to the sand from virtually everywhere in town.

The city isn’t very populated. There are only around 5,000 residents, so you’re likely to have a peaceful time. That’s especially true if you’re traveling during the off-season, which is basically any time other than June to August.

The beach is gorgeous. The sand is smooth and soft, making it perfect for walking or lounging. The water is also incredibly clean. The city takes care to reduce pollution, and there aren’t any boats near the swimmable parts of the water. You’ll be able to see the bright blue of the water 24/7.

Bottom Line: If you want a good all-around beach for your vacation and you aren’t looking for anything specific, this is the place for you.

2. Matosinhos, Porto

Matosinhos is the beach spot to head to if you want excitement and the buzz of city life nearby. It isn’t the biggest city in Portugal, but it’s also nowhere near the smallest. You’ll find a nice mix of bustling city life and some smaller-town comforts as well. The beach is no different.

You’ll find a mix of tourists and locals on the sand all year. During the summer, you’ll be able to join beach parties and activities if you want to make new friends while you’re on vacation. However, you can also stray away from the action to a calmer and quieter part of the beach if you prefer a more laid-back experience.

During the high season, you’ll have company on the beach later in the day and well into the night. You might even see night swimmers.

3. Praia de Afife, Minho

Praia de Afife is the place to head to if you want a more natural beach day that’s more of a getaway than anything else. While there’s a parking lot and a few buildings, there aren’t many businesses lining the beach, so there’s less noise from people going about their lives off the sand.

This is also a great place for surfers to go since there aren’t many obstacles getting in the way of catching waves . There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re interested in this beach.

There aren’t many places to get food, so if you plan to spend all day here, you might want to pack your meals. There isn’t much natural shade, so pack hats, umbrellas, and plenty of sunscreen if you plan to visit when the sun is at its highest.

4. Praia de Moledo, Minho

Praia de Moledo has been one of the most famous beaches in Portugal since the early 1900s, and for a good reason. It’s one of the most scenic beaches in the country and will make any picture you take while there seem like a postcard or a scene from a movie.

Considering you’re in the northern part of the country, the water is pretty warm for much of the year. You can even start swimming comfortably in early May. However, the sand, surprisingly, doesn’t get scalding hot the way it does on some of the beaches in the south.

It’s naturally a comfortable beach where you can spend hours on end relaxing on the shore or splashing around in the water. There are also some restaurants and bars within walking distance you can head to if you need some refreshments.

1. Costa Nova, Ílhavo

Costa Nova beach is one of the most characteristic and memorable-looking in the country. The shore is lined with striped houses that are painted in bright colors and give the area a distinct and artistic vibe. You’ll definitely want to make sure you take time to go for a walk so you can look at them all and even take a few pictures while you’re there.

There are also plenty of sand dunes to explore and climb. Children will love letting their imaginations run wild while they’re running around on the sand while waiting to go back in the water after eating.

You can rent an umbrella as well if you want a stress-free visit, or you can bring some shade yourself. The area is definitely more alive during the summer months, but you’ll be able to have fun at any time of year.

2. Nazaré, Oeste

Nazaré is a surfer’s paradise. The beach is near the Nazaré canyon, the largest underwater canyon on the continent, which helps create huge waves.

If you’re not much of a thrill-seeker, you’ll still be able to enjoy your time on this beach. Near the shore, the waves don’t get that big, and you can walk on the sand or wade leisurely.

It’s also a great place to go if you like watching the waves, even if you’re not a big fan of riding them. You can sit on the sand or go for a walk to listen to the calming sounds of the water or keep an eye out for dolphins or whales that can be spotted.

The water does get cold here, so if you are planning to surf, make sure you come during the summer or you pack a wetsuit.

3. Praia da Foz do Arelho, Caldas da Rainha

Praia da Foz do Arelho is a family-friendly destination spot that has plenty of excitement for any visitor. There are numerous nearby restaurants so you can spend all day at the beach.

You don’t have to worry about planning a lot of activities to keep you busy while you’re there, especially if you like socializing while you travel, because it’s a popular beach for locals and tourists.

Since it’s where the Lagoa de Obidos meets the sea, it has a unique water current that’s gentle near the shore but with more waves a short distance off the coast. That makes it an excellent place for both swimming and wind-surfing.

The beach is well-maintained by the town. The sand is pristine, and the water is bright blue and clean even during the height of tourist season.

Bottom Line: The beach manages to maintain some of its natural beauty. If you go for a walk along the water, you’ll find more secluded spots with sandy hills and more greenery.

1. Lagoa de Santo André, Santiago do Cacém

Lagoa de Santo André offers you the experience of going to the beach, but without the intimidation of heading into open water. Since it’s a lagoon, the water is calmer, and there usually isn’t much of a current, making it a safe place for people of all ages and swimming levels to go.

It’s close enough to the sea that you can walk there in a few moments so you can have some variety on your beach day. The lagoon is near a nature reserve that you can also visit, though make sure you know the hours ahead of time so you can plan around them if you need to.

Because much of the beach is used by the reserve, there aren’t many businesses around. Make sure you’ve packed everything you need.

2. Praia Grande do Guincho, Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

Praia do Guincho is the best beach spot to visit if you’re a fan of taking in sweeping panoramic views. The Atlantic Ocean’s currents are particularly strong here as well, which makes it a good place for surfing, though not always the best place for swimming.

If you stay near the shore, you’ll likely be fine. Even children should be okay if they stay in areas where they can easily touch the ground. However, if you start to get deeper into the water, you might find yourself fighting the current a little more, so keep that in mind if you’re not a proficient swimmer .

This is definitely a place to go if you like spending time on the beach overlooking the water, though. The sound is calming and the water is a dark blue that creates a dramatic look when contrasted with the cliffs that line the beach.

3. Praia Vasco da Gama, Sines

Praia Vasco da Gama isn’t large, but it’s still well-equipped to provide you with a fun day by the water. There are public amenities you can use, like showers and changing rooms, so you can be comfortable before and after you go out on the sand. The water is also nice and warm during the summer, though it does cool down around October and stays chilly until the end of May.

This is also a great beach to go to last minute if you’re staying in Sines. You can get to the water with public transportation or on foot from pretty much anywhere in the city with ease.

It’s one of the best places around Lisbon to go swimming since it’s safe and the water is gentle. There are even lifeguards regularly on duty to keep an eye on you and your travel party.

4. Ribeira do Cavalo, Sesimbra

Ribeira do Cavalo is a secluded beach area that’s tucked away from the rest of the busy world. In order to get to the water here, you have to go on a little hike down a rocky path, which can be difficult to find if you’re not looking for it.

Since it takes some work to get to, many tourists overlook this particular beach, even though it has a lot to offer. It’s a peaceful area that has warm, shallow waters that are safe and clean to swim in. There are also multiple rocks you can climb or include in your pictures for wild and exotic keepsakes.

It’s just a short drive from Lisbon, so if you’re staying in the city, you shouldn’t have trouble finding your way here. Just make sure to pack your food and drinks with you.

5. São Torpes, Sines

São Torpes is the best place to go if you want to make sure you’re guaranteed to have warm, natural water to swim in. This beach is fairly close to a thermo-electric power plant that uses the ocean’s water to help keep its equipment from overheating.

As such, much of the water in this area is warm while still being clean and safe to swim in. Since the plant works all year, this is one of the few places in the country where you can swim no matter what the season is.

However, make sure you know when the tide comes in if you decide to come to this beach. The water rises quickly, so high tide can come in before you know it if you don’t know when you should expect it to happen. Do a little planning before hitting the beach.

1. Praia da Marinha, Lagoa

If you search for pictures of Portugal’s beaches, you’ll likely come across photos of Praia de Marinha without realizing it. This beach is considered the quintessential Portuguese coast.

It has multi-toned blue water that’s dark blue at its deepest and turns more of a turquoise near the shore. It also has recognizable boulder and cliff formations all along the sand and even in the water, which makes the area seem wild and untouched.

Since the cliffs jut out in an uneven way, the beach is broken up into smaller coves and bays that you can get to on foot or by swimming from one area to another. This beach is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a little bit of a vacation adventure, but still want safety, peace, and security of calm, clear waters.

2. Praia da Ilha de Armona, Olhão

Visiting Praia da Ilha de Armona is the perfect excuse to get off the Portuguese mainland and visit some of the country’s islands. Armona is a small island that is just a few miles in length, but it has some of the best coastlines in the region.

There are residents on the island, which help give it a small-town feel and will help you feel like one of the locals. The beach is simple, but that’s part of its charm.

You get miles of soft sand you can walk on for hours. Most of the time, the waters are calm, though you might notice more waves if there are storms nearby or if the tide is starting to come in. During the summer, there are some beach activities, but you can easily have a peaceful trip here too if you’d prefer that.

3. Praia de Dona Ana, Lagos

Praia de Dona Ana is yet another gorgeous beach in Portugal, but it manages to set itself apart from the rest. While it’s not hard to find relatively clear water all over the country, this beach’s water is like crystal. Even on busy days when the sand is disturbed, the water never seems to get murky.

That might be in part due to the cliffs that help keep sand in place and can act as a sort of filter to keep the water clear and clean. The sand on the shore is golden and soft but still firm enough that you can walk or lay on it easily without feeling like you’re sinking.

This isn’t a great beach for surfers since there usually aren’t waves, but swimmers, waders, or sunbathers will be able to have a fun day on dry land and in the water.

4. Praia do Barril, Santa Luzia

If you’re a beach lover on the hunt for a slightly different experience than what you’re used to, Praia do Barril is the place for you.

You get the same laid-back environment most people are looking for since there are a few places to get food or beverages near the sand, and the water is generally pretty calm all year. However, there are a few things that make this beach one-of-a-kind. For example, if you walk for a little bit on the shore, you’ll find the anchor cemetery.

Years ago, the tradition for tuna boats to leave their old anchors on this shore started, and it’s been going strong ever since. The anchors are partially buried in the sand, but they’re still very visible, so you won’t miss them or bump into them. You can also find tide pools and lagoons.

1. Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo, Azores

Vila Franca is another small island off the coast of Portugal. Since it’s not connected to the mainland, you’ll have to take a boat to get there. You’ll need to do at least a little planning ahead of time so you know the schedules. However, this island should definitely top your list of places to go while you’re in the country.

The island and the waters surrounding it are considered protected, so conservation efforts have been put in place to maintain its natural beauty and wildlife. You’re still able to go swimming here, though. In fact, if you’ve ever been interested in cliff diving, there’s no better place to try it than here.

Just make sure you know what you’re doing, or you have a seasoned cliff diver with you for safety since there aren’t usually lifeguards keeping watch.

2. Porto Santo, Madeira

Porto Santo is one of Madeira’s archipelago islands with a bustling city life that you can fit right into.

While you’re on the sand, you’ll be able to see a mix of natural and exotic beauty and the evidence of people on the island by seeing the juxtaposition of buildings and cliffs. The result is a cinematic view that looks like it belongs in a movie .

Porto Santo is known for many things, but its beach is its prime feature. It’s a long, uninterrupted stretch of sand that practically circles the island. However, you don’t have to just stay on land.

The water in Porto Santo is warmer than average all year, so you might even find yourself able to tolerate its temperatures in the cooler months if you visit during the off-season.

Hot Tip: You can also try your hand at diving at the many famed diving spots.

3. Praia do Porto do Seixal, Madeira

Praia do Porto do Seixal is an example of a rare black sand beach that gives the area a very tropical look and feel.

Black sand is notorious for its softness, and this beach is no different. It’s cushion-soft and velvety, and it tolerates the sun well, so it never feels like it’s scalding. You can walk on it comfortably on a sunny afternoon in the middle of the summer without any problems. That’s fantastic since you’ll definitely want to go for a long stroll on this beach.

At one end of the beach, there’s a small waterfall you can admire , and the entire shore is lined with trees and rocks that make the beach feel even more peaceful and secluded. This beach is relatively unknown and is a bit of a local hidden gem without many tourists.

4. Zona Balnear da Praia Grande, Azores

Zona Balnear da Praia Grande is known as the “big beach,” and it shows. There are miles of wide shoreline that’s able to accommodate the summer crowds without people feeling like they’re practically on top of each other.

It’s also the largest sandy beach on the island, and it’s the most popular. If you like being where people are, and you want excitement from the bustle of having others around, this is the perfect beach for you.

You’ll find people of all ages here, but it’s considered a family-friendly beach. There are lifeguards around to make sure everyone stays safe. The sand is kept clean and well-maintained to make sure it’s soft and free of any sticks or shells that could scratch or splinter.

If you feel like you need a break from the noise and you want a little peace, just walk a few minutes, and you should find it.

No matter where you go in Portugal, you’ll clearly have plenty of choices of where to spend your beach vacation. We hope that this list has helped you narrow down your options, so you know which beach or beaches you’ll want to plan on visiting … even if that means you’ll have a few Portuguese vacations in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are beaches in portugal swimmable.

There are many swimmable beaches in Portugal. Typically, if a place is off-limits, there will be plenty of signs posted to avoid confusion. If you have any doubts, you can always ask the locals or contact the authorities to ask ahead of time.

Does Portugal have warm water beaches?

Some of Portugal’s beaches tend to have warmer water than others. The warmth of a coast’s water will depend on its depth and currents, which can vary. However, during the summer months, the water should be warmer everywhere, with the opposite happening in winter.

Can I swim in Portugal in February?

Swimming isn’t a popular outdoor activity in February. For most people, the water is too cold, and you can risk hypothermia if you’re not careful. However, if you are a surfer and don’t mind wearing a wetsuit, you shouldn’t be as affected by the cold as swimmers are.

What is the best time to visit Portugal?

If you plan to go swimming while you’re in Portugal, the best times to visit will be between May and October. The land and water temperatures will be warmer then. If you just want to stay on the sand, Portugal is beautiful all year.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The Best Beaches in Portugal: A Guide to the Must-Visit Sun and Sand Spots

Portugal is a beacon for beach fanatics, famous for its spectacular coastline and scenic beaches. Whether your heart yearns for a remote private cove or an energetic beachfront bustling with activity, Portugal caters to all preferences.  In fact, a  Portuguese beach is the 3rd best in Europe , as proven by the droves of sunseekers laying their towels down in the Portimão sand.  Some of the most outstanding beaches in Portugal include: 

Praia da Rocha

Praia da Rocha, in Portimão, is one of the most famous seasides in the western Algarve.  Its yellow sand and turquoise clear water is a utopia for beach fanatics. The beachfront is encircled by spectacular cliffs, delivering a scenic backdrop.  There are also numerous beach bars on the sand to grab a rejuvenating drink, or head up to the top of the cliff where a boardwalk teeming with restaurants and bars are popular throughout the day and night

Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha is frequently believed to be one of the most iconic viewpoint and beach in Europe. It was discovered in the Algarve and is known for its picturesque rock formations and pristine waters. The beach is accessible via a staircase etched into the cliffs, adding allure to the experience.  Praia da Marinha is also ideal for snorkeling and probing the aquatic world.

Praia do Camilo

Praia do Camilo is a rare gem discovered near Lagos in the far western Algarve. You must descend a lengthy staircase to the seaside, but you’ll be rewarded for the effort.  Lofty cliffs encircle the beach and present breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is truly a fantastic location for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the nearby caves.

Praia da Ursa

Praia da Ursa is a hidden beach not far from Sintra about an hour north of Lisbon.  It is known for its wild and potent beauty.   Towering cliffs encircle the coast and present spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.  Due to its isolated area, the location is less congested, making it an ideal sunspot for those seeking sand and surf in solitude.

Praia da Falésia

Praia da Falésia (pictured) is a long expanse of golden sand tranquillity in the Algarve . Towering red cliffs present a dramatic backdrop, as well as interesting hiking trails with stunning views.  Down below, the wide beach is ideal for long walks along the shore, from Vilamoura to Albufeira.  Should you need to take a break or sip a beverage, beach cafés are spread out periodically along your sandy trek. 

These are only a few of the finest beaches in Portugal that you should visit. Each beach presents a memorable adventure and will leave you with remarkable memories. So, pack your sunscreen and towel, and get prepared to explore the spectacular beaches of Portugal.

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The Best Beaches in Portugal: Your Complete Guide for 2020

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This guide will tell you about the best beaches in Portugal, where they are, and what they’re like. For 2020, we’ve chosen a couple of beaches in each geographic region of Portugal. Plus, we’ve added a section on best beaches by activity.

Jump to a section:

• Algarve beaches
• Alentejo beaches
• Central coast beaches
• Beaches near Lisbon
• Porto-area beaches
• Madeira beaches
• Beaches for surfing
• Family beaches
• Nude beaches
• Beaches for camping
• Best beaches in the Algarve

Praia do Carvalho, Algarve

This beach is a typical expression of the beauty of the Algarve region . It’s located in Carvoeiro, and as one of the most commonly photographed areas on the region you can understand why when you look up at the steep limestone cliff formations and grottos that surround this beach. The beach is normally not overrun, except for perhaps the month of July. There is a café bar directly above the beach, where you can cool off and re-fuel before heading back down to the water.

Praia da Bordeira, Algarve

For those who prefer less crowds and a wild natural aesthetic for a beach, Praia da Bordeira is unmissable. The beach is located in the Aljezur region of the Algarve , which is a personal favorite as it’s not the usual part of the Algarve that tourists will take over in the summer months. The beach is a seemingly never-ending stretch of golden sands, dotted with dunes and marine greenery. When the tide goes out, the sandy beach is one of the largest in the Algarve and the river forms little pools on the shore that make this beach a heavenly place for children too. Surfers and body boarders love it here too, for obvious reasons. For more in-depth information, check out our full article on beaches in the Algarve .

• Best beaches in the Alentejo

Praia do Malhão, Vila Nova de Milfontes

Situated in the Sudoeste Alentejano national park , this beach is again very wild and undeveloped. There is always plenty of space to fit the locals and tourists alike so if you want to escape the masses and have some privacy this beach is perfect for you. Apart from the carpark, there are no facilities at this beach. It’s not the best beach for families with young children, as there are quite strong currents here from the Atlantic ocean.  

Praia da Costa de Santo André

This beach is unique as its situated between the ocean on one side and the lagoon of Santo André on the other. The beach itself has sand dunes and great waves for surfing, whilst the lagoon offers calm waters to families. The beach of Costa de Santo André is reportedly a great place for bird watching too. There’s plenty of parking, and despite having high biodiversity and being inside a natural park, this beach does have plenty of facilities in bars on the beach to relax and re-fuel. Lisbon airport is the closest to this part of Portugal, the journey takes a short one and a half hours in a car For more in-depth information, check out our full article on beaches in the Alentejo .

• Best beaches on Portugal’s central coast

Praia da Nazaré

The beaches of Portugal’s Silver Coast , Costa da Prata, are a surfer’s dream and often overlooked in the beaches of Portugal worth visiting. Whilst the beach is mainly a hotspot for adrenaline junkies and seafood lovers, families are also accommodated here with the availability of plenty of facilities. This beach has beautiful sand dunes, backed by pine trees. There are also a great selection of seafood restaurants along this beach serving the famous seafood rice. Being a local favourite, the beach of Praia da Nazaré draws a whole variety of crowds to it. In summer time it draws crowds of people because of its something-for-everyone nature.

Praia dos Supertubos

Despite being a little windy, Praia dos Supertubos draws surfers and sunbathers alike. Three beach bars with loungers and food service make it an attractive place in summertime. You might want to go to the beach on a particularly hot day – so the wind doesn’t bother you. This beach isn’t for the fainthearted of surfers, as it is home to some of the biggest waves in Portugal. With less of a family feel too, the beach draws a younger and sportier crowd. At just an hour drive from Lisbon it’s the perfect place to go for a day trip from Lisbon. For more in-depth information, check out our full article on beaches on Portugal’s Silver Coast .

• Best beaches near Lisbon

Praia do Portinho da Arrábida, Setubal

The beach is lined by luscious green forest and with a long stretch of white sand it looks like a scene straight out of “Lost”. The beach is situated in a national park, as are the waters (so no fishing!). This is easily one of the prettiest beaches in all of Portugal. It’s very difficult to get to without a car, but if you do have a car it will take just 45 minutes to get to from Lisbon. Most of Lisbon’s seafood comes from this part of Portugal, so you can eat very well in the local surrounding restaurants.

Praia da Fonte da Telha, Almada

This long stretch of sandy beach is surrounded by an old fishermen’s village and some young hippie communities looking to preserve the specialness of this place. Being very close by to Lisbon, it can get crowded on the weekends, particularly in the high season as it’s a hotspot for surfers and tourists alike. The beach is between Almada and Sesimbra and is accessible from Lisbon by bus. The journey is a short 30 minutes. When you arrive, you’ll find loungers in part of the beach, beach bars and restaurants and the occasional doughnut hawker walking up and down the beach For more in-depth information, check out our full article on beaches near Lisbon .

• Best beaches near Porto

Praia de Miramar, Porto

While the north of Portugal is not always the first place that comes to mind for beach seekers travelling to Portugal, it’s not overlooked by the Portuguese. The water is indeed slightly cooler, but if you like to have more space to yourself on the beach, we would recommend trying it out. This beach with its standalone chapel, Senhor da Pedra, is known by locals as the romantic beach of the North. The old chapel quite literally juts out into the ocean, which is a beautiful thing to behold. You can drive to the beach in just 17 minutes from Porto airport .

Praia da Granja

This beach has been popular for centuries, as it used to be a common place for the aristocracy to take a break from the heat of the city. The local surrounding area still has some of the grand homes they would stay in. For more in-depth information, check out our full article on beaches near Porto .

Best beach in Madeira

Madeira, being a volcanic island, doesn’t have any natural sandy beaches. With those they do have, they imported the sand from Morocco.

Praia da Calheta, Madeira

The very few sandy beaches in Madeira are sheltered by stone walls so they don’t get blown away, which also means they are very calm and pleasant to swim in. If it’s a beach holiday you’re after and you’re in Madeira, considering popping on the ferry to neighbouring island Porto Santo where there are far more natural beaches. For more in-depth information, check out our full article on Madeira .

• The best beaches in Portugal: A guide by activity

We’ve also put together a list of beaches for any vacation activity. Here are some of our favorites.

• The best beaches for surfing in Portugal

Praia da Baleia, Ericeira

The beach at Ericeira is well known for its waves . It draws surfers from near and far to flock with boards. The beach itself has old-school cabins lining it for changing after swimming, and the town has become a surfer’s paradise of vegan cafés and smoothie bars.

The beach is just an hour from Lisbon by bus or slightly less by car.

Claridade Beach, Figueira da Foz

Not only is this beach home to great waves and a number of surf schools , but it’s possible to walk, bike and run along the beach, or wade in along the big expanse of sand. The journey from Lisbon is around 2 hours in the car.

• The best family beaches in Portugal

Praia de Odeceixe, Algarve

This beach is picturesque, with a lagoon forming behind the beach when the tide comes in and gentle perfectly breaking waves rolling into the shore. There is a small beach bar kiosk, and above the beach up some stairs a lovely café restaurant to get ham and cheese tostas, salads, and avocado toasts. Odeceixe is about a 2-hour drive from Lisbon.

Praia do Ancão, Faro

This beach is very beautiful and fully family friendly. The long stretch of sand is manned by lifeguards all day and there are plenty of loungers and umbrellas to rent. You won’t be bored here as there are water sports and a café bar to keep all the family entertained. You can reach the beach in under an hour from Faro airport.

• The best nude beaches in Portugal

Praia do Homem Nu, Tavira

If you prefer tanning in the nude , don’t worry Portugal has got you covered. This beach has been officially certified as a nude beach since the ’90s. It’s a bit remote and difficult to get to, but once you arrive there is a 3-kilometer beach of undisturbed nudist paradise. You can arrive from Faro airport in just over half an hour.

Praia das Adegas, Odeceixe, Algarve

Just nearby to the non-nudist beach on Odeceixe lies a sheltered cove, that feels secluded and peaceful. The high cliffs that surround it give it some privacy, but it is equally very close by to a carpark so there’s no need to walk to far to reach the beach.

• The best beaches for camping in Portugal

While wild camping is generally prohibited in Portugal, you have a number of other options. The most obvious one is to stay in campsites:

Praia do Beliche, Sagres

This beach has fantastic views and is the southernmost tip of the Algarve region. It’s known as a perfect destination for surfers and campers. There is a nearby campsite with beautiful bell tents assembled in a forest. For those searching for an ecological glamping retreat look no further.

Praia da Galé, Algarve

Praia da Galé has its very own bungalow campsite built next to it . For those that want a beautiful beach, an outdoor experience but also don’t want to get their hands dirty with a tent, then this is the place for you.

What is the most beautiful beach in Portugal?

The most beautiful beach in Portugal is probably Praia de Benagil, in the Algarve. It’s located near Carvoeiro, and is one of the most photographed beaches in the country. The easiest way to reach Praia de Benagil is by boat, so it’s one of the quieter beaches in Portugal.

Does Portugal have sandy beaches?

Yes, Portugal has beautiful, sandy beaches. The most popular area for sandy beach vacations is the Algarve in southern Portugal. Vacationers love the sandy beaches in the Lisbon region, the Alentejo region, Portugal’s central coast, and its northern coast, too.

Are there any beaches in Portugal?

Yes, there are tons of beaches in Portugal! You could go to a different Blue Flag beach in Portugal nearly every day of the year. In 2019, a total of 352 Blue Flag beaches were named in Portugal. Portugal’s coastal beaches received 317 Blue Flags, and 35 inland beaches earned the designation.

Which part of Portugal is best?

The best part of Portugal depends on your interests. If you’re a surfer or beach lover, the best spots will be on the coast, particularly the Algarve. If you like cities, try Lisbon or Porto. Portugal also has beautiful vineyards, farms, mountains, and quaint villages throughout the country.

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The 11 best beaches in Portugal

Sun, sea, sand and surf, the best beaches in Portugal have everything that a sun-worshipper dreams of embracing

Portugal has no shortage of great beaches. Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to coastline here, with 1,700 kilometres of sun, sea and sand waiting for worshippers to make the pilgrimage. If you’re looking for a sun-kissed adventure or just fancy relaxing by the water for as long as you can physically cope, the best beaches in Portugal will sort you out.

We’ve made no secret of our love for Portugal. It is a special country, and our expert knowledge of Lisbon and Porto will have you realising the same thing. In fact, why not explore the two big cities and then head to our selection of best beaches to consider the majesty of it all, and maybe even draw up plans to move here in the future? Go on, you know it makes sense.

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Best beaches in Portugal

Praia do Norte, Nazaré

‘Welcome to the biggest waves in the world,’ reads the sign at Praia do Norte. This beach in Nazaré has become a site of pilgrimage for surfers around the world thanks to its giant breaking waves. In 2011 Hawaiian surfer Garrett McNamara hit headlines after surfing a 78-foot-high wave here – a world record that was later broken by Brazilian Rodrigo Koxa, who rode an 80-footer in 2017. Even if you don’t surf, it’s worth coming along to watch. And the Celeste beach restaurant also serves ‘the best rice pudding in the world’, according to McNamara.

Praia da Samouqeira, Aljezur

The seas here are the closest you’ll get to the tropics in   the whole country.   Samoqueira’s waters are a beautiful emerald hue, and the   beach   itself is small, secluded and mostly unspoiled. Though slightly out of the way and surrounded by cliffs, it is easier to access than many   other beaches in the Algarve region thanks to stairs that have been carved out of the rock. Come at low tide and you can explore a series of millennia-old caves.

Praia da Formosa, Santa Cruz

There are few pleasures dearer to the Portuguese than a quick post-Sunday lunch swimming trip. And few beaches are better suited to a glorious dip in the Atlantic than this picture-postcard spot in Santa Cruz, just north of Lisbon . The seas are calm in the quiet surrounding bay, making Formosa an ideal base for families with young swimmers keen to take the plunge.

Praia dos Coelhos, Sétubal

The setting for innumerable films and advertising campaigns, this idyllic, secluded beach on the Arrábida coastline boasts some of the clearest waters you’ll likely ever swim in. Though increasingly on the tourist trail, it’s still relatively crowd-free. One of the last truly ‘wild’ beaches on this magnificent stretch of shoreline just south of Lisbon.

Praia de São Lourenço, Ericeira

Follow the road to Ericeira, northwards from the Portuguese capital, and you’ll soon spy directions to this exquisite white sand beach. Most famous for its lofty, surf-friendly waves, São Lourenço also draws hordes of paddle tennis players who set up nets whenever the sun comes out (which, because this is Portugal, is pretty much all the time).

Praia da Ursa, Sintra

The walk down to this remote beach  near  Sintra may be long (and occasionally a bit tricky), but what staggering beauty awaits. Not far from Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point in continental Europe, Ursa owes its higgledy-piggledy rocky formation to millions of years of being bashed up by the Atlantic. At low tide, you can explore the magical coves of Palaia, to the south, and Pesquiro do Abrigo, to the north. Note that at high tide, there may be limited space to kick back on the sand.

Praia de Benagil, Lagoa

The ‘skylight’ at the nearby Algar de Benagil cave draws tens of thousands of visitors every year – and for good reason. The perfect framing of the blue sky, the gold cliffs, the shaded beach: it’s the stuff of photogenic summer-vacay dreams. But the Praia de Benagil itself shouldn’t be overlooked, either. Crystal-clear waters make this a tip-top snorkelling spot, and you can rent kayaks to head over to the picturesque cave. (If you’re a strong swimmer, you can brave the 200-metre distance yourself.)

Praia da Figueirinha, Sétubal

Just south of Lisbon, Figueirinha is the longest stretch of sand between popular year-round destinations Sesimbra and Sétubal. A sandbank stretches out into the sea, creating a tranquil cove of sorts, while thanks to its proximity to the mouth of the Sado river, the water is usually a degree or two warmer than at other beaches along the coast. As backdrops go, you could do much worse than the wooded Serra da Arrábida hills.

Praia dos Arrifes, Albufeira

Head here at high tide, and might you miss the Praia dos Arrifes altogether. One of the smallest in the Albufeira area, it often disappears completely – so time your visit right. Also known as Praia dos Três Penecos for the three huge rocks that jut out of the sea, Arrifes is popular among young families and draws few tourists. If you’re looking to cool down after a day in the sun, we recommend a walk through the surrounding pine woods.

Praia de Melides, Melides

A vast expanse of sand separating the Atlantic from the Melides lagoon, the Praia de Melides is one of the Alentejo coast’s most charming bathing spots. You can swim in both fresh and salt water here, and once you’ve worked up an appetite, the Flor de Sal by Melides restaurant will fill you up with brilliantly elaborate Portuguese dishes. Melides itself is a traditional Alentejo village brimming with charming white houses, and well worth a detour.

Praia de Tróia Mar, Sétubal

At the very tip of the Tróia Mar peninsula, this beautifully curved beach is fringed by towering sand dunes and offers views across to the charming Serra da Arrábida national park. The seas are calm in these parts, and kitesurfers and windsurfers predictably abound. If you’re coming from Lisbon, catch the ferry across the Sado river, and once you’re here, grab a beer and ice cream from one of a handful of excellent beach vendors.

Find more holiday inspiration

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19 of the Best Coastal + Beach Towns in Portugal

Looking for the best beach towns in Portugal for your next trip?

If so, you’re spoiled for choice!

Situated in the southwestern corner of mainland Europe, there are charming seaside towns in Portugal for every kind of traveler.

Whether you’re looking for a bustling town center, a quiet place to get away from it all, a fun surf spot, or a calm sea perfect for swimming, Portugal’s coastal towns have plenty of options to offer.

From the popular beach towns in the Algarve, famous for their dramatic cliffs, to the laid-back villages in northern Portugal, and everywhere in between, Portugal is famous for its seaside towns for good reason.

… And, just to add a few more options to the mix, the Azores and Madeira have some incredibly tempting coastal towns to offer, too.

Here are the best beach towns in Portugal to visit!

Table of Contents

Beautiful Coastal Towns in Northern Portugal

Best beach towns near lisbon (central portugal), amazing algarve beach towns to visit (southern portugal), stunning seaside towns in madeira, portugal, charming coastal towns in the azores, map of the best beach towns in portugal (mainland).

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

From Pafoua of Her Wanderful World

If you’re headed to Porto, Portugal, you cannot miss out on visiting the nearby fishing town of Matosinhos, which features some of the finest beaches in northern Portugal!

Local Porto residents love going to Matosihnos during the hot summer days because it is so easily accessible from Porto.

This popular port town is about 8 kilometers from the city center of Porto but can take up to 30 minutes to get there on public transportation.

Visitors can take the local 500 bus to get to Matosinhos or the metro line A.

If you have a ticket for the  Hop-On Hop-Off Bus in Porto , the beach town of Matosinhos is also a stop!

Praia de Matosinhos is where most visitors go because it’s the closest to the bus stops and has a vast sandy beach and waves that are perfect for swimming or surfing.

Even though most visitors come to Matosinhos to relax and hang out on the beach, there are also other attractions in this beach town to explore.

You can visit the Castelo de Queijo market, walk along the coastal path of Leca da Palmeira, or visit the Bom Jesus de Matosinhos Church.

While in the fishing town of Matosinhos, you cannot miss out on the street filled with family-run restaurants that grill fish for a living.

As you enter Rua Heróis de França, you’ll start smelling the delicious seafood.

Make sure to try cod as that’s one of the main staples in Portugal. But you can also order anything from sardines to shellfish!

However you decide to spend your time in Matosinhos, it sure will be a great day of sunshine and adventure!

From Greta of Love the Surf Life

Peniche is one of the most popular beach towns in Portugal, for very good reasons.

Located just over an hour from Lisbon, this quaint fishing town has become a worldwide surfing destination.

There are many beautiful beaches surrounding Peniche, characterized by soft golden sand, turquoise water, and world-class waves.

The most famous is Baleal Beach, where most of the surf schools are concentrated.

Around the beach you’ll find lots of cute cafes, restaurants and bars, where you can refuel after a long day in the waves.

Peniche is also famous for the Berlengas Islands , which you can only reach with a 45-minute ferry from Peniche.

The Berlengas Islands are known for Forte de São João Baptista; a fort built on rocks off the coast of the island, and the winding bridge that connects it to the island.

Despite being a popular tourist destination, Peniche still has a rustic charm to it. It feels like a very local town, which hasn’t completely altered its appearance to suit tourism.

It’s a must-visit if you’re looking for the best beach towns in Portugal.

From De Wet and Jin of Museum of Wander

Lovely Nazaré , located roughly halfway between Lisbon and Porto , has a bit of everything one looks for in the perfect Portugal beach town.

It has great beaches, excellent surf, a few cultural attractions, fantastic food, and friendly locals. 

The town has two beaches, and they are very different.

Praia da Nazaré is the city’s main beach, in front of the promenade. It has many facilities and restaurants nearby, making it the perfect family beach.

Little canvas beach cabanas are for rent by the day, week, or month.

Nazaré’s other (and most famous) beach is Praia do Norte, situated around a headland from the city beach. It’s wild and expansive with no facilities.

Praia do Norte is the best surfing spot in Portugal and is world-renowned for its monster waves, the biggest on earth!

The swell is most consistent in the winter months, making Nazaré an excellent winter destination for surfing as well as a traditional summer beach destination.

For the best view in Nazaré, ride the funicular up to the neighborhood of Sitio.

From here, you’ll have a panoramic view over the red roofs of Nazaré and the beach. 

In Sitio, also go check out the baroque church of Igreja Nossa Senhora da Nazaré.

It’s an important pilgrimage site, and the church houses a small wooden statue of the virgin, believed to be carved by Joseph of Nazareth (thus the city’s name).

Hotel Mar Bravo   is a great place to stay, right on Praia da Nazaré.

Lying less than an hour west of Lisbon by car or train, the charming resort town of Cascais is easily one of the most delightful seaside towns to visit in Portugal.

With a maze of winding streets to explore and several beaches to visit within walking distance of the town center, Cascais is an easy day trip from Lisbon (often combined with Sintra ) or a fantastic standalone destination.

While you’re there, be sure to visit the Boca do Inferno and admire the cliffs and cave from above!

The Santa Maria House Museum (located with Cascais’ photogenic lighthouse) and the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães are also both worth a visit.

For beaches, you’re spoiled for choice, but the Praia da Rainha and Praia da Ribeira are two popular options right in the center of town.

Don’t miss a quick visit to the fortress and Cidadela Art District, either.

If you have a long stroll in mind, you can even walk all the way from Cascais to Estoril (home to the casino that inspired James Bond) along the sea.

Depending on how far you go, the walk between these 2 Portugal beach towns takes about an hour.

From Marco of Travel-Boo

A mere 45-minute drive by car lies the quaint seaside town of Sesimbra, home to some of the  best beaches near Lisbon , and in fact in the country!

With its stunning palm-tree-lined promenade overlooking the long golden sandy stretches of both the Praia do Ouro and the Praia da California beaches, Sesimbra is an idyllic day trip to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Or better yet, why not book a night here and explore the nearby areas of Setubal, Palmela, and Azeitao, along with the stunning Arrabida National Park? 

The gorgeous SANA Sesimbra Hotel is located right on the promenade overlooking the ocean and is a great choice for an overnight stay with ample choices for restaurants and bars a short walk away.

Apart from the two main beaches already listed, many visitors flock to Sesimbra to visit the beautiful Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo beach which can be reached on foot, which should take you just under an hour.

Or, you can head to the nearby Clube Naval de Sesimbra and charter a boat to the beach which is still fairly inexpensive to do!

A little further out, along the coast set in the Arrabida National Park is where you’ll find two other beaches, often considered some of the best in Portugal, Praia do Portinho da Arrabida and Praia de Galapinhos.

However, a car is required to reach these beautiful beaches.

Figueira da Foz

From Victoria of Guide Your Travel

Figueira da Foz is a beach town located between Porto and Lisbon on the western coast of Portugal.

If you’re looking for a unique place to stop on your road trip through Portugal , this is a great choice. With around 60,000 inhabitants, Figueira is actually larger than you might think.

If the weather is nice you should plan to spend some time at the Praia da Claridade, which is the most popular beach in this charming seaside town in Portugal.

The area is absolutely huge so you’ll always find a free spot to lie down and relax.

Make sure to stop by the Santa Catarina Fort. The ruins date back to the 16th century and the views are fantastic.

Another great beach to visit is Cabo Mondego which sits a little north of Figueira da Foz. This area is a lot more deserted and very quiet.

Be careful when swimming as the currents can be strong at this beach

However, a trip here still makes for a great day trip and shouldn’t be missed when you head to Figueira da Foz.

If you’re looking for an activity for a rainy day you can also explore some of the museums in town such as the Museu Municipal Santos Rocha which has a great art collection.

Easily one of the most popular beach towns in Portugal, Lagos deserves its sky-high reputation.

If you’ve seen photos of Portugal’s incredible coastline, odds are that you’ve seen photos of Lagos.

Home to Ponta da Piedade, one of the most incredible viewpoints in Portugal, Lagos is a seaside town that delights from the moment you arrive.

While visiting Lagos, be sure to take a boat tour to appreciate the beauty of Ponta da Piedade from below (or if you prefer an active adventure, a kayaking tour).

Looking for a different kind of experience on the water?

Taking a dolphin-watching tour also ranks among the best things to do in this coastal town!

Other popular things to do in Lagos include stepping inside the memorable Igreja de Santo Antonio, touring the beachfront Fort Ponta da Bandeira, and of course, spending time on the beach.

Instagram-famous Praia do Camilo, spacious Meira Praia, and Praia dos Estudantes are some of the best beaches in Lagos to enjoy.

From Alya of Stingy Nomads

Best known for being the paddling-off point to the famous Benagil Cave, Carvoeiro is a charming beach town in the Algarve region of Portugal.

With beautiful beaches and rugged limestone cliffs. Carvoeiro is a perfect town for a family beach holiday or a romantic getaway.

The town has plenty of places to stay, restaurants, cafes, and shops. From Carvoeiro, you can easily take day trips to explore other places in the Algarve.  

Despite the small size of the town, there are plenty of things to do in Carvoeiro.

Relaxing on the beach, of course, is one of the most central features of enjoying Carvoeiro.

Praia do Carvoeiro is the closest beach to the center of the town and the busiest one.

Other beaches that are within walking distance from the center are Praia do Paraiso, Praia do Vale de Centianes, and Praia de Vale Covo.

Hiking is another popular activity in Carvoeiro. There are a couple of walking routes from the town including the stunning Seven Hanging Valleys Trail .

And, of course, you can visit the famous Benagil Cave with a kayak or a boat tour from Carvoeiro .

Carvoeiro boardwalk is perfect for an easy stroll with stunning views of the coast. Algar Seco and A Boneca Cave are also not-to-miss places in Carvoeiro.

Boneca Bar, a small open-air bar hidden between the cliffs of Carvoeiro, is a great place to come for a romantic dinner. 

The easiest way of getting to Carvoeiro is flying to Faro International Airport and from there taking a bus. 

And, for a memorable home base during your Portugal beach trip, Villa Welwitshia is one of the best places to stay in Carvoeiro.

From Linn of Amused By Algarve

One of the best coastal towns in Portugal is the quaint and underrated town of Tavira in the eastern Algarve.

While there is no beach directly from the town, Tavira Island is only a short ferry ride away and you can take the ferry directly from the town center to the mesmerizing Tavira Beach.

Tavira Island is also the only of Ria Formosa Natural Park’s 5 barrier islands that you can walk to.

Across a footpath, you can either take a cute tourist train 1.3 kilometers to Barril Beach or you can walk on the path next to the train line.

There, you will also find the Anchor Cemetery, which features over 200 anchors placed on the dunes in front of the beach.

Both Tavira Beach and Barril Beach have sunbeds and shade for hire as well as cafes and restaurants to fill your tummy during your day at the beach.

If you are looking for more remote beaches, walk past Barril Beach and you will find beautiful deserted beaches with nothing but fine sand and glittering water.

However, there are many other   things to do in Tavira   other than visiting the beaches.

The quaint old town will keep you busy walking around chasing azulejos in the fisherman’s quarter and climbing the walls of the castle ruins.

After dark, the Roman Bridge is a romantic place to cross the river and head out to one of the many cozy restaurants for a lovely dinner.

Drive all the way to the southwestern point of Portugal, and you’ll find the tiny town of Sagres.

A surfer’s paradise at the end of the world, Sagres is simultaneously one of the best Portugal beach towns to visit and a place that brings words like “desolate” to mind.

Situated on a rocky outcrop at the far southwestern edge of Europe, Sagres is a place to go to get away from it all.

Some of the best things to do in Sagres include touring the Sagres Fortress (and appreciating the views), paying a visit to the Cabo de São Vicente Lighthouse, and of course, taking surfing lessons.

Praia do Tonel is one of the most popular beaches in Sagres and is the perfect place to take surfing lessons if you’re ready to learn.

From Mitch of Project Untethered

The beautiful Portuguese coastal town of Odeceixe is known for the famous horseshoe-shaped beach along the wild Vicentina coast.

It sits along the famous Rota Vicentina trek, a coastal trek packed with beaches and cliffs, and it’s the starting (or ending) point of the traditional Fisherman’s Trail hike.

The magic of Odeceixe lies in its rustic beauty, surrounding cliffs, and charming village vibes.

While many tourists beeline to popular beaches around Lagos , Odeceixe feels isolated from the world. It’s a place to disconnect and recharge.

As far as accommodation goes, you have two main options.

You can stay in a small cluster of hotels overlooking Praia de Odeceixe, or you can stay in the actual town of Odeceixe.

Staying in town is more affordable, but it’s a fair distance away from the beach.

This isn’t a problem if you have a rental car.

But if you arrived by bus or via the Rota Vicentina hike, you’re looking at an extra 40 minutes of walking along a curvy, hilly road with no sidewalks.

Other than hiking, surfing, eating seafood, and relaxing, there isn’t much to do in Odeceixe, so if you’re traveling with kids, don’t forget to pack some   beach gifts and games   to stay entertained.

From Jacoba of Op Reis Met Co

Albufeira is one of the most famous beach towns in the country, and one of the first places travelers tend to consider visiting in the Algarve when planning their first trip to Portugal .

Why? Simple: it’s a party town.

Albufeira has a bar strip where you can go out drinking and dancing every single night.

But there are certainly more  things to do in Albufeira ! 

Make sure to explore Albufeira’s old town, which is filled with white houses, narrow streets, and lovely churches.

Then there’s also the brightly colored marina, which has several fun shops, bars, and restaurants. This is also the place to hop on a boat for a fun boat trip .

And of course, Albufeira is home to some of the best beaches in the Algarve.

Right next to Old Town you’ll find Praia do Túnel and if you want to see the best sunset, you should go to Praia dos Alemães.

If you’re looking for a more quiet beach, make sure to check out Praia de São Rafael. You’ll also find some great hiking trails and viewpoints around this beach. 

One of the best things about Albufeira is that it’s very centrally located in the Algarve. It’s easy to go on a day trip to Faro or Portimão, for example.  

As you can see, Albufeira is a great place for both party animals and people who like a more relaxing vacation. 

Praia da Luz

From Campell of The Algarve Family

Praia da Luz, also just known as Luz, is a delightful seaside town in Portugal located in the Western Algarve.

This picturesque village transformed from a little fishing town to a very popular tourist location.

The narrow streets, white-washed houses, and a long promenade running next to the beach result in a beautiful town with a fantastic tranquil vibe.

The extensive promenade is flanked by palm trees, open-air cafés, and restaurants with spectacular views over the ocean.

Luz has two wonderful beaches, Praia da Luz (or Luz Beach ) and Praia Prainha.

Praia da Luz, the main beach, is a medium size sandy beach bordered by impressive cliffs. With soft sand and excellent facilities, Luz Beach is the perfect spot to spend the day on the beach.

Water sports are very popular in Luz. Summer is great for kayaking, stand-up paddling, or motorized sports such as wakeboarding, tubing, or driving a jet ski when the ocean is flat.

In winter the waves can be a bit bigger making for nice surfing. The nearby town of Lagos and Luz are linked by a nice hiking trail on the cliffs that form a part of the Fishermen’s Trail, a popular multi-day hike.

This beautiful town is fantastic for family holidays with a nice atmosphere, safe beaches, and plenty of activities.

If you’d like to stay right on the beach, Luz Beach Apartments is a great option.

From Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Olhão is one of the most underrated seaside villages in Portugal, situated right outside Faro.

It is a traditional and full-of-culture fishing town in the Algarve, with a beautiful waterfront in the town with a fishing harbor.

Olhão always has a lovely scent of fish wafts with the sea breezes and the wonderful seaside town is surrounded by white-washed buildings. Olhão is among the most beautiful and peaceful coastal destinations in Portugal and there are many things to do.

On your arrival, take a road trip to Ria Formosa Natural Park. It is one of the best things to do in Olhão and it is no doubt that this will take you to the most beautiful island exploration. 

After that, make your way to Ilha da Culatra, which is Ria Formosa’s beautiful barrier islands on the outside of Olhão. It is a must-visit if you are at Olhão. After this, take yourself to Quinta de Marim which has an educational center. It is located less than 10 miles outside of Olhão city center.

Do not miss out on the in-town beaches like Praia da Ilha da Culatra, Praia da Armona, Praia do Ancão, and more. If wondering  where to stay in the Algarve , consider the popular Real Marina Hotel & Spa .  

Vila do Bispo

From Alexander of Travel Your Memories

Vila do Bispo is a small village located in the Faro district of Portugal’s famous Algarve region.

Vila do Bispo is still a truly original Portuguese village untouched by large groups of tourists.

It is a small village that is frequented by locals, and a great place to add to your wish list if you hope to visit Portugal on a budget .

The village has a supermarket, plenty of cute little shops, cafes and a lot of restaurants that are nice to visit. Thanks to the sea, fresh fish is often on the menu.

The local church in the village is also well worth a visit. It is known by several names, but the most famous is Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição.

The church dates from the late sixteenth century and the interior is covered with the famous blue and white tiles.

Like so many churches in the Algarve, you would easily pass this church, not knowing what beauty is hidden inside.

Next to the church, one can visit the Museum of Sacred Art, where interesting pieces from the 16th century can be seen.

One of the other places of interest to visit in Vila do Bispo is Praija das Furnas Beach.

This is a quietly located beach that is also quite large and is ideal for a day of relaxation in one of the most charming seaside towns in Portugal.

From Megan of Megan & Aram

If you’re looking for a remote, yet gorgeous Portuguese beach town, look no further than Seixal on the northwestern coast of Madeira.

Seixal is small and has just over 650 residents and has been made famous as the premier surfing spot on Madeira for beginners.

One of the first places to head to in Seixal is Praia do Porto, the most famous beach in the town. This beach is made up of black sand and is known for its waves.

To sign up for a surfing lesson, you can get in touch with the Madeira Surf Center where they will schedule you for a lesson in Seixal or nearby Sao Vicente.

If you’re looking for a calmer beach, check out Praia da Jamaica, which is made up of black pebbles and rocks instead of sand.

Another popular thing to do in Seixal is to take a dip in the natural pools around town.

There are two located in town: one can be found right beside Praia do Porto and the other is a little bit down the road from there and is called Poca das Lesmas.

A little outside of town and on the way to Porto Moniz are some sea stacks on a secluded beach called Ribeira da Janela which is worth a stop.

For wine enthusiasts, a day trip to Barbusano Winery in nearby Sao Vicente is a must!

The winery has a showroom where you can taste and buy some local wines for your trip.

Also near Sao Vicente are the Sao Vicente Caves, a complex that showcases caves and lava tubes created by ancient eruptions with interactive displays that are exciting for kids.

It is one of the most popular  things to do in Madeira !

Many travelers opt to stay in Porto Moniz or Sao Vicente for their trip, but if you’re looking to stay in Seixal, Casa das Videiras is a top-rated, budget-friendly option!

Porto Moniz

From Abbey of Trips on Abbey Road

On the beautiful island of Madeira, you will find so many different little beach cities scattered around the coast.

That being said, the town of  Porto Moniz  stands out for its beautiful natural pools, making it one of the best beach towns in Portugal.

These natural pools were created over many years and were formed from lava cooling in the ocean. They are always filled with ocean salt water and are open all year long.

The natural pools are never heated, and they never add water to the pools, so you can expect the water to be the same temperature as the sea. 

At the natural pools, it is so much fun to watch the waves crashing in and then spilling back out.

Even if you are not a big swimmer you should still head over just to see how lovely nature can be.

There are also plenty of restaurants in Porto Moniz. If you are looking for a quick bite then you will love the snacks at Conchinia.

If you wanted to sit down and watch the waves you could always head over to the Polo Norte, they have delicious Portuguese food there. 

Once you have visited the natural pools you can always head over to Seixal Beach, or take a Levada walk there are plenty of those to do around the area. 

Angra do Heroísmo

From Greta of Greta’s Travels

If you’re looking for the best beach towns in Portugal, you have to add Angra do Heroísmo to your bucket list. Angra do Heroísmo is the capital of  Terceira Island , in the Azores archipelago.

The Azores are volcanic islands located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, and have a very different climate and landscape compared to mainland Portugal.

Angra do Heroismo is a lovely town, with unique colourful colonial architecture.

There are a couple beaches in town, the most popular one being Praia de Angra do Heroísmo, as it’s right next to the town centre, but the selling point of this town aren’t the beaches.

Terceira is a fairly small island, so you can easily get around it and explore it with Angra do Heroísmo as your base.

In Terceira you can hike through beautiful volcanic landscapes, discover a cave inside a volcano, go whale watching and indulge in the stunning views from the many miraduoros.

If you want to go for a swim in the sea, the most popular place to do so are the Piscinas Naturais Biscoitos.

These natural pools are famous for the contrast between the crystal clear water and the black lava rocks that surround them, and they’re only a 30-minute drive from Angra do Heroísmo.

For ease of navigating this map, we’ve opted only to include the best beach towns in Portugal’s mainland here.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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18 Best Beaches in Portugal to Visit in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: June 11, 2024

Portugal may have some  stunning cities,  but the beaches in Portugal are something else. Portugal’s beaches are famously dramatic, with soft sand and bright orange sea cliffs. Its Atlantic Ocean coastline is full of hidden coves and even secret cave beaches like Praia de Benagil – which is only accessible by boat or kayak. Whether you have  three days on the Algarve  or a five-day  break in Sintra,  you’ll want to visit at least one of the most beautiful Portugal beaches. Most hotels in Portugal have an outdoor swimming pool, but nothing beats the feeling of sand underfoot and salty waves. It’s official; Portugal beaches are a necessity.

Table of Contents

18 Best Portugal Beaches

Are you ready to get inspired by some of the best beaches in Portugal? You don’t have to stay in the Algarve region either; this guide will cover the best of the country’s beaches. We’ll show you beaches that are incredible for water sports, finding secret caves, and relaxing on sun loungers with stunning sea cliff views.

1. Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha is one of the most famous attractions for anyone staying near Benagil, apart from Praia de Benagil itself. If you’ve already visited the Insta-famous sea caves, this dramatically located beach is one of the prettiest spots for a beach day. Praia da Marinha is located at the bottom of sea cliffs, accessible via a flight of extremely steep wooden stairs or by boat or kayak – the choice is yours. It is an adventurous beach to reach.

And this is all part of the allure. It also has some eye-catching natural rock formations, including offshore stacks and a spectacular nature arch that you can swim under. We had to add it to this list for its photogenic appeal and quirky access routes.

How to get to the beach: To reach Praia da Marinha, you park up along Estr. Da Marinha in the designated car park and then hike down the steps to reach the beach. Alternatively, you can take a boat tour or rent a kayak from nearby and make the journey by water.

• Where to Stay: Vila Alba Resort

2. Praia de São Jacinto

Many Portugal beaches have bright golden sands, but Praia de São Jacinto breaks that mold. This beach has bright white sands, stretching for miles as part of the São Jacinto Dunes Natural Reserve, essentially just paradise on Earth. The beach has a windswept aesthetic with a backdrop of alternating pine forests and marshes; it is breathtaking, and we couldn’t resist adding it to this guide.

It is popular amongst anyone who appreciates a good view, but also with local surfers. The waves are perfect for water sports, and while it is too quiet to host regular surf schools, it is an ideal spot for experienced surfers visiting Portugal. Just rent a board nearby and head to this spot for the ultimate surfing beach day.

How to get to the beach: To reach this beach, you can drive or catch a ferry – depending on whether you are staying north or south of the beach. There is abundant street parking so that you won’t be stuck for a parking spot. There are also plenty of facilities, including showers. Don’t forget to bring a camera, as the little colorful fishing boats left around are some of the most photogenic spots in Portugal.

• Where to Stay: House Barra Beach

3. Praia da Costa Nova

Praia da Costa Nova is a stunning spot in Portugal, with a beautiful backdrop of colorful painted houses. It is one of the most characterful beaches in Portugal – especially if you want a more ‘beach town’ atmosphere with cafes and independent shops just a short walk away.

You can stroll along the soft sands and admire the rows of red, yellow, blue, and greenhouses. It has a much prettier setting than other beaches in urban areas and a cutesy vibe with a photogenic aesthetic. Take advantage of the town setting to try fresh fish and regional seafood dishes; there’s even a marina with local fishermen taking regular trips to catch hauls for the town’s restaurants and cafes.

How to get to the beach: Praia da Costa Nova is approximately an hour’s drive south of Porto , so an easy day trip to add to a city break. After all, everyone appreciates a beach day after back-to-back sightseeing days.

• Where to Stay: Praia do Sol Resort

4. Praia da Adraga

Praia da Adraga is a stunning inlet just outside of Lisbon . Just checking the pictures, you’d be shocked to think such a picturesque, remote-seeming beach could be just a 50-minute drive outside a major city center. It is well worth the detour if you are staying in or nearby Lisbon.

The beach has bright blue waters and intensely golden sands broken up by irregular and dramatic stacks that stick up like black shards of glass. And at low tide, you can get up close to the jagged rock formations and even enter some caves along the cliffs. Photographers especially flock to snap pictures through the caves and to frame the jagged stacks. For golden sand, volcanic rocks, and plenty of rock pools, you really can’t go wrong with Praia da Adraga.

This beach made it onto our list for its convenient location and striking natural beauty. It has a rough and adventurous atmosphere that makes it one of the more exciting beaches in Portugal. Don’t expect to swim – the waters are typically too choppy.

• Where to Stay: Quinta Santo Antonio

5. Camilo Beach

One thing is for sure; you’ll get your steps in with a visit to Camilo Beach. This spot is only accessible via water or by 200 chunky-cut wooden steps. You’ll make the scenic climb down to the waterfront with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and burnt orange landscape.

Once you reach the beach, you can access two separate beaches divided by an exciting tunnel through the cliff face. If you have children, this is one of the most fun beaches to visit in Portugal, as there’s a real sense of magic with the tunnel to a new beach. Visiting is easily one of  the best things to do in Lagos , and it has a novelty appeal that attracts crowds of fun-seeking tourists.

How to get to the beach: Camilo Beach is just outside Lagos’ center, accessible on foot within a 30-minute walk. Despite its proximity to such a central tourist spot, facilities are almost non-existent, so Camilo Beach has a wild appeal. Bring snacks, beach towels, and umbrellas if you want guaranteed shade.

• Where to Stay: Cascade Wellness Resort

6. Praia da Nazaré

Nazare Beach is 1.5km long, with expansive sands and plenty of room to sunbathe away from other tourists – no matter the season. It is the only beach near Nazare suitable for swimming, as it’s slightly sheltered from the stronger waves, unlike the nearby Praia do Norte.

You can paddle, sunbathe on the sand, and enjoy the nearby bar and restaurant scene. Nazare is a sweet little town with bright white buildings and traditional terracotta-colored roofing. It is just an hour and a half away from Lisbon by car, so a feasible day trip for anyone wanting a more spacious beach option. Its major draws are its spaciousness and easy access to Nazare’s dining and party scene.

How to get to the beach: Walking to Nazare Beach from the town center is a breeze, and everything is compact and around the center. You can check out the shops, restaurants, and cafes while enjoying beautiful ocean views.

• Where to Stay: Subvilla Beach Place

7. Praia de Tróia Mar

This striking peninsula is the best option for anyone wanting a wow factor. Praia de Tróia Mar has white sand stretching onto the horizon with electric blue waters that taper off in shallow waters – ideal for peaceful wading and families with younger children. The soft sands and coastal shrubs are a blissful place to spend a laidback afternoon.

The beach’s serene location at the end of a peninsula means that you don’t get many tourists, only those people venturing to the end to see the beach. It is a wild beach, and getting there is an adventurous road trip. The serene, wistful atmosphere is impossible not to love, and if you stay anywhere near Lisbon, it is well worth visiting.

How to get to the beach: To reach this beach, you drive past Comporta and to the end of the N253-1. You can also catch a ferry from Setubal if you fancy a more adventurous way of getting to this beach destination.

• Where to Stay: Pestana Troia Eco-Resort

8. Praia da Rocha

A boardwalk backs Praia da Rocha, and if you make it to the end of the hike, there’s an iconic red and white lighthouse. The vast golden sands are spacious enough to avoid being near other tourists, and it has all the space to have a secluded bay experience, despite being backed by the tourist town of Praia da Rocha.

That space and the boardwalk hike are the main things that caught our attention, but its sleepy tourist town location is also a plus if you like wandering between cafes and small shops. All in all, for classic beach views and an active beach trip, this golden beach is perfect.

How to get to the beach: To get to this beach from its same-named town is an easy walk from anywhere in its center. Or, if you are staying nearby, an easy drive along major coastal roads.

• Where to Stay: Hotel Algarve Casino

9. Praia da Falesia

Praia da Falesia is a great beach with great looks. The beach, famous for its orange sea cliffs, is located in Albufeira and is the perfect getaway for a day on sun loungers or indulging in watersports. There’s also a restaurant and bar, because what more could you want? The sandstone cliffs are its main attractions, with parts of the orange rock eroded and broken down into fine powder so that you can see red and orange coloring up to the water’s edge.

How to get to the beach: You can quickly drive to Praia da Falesia, and there is a huge car park for the high capacity of visitors that this beach attracts. It has a fun, organized appeal with plenty of sun loungers and facilities available.

• Where to Stay: AP Victoria Sports & Beach

10. Praia Dona Ana

Praia Dona Ana is a popular little cove right next to Lagos, within walking distance of its center. The water is so bright it appears almost green in sections, and dramatic sea stacks shelter the beach from harsher winds and currents. It has a tucked-away feel and is a beautiful place to visit to romanticize your life for an afternoon. Praia Dona Ana is a fun attraction if you are staying in Lagos, and you can spend a day on the beach before heading up to enjoy a sunset dinner at the seafood bar that overlooks it.

How to get to the beach: To get to Praia Dona Ana, you’ll tackle some serious stairs. Bring bottled water, as the chunky-cut wooden stairs are pretty challenging, especially in the midday heat. However, you’ll tackle them in less than 10 minutes, which is well worth the effort.

• Where to Stay: Carvi Beach Hotel

11. Praia da Bordeira

For surfers and wild beach lovers, Praia da Bordeira is one of the very best beaches in Portugal. Praia da Bordeira is set in the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, a beautiful coastal preserve with raptors and sea otters amongst its cliffside fauna. You can drive down to Praia da Bordeira for spacious sands and sublime surf when you aren’t spotting raptors and sea otters. Rolling dunes and rocky cliffs back the beach and has a rural, isolated feel that adds to its appeal.

How to get to the beach: To reach Praia da Bordeira, drive from Lagos or any little village above the Algarve region. It is well-located for a day trip, so rent a car and get exploring.

• Where to Stay: Carrapateiramar Guest House

12. Praia dos Ingleses

Praia dos Ingleses is one of Portugal’s most popular beaches. And while it might not offer rolling dunes and white sands, it does have a perfectly convenient location as one of the most accessible beaches in Porto. It is a dream escape from inner-city life. The golden sand and beach bar are a delicious combination too, and it is the ideal place to spend an afternoon after a few days of Porto sightseeing.

Praia dos Ingleses is always a hub of activity, whether you are stopping by for sunset or having a quick morning walk. It has a community feel and attracts equal parts of residents as it does tourists, even in peak seasons, which is a nice touch.

How to get to the beach: You can reach Praia dos Ingleses in an hour by foot, 40 minutes by public transport, or 15 minutes by car from Porto city center

• Where to Stay: Hotel Boa-Vista

13. Comporta Beach

Comporta Beach is part of a peninsula that juts out beneath Lisbon and has some of Portugal’s prettiest beaches. The white sand and endless stretching sands make Comporta Beach pretty much irresistible. And as if it could get even more romantic, regular dolphin visitors come to frolic in the shallow waters.

If you aren’t a strong swimmer, you’ll want to admire the dolphins from the shore, though. The beach is famous as one of the best of Portugal’s beaches for kitesurfers and water sports lovers. But its choppy waters and no lifeguard status make it more of a paddle and sit-and-sunbathe beach if not.

How to get to the beach: The beach is best accessed by car from Lisbon and takes around an hour to reach from the city center. If you stay locally in Comporta, you can walk to Comporta Beach. It is a day trip worthy and has a windswept and wistful appeal – a romantic addition to your Portugal itinerary.

• Where to Stay: AlmaLusa Comporta

14. Carcavelos Beach

Carcavelos Beach, aka Praia de Carcavelos, is your typical happy-go-lucky holiday beach. This spot has golden sands, surfing waves, and a promenade full of cute shops and tourist infrastructure. It is the sort of place you hope will be within walking distance of your resort. You cannot go wrong for an easy, hassle-free beach experience.

Walking along from Praia de Carcavelos, you’ll find Forte de Sao Juliao da Barra, a 16th-century seaside fort and one of Portugal’s topmost historic fortresses. So while Carcavelos has a reputation for being a sleepy beach day town, it has quite a bit of oomph with its attractions.

How to get to the beach: Carcavelos is the tiny parish where you’ll find the beach and is a little tourist hotspot that merges almost seamlessly into other nearby villages. It has a distinct fishing culture and an ever-growing tourist atmosphere.

• Where to Stay: Carcavelos Surf Hostel & Surf Camp

15. Praia de Moledo

If you want an undeniably beautiful white sand beach, Praia de Moledo is your one. The view along Praia de Moledo is gorgeous, with white sand stretching out and the green peak of Monte de Santa Tecla mountain sticking out like a cone from across the estuary.

As a side note, Monte de Santa Tecla is a brilliant place to visit after. The mountain has ancient petroglyphs and a church that runs daily guided tours. But even just admiring it from Praia de Moledo is spectacular, and it provides an almost volcanic setting that injects the beach with tons more character.

How to get to the beach: Praia de Moledo is easily reached by car from Moledo, a small town just an hour’s drive north of Porto. This beach is situated right on the Spanish border, and if you are planning a cross-border road trip, it is an absolute must.

• Where to Stay: Casa de Esteiro

16. Praia de Benagil

Benagil Beach is the postcard darling of the best beaches in Portugal. You enter by boat or kayak through a low opening in the cliff face, revealing a vast sea cave with limestone walls stretching up and a single hole in the cave roof where you can see a circle of blue sky and a beam of natural light.

Benagil Beach is one of the country’s most famous ‘hidden’ coves and is world-renowned as one of the most beautiful beaches you can ever visit. It is easy to see why. And you won’t struggle to organize a visit thanks to its popularity. Book a boat tour or rent a kayak and brave the experience yourself.

Having a list of the prettiest beaches in Portugal without mentioning Benagil is impossible. This beach is stunning, even if it is super popular. Our advice? Visit in the low season or, in the worst case scenario, shoulder season so the crowds don’t ruin it.

• Where to Stay: Terracos de Benagil 20

17. Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara

Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara is one of the best beaches in Portugal. That is if you are willing to venture out from the standard southern Portugal holidays and out to the Portuguese islands off the coastline and in the vast Atlantic Ocean. These tiny Azores islands are scattered near each other and are accessible by boat or plane. Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara is located in Sao Miguel, one of the largest. This beach has striking black sand and is one of the most dramatic beaches in Portugal. It is popular for surfers, but be careful as it occasionally has Portuguese Man of War jellyfish – famously painful and poisonous. You can walk along the sands and try to spot them or enjoy sunbathing with the novelty of a black sand beach.

How to get to the beach: Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara is easy to reach if you stay locally and within walking distance of Santa Barbara village. Otherwise, you can quickly drive around Sao Miguel island.

• Where to Stay: Casa Areal de Santa Bárbara

18. Praia de Alpertuche

Praia de Alpertuche is a sandy beach only accessible by a scenic hiking trail and situated in the stunning Arrábida Natural Park near the tiny town of Portinho da Arrábida. If you want pristine waters and zero crowds, it is the best beach in the region – this spot is seriously off-the-beaten-track. Its tiny layout is the perfect slice of quiet natural beauty, and the golden sand is typical of Portugal’s Atlantic Ocean coastline. Bring your beach gear and refreshments, as facilities are non-existent. But the rural allure is well worth the extra effort. This beach is a winner for an adventurous day out, and visit Arrábida Natural Park.

How to get to the beach: Praia de Alpertuche is best accessed by car and foot for the final hiking trail section. It is only around an hour away from Lisbon, which is a solid plus.

• Where to Stay: Quinta da Arrabida

Best Beaches in Portugal: FAQs

These gorgeous beaches are all incredible in their individual ways. In the warmer summer months, you’ll see these beautiful beaches in their best light. Before you visit these top beaches in Portugal, though, check out these top FAQs.

Which part of Portugal has the best beaches?

The Algarve region is famous for beaches and undeniably has some of the most striking beaches in Portugal – despite the crowds in summer months. The Algarve is where you’ll find cave beaches and reddest sea cliffs.

Where is the prettiest beach in Portugal?

Praia de Benagil is a stunning beach hidden under a cavern on the Algarve. It is widely known as one of the prettiest beaches in Portugal.

Can I swim on Portugal beaches?

Yes, you can swim at many of the Portugal beaches. Just watch for lifeguard towers and beach flag systems, and avoid swimming at the surfing beaches where waves are typically too rough for swimmers.

Where are the sandy beaches in Portugal?

There are sandy beaches all over Portugal, especially in the Algarve region. You won’t struggle to find a golden sand beach to kick back on.

To Conclude

These best beaches in Portugal are perfect for the beach day of a lifetime. Portugal’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world, and you’ll massively appreciate the striking views and unique settings – especially with its cave beaches. It is worth noting how the time of year impacts your beach experience in Portugal. In the summer months, most beaches get packed with visitors and locals alike and have electric energy. Shoulder seasons like September and October are much better, offering high temperatures but fewer crowds if you don’t want a party vibe.

Make sure to try some  traditional Portuguese food  in between beach hopping. And remember to explore some slightly more inland villages and towns like  Obidos  or  Sao Miguel  rather than just sticking to significant coastal hotspots and resorts. A big part of contributing to sustainable tourism is actively dispersing the tourist impact and investing in economies outside the ‘tourist areas’, many of which are solely profited by offshore companies. Visit the smaller towns and villages, and seek more authentic experiences – you’ll leave a more sustainable impact and get more traditional, less busy attractions. It’s a win-win and definite food for thought.

Plan Your Next Trip to Portugal with These Resources

• 14 Best Things to Do in Sintra, Portugal
• 19 Best Things to Do In Lagos, Portugal
• Portuguese Food: 26 Traditional Dishes to try in Portugal or at home
• 20 Best Cities in Portugal to Visit
• How to Spend a Layover in Lisbon, Portugal
• 17 Best Things To Do in Guimarães, Portugal in 2024

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Portugal

Portugal is home to some truly epic beach scenery. The popular Algarve region in the south of the country is renowned for its golden sands studded with incredible cliffs and rock formations, while the wilder Atlantic shores sport rolling waves perfect for surfers.

But which are the best beaches to make a beeline for?

Here are 10 of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, from the Insta-worthy sea caves of Benagil and the postcard-worthy fishing village of Carvoeiro to the striking waterfront chapel of Miramar, and unusual red cliffs at Falesia.

Praia de Marinha

There are so many beautiful beaches in the Algarve that it’s difficult to know where to start. So why not start with one of Portugal’s most iconic beaches – Praia de Marinha .

Surrounded by golden limestone cliffs and accessed by stairs from the car park and walking trail, the sand is soft, the water is clear, and there are plenty of caves and sea stacks to explore.

Praia da Arrifana

For a taste of Big Nature head to the western shores of the Algarve where tourism takes a backseat to the wind and the waves.

The pretty clifftop village of Arrifana has managed to retain its local character whilst its huge beach attracts surfers and outdoorsy-types year-round.

Praia Dona Ana

Praia Dona Ana has an incredibly photogenic setting and some of the best rock formations in the Algarve. The cliffs provide shelter from the sun and wind.

It’s one of the more popular beaches in the area thanks to its proximity to the roads and hotels of Lagos (2.5km), so visit out of season to appreciate its true beauty.

Praia Do Camilo

One of the most recognisable symbols of Algarve tourism are the wooden steps leading down to Praia do Camilo , one of Lagos’ best beaches.

Camilo has plenty of unusual rock formations and beautiful translucent water, but being just a 30-minute walk from the centre of town it does get busy, particularly when the tide is high.

Praia de Benagil

Portugal’s other blockbuster beach site – Benagil – is famous for its incredible sea-caves. The beach itself is a wedge of white sand stuck between impressive cliffs.

From the beach, you can take a boat trip to the beach-in-a-cave which has a unique hole in its roof.

The beach is accessed by a steep road from the small fishing village of Benagil which is also a popular spot for cliff-jumping and hiking.

Praia Do Carvoeiro

The fishing village of Carvoeiro is surely the most picturesque in the Algarve with its colourful houses tumbling down the cliffs to a beautiful sandy beach.

Now a popular resort firmly on the tourist radar, it can get very crowded in the height of summer but there are plenty of quieter beaches and caves nearby for exploration.

Praia Da Miramar

Representing the stretch of Atlantic Coast near to Porto is the photogenic Praia de Miramar .

A wide sandy beach, its central attraction is the small 17th-century chapel Senhor da Pedra (‘Lord of the Rock’) which lends it a mystical air, particularly in the winter.

The beach is pleasantly crowd-free for most of the year.

Praia de Falesia

The beach of Falesia is backed by striking red cliffs that extend along the coast for over 6km, which have eroded over the years leaving orangey sands.

There’s something for everyone along this beach. The Albufeira end is known for its nightlife and watersports.

The sea is shallow and ideal for children, whereas nature-lovers can take long walks along the beach (it will take around 2 hours to walk the length of) or the clifftop trail admiring the unusual flora.

Praia Do Carvalho

Another one of the Algarve’s beauty spots, Carvalho is a good bet if you’re looking for a quieter beach along this stretch of coastline.

It’s no surprise it used to be a smugglers’ cove – the sumptuous sands are still tricky to access through hidden tunnels and stairs in the rocks.

Pack your own picnic are there here are no facilities or restaurants here.

Praia Da Ursa

Many visitors to Portugal visit the fairytale palaces of Sintra, but few know that the area is home to some stunning beaches.

Close to the most westerly point in Europe, you’ll have to walk for 1hr to reach it but Ursa Beach (named for a rock formation which resembles a bear) rewards you with its pristine wild beauty.

You might also like:

Where to Stay in the Algarve: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide

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Where to find the Clearest Turquoise Seas and Best Sandy Beaches in Europe

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Image credits: Praia de Marinha © ploosy / Adobe Stock, Arrifana © Nataraj / Adobe Stock, Dona Ana © Fernando Batista / Adobe Stock, Camilo © samael334 / Adobe Stock, Benagil © cristovao31 / Adobe Stock, Carvoeiro © sergojpg / Adobe Stock, Miramar © adamzoltan / Adobe Stock, Falesia © sergojpg / Adobe Stock, Carvalho © Simon Dannhauer / Adobe Stock, Ursa © alexanderkonsta / Adobe Stock

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21 Best Beach Towns in Portugal: Surrender to Seaside Bliss

LOOKING FOR PORTUGAL’S BEST BEACH TOWNS?

You’re in the right place as we are about to list the best beach towns in Portugal. Portugal is a country renowned for its coastline. From surfers to sunbathers to partygoers, with nearly 1,800 kilometers of coast, the beaches of this country are an undeniable attraction. 

I know that’s true for me. When deciding where to live, one of my criteria was to be within striking distance of water. I now have Sesimbra, Costa da Caparica, and many more world class beaches , all an easy day trip out my front door.

But there is always more to explore. Here are just twenty of the best beach towns in Portugal .

21 Best Beach Towns in Portugal

1. cascais, for its cosmopolitan vibe and historic mansions.

Cascais is a lively resort town on the west coast of Lisbon, just 30 km (about 20 miles) and easily accessed by public transport.

The beaches in Cascais offer calm waters, which are easy to swim and play around in, and waves for surfing — some of the beaches make the perfect place for beginners or kids to try surfing for the first time. Praia da Rainha is a great beach to explore and a short walk from town.

Beyond the beaches, Cascais is a beautiful town with much to do and see. There are a variety of museums and art galleries, like Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães, where you can explore what was once a private summer residence of the 1st Count of Castro Guimarães. 

One of the best Portugal beach towns, Cascais also offers beautiful outdoor spaces, such as Marechal Carmona Park , where you can spot peacocks. On top of that, Cascais is known for its gastronomy and is home to various good restaurants, including some top seafood choices. 

BEST BEACH TOWNS IN PORTUGAL

2. costa da caparica, for its beaches and popular surf spots.

If you’re looking for a great spot to surf in Portugal, Costa da Caparica is it. There are consistently good waves here, but they don’t often grow too large or challenging. The beach goes on and on for what seems to be an endless stretch of 15 km of coastline.

Costa can be broken down into sections.   (1️⃣) First is the downtown region , in the town itself there is a great deal of holiday accommodation available, lots of spots to shop, and plenty of eating and drinking. For great, fresh fish in an unpretentious local atmosphere, check out XS Lounge Beach Bar.

Then we have the (2️⃣) area of São João de Caparica , one of the more chic areas of Costa. You’ll find Praia de São João, another great surf beach here. You’ll also find various beach bars like the famous Classico Beach Bar or the less pretentious Pé Nu Beach Club .

Finally, if you head (3️⃣) south down the Estrada Florestal and away from town, you’ll be met by kilometers of unspoiled beaches and beach bars, like the famous Irmão and Princesa . You can reach these bars by car, bus, or scooter (like Lime or Bolt ).

Love kitesurfing? Located around 10 km (6 miles) from downtown Costa da Caparica is Fonte da Telha, the perfect spot to kitesurf. After you’re done, make sure to grab a bite at Kailua Fonte da Telha — my favorite spot for lunch and drinks on the beach.

3. Nazaré, for the world-record giant waves and surfing mecca

Nazaré is known worldwide for its giant waves, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Portugal. The largest wave ever surfed in Nazaré was over 26 meters, or 86 feet high — the largest wave ever surfed anywhere in the world. 

While Nazaré always has waves, they are not always quite so big. The best time to see the waves is usually in November and December , but the big waves can also come earlier in fall or spring — check the surf report to see what to expect.

Regardless of the waves’ size, the Farol da Nazaré, or the Nazaré lighthouse , is a great spot for views across the beach and the bay and any surfers who may be out there.

Long before the surfers moved in, Nazaré was already a thriving fishing town — and it still has an active fishing community, so you can be sure to get some of the freshest seafood at one of the best restaurants in town.

🐠 Check out Rosa dos Ventos for grilled fish and catch of the day or Maria do Mar for a traditional fish stew.

4. Ericeira, for its World Surfing Reserve status and old-town charm

Another surfer’s paradise in Portugal, Ericeira is home to Europe’s only World Surf Reserve , making parts of its beaches and oceans a protected surf spot.

And while that beach provides an incredible opportunity for a consistent wave to surf, non-surfers also have plenty of options. Praia dos Pescadores has calm waters and is convenient to downtown, making it a great choice for casual bathers and waders.

Beyond the beaches, you’ll find a lovely town with cobblestone streets and whitewashed walls. Wander along the Largo das Ribas for great views off the cliff tops and down to the beaches and the sea. 

🌊🏄‍♀️ Travel tip: If you are interested in surfing, many surf schools cater to both beginners and advanced surfers. Ericeira has various beaches that are perfect for every level of surfer. But if you aren’t a surfer, don’t fret. You can hike, bike, paddle-board, or eat at one of the many of the town’s restaurants .

5. Tavira, for its historic architecture and unique island beach

Tucked away next to Spain and on the Gulf of Cádiz, you’ll find long stretches of sand and small, secluded beaches like Praia da Ilha de Tavira . The clear waters are calm and ever so slightly warmer than off the Atlantic coast of Portugal.

Tavira, often called The City of Churches, has an impressive 20 churches for those drawn to architectural wonders. Many of these historic landmarks date back to the 13th century and exhibit a harmonious blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

In addition to its historical and natural attractions, including a Roman bridge, Tavira has managed to retain its traditional charm and authentici ty. If you are looking for a quiet beach vacation, Tavira is a beautiful coastal town that could be the perfect fit.

Plus, if you’re into seafood, this is also one of the best beach areas in Portugal as it has some amazing, fresh offerings on the local menu daily. Check out the classics served up right by the water at A Barquinha.

⭐️ Tavira is known as one of the best beach towns in Portugal to live in , especially for families. Many foreign families call Tavira home for various reasons, including Colégio Santiago Internacional , a private  international school .

6. Lagos, for dramatic cliffs and the iconic Praia Dona Ana

For a larger beach town in Portugal with a bit more to do during both the day and night , check out the Algarve’s Lagos. The beaches are incredible, with steep, rocky backdrops plunging down to bright stretches of sand. 

The main beach, Praia Dona Ana , is a beautiful sandy beach within walking distance from Lagos’s old town. The famous Algarve cliffs back the beach, and the water is gorgeous and clear. Another fabulous spot is Praia dos Estudantes, or Student’s Beach , where you’ll emerge from a rock tunnel onto a small, sandy beach tucked into the cliffside.

Make sure also to take a boat trip by the iconic natural wonder of Ponta da Piedade. These rock formations have been carved grottos, caves, and arches that jut out from the ocean, creating one of the most beautiful places.

Away from the beaches, Lagos has a fantastically cozy Old Town. The best activity might be to put away the phone and the map and just get lost. If you do that, you’ll likely stumble upon secret corners and hotspots like the fish market and the unmistakable city walls.

⭐️ Lagos is one of the coastal towns in Portugal that has a little bit of everything: great nightlife, a thriving food scene, gorgeous natural scenery, and top-notch hotels . It also is one of the best beach towns in Southern Portugal for foodies.

7. Comporta, for its celebrity-approved, tranquil sandy stretches 

Comporta is gorgeous. Located just south of Lisbon, driving to Comporta is a distance of about 120 km or 75 miles due to the Sado Estuary, which has a ferry crossing but no bridge. 

It is amazing to see an area still so wild and virtually untouched despite many A-list visitors and investors. Did you know Christian Louboutin, Monica Bellucci, and Carla Bruni have properties here? And I can see why. 

Praia da Comporta is an immense stretch of sand just outside of town. The water is calm, so it’s great for swimmers of all levels. But there is often also a good breeze, making it a great spot for kitesurfers. If you are not into water sports, you can also go horseback riding along the beach. 

One of the best Portugal beach towns near Lisbon, another great alternative activity in Comporta is to take a boat ride down the river in the Tróia peninsula and see how many local dolphins you can spot. 

8. Peniche, for surfing waves and the gateway to Berlengas islands

Peniche sits on a tiny peninsula jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, about halfway between Lisbon and Nazaré. The small town has long, sandy coves, gorgeous surf breaks, and beautiful fishing spots. 

Check out Baleal Island, which was once an island, though it’s now connected to the mainland through the natural and rare phenomenon of a tombolo — a landform that slowly develops to connect to a land mass. On the island, you can catch stunning sunsets and watch the surfers throughout the day.

Farther out to sea is Berlengas Nature Reserve , a group of small islands with virtually unspoiled natural environments. There is a daily ferry from Peniche to Berlenga from May to October. While you can organize private transport outside of those months, you’ll want to make sure you’re ready for what may be quite a rough ride. 

Once you go inland from the beaches, Peniche is a very sleepy town with little going on. But one place you can visit is the Fortaleza de Peniche . Nevertheless, don’t expect big parties, but you can still grab a drink at a spot like Bar Três As — which stays open until 2 am.

9. Porto Covo, for its picturesque cove beaches and village serenity

If you’re looking for Portugal as it once was, this may be as close as you’ll get from a beach town. The whitewashed buildings, once just a sleepy fisherman’s village, make up the tranquil town – which still has plenty of fishermen. 

While you still won’t find Mediterranean water temperatures, the sea around Porto Covo is noticeably warmer than other beaches in Portugal. Porto Covo is a great space for beachgoers who want to spend most of their days in the water. One of the best beaches is Praia da Samoqueira , where natural rock pools form at low tide.

10. Vila Nova de Milfontes, for its riverside setting and historic castle views

Sitting along the Alentejo coastline, about halfway between Lisbon and Lagos , Vila Nova de Milfontes is one of the best coastal towns for families.

Its beaches have calm waters — and sitting at the mouth of the Mira River, it has sea and riverfront beaches. One of those river beaches is Praia da Franquia, which is super close to the sea, but because it is on the river, it’s the perfect spot for activities like kayaking or SUPing.

The town is tiny, with a population barely reaching past 5,000. But especially in summertime, it has plenty to offer. Check out the delicious seafood at Pátio Alentejano or grab a drink at Statera Milfontes – Cocktail Bar.

And of course check out the castle (sometimes referred to as a fort) — castle of Vila Nova de Milfontes. Built in the early 17th century the fort has been well preserved over the years and offers great views of the surrounding area. 

11. Olhão, for its bustling fresh seafood markets 

Olhão sits at the southerlymost point of mainland Portugal and can trace its roots back to Moorish times. Parts of the town are made up of barrier islands that can only be reached by ferry — each ride takes 10 to 40 minutes and ensures that the island beaches stay relatively quiet and crowd-free. 

Praia da Ilha da Culatra is one of those islands, with a small town, a few permanent residents, and beautiful pristine beaches — it is also home to 🦪 oyster farms. There are no cars on the island, and generally, credit cards are not accepted, so come prepared to take your day very slowly.

With this slow pace of life and so much easy access to the sea, it’s unsurprising that Olhão is sometimes considered the Algarve’s fishing capital. So, one of the best things to do in Olhão is to visit the amazing, bustling seafood market that sells fresh catches — the Mercado de Olhao seafood market.

⭐️ Fun fact: This particular mercado is the biggest in the Algarve and is rumored to have been designed by Gustave Eiffel, the mastermind behind the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty 🗽.

12. Câmara de Lobos, for its picturesque bay and historic fishing traditions

Off of Portugal’s mainland, on the south coast of the island of Madeira , just west of Funchal, is Câmara de Lobos. The town was the first to be settled on the island and is still rich with history to this day.

🐠 It’s a very active small fishing village in Portugal, and if you’re up early, head down to the docks to watch the fishermen come in with their colorful boats and catches of the day.

The specialty is scabbard — a white fish with a taste similar to, though sweeter than, haddock. If you’re curious, try a plate at Restaurante Vila Da Carne . This is also a great place to have a poncha if you dare.

13. Figueira da Foz, for its beaches and vibrant watersports culture

For convenient beachgoing, Figueira da Foz can’t be beat with its city beach right downtown. That beach is Buarcos Beach, which is a wide expanse of sand that easily fills up with umbrellas during peak summer sunshine.

As well as the sandy bits, there is a paved path that you can promenade along or use for cycling or rollerblading.  The area is also very popular for its array of watersports. This is a great place to pick up a surfboard, learn, or practice. There’s also great kitesurfing as well as windsurfing here . 

In addition to the beaches, Figueira da Foz has a lot to offer. It’s a larger city home to the oldest casino on the Iberian peninsula, Casino Figueira. You can visit for a gamble, a meal, or to take in a bit of history (recently refurbished).  

14. Ponta Delgada, for its volcanic landscapes 

Ponta Delgada is the main city of the main island of the Azores — São Miguel. As it’s a volcanic island, you’ll find a lot of dark or black sand beaches and many with larger pebbles or stones. Just outside Ponta Delgada, Milicias Beach is a great place to hang out. There’s a playground for smaller kids and spots for volleyball, football, and skating. 

Ponta Delgada has some perfect surfing waves. Amazingly, even though it’s smack dab in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the currents are such that the waters just off the coast are surprisingly temperate and pleasant to swim in.

15. Costa Nova, for its iconic candy-striped beach houses

Another great spot for surfing, Costa Nova is considered one of the best beaches in Portugal (in the North). This is due to the long sand stretches and the gorgeous painted houses beside it.  

While the stretches of beach facing the ocean are gorgeous and amazing for a long walk or an opportunity to sunbathe, the waters can be rough , so if you’re not after a wave to surf, you might consider turning inland instead to the estuary where the wind and waves are calmer.

This area is also great for bird watching—some birds to look out for include herons and storks. And if you’d like, the city of Aveiro, also known as the Venice of Portugal, is 11 kilometers (around 6.8 miles) away.

16. Ferragudo, for its picture-perfect fishing village and riverside charm

Ferragudo sits at the mouth of the Arade River as it spills into the ocean and is considered one of the prettiest towns in the Algarve region, and for a good reason. Though it’s no longer the most popular spot in the Algarve, it was the first area to be developed for tourism.

That’s because it has some phenomenal beaches. Check out Praia da Rocha , an expanse of sand with jagged cliffs jutting out, punctuating the smooth beach. Or Praia da Angrinha is actually a river beach, though only a mere stone’s throw from the ocean. 

In town, you’ll find loads of eating and drinking options and a pretty decent amount of nightlife. Head to Praça Rainha Dona Leonor, the central square, to see what takes your fancy. 

17. Albufeira, for its lively nightlife and golden Algarve beaches

Albufeira is one of the largest towns in the Algarve and has spectacular beaches backed by sheer red cliffs. One of the best places for sunbathing is Praia da Falesia, which is nearly 7 km (4miles) long.

But that isn’t the only beach in this Southern Portugal city—all along the coastline, loads of rocky outcrops, coves, and sand dunes are itching to be explored. The famous Benagil Cave and the spectacular scenery of Praia da Marinha are also not too far away.

In town, there is a lot to do. Old Town is packed with shops and cafes and is absolutely rammed come evening with vibrant, raucous nightlife. Check out Legends Bar for a real party or Casa do Cerro for something more chill. Or you can explore the narrow streets and get lost.

If you want to head out on the water, Albufeira is a great place to set off for dolphin-watching tours.

⭐️ Travel tip: Albufeira is absolutely nuts in the summer months. This small city of around 40,000 residents welcomes over 500,000 visitors in two months. It is one of the best Portugal coastal towns to visit during the shoulder seasons (May, June, September, or October).

18. Viana Do Castelo, for its historic architecture and scenic views

Viana do Castelo is all the way up north in Portugal, just a short drive to the Spanish border. It is home to beautiful fine sand beaches, and several of the town’s beaches have been awarded the Blue Flag award , meaning they are both safe and meet high environmental standards. 

Check out Praia do Cabedelo, where kitesurfing is a favorite pastime, but just laying on the beach is just as easy and appealing. 

In the town center, there is plenty to explore. Check out the imposing Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus ( Santuário de Santa Luzia ) and the magnificent views from its rooftop.

19. Sesimbra, for its seafood and family-friendly beaches

The beaches are walking from the town, like Praia da Califórnia where you can quickly pop from restaurant and bar to sand and sea.

While the town’s beaches are great, if you want to explore the area a bit you’ll find absolute gems like Ribeira do Cavalo Beach , just about three kilometers away. 

Along with beaches, Sesimbra is known for its watersports and natural beauty, thanks to its proximity to Arrabida National Park. Covering an area of over 100 square kilometers, the park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, with unique flora and fauna that can’t be found elsewhere in the region — it is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Portugal.

Its rugged limestone hills and dense Mediterranean vegetation make it a special spot for nature lovers. The park offers rock climbing , hiking , and mountain biking opportunities . At the same time, its coastal location allows for kayaking , scuba diving , snorkeling, and coasteering adventures departing from the Sesimbra marina. 

Hungry? Sesimbra’s restaurants are reliably good for fresh seafood. Check out O Rodinhas and try the shrimp. Or sit at the more rustic Tasca Do Isaías and order whatever’s on the menu that day.

20. Odeceixe, for its dramatic cliff-lined beach and serene river setting 

Odeceixe, located right next to the Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina natural park, has a unique geography , which gives it both river beaches, a calm sea cove, and an open ocean with great surfing waves.

This makes it a popular destination for families, surfers, paddleboarders, or those who want to relax in the sun. So if you are looking for one of the best beach towns in Portugal for families, you’ve found it.

You’ll find it all in Odeceixe Mar Beach (Praia de Odeceixe). It’s a peninsula of sand tha t touches the river, the horseshoe cove, and the open ocean. Low tide is a perfect time for swimming with smaller kids as the waves fall back quite a ways, and you can swim in the shallows. 

⛱️ Looking for a nudist beach? Praia das Adegas is the ideal place as it is the official  nude beach by Odeceixe, Aljezur (Costa Vicentina, Algarve, Portugal). It’s the best beach in Portugal if you want to go au natural.

21. Sagres, for its dramatic cliffs and one of the world’s best sunsets

Want to watch the best sunset in Portugal? Head to Sagres.

The small town sits at Portugal’s southwest tip, jutting into the ocean. During the Middle Ages, Sagres and the nearby Cape St. Vincent (Cabo de São Vicente) were often called the End of the World because they represented the westernmost point of the known European world. 

One of the more protected beaches is Praia do Martinhal, which sits on the east side of the peninsula. The water is crystal clear and the beach is large and not often very busy. 

Beyond the sandy beaches, make sure to explore the Sagres lighthouse and fortress, both of which have amazing views in all directions.

Best Beach Towns in Portugal: FAQs

Where is the best beach town in Portugal?

The best beach town in Portugal is often considered to be Lagos , located in the Algarve region. It is renowned for its stunning coastline, historic charm, and vibrant atmosphere that caters to relaxation and adventure seekers.

Lagos offers a mix of picturesque coves, dramatic cliff landscapes, and wide sandy stretches like Meia Praia, making it a top choice for beach enthusiasts.

But in the end, the best coastal towns in Portugal really depend on your specific taste. Portugal’s coastline is 1,794 kilometers (1,115 miles) long , including the mainland, Azores, and Madeira archipelagos. So there are plenty of Portugal beach cities to explore.

What part of Portugal has the nicest beaches?

The Algarve region is home to some of the nicest beach towns in Portugal , boasting a spectacular array of beautiful beaches known for their clear waters and golden sands.

What is the nicest beach town near Lisbon?

Cascais is the coastal town near Lisbon, often acclaimed as the nicest. It offers a charming blend of picturesque scenery, cultural heritage, and beautiful beaches, such as Praia da Ribeira.

Cascais is also renowned for its sophisticated marina, elegant 19th-century architecture, and lively town center with quality restaurants and shops. It is a perfect seaside escape just a short train ride from Portugal’s capital.

What is the most expensive beach town in Portugal?

Cascais is widely regarded as the most expensive beach town in Portugal. Its proximity to Lisbon, high quality of life, luxury properties, and status as a cosmopolitan retreat for the affluent contribute to its premium real estate prices and cost of living.

What is the best beach town between Porto and Lisbon?

Between Porto and Lisbon, Nazaré, Peniche, and Aveiro are some of the best beach towns.

Nazaré is famous for its gigantic waves and traditional fishing culture. Aveiro charms visitors with its canals, Art Nouveau buildings, and soft sandy beaches nearby, like Praia da Barra and Costa Nova. Both offer unique coastal experiences with beautiful scenery and rich local traditions.

Lastly, there is Peniche. Although the city doesn’t have much to do, the Island of Baleal and the connection to the Berlengas Islands make it a top choice.

Where is the warmest beach water in Portugal?

The warmest beach water in Portugal is typically found in the Algarve region , in the southernmost part of the country. The Mediterranean influences the sea temperature here, making it warmer than the waters off the west coast.

Beaches like Praia da Rocha or Praia de Albufeira often have the warmest waters, ideal for swimming and water sports.

Final Thoughts: Best Beach Towns in Portugal

You’ll find a beach whether you want to head north, south, or anywhere between. Portugal is absolutely bursting with them.

Many of these beach towns have great accommodations and ample options for eating and drinking, making all of them perfect for a day trip or a long, extended vacation. Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen , but otherwise — go out and enjoy those waves and bask in that sunshine!

My name is Caitlin. I am from Vermont, USA. I have lived in Setúbal, Portugal since 2021. I work as a writer and editor as well as a teacher. Outside of work I love horseback riding, hiking, and exploring new places around the globe. I write about my travels at The Country Jumper.

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With more than 300 days of sun a year and over 1500 kilometers of Atlantic ocean coastline, Portugal has countless golden sand beaches, some of the best beaches in the world. From calm clear waters and sheltered bays, as well as large beaches with large waves perfect to surf, Portugal has a beach for everyone. Wherever you are along the coastline of Portugal, we have selected the 20 best beaches throughout mainland Portugal, as well as the archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores so that you can enjoy a wonderful beach day. Summer is coming up so get your bathing suit ready and keep this list handy to explore some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal!

1. Praia do Almograve, Alentejo

Located in the quaint village of Almograve, Praia do Almograve is a long golden sand beach along the Sudoeste Alentejano and Costa Vicentina Natural Park. One of the best beaches in Alentejo, Almograve features the Sardao Cape to the South, offering views of the coastline and inaccessible and natural beaches. A beach that is never filled with tourists, Praia do Almograve is one of the best beaches in all of Portugal, providing the perfect balance between a large beach with stunning waves and a calm environment. The beach is closed off in the extremities by cliffs, making it a great spot for windy days. After a relaxing morning on the beach, walk a few minutes to the Almograve village where there are plenty of traditional Portuguese restaurants serving affordable lunches.

Guide to the Alentejo

2. Praia de Moledo, Caminha

Located in Northern Portugal, Praia de Moledo in Caminha has been a popular beach since the 20th century, having been frequented by politicians and families of the Portuguese elite. While many head to the south of Portugal in the summer, Caminha’s beach is not second-best but rather less crowded by tourists, making it one of the best beaches for those looking to run from the crowds. With optimal conditions for watersports such as surf, bodyboard, and windsurf, as well as its therapeutic features such as the high amount of iodine, Praia de Moledo does not disappoint. In front of the beach on an island only accessible by boat, you can find the Insua Fort, built in the 17th century.

Guide to Northern Portugal

3. Praia da Aguda, Sintra

Praia da Aguda is located close to Praia Grande in  Sintra and is one of the most beautiful beaches in Lisbon that is less known to tourists. Around a 45-minute drive from Lisbon, take a snap of the ocean and the cliffs before you head down to the beach. To get to the sand, you need to go down a 230-step staircase down a cliff which introduces you to the stunning blue ocean views. The way back up is a bit of a workout so this is not the right beach for those with limited mobility. Praia da Aguda is also listed as an unofficial nude beach by the Portuguese Naturist Federation so expect to see the occasional nudist.

Guide to Naturist & Nudist Beaches in Portugal

4. Praia do Alvor, Algarve

Praia do Alvor is one of the most well-known beaches in the region of the Algarve in the south of Portugal. The beach is composed of fine white sand and stretches over 3.5 kilometers, featuring a long boardwalk that guides to gorgeous dunes and the Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve. You can find a beautiful lagoon behind the beach, formed by the river of Alvor where you can enjoy some windsurfing, kayaking, and more. The beach is located in Alvor, a historic fishing village that has now been modernized with hotel complexes and lively bars. You will also find several restaurants close to the beach, as well as bathrooms, showers, and a lifeguard station.

Guide to the Algarve

5. Praia de Troia-Mar, Troia

Praia de Troia-Mar  is located in the peninsula of Troia and is one of the only beaches in Portugal that most resembles a tropical getaway. This beach offers a gorgeous view of the Serra da Arrabida, has clear waters, and white sand like a tropical oasis. Praia de Troia-Mar is one of the best beaches to spot dolphins and the water temperature is much warmer than in other parts of the country at around 19.5°C in the summer. You can also enjoy some windsurfing, beach volleyball, and football in the designated areas. 

6. Praia da Franquia, Alentejo

Located in Vila Nova de Milfontes in the Alentejo, Praia da Franquia is one of the most sheltered beaches in the area, making it popular for canoeing, paddle, and windsurfing. This small beach has a long tradition of being a popular one in the area, being featured in literature since the 19th century. One of the best beaches for families with children, as well as water sports lovers, Praia da Franquia is rarely full of tourists and offers a relaxing beach day without too much commotion. Its located close to the town, as well as features several facilities such as a lifeguard, bathrooms, and cafes.

7. Praia do Barril, Algarve

If you are planning on visiting the city of Tavira in the Algarve, you cannot miss Praia do Barril. The beach features a wooden path over golden sand which provides a gorgeous contrast with the dark blue waters. Due to the large size of the beach, you will rarely feel like it’s too busy, despite its popularity. Praia do Barril features over 100 rusting anchors in the sand, presented in rows known as the “Anchor Cemetary” to represent the remains of the former tuna fishing village. The beach next to Praia do Barril is called Praia do Homem Nu and is a popular nudist beach in the Algarve, particularly with the LGBT+ community.

Guide to Tavira

8. Praia da Comporta, Setubal

Comporta is a popular vacation town in Setubal for families all over the country, but particularly Lisbon locals due to its close proximity and incredible beaches. Praia da Comporta is part of the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, having its dune vegetation preserved, as well as the nearby pine forest. The 12-kilometer beach features high-quality facilities such as an extensive parking lot, public toilets with showers, and wheelchair ramps. The beach has optimal conditions for kite surfing as plenty of competitions are hosted here.

9. Praia do Guincho, Cascais

If you know Cascais well, you know that the best beaches are not in the center, but rather around a 10-minute drive away. Praia do Guincho is by far the best beach on the Portuguese Riviera, boasting large Atlantic ocean waves known for surfing, even in the winter. The Guincho shoreline is around 1 kilometer, making it perfect for enjoyable walks on the beach. You can also enjoy some lunch and drinks at Bar do Guincho which has a beautiful view of the ocean and the cliffs. However, on this side of the bar, near the bar, the beach can get quite busy in the summer so we recommend parking your car near Estalagem Muchaxo and enjoying this side of the beach.

Guide to Cascais

10. Portinho da Arrabida, Setubal

Located in the Serra da Arrabida Natural Park in Setubal, Portinho Beach is a clear watered beach with white sands, as well as deep green hills. This beach features a bay that is suitable for diving and discovering marine life, while fishing is prohibited. Located in a former small fishing village, public transport is pretty much inexistent here which leads this beach to always be calm and never overcrowded. The beach features umbrellas to rent, as well as watercrafts and games. A 17th-century fort guards the beach which now hosts the Oceanographic Museum. You can also enjoy a Portuguese meal at the seafront restaurant called Beira Mar which serves quality seafood.

11. Praia da Ursa, Sintra

Praia da Ursa is a “wild beach” in  Sintra, meaning that there are no lifeguards on-site and the path to the beach is not an official one. This stunning beach is one of the best known in Sintra, but might not be suitable for families with small children due to the large waves, common in the Atlantic ocean. It is also not suitable for people with limited mobility as the path to the beach is also quite rough and can be unsafe, as you have to walk down a mountainous path that is not built for that purpose. However, the difficult walk is worth it. We recommend packing food and drinks, maybe even bringing a sun umbrella as there is no access to restaurants or cafes. This beach is rarely full and although it is not listed as a naturist beach , full nudity is common here.

Guide to Sintra

12. Praia do Porto do Seixal, Madeira

One of the best beaches on the island of Madeira, Praia do Porto do Seixal is a black sand beach worthy of being displayed on a travel postcard. A small beach, it features huge cliffs with a large green mountain, as well as a relaxing waterfall, providing a beautiful contrast with the black sand. A 40-minute drive from Funchal, the best way to get to Praia do Porto do Seixal is to rent a car  as you won’t be able to get here by bus.

Guide to Madeira

13. Praia de Miramar, Vila Nova de Gaia

Praia de Miramar is located in Vila Nova de Gaia, around a 20-minute drive from Porto. Featuring turquoise waters and golden sand, this beach does not get intense waves and is safe for the whole family, as well as perfect to enjoy some paddle. The beach is surrounded by luxury homes, located close to one of the oldest golf courses in Portugal. Due to its location, it boasts incredible facilities including sun umbrellas available for rental, bathrooms, and a bar.

14. Praia de Odeceixe, Algarve

Located in the municipality of Aljezur in the region of the Algarve, Praia de Odeceixe is known for its horseshoe pattern, as it is surrounded by the Ribeira de Seixe. The Ribeira de Seixe is a river that surrounds the 330-meter beach until it reaches the ocean. The contrast between the river and the ocean provides a beautiful image and allows visitors to choose where to bathe which is particularly useful when the waves are too strong. During low tide, many small lagoons appear in the sand, perfect for kids to play in. You will also find surf schools at the beach where you can rent a board or take some classes to get started.

15. Porto Santo Beach, Madeira

The best beaches in Madeira are often not located on the main island. Head to Porto Santo Beach, on an inhabited island of the archipelago to enjoy a day of sunbathing on this 9-kilometer-long golden beach. You can get to Porto Santo beach, around 40 kilometers away from the island, by booking this day trip from Funchal.   You will get to learn about the inhabited island in a small group of 15 people in a sightseeing minibus, as well as enjoy the beaches of the island. You can also take the official cruise to Porto Santo which costs €50 for a 2-hour trip.

16. Praia da Foz do Lizandro, Ericeira

Located in Ericeira, a 45-minute drive from Lisbon, Praia da Foz do Lizandro is the largest beach in Mafra. The river Lizandro flows through this beach onto the ocean, providing a warmer alternative to those who do not wish to swim in the colder more volatile sea. This beach has various modern bars, restaurants, and even a surf shop for renting boards and booking surf classes. You can also rent out sunbeds and beach umbrellas.

17. Praia do Meco, Sesimbra

Located in Sesimbra, Praia do Meco is a well-known 4-kilometer beach that today is an official naturist and nudist beach in Portuga l (only a part of the beach is designated for tourism), probably the most famous in the country. Back in the 70s when it had no road access, this beach became known when American, Swedish, and Dutch hippies discovered it. Around two decades later, this beach had turned into a vacation spot for the Lisbon elite, such as politicians and intellectuals.

18. Praia do Magoito, Sintra

Located in the village of Magoito in  Sintra , Praia do Magoito is a long golden sand beach with stunning waves that you must be careful with. Make sure to never go in the water when the “red flag” is up as this is extremely unsafe. The beach is mostly visited by locals from the village of Magoito and people that have lived in Sintra for a long time. You can enjoy a drink or a Portuguese lunch at the terrace restaurant at the entrance called Esplanada Duna Mar which has a hilltop view of the beach.

19. Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara, São Miguel Azores

Located on the magical island of Sao Miguel in the archipelago of the Azores, Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara is a 1-kilometer beach featuring mountainous cliffs and black sand and rock. Along with offering a relaxing day at the beach, Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara has various surf and bodyboard boards for rental as the beach has great conditions for water sports. The beach has several infrastructures such as parking places, showers, bathrooms, and restaurants.

Guide to Sao Miguel

20. Praia da Fonte da Telha, Costa da Caparica

Costa da Caparica is a 26-kilometer coastline through the western side of the Setubal peninsula. The most famous beach area for the Lisbon locals who cross the 25 of April bridge for some sunbathing, the beaches here tend to have warmer weather than in Cascais or Sintra. One of the best beaches in Costa da Caparica is Praia da Fonte da Telha a long golden beach that has multiple restaurants and bars playing music at sunset. Alternatively, visit Praia da Mata or Praia do Rei, as well as many others which will not disappoint you.

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14 Top-Rated Beaches in Portugal

Written by Paul Bernhardt Sep 14, 2020 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Portugal is blessed with 948 kilometers of Atlantic Ocean coastline. Much of the country enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate, and it boasts some of the finest beaches in Europe.

The most celebrated stretches of sand are found in southern Portugal's Algarve province . Here, the beaches range from those pocketed in peaceful coves, picture-framed by rusty-red cliffs, to vast, secluded dunes pummeled by thunderous Atlantic rollers. Beaches along the more remote west coast are the preserve of surfers and more independent-minded tourists.

Beaches dotted on the coast of central and northern Portugal also lure sunseekers, and many of the destinations here are wonderfully traditional in character and a great addition to a Portugal itinerary . Some have garnered a big-wave reputation.

During the busy summer months, lifeguards patrol most of Portugal's beaches. A raised checkered flag denotes that the beach is temporarily unsupervised. Beachgoers should also note that while a green flag means that bathing and swimming is permitted, a yellow flag forbids swimming, although paddling is allowed. Never enter the water when a red flag is hoisted. In addition, a coveted blue flag fluttering over the sand denotes the beach as environmentally friendly.

Pack your gear and pick a beautiful stretch of coast with our list of the best beaches in Portugal.

1. Camilo Beach

2. falésia beach, 3. amado beach, 4. quinta do lago beach, 5. martinhal beach, 6. guincho beach, 7. rocha beach, 8. nazaré beach, 9. comporta beach, 10. carcavelos beach, 11. canto marinho beach, 12. almograve beach, 13. ribeira do cavalo beach, 14. porto santo beach, map of beaches in portugal.

One of the prettiest beaches in southern Portugal, Camilo Beach lies near the lively seaside town of Lagos in the western Algarve . Hemmed in by sandstone cliffs and curiously formed rock formations, this delightful pocket of dazzling white sand is reached via a long wooden staircase that snakes down through a carpet of shrubby kermes oak and wrinkle-leaved rockrose.

Lapped by warm, shallow, turquoise waters favored by snorkelers, Praia do Camilo's tranquil setting exudes an air of peaceful exclusivity despite its proximity to some of the region's major resorts.

A small cliff-top restaurant serves sunbathers and tourists, where the menu is heightened by a fabulous panoramic sweep over the coastline between Lagos and distant Albufeira .

Stunningly picturesque, Falésia Beach shares a golden ribbon of sand nearly six kilometers in length in one of the most popular tourist areas in the Algarve .

East of Albufeira, Praia da Falésia is flanked by a line of amazing cliffs painted with rich earthy hues: burnt ochre, rust red, and gingerbread orange. Years of erosion have molded this sandstone belt with sinuous furrows and deep gullies as if ploughed by an industrious ogre.

A coastal path crowns the overhang and meanders through aromatic pine groves. Falésia's length is such that, even during high summer, you can find a quiet, uncrowded spot to relax and sunbathe.

Overlooking the beach are a number of prime oceanfront resorts which offers café and restaurant options to non residents.

Amado Beach is one of Portugal's premier surfing locations. Famed for its reliable and diversified waves, this beautiful half-moon strip of sand is banked by rolling dunes and falls within the boundaries of the protected Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina .

Typifying many of the beaches found along the Algarve's wild and capricious Atlantic Ocean west coast, Praia do Amado boasts several surf schools, some of which are open year-round. Indeed, the setting is the venue for prestigious national and international surfing competitions.

Remote and somewhat off the beaten track, Amado is not for the traditional resort-seeking tourist. Instead, this is a destination for independent, free-spirited travelers and those interested in the region's diverse flora and fauna.

Set in the heart of the internationally renowned Parque Natural da Ria Formosa , Quinta do Lago Beach - effectively a huge sand bar - is accessed by following a long, narrow, finger-like bridge across a brine-laced reed bed and then walking the boardwalk to the water's edge.

Much of the appeal of Praia da Quinta do Lago lies in the wealth of birdlife that calls this stretch of the Algarve home; the marshlands are home to numerous waders, and you can also usually observe graceful storks and flamingos.

The beach is impressive and bereft of commercialism, save for an excellent restaurant noted for its seafood choice. The nearby Quinta do Lago Hotel caters to an upmarket clientele and is just minutes away from San Lorenzo Golf Club , one of the most celebrated golf courses in Portugal and southern Europe.

Wonderfully secluded Martinhal Beach is a favorite destination for families in that it fronts the Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort Hotel , where food and drinks are available from chic oceanfront bistros.

Praia do Martinhal's beautifully soft and golden sand forms a natural bay, which is landmarked by scenic outcrops of limestone rock. Teeming with marine life, these islets make for excellent diving excursions. Swimming is safe, and there are plenty of water sports activities. When a north wind prevails, the more adventurous can windsurf .

Other things to do include beachcombing the walk to Sagres, a leisurely 30-minute amble west, and exploring the ruins of the Roman kilns situated east of the resort complex.

One of Europe's top windsurfing and kitesurfing destinations, Guincho Beach enjoys a spectacular location on the Lisbon coast, six kilometers northwest of the cheery resort town of Cascais.

Flanking the western edge of the Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais , Praia do Guincho's vast expanse of sand greets a thunderous Atlantic Ocean . Together with a near constant breeze, this wild and windy beach provides ideal conditions for surfers, windsurfers, and kitesurfers confident enough to harness nature's raw and often unpredictable power.

With little shelter from the elements, Guincho is not really a beach for tourists seeking solace under the sun. Nor is it particularly family focused. Instead, this is an adrenaline-packed choice for dedicated water sports enthusiasts .

One of the best-known beaches in Portugal, Praia da Rocha is named for the resort located near Portimão , the Algarve's second city. An impressive swathe of sand accessed by numerous boardwalks and walkways, Rocha is hugely popular with locals and tourists and is a favorite summer holiday destination.

The beach is accessed from the seafront avenue, a busy thoroughfare lined with hotels, cafés, restaurants, and other recreational facilities.

Interesting sightseeing diversions include the neighboring Portimão Marina and the Fortaleza de Santa Catarina fortress to the east of the beach, and the elevated viewpoint at Três Castelos at its far western end. This is where you can also admire mighty outcrops of sandstone rock (rocha means "rock" in Portuguese).

For a light lunch, pop along to the historic Bela Vista Hotel & Spa , built in 1918 and one of the first hotels in the region.

Long distinguished for its traditional character, the fishing port of Nazaré is blessed with a fantastic beach that draws sun worshippers to this lively town in central Portugal.

One celebrated visitor is American big-wave surfer Garrett McNamara , who rode a monster 30-meter (100-foot) wave here and surfed straight into the record books. That was over the Nazaré Canyon off Praia do Norte .

Most surfers and tourists, however, settle for the far tamer Nazaré Beach, a glorious band of sand that hugs the town's wide, mosaic patterned promenade. Sunbathers share Praia da Nazaré with fisher folk, who can be observed mending nets or arranging mackerel and sardines on wire racks to dry. The old-world charm is tangible.

Meanwhile, the esplanade is lined with plenty of authentic seafood restaurants, and shopping and sightseeing opportunities abound.

An hour's drive south of Lisbon, Comporta Beach exudes an appealing beach-shack vibe. Perched on the Tróia Peninsula - a slither of sand jutting out from the northwestern coastal reaches of Portugal's Alentejo province - this understated bolthole remains blissfully free from mass tourism.

Named for the charming little whitewashed village of Comporta , a gem of a place straddled over rice paddies and salt pans and where every chimneystack, it seems, has been commandeered by white storks, pristine Praia da Comporta is the preserve of a chic, more discerning crowd, as well as in-the-know surfers.

Here, thatched cabanas cling to shifting sand dunes and the bleached-wood restaurants punctuating the boardwalks surprise with their colorful and funky interiors.

Just 20 minutes west by train from central Lisbon, Carcavelos Beach is a hugely popular day excursion for locals and city-break travelers. With a near-two-kilometer shoreline of flawless sand, the beach is noted for its excellent leisure and water sports opportunities and, in particular, its surfing .

Providing a historical backdrop is the 16th-century Forte de São Julião da Barra , an imposing military stronghold still in use and sited at the eastern end of Praia de Carcavelos.

An excellent view is offered from the esplanade, which makes for a lovely walk at any time of year. Summertime sees the beach at its busiest though, especially at weekends and holiday periods when youngsters, family groups, and tourists converge here to escape the city heat.

Wild, windy, and captivating, Canto Marinho Beach is where to enjoy nature in all its glorious seclusion. Backed by dunes embroidered with marram grass and sea holly, the beach is fronted by banks of rock visible at low tide, which makes it unsuitable for swimmers but rewards others with a series of shallow pools suitable for paddling and beachcombing.

Most of all, Praia do Canto Marinho - in northern Portugal, not far from the historic city of Viana do Castelo - serves as a peaceful retreat for those seeking communion with the ocean well away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Indeed, the entire beach lies within a protected environmental zone. Leave only footprints!

Tucked away on the Alentejo coast halfway between Vila Nova de Milfontes and Zambujeira do Mar is this local secret that few tourists have discovered.

Often described as the most attractive stretch of sand in the region, Almograve Beach affords sunseekers a choice of two very different leisure areas: a beach to the south with a rocky shoreline set against a craggy cliff line, the other towards the north, molded out of undulating sand dunes.

This beach is a favorite hangout for surfers, but it's also a hit with families when the tide is out - the ankle-deep shallows provide an exciting seaside playground for youngsters.

Overlooking Praia do Almograve is a cliff-top café that provides light refreshments, and amenities include handy restrooms.

Isolated and better for it, this achingly attractive beach could be located in the Caribbean such is its exotic outlook and tropical veneer.

In fact, it's found at the base of a cove along the coastline of the protected Arrábida Natural Park, and can only be reached on foot or by boat.

This is probably how Mother Nature intended all beaches to look, a wedge of flaxen-hued sand lapped by crystalline water and hemmed in on three sides by a seemingly impenetrable mass of vegetation, itself clinging to some of the roughest cliffs in the region.

It's a steep hike down to the water's edge, and there's not a café or vehicle in sight! Furthermore, there is no lifeguard service in operation.

But if snorkeling in a secluded bay teeming with sealife is your idea of paradise, the effort to get here and the lack of amenities simply won't be a problem.

And here's a tip: Pack all you need in a waterproof bag and join a kayaking tour that includes Praia da Ribeira do Cavalo on the itinerary. It really is the only way to travel!

Moored off Madeira Island in the Atlantic Ocean is Porto Santo. Smaller and lesser known than its more illustrious neighbor, Porto Santo does however have an ace up its sleeve - the finest beach in the whole archipelago!

Praia do Porto Santo stretches for nine kilometers along just about the entire southwestern coast of the island. It's divided into five smaller beaches, each with a name.

The golden sand, organic in origin, is blended in areas with a concentration of detritus from the erosion of volcanic rocks to lend the beach an odd yellow and black two-tone appearance in places. The sand is believed to have therapeutic properties that help relieve all sorts of aches and pains.

A number of low-key resorts, restaurants, cafés, and boutiques flank the beach, which as you can imagine is a favorite destination with sunseekers during the summer months.

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updated 10.06.2024

Most visitors think the best beaches Portugal has are always in the Algarve . But the country's coast stretches for 1,700km and there are plenty of beautiful beaches in less touristy areas. In fact, beaches are one of the reasons Portugal is a new entry in our list of most beautiful countries in the world . But which beaches really are the best in Portugal? Here's our pick of 10 top beaches in the Algarve and beyond. 

The information in this article is taken from The Rough Guide to Portugal , your essential travel guide for Portugal.

1. Praia de Tavira, Algarve - best beaches Portugal

2. praia da marinha and benagil, algarve, 3. nazaré, ribatejo - one of the best beaches portugal has for surfing, 4. praia de odeceixe, algarve - great beach for swimming.

• 5. Foz de Minho, Minho - Portugal's most northerly beach

6. Praia da Figueira, the secret Algarve beach

7. comporta, alentejo - the beach for endless sands, 8. praia da bordeira and praia do amado, algarve, 9. praia galapos, parque natural da arrábida, 10. porto côvo, alentejo, travel ideas for portugal, created by local experts.

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The best of Portugal: Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve

Portugal offers many highlights but when you're short on time, this trip is ideal to cover all the highlights: the capital city of Lisbon, historic Porto, lush Douro Valley and the stunning beaches of the Algarve are all part of this trip.

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Praia de Tavira is on Ilha de Tavira a sandbar island which runs from Tavira towards Fuseta and is reached by a ferry from the mainland. Don't expect hotels here, but come for acres of sand and a few beachy restaurants.

You can rent pedalos, umbrellas and sun loungers on the main beach in summer, although you should factor in a few crowds in July and August. Visit off season and you'll have the deserted shores almost entirely to yourself.

Nearby Tavira is a good base for exploring this part of the Algarve and it's also home to one of 9 of the best pousadas in Portugal , if you want some tradition with your stay.

• For authentic stays : Try nearby Pousada Convento de Tavira in Tavira old town. A former convent it features a private pool within the old town walls.
• For relaxed stays : Calcada Guesthouse is British-run, spacious and has a breakfast room overlooking a little garden and a terrific terrace with views over the river.
• For budget stays : Lagoâs sits on the north side of the river and offers simply, attractive rooms clustered around a rooftop patio.

Find more accommodation options in Tavira

What to do in Tavira

Take a tuk tuk tour of Tavira and see octopus traps on the jetty, discover Tavira's ethereal salt pans and marvel at untamed Ria Formosa.

Praia da Tavira is one of the few island beaches in Portugal © Henry Oude Egberink/Shutterstock

Discover the coast between Armação de Pêra and Centianes, the largely undeveloped stretch where you'll find lovely beaches like Praia da Marinha and Benagil as well as seasonal fish restaurants and places where you can sail to visit spectacular sea caves.

Praia da Marinha is a warren of coves and not much else, apart from a few restaurants in summer. If you want to explore a little, follow the clifftop path from Marinha to Benegal. The beach sits just below the cliffs and it's from here you can catch boat tours to see those caves.

Where to stay near Praia da Marinha

• For seafront stays : Holiday Inn Algarve in Armacão de Pêra features a terrace overlooking the beach, a swimming pool and two restaurants and bars.
• For apartment stays : Rosamar Apartamentos offers good value, spacious apartments with sea-facing balconies and traditional Portuguese interiors.
• For family stays : Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa is set on a clifftop a minute's walk from the beach. It features good size family rooms, pools, kids playgrounds and an on-site spa.

Find more accommodation options in Armacão de Pêra

What to do in Benagil

A speed boat tour boat tour from Benegal is the best way to explore the dramatic, sculptural sea caves and quite probably spot dolphins, if you're lucky.

Praia da Marinha, a classic Algarve beach © Simon Dannhauer/Shutterstock

Nazaré is one of Portugal's top surf towns and has all the trimmings that come with that reputation. It also has a great beach with clean and expansive sands, although expect it to be busy in July and August as Portugal is one of the best places to visit in Europe .

Even in summer treat the Atlantic here with caution when it comes to swimming. Autumn and winter are the best times for surfing, waves are world class and the ones at Nazaré North Beach regularly break records in wild January and February.

• For beach stays : Hotel Mar Bravo overlooks Nazaré beach, all rooms have private balconies, but try to book one with an ocean view. The hotel restaurant is also beachfront.
• For designer stays : Hotel Praia is a 4-star design hotel close to the beach, all rooms have big balconies with sea views and the hotel features a rooftop pool and a large terrace.
• For lux stays : Quinta do Campo is a large estate hotel which offers double rooms and apartments, the grounds are extensive and contain a pool and tennis courts.

Find more accommodation options in Nazaré

What to do in Nazaré

Discover the area beyond its iconic surfing beaches on a 4 x 4 buggy tour of Nazaré with local guides.

Nazaré, one of the best beaches Portugal has for surfing © Solianova Margarita/Shutterstock

The village of Odeceixe features in our Undiscovered Portugal: best places to get off the tourist trail guide, but it comes alive in summer, attracting streams of surfers and visitors to nearby Praia de Odeceixe.

Just four kilometres west of the village, this remarkable beach is one of the most sheltered on the coast and good for swimming or surfing. From May to September you can ride a little road train from Odeceixe to Praia de Odeceixe. Alternatively, walk the pretty path to the beach, it's worth some legwork.

Where to stay in Odeceixe

• For good value stays : Residencia do Parque is a friendly, backpackers' hotel in a great central location. It offers a range of en-suite rooms and the ones on the top floor come with balconies.
• For peaceful stays : Casas do Moinho is set in a natural park, close to several beaches and features an outdoor swimming pool with panoramic views.
• For budget stays : Hostel Seixe is in the heart of Odeceixe Old Town and offers double or twin rooms, dormitories and a full apartment.

Find more accommodation options in Odeceixe

What to do in Odeceixe

To explore Praia de Odeciexe beyond the sands think about renting stand up paddle boards for a couple of hours.

Take the cute road train to Praia de Odeceixe © CroMary/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

5. Foz de Minho, Minho - Portugal's most northerly beach

Foz de Minho , just southwest of Caminha town, is Portugal's most northerly beach and even gives you views of Spain in the distance. It's close to the Rio Minho estuary, sheltered by pine forest and has a fortified island not far from the shore.

Choosing less travelled coasts in Portugal for a less touristy experience is just one of the inspired ideas in our 20 essential Portugal travel tips for year round trips guide.

Where to stay in Caminha

• For resort stays : Hotel Porta do Sol is the largest resort in Caminha. It's close to Foz beaches boardwalk, all rooms have balconies and the hotel features two pools and a spa.
• For boutique stays : Design Wine & Spa is an elegant town mansion with sleek, contemporary rooms and an excellent restaurant.
• For beach stays : Casa de Esteiró was once an 18th century hunting lodge and is now a charming hotel with lovely gardens just a few hundred metres from Foz beaches.

Find more accommodation options in Caminha

What to do in Minho

If you want to make the most of your time in this area, book a day trip from Porto to discover Minho with local guides.

Prefer to leave planning and booking to experts? Have a look at the Portugal itineraries by our local travel agents in Portugal. All Tailor Made Trips can be modified together with your local expert, and then booked for a stress-free holiday.

Get to know more northerly Portugal beaches © Vita Borges/Shutterstock

If you're in any doubt as to why the Algarve is one of the most beautiful places in Portugal to visit , take a walk to Praia da Figueira. It's worth the effort, only takes 25 minutes and the countryside all the way is gorgeous.

Start at Figueira village and follow a rough looking track which winds through some ruins. From there it's a straight route to Praia da Figueira. You can't drive to the beach, so it's often completely deserted, another reward for walking.

Where to stay near Figueira

• For family stays : Salema Beach Village is in the Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina Natural Park, 12 minutes walk from the beach. Villas are self contained and there's an outdoor pool.
• For beach stays : Tivoli Lagos is a 4-star spa hotel a short drive from Figueira beach. It features a courtyard swimming pool and access to its private Duna Beach Club from March to October.
• For lux stays : Belmar Spa & Beach Resort in Lagos overlooks Porto de Mos beach, features a large outdoor pool and a luxurious on-site spa.

Find more accommodation options in Lagos

What to do in Figueira

Go on a guided Lagos kayak tour it's one of the best ways to get to know this part of beautiful western Algarve.

The best beaches in Portugal are often the least visited © Shutterstock

The Alentejo covers almost a third of Portugal so of course it's home to one of the country's best beaches. You'll find Comporta in remote northern Alentejo, a little west of historical Alcácer do Sal.

The beach is known for endless deserted sands most of the year, although its very good seafront restaurants attract a lot of savvy Lisboetas during summer. In fact Alentejo is good for food all round, take a look at our best restaurants in Portugal right now guide to see why.

Where to stay in Alcácer do Sal

• For lux stays : Pousada Castelo de Alcacer do Sal is set in a former Moorish castle just outside Alcácer do Sal. All bedrooms are freshly designed and the hotel features a spa.
• For family stays : Hotel da Barronsinha sits on the edge of the Sado Estuary Natural Reserve, rooms are simple and comfortable and there's a large outdoor swimming pool.
• For central stays : Alcácer Central Apartments is right in Alcácer do Sal and offers a choice of one bedroom apartments and studios.

Find more accommodation options in Alcácer do Sal

The Rough Guides to Portugal and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

What to do in Comporta

While you're in Alentejo head to Melides for horseback riding on the coast and wine tasting , it's only a 30 minute drive from Comporta.

Endless deserted sands on Comporta beach in Alentejo © mrfotos/Shutterstock

A quick look at the Algarve Portugal: a year round guide lets you know the region's beaches are some of Europe’s finest , and also busiest in summer. So it's worth seeking out these two sandy stars close to Carrapateira village in the more remote part of the Algarve.

Wild Praia da Bordeira is the one for spectacularly tall dunes and almost perfect peace. Or if you want a little more life, head to broad and sandy Praia do Amado and pick a spot on the beach to watch surfers doing their stuff.

• For independent stays : Monte da Vilarinha in Vicentine Coast Natural Park offers private apartments and double rooms, it also has an outdoor pool and wonderful views.
• For budget stays : Carrapateira Lodge is a 15 minute walk to the beach, rooms are basic and comfortable and guests have a shared lounge and kitchen.
• For cosy stays : Casa Lusco Fusco has fabulous mountain views, comfortable en-suite rooms and is only a short walk from Praia da Bordeira.

Find more accommodation options in Carrapateira

What to do near Carrapateira

To see even more stunning beaches take an Algarve cruise by catamaran from the charming western city of Lagos .

Praia da Borderia comes with spectacular views © cmspic/Shutterstock

The Parque Natural da Arrábida has been a protected area since 1976 so unsurprisingly it's home to a lot of wildlife, including polecats, buzzards and eagles. The craggy Serra da Arrábida range is here too, which adds significant drama to the coast.

Pretty, white sand coves are the thing here and Praia Galapos is the least touristy of the lot. Close to Portinho da Arrábida, you'll find the beach sheltered by pine forest and if you want to swim, it's known for calmer than usual Atlantic waters.

Where to stay near Praia Galapos

• For family stays : Quinta da Arrábida is in Arrábida Natural Park, each guest house is self-contained and has access to beautiful gardens and a swimming pool.
• For budget stays : YMCA Camp Alambre sits in Azeitao and features a choice of comfortable self-catering bungalows in pretty garden grounds.
• For boutique stays : Arrábida Heritage offers a range of individually designed holiday homes set in beautiful gardens with sun terraces and a large swimming pool.

Find more accommodation options in Portinho da Arrábida

What to do in Parque Natural da Arrábida

Meet the more elusive locals round these parts on an Arrábida dolphin watching boat tour .

Galapos beach in Parque Natural da Arrábida - one of the best beaches in Portugal © Nuno Carraca/Shutterstock

The Portuguese love the unspoiled Alentejo coast with its landscape of gentle hills and sea cliffs, scatteriing of lowkey resorts and lovely, sandy coves.

Porto Côvo town is one of the best for beaches and a popular weekend escape from the city for Lisboetas. It can get busy in August, but off season there are few if any crowds here. Head north of the town for Praia Grande and don't miss Praia da Samouqueira for its stunning rock formations.

Where to stay in Porto Côvo

• For family stays : Hotel Porto Côvo is close to the town centre, offers modern apartments with kitchens and features a small, outdoor swimming pool.
• For budget stays : Ocean House Alentejo is in Porto Covo, close to the beach and offers a choice of double bedrooms with balconies and en-suite bathrooms.
• For beach stays : Calmaria Guesthouse is a walk from the beach and features a guest terrace and basic but comfortable rooms with private bathrooms.

Find more accommodation options in Porto Covo

What to do in Porto Côvo

To discover more of the Alentejo, take a day tour from Lisbon to Évora and go wine tasting in Monsaraz.

One of the charming coves at Porto Côvo © Cernamolisa/Shutterstock

Ready for a trip to Portugal ? Check out the Rough Guide to Portugal . If you travel further in Portugal read more about the best places to visit . For inspiration use our Portugal itineraries or speak to our l ocal experts . A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there. And don't forget to buy travel insurance before you go.

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The 13 Most Charming Portugal Coastal Towns That You Should Visit This Year

With an extensive spectacular coastline plus the islands, the Portuguese culture is strongly connected with the ocean, and most of the country’s popular cities and towns are situated by the sea.

From major cities to charming fishing villages, the Portugal coastal towns leave visitors speechless for their beauty and charm. In this post, I will list the 13 most beautiful towns on the Portugal coast.

Located on the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the south and west.

And exactly because of its location, the climate in Portugal is less severe than in the rest of Europe, a good reason why the country is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the continent all year round.

And with sunny days and warm temperatures, there is nothing better than going to the beach, right?

Well, know that Portugal’s beautiful seaside towns are known not only for their magnificent beaches but also for their lush landscapes and warm hospitality.

They are also rich in history, culture, and gastronomy. It is easy to find a plethora of palaces, sandy beaches, enchanting landscapes, medieval castles , and unique local cuisine.

Additionally, Portugal has the third-highest fish consumption in the world, staying behind only South Korea and Norway.

In other words, seafood is the core of its gastronomy and when you visit the coastal cities during your Portugal itinerary you should make sure to try some of its traditional dishes to get a complete experience of the country’s coastal lifestyle.

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Portugal coastal towns map

The top 13 Portugal coastal towns

Even though Portugal is a very small country , its coastline stretches over 1115 miles. And you can imagine that there are many beautiful and interesting coastal towns to explore. So, here is a list of the 13 most beautiful coastal towns in Portugal, from north to south.

Matosinhos is one of the most well-known beautiful towns on the coast of Portugal not only for its proximity to Porto but above all for its attractions.

Matosinhos has the best beaches in the Porto region, in addition to the fresh fish and seafood that comes out of the sea and river directly to the local restaurants.

But it is not only fish and beaches that Matosinhos is made of! The town also has a rich history and among its main attractions are the Bom Jesus de Matosinhos Church , the Leça do Balio Monastery , and Piscina das Marés , a set of saltwater pools.

Matosinhos Beach itself is a great place to go for a walk, sunbathe, go swimming, or even surf. In addition, you can visit the Castelo do Queijo , also known as Forte de São Francisco Xavier , which was built to protect the region from pirate attacks in the 17 th century.

As I mentioned, gastronomy plays an important role in northern Portugal’s culture and the motto is “ from the sea straight to the table ”.

Along Rua Heróis de França and parallel cobblestone streets, good restaurants are not lacking and Dom Peixe, Marisqueira dos Pobres, and Marisqueira Antiga are well known for serving fresh and local seafood.

Located in the mouth of the Vouga River , the charming Aveiro is a discontinuous territory in northern Portugal. Formed by a set of river islands called Ria de Aveiro, the “ Venice of Portugal” is characterized by a network of canals lined with colorful gondola-like boats.

These boats, known as moliceiros, are at the top of must-dos in Aveiro since a boat tour offers the most unique view of the city.

Aveiro is also home to the Costa Nova do Prado , where striped, multi-colored fishing shacks steal the show.

Located just 44 miles south of Porto , Costa Nova is one of the most famous landmarks in Portugal and an excellent destination to spend a day away from the “northern capital” of Portugal.

Another highlight in the list of the best things to do in Aveiro is tasting the traditional sweet of the region: ovos moles .

The recipe for this specialty takes egg yolks and sugar and was invented by the nuns of the Convent of Jesus of Aveiro before the 19 th century.

If you are looking for accommodation, an ideal place to find a good one is the historical center of Aveiro .

Besides being where most of the attractions are with its charming Art Nouveau buildings , it is also where you will find several restaurants and shops.

One of the most modern lodging options is the Meliá Ria Hotel & Spa right on the waterfront. Meanwhile, the Hotel das Salinas is a bit cheaper but still very well located.

Located a short drive away from Lisbon , the peaceful seaside town of Nazaré offers breathtaking views from the top of a large cliff which you can reach by funicular or by car.

There are several attractions in Nazaré, but, for sure, one of the most interesting is the area of Sítio da Nazaré , at the Mirante do Suberco . Sitting on top of a huge cliff, the area has a privileged view of the town and both the Nazaré Beach and Praia do Norte, where some of the biggest waves in the world happen.

That is right, the underwater Nazaré canyon is responsible for some of the biggest waves in the world , surfed by the most experienced big wave surfers.

If you want to see the giant waves, know that the best time to visit Nazaré is during winter and the best view is from the Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo . If you are in the country during this time, I can personally say it is worth seeing the region!

For those who want to stay right in front of Nazaré Beach , a good option is the comfortable Hotel Mar Bravo .

But if you are on a budget, two other options, equally well located, with ocean views, are the Adega Oceano Hotel and the Hotel Ribamar. The fact is that Nazaré has an abundant supply of lodging, from the most luxurious to very cool hostels, after all, it is a city that not only receives many tourists but also surfers.

Situated on a peninsula with about 6 miles in perimeter, Peniche is yet another popular destination among surfers. This is all thanks to Praia dos Supertubos .

In fact, this is considered one of the best surfing spots in Europe and graciously nicknamed the “ European Pipeline “.

A little less hectic and on the other side of the peninsula, Baleal Beach is quieter, with calmer waters. It presents good conditions to learn or practice outdoor activities such as windsurfing.

The ideal stop for those who visit Peniche in the summer and want to enjoy the beach with their family.

Historically, Peniche was also home to an important fortification that went from military protection to a prison.

Still, this town is mainly visited for its coastal connection, including a prominent fishing industry. And besides spending days on the sand and watching surf competitions, Peniche is close to truly spectacular monuments like the Berlengas Island .

And since Peniche is a fishing city, fresh fish is an important tradition. There is no lack of restaurants where you can enjoy the famous “ caldeirada “, with fresh fish and vegetables from the garden.

You can also try the grilled sardines , recognized by many as the “ best sardines in Portugal “. Some of the best restaurants in town include Os Americano’s , Tasca do Joel, and Taberna do Ganhão.

Azenhas do Mar

With approximately 800 inhabitants and located near the mystical Sintra castles , Azenhas do Mar is a small town on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic coast. Azenhas do Mar is actually a perfect day trip from Lisbon since it is only 17 miles away.

Literally embedded in the coastal cliffs, this quiet fishing town offers a beautiful beach, incredible views, and delicious seafood.

A unique characteristic of Azenhas do Mar is its little white houses with traditional tiles on their facades. It is like something out of a movie!

Right from the start, what draws visitors’ attention is the natural pool between the village and the sea, ideal for cooling off on summer days.

Another place that deserves your attention is the belvedere, from where you have a very privileged panoramic view of the village and the sea.

Besides enjoying the spectacular scenery, you should also visit the watermill! After all, this is the one that gives the small village its name.

Also, a valuable tip is to have a meal at the Restaurante Azenhas do Mar , which is set into the rock and has several environments, some of them open and overlooking the sea.

Featuring both mountain and sea views, Cascais is yet another town very close to both Lisbon and Sintra.

Paradisiacal beaches, culture, history, and leisure define Cascais, making it a very sought-after place by tourists.

Among Cascais’ highlights are its city centre, the rock formation of Boca do Inferno , the fortress of Cascais Citadel , and of course Cascais beaches . Praia do Albano , Praia do Guincho and Praia da Rainha are destinations that cannot be missed on your itinerary.

The fishing village is a charm! Its houses and cobbled streets are beautiful, and its buildings are very colorful.

You can shop in the local stores and stroll through the parks , squares , and museums . Cascais has plenty of good restaurants, with food from all over the world and for all tastes.

On the way to Guincho beach is one of the best restaurants to eat clams, Furnas do Guincho . Another equally good option is Monte Maro , the one Michelin star restaurant in the Fortaleza do Guincho hotel.

Finally, if you are in search of dessert, the Bijou de Cascais pastry shop serves traditional sweets and the Gelados Santini offers delicious fruit sorbets.

Odeceixe enchants from the peacefulness of the village to its natural beauty: its windmill, the picturesque village, and its beach.

Next to the Seixe River , the village sits on the green hills of the Natural Park of Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina with rich fauna and flora.

The cute town marks the border between the Algarve and the Alentejo . On steep hillsides, it has little white houses and lively restaurants with tables on the sidewalk on weekends.

Located down the valley, Odeceixe Beach is classified as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal , and you can bathe in the river and sea.

The clear water is so incredible that the whole scenario transmits great calmness and peace. The beach is also quite popular amongst local surfers.

The best accommodations in Odeceixe village include Casas do Moinho Turismo de Aldeia with renovated and well-decorated village houses, the Monte do Cardal with its relaxing pool, and Carlos’s Beach Hostel , which is not only cheaper but also closer to the beach.

Now, moving a bit more to the south, Aljezur is considered the heart of the Vincentian coast , or better yet the West Coast of the Algarve !

Usually overlooked by tourists looking for the more popular cities in southern Portugal, such as Albufeira, it is a hot spot among locals, either during the summer months for sunbathing or in the winter for surfing.

In addition to the traditional Portuguese appearance of the infrastructure and historical remains, the beauty of the region is enhanced by the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina .

Aljezur is distinguished by its stunning landscapes, geological wealth, and the best beaches in Portugal including Arrifana Beach , Vale dos Homens Beach , Vale Figueira Beach , Cordoama Beach , and Castelejo Beach .

In addition, Aljezur also holds plenty of history, and the Aljezur Castle with its two towers and a cistern still tells all about it.

The lodging options are quite varied and also well spread around Aljezur. Some beaches are practically deserted and have no options, but the most popular places have options nearby. Some good choices Arrifana Ocean View Guest House and Aljezur Villas Hostel .

Also part of the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina , the West Coast, Sagres is a village in the municipality of Vila do Bispo.

With beautiful beaches, high cliffs, rocky outcrops, and an immense blue ocean that alternates between shades of green and blue, Sagres is most popular for its natural scenery.

Also, famous for surfing, Sagres breathes water sports. You will probably see its waters filled with surfboards, especially if you visit Zavial Beach , Tonel Beach , or Ponta Ruiva Beach .

Not to mention Beliche Beach , where you will also find one of the best restaurants in Sagres , Terra Restaurant .

Interestingly, Sagres was considered for many centuries as the end of the known world and when you visit the Cabo São Vicente , you understand why. With a historic red lighthouse, the cape is the most southwestern point in Europe.

Another historic landmark there is the Sagres Fortress, built between the 11 th and 18 th centuries.

And a tip that is worth gold if you are looking for the best souvenirs in Portugal : the store Artesanato a Mó has a very photogenic facade and offers handicrafts and Portuguese ceramics.

Lagos has the merit of having in its town some of the most beautiful golden beaches of the Algarve . For example, Praia da Dona Ana has been elected one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

However, the beaches of Batata , Luz , Pinhão , Camilo , and Porto de Mós are just as wonderful, and you should take the time to visit them all.

Overall, Lagos is a warm, carefree, quiet town with many touristic and cultural interests. It is the perfect place for those who like to combine beach and culture.

Lagos also has some historic landmarks worth mentioning such as the Old Town , Avenida dos Descobrimentos , Municipal Market , Lagos Marina , and Forte da Ponta da Bandeira .

Because Lagos has a picturesque historic center and a wide range of local restaurants and bars, it is the perfect city to have as a base during your Algarve itinerary .

Given the trendy style of Lagos and the many bars, this is also a great place to go out drinking during your trip!

With delicious Mexican food, the Green Room – Burritos & Cocktails is a great option if you also want a snack to accompany your cocktail. And if you want to know more about accommodations check out my article on where to stay in Lagos where I share different options for any budget.

Ferragudo is located in the municipality of Lagoa , between the city of Portimão and the village of Carvoeiro, also in the Algarve region.

With more than 300 days of sunshine per year, the destination has become increasingly frequent in the itineraries of domestic and foreign tourists.

Not for nothing, Ferragudo enchants mainly by its charming historic center on the banks of the Arade River , the delicious gastronomy, and the paradisiacal beaches surrounded by dramatic cliffs.

With just over 1500 inhabitants, this small fishing village mixes picturesque scenery with a bucolic atmosphere.

Be sure to wander unhurriedly through the whitewashed narrow streets and gaze at the view of the Arade River and Ferragudo’s coastline filled with colorful fishing boats.

In addition, you can visit the Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição , one of Ferragudo’s oldest historical monuments, located opposite the São João Castle .

Some of the other attractions in Ferragudo are the Farol da Ponta do Altar and the mouth of the Arade river itself.

The coastal strip of Ferragudo has nine beaches, of which I highlight: Praia da Angrinha, Praia Grande , and Praia dos Caneiros . A complete itinerary of Ferragudo should include a boat trip to the caves of Lagoa, which includes the unique Benagil Cave .

Unlike many of the resort towns in the Algarve, Tavira is a bit more reminiscent of the countryside, mainly because of its slower pace.

Visiting Tavira is a lesson of history, popular culture, and the strong ties between its population and the river and sea waters that sustain it.

Connected by bridges, the Old and the Roman bridges , the city of 37 churches is also known as the “ Venice of the Algarve ”. Some of Tavira’s main attractions include Praça da República , Largo da Misericórdia, Castelo de Tavira , Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo, and Jardim do Coreto .

Tavira also has some of the best Algarve beaches right there at Tavira Island: the Terra Estreita beach , the naturist beach of Naked Man , and Praia do Barril , where you will be surprised by a graveyard of anchors.

So, you can only imagine that the best way to explore Tavira’s coast is through a boat tour visiting a few of the sand barrier islands of Ria Formosa.

In addition, Tavira offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes, needs, and wallets. Budget accommodation is at HI Tavira – Pousada de Juventude .

The cheapest accommodations are usually Residencial Marés and Taah Billa Guest House . The Hotel Vila Galé Tavira is the perfect option for those looking for comfort. And for a luxury stay, there is no place like the Pousada Convento Tavira .

Visiting Funchal is one of the first things we do when visiting the island of Madeira since the city is the capital of the archipelago.

As a bonus, because of its strategic position with good accessibility, you can explore many attractions of Madeira from Funchal .

In addition, Funchal has many museums , stores , restaurants , and hotels , being the city with the best infrastructure on the island.

Some of the best places and experiences not to be missed when visiting Funchal include walking around Funchal’s main square , visiting Funchal’s Cathedral and the Lavradores Fish Market , going up in the cable car, exploring the Botanical Gardens , walking around the Old Town , and of course, tasting the local cuisine of Madeira Island .

Between grilled limpets, bolo do caco with butter, and seafood kebabs, you will fall in love with the local gastronomy.

Depending on where you are staying in Funchal , you can walk, eat, and browse the stores, without depending on a car all the time.

The best hotels in Funchal are Belmond Reid’s Palace and Quinta da Casa Branca . Hotel Porto Mare , and Castanheiro Boutique Hotel are other famous hotels in Madeira’s capital.

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20 Beautiful Places to Visit in Portugal — From Fairy-tale Castles to Charming Beach Towns

Take your pick of hilltop castles, sunny beaches, and time-worn villages.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

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France and Spain have long taken center stage, with Portugal as a less-visited destination for in-the-know travelers. The tides are slowly turning and the small Iberian nation is, at long last, enjoying its well-deserved moment in the sun. The drawback to this increased attention? More tourists. Though it’s not like contending with a few crowds is going to put anyone off seeing Pena Palace or Jerónimos Monastery. And, of course, there are countless beautiful places to visit in Portugal, from the Azores and Madeira to the sun-splashed Algarve and even popular cities like Lisbon and Porto . This is to say that despite its relatively diminutive size, Portugal offers a treasure trove of natural, historical, and cultural wonders.

Cabo da Roca

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The westernmost point in continental Europe, Cabo da Roca exudes a wild, edge-of-the-Earth mystique. Waves crash against the rocks, tourists standing atop sheer cliffs stare out at nothing but blue to the horizon, and a historic lighthouse guides boats sailing along the rugged coast. 

Lagoa das Sete Cidades

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The majesty of São Miguel never ceases to amaze. Topping the list for many travelers visiting the volcanic main island in the Azores archipelago are the famous and impossibly photogenic twin crater lakes, Lagoa Azul ("blue lagoon") and Lagoa Verde ("green lagoon"). 

Pena Palace

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One of the most beautiful places in Europe , Pena Palace is a hilltop Romanticist castle and the crown jewel of Sintra. Its candy-colored facade and sweeping terraces draw shutter-happy tourists from near and far. The stately interiors are filled with antiques, while the surrounding park provides tree-shaded pathways.

Levadas da Madeira

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The Levadas da Madeira is a system of historic irrigation canals built across the island to carry water from the high-altitude slopes to sugar cane fields, farmlands, and cities. Hiking trails that run along the waterways give travelers a close-up look at the UNESCO-listed laurel forests.

Jerónimos Monastery

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One of the most-visited landmarks in Lisbon and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the late Gothic Manueline-style Jerónimos Monastery stands tall as an enduring symbol of power dating back to the Age of Discovery. The block-long complex continues to impress with its magnificent maritime details, cloisters, and tombs.

Algar de Benagil

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This fantastical seaside cave that’s reachable by boat doesn’t even look real. Sun beams in through the hole on the top, bathing the enclosed beach in light, and turquoise waters lap the sand. 

Clérigos Church

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Clérigos Church is a must-see on any trip to Porto . While the artifacts and organ concerts certainly wow, both are overshadowed by the iconic 75-meter-tall bell tower, which visitors can climb for 360-degree views of the city (and a serious workout).

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Nazaré lures fearless surfers and attracts many curious tourists thanks to the larger-than-life swells that were the subject of the documentary “100 Foot Wave.” The huge breaks mean you’re likely not going to paddle out, but it’s worth the drive to see the enormous waves crash into the rocks and grab lunch at one of the local restaurants.

Vila Franca Islet

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Located off the coast of São Miguel , the Vila Franca Islet looks otherworldly from above and just as pretty up close. The circular saltwater lagoon, which was formed by the crater of an ancient volcano, is ringed by lush vegetation. In the summer, it’s popular for swimming, snorkeling, birdwatching, and cliff diving (if you dare). 

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Situated about an hour from Lisbon, Comporta is a low-key fishing village turned in-the-know summer hotspot with cork trees, rice fields, and blissful beaches. During the warmer months, it’s well worth vying for a spot on the brilliant white sand of Praia Comporta.

Douro Valley

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The oldest demarcated wine region in the world and the birthplace of port, Douro Valley wows viticulture enthusiasts and casual sippers. A mix of rolling vineyards, historic quintas, boat rides along its namesake river, and excellent restaurants means there’s plenty to appreciate besides incredible pours. 

Peneda-Gerês National Park

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Set in northern Portugal near the Spanish border, Peneda-Gerês National Park spans yellow-tinged hills, granite peaks, high-flowing streams, mixed forests, and Roman relics. Native wildlife — including the Pyrenean desman, Iberian frog, and Barrosã cattle — also call this protected land home. 

Cachalote Natural Swimming Pools

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The north coast of Madeira brims with beautiful spots to take a dip, none more iconic than Cachalote Natural Swimming Pools . The Mother Nature-made lagoons off the shore of Porto Moniz were formed by volcanic rocks and filled with the tides of the Atlantic Ocean. 

Poço da Alagoinha

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Majestic waterfalls are one of the many enticements of the Azores. Poço da Alagoinha on the island of Flores is a stunning example with multiple cascades that gush from lush, vegetation-covered cliffs down to a pristine lagoon. 

Parque Natural da Arrábida

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Parque Natural da Arrábida shows off many of Portugal’s best assets. Fine sand beaches fade into blue waters, towering cliffs rise from the sea, verdant vegetation covers the mountain peaks, and scenic hiking trails wind through the spellbinding scenery. 

Azenhas do Mar

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Of all the charming coastal towns in Portugal, Azenhas do Mar deserves special mention. Small in size, with just 800 inhabitants, whitewashed houses, and commanding sea views, it’s a postcard-worthy setting to sip local wine, savor regional seafood dishes, and swim in the natural rock pool. 

Castelo de Guimarães

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Mystery and legend still swirl around Castelo de Guimarães. A major presence in Portuguese history, the castle was built under the orders of Mumadona Dias in the 10th century to serve as a place of refuge from and protection against attacks perpetrated by Vikings and Moors. 

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Sagres sits on a windswept headland at the western tip of southern Portugal. Sunny skies, dramatic sea cliffs, and uncrowded beaches make this tiny fishing village deserving of a detour. It’s also a surfer’s paradise that provides plenty of both beginner-friendly breaks and expert-level barrels.

Quinta do Barbusano

Tucked away in the mountains on the north side of Madeira, Quinta do Barbusano invites visitors to savor the flavors of the island with wine tastings and traditional espetada (beef skewer) meals overlooking the São Vicente Valley. It’s also possible to do a short hike to nearby Nossa Senhora Fátima Chapel for even more breathtaking vistas.

Livraria Lello

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Livraria Lello shows off opulent staircases, an ornate stained-glass ceiling, and towering shelves packed with tomes. Harry Potter fans might notice a connection between the magical interiors of the historic bookstore and some Hogwarts scenes. It’s widely known that J.K. Rowling frequented the shop during her time in Porto.

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The Best Beaches In and Around Lisbon

By Abigail Malbon

A trip to  Lisbon  is exciting because there’s so much to do in the Portuguese capital, but there are also plenty of beaches in Lisbon loved by locals that you can easily get to, even if you’re only on a short trip to the city.

Portugal ’s coast is perhaps best known for its vast stretches of sand and wild waters, making it an ideal spot for surfers. And while the Lisbon has plenty of places where you can catch a wave, the area is also home to several small and quieter bays for those seeking relaxation on their next trip to the edge of the Iberian Peninsula. Whether you want a calm and sandy scene where you can relax and unwind, or a wide-open space with nobody else around, these are the beaches in Lisbon (and some just outside the city) that are well worth a visit on your next stop.

A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller UK .

Praia da Ponta dos Corvos

Known by locals as Praia dos Tesos or Ponta de Mato, this is actually a river beach. While bathing is allowed, it's not the best place in Lisbon for swimming. However, for those looking to enjoy a relaxing day on the beach, this quiet location is perfect. That said, the biggest selling point of this beach is the stunning view of Lisbon. You can see from the north to the south of the city from the sands, and it’s a stunning, quiet place from which to watch the sun go down.

Getting there: The beach can’t be accessed via public transport. It takes an hour to drive here from the center of Lisbon.

Costa da Caparica

Just 30 minutes from Lisbon’s center is the stunning stretch of white sand in Caparica. The seaside town is one of the quieter areas of Lisbon, but for that reason, it’s a local favorite, and can be busy on weekends during the summer months.

Stretching over six miles, there are plenty of spots to rest for a day along Caparica, with many choosing to perch close to one of the shore’s beach bars, which cater to both relaxed beachgoers and those looking to sip cocktails and soak up a party atmosphere as the sun goes down. The further away from the town of Caparica you wander, the more sparsely populated the beaches become, so consider what you’re looking for before your visit. It’s worth knowing that the waves are particularly strong here—making it a great surfing beach—but if you're planning to swim it’s sensible to do so where lifeguards are on duty.

Getting there:  If you choose to take public transport, buses run from Lisbon to Caparica and take around 30 minutes. If you’re driving or in a taxi, the beach is a 30-minute drive from the city center.

Praia do Meco, Sesimbra

Sesimbra, which begins at the bottom of Costa da Caparica, is known for its long stretches of pristine sand and natural surroundings. Praia do Meco is located on a stretch of protected coastline, which means developments in the area are limited, so you can expect just a couple of restaurants serving up local seafood dishes and little else. For most locals, Praia do Meco is infamous for being the first nudist beach in the country; nowadays, there’s a small separate area reserved for nudist bathers, while the rest is designated as family space. However, there can be high winds and strong currents in the area, so it's recommended that you visit on a less windy day to take advantage of the space and remote setting.

Getting there: You’ll need a car to access the beach from Lisbon, and it’s about a 45-minute drive. However, it’s best to avoid rush-hour traffic, as crossing the 25 de Abril Bridge can be stressful at peak times.

Praia de Carcavelos

Carcavelos is a lively beach that comes into its own during the summer months. You may struggle to find a spacious spot, but you'll be surrounded but sunbathers, families, surfers, and good vibes aplenty. There's something nostalgic about this beach: It almost feels like a British pier—except with much more sun—meaning you can expect cafes serving up classic seaside food (but with more sardines), locals playing rounders on the sand, and couples strolling along the shoreline. It's this charm, and the soft, soft sand, that makes Carcavelos a bit of a gem.

Getting there:  Trains from Lisbon's major station, Cais do Sodré, run all day. Alternatively, driving takes around 40 minutes from the city center.

Praia do Guincho

As one of the largest beaches in Portugal, you’re guaranteed to have plenty of space to yourself at Praia do Guincho. Part of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, this is a beach with crystal-clear waters and white sand, although the waves can be strong; it’s a favorite of surfers and bodyboarders for that very reason. Surrounded by dunes, and with the Serra de Sintra hills in the background, it’s undoubtedly an impressive landscape, and makes for a great day trip from Lisbon. Be sure to stop at a nearby restaurant to enjoy some freshly-caught seafood.

Getting there: It is possible to take the train from Lisbon to Cascais, and then take a taxi to the beach. However, it’s probably best to make the journey from Lisbon via car.

Praia da Ribeira de Cascais

Cascais is a major seaside town full to the brim with tourists, particularly during the summer months. That's not to say it isn't worth a visit. The affluent area used to be a fishing town and was historically the summer retreat of Portuguese nobility, and its cobbled streets and charming traditional houses remain.

The Praia de Ribeira beach is in the center of Cascais, and was the main fishing beach, traditionally where boats were moored and unloaded. The boats remain, but now the sands are used for sunbathers and those enjoying a swim in the still waters. It's one of the main beaches in the area, so it's best to be avoided on weekends during the summer months. If you find yourself in Cascais around this time, take a stroll through the town, stop for lunch at one of the area's delicious restaurants, and find a smaller bay to enjoy without the crowds.

Getting there : Trains run regularly from Cais do Sodré to Cascais and back, or the town is a 50-minute drive from the city center.

Praia do Estoril

The fishing village of Cascais is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon, but its beaches are small, which means you’ll be vying for a spot of sand when the summer months come. However, just 10 minutes down the road is Estoril, a less tourist-heavy but equally beautiful small beach, where locals spend warmer days. There’s not much space to stroll here, but the smaller size means calmer waters for swimming, and it’s easy to get caught up in the glamour of the area—Estoril is home to the largest casino in Europe, which inspired Ian Fleming to write Bond’s Casino Royale .

Getting there : Trains run regularly from Cais do Sodre station in Lisbon city center, so you can easily take public transport there and back. However, if you decide to drive, there are plenty of car parks nearby.

Praia da Figueirinha

Figueirinha is the biggest beach in Arrábida Natural Park, the stunning natural area about an hour's drive from Lisbon. It's also the easiest to reach from the nearby city of Setúbal thanks to a helpful bus route, which makes this beach extremely popular with locals. It's known to be very slightly warmer than other nearby beaches thanks to its shallow waters, so the months of May and June, when Portuguese waters tend to be cooler, are the perfect time to visit. There are nearby restaurants, but the beach isn't as busy as some of the others, so come prepared with snacks if you're picky.

Getting there : The beach isn't particularly accessible via public transport from Lisbon, but if you have access by car it's about an hour and 10 minutes from the city center.

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14 things Portugal locals want you to know before you visit

Feb 25, 2024 • 7 min read

Learn how to act like a local in Portugal by following these key tips © AnnaTamila / Shutterstock

Many years ago, as a young backpacker, I made plenty of mistakes when traveling around Portugal – from trying to see everything on one trip to indulging in free appetizers that weren’t really free. 

Since becoming both an honorary Lisboeta (Lisbon resident) and Tripeiro (Porto dweller), I have learned some essentials about the country. From the best methods for getting around to wardrobe essentials. Here are the key tips to help you make the most out of your trip to Portugal.

Don’t try to see it all in one trip

Portugal is a small country – roughly the size of the state of Indiana in North America and slightly larger than Scotland. But there’s a lot to see here , from hilltop villages in the Alentejo to remote UNESCO World Heritage sites , not to mention over 100 beaches in the Algarve. A rookie mistake is trying to see all of Portugal during one visit. Even if you have a few weeks to spare, you won’t be able to visit everything in this diverse country. Instead, pick one or two regions and focus your trip there, allowing yourself time to see both highlights as well as local markets, vineyards and other less-visited attractions. 

Decide where to go

The mountains, the seaside, cobblestone-lined city streets? Portugal has plenty of options when it comes to travel. With a week at your disposal, you can combine a bit of urban adventure with scenic getaways nearby. If you have Lisbon in mind, you can spend several days there, along with day trips to Cascais , Sintra and the beach-dotted Setúbal Peninsula , or spend a couple of days in Évora or on the lovely Alentejo coastline. 

A great northern itinerary combines Porto with some vineyard visits along the picturesque Douro River . Beach lovers might skip city life altogether and spend their time in the Algarve , checking out cliff-backed beaches, hidden coves and quiet fishing villages. If you have something more active in mind, plan a hiking outing in the mountains of the Serra da Estrela , which you can pair with time spent exploring craggy villages like Manteigas and Linhares, as well as the university town of Coimbra . 

Book your accommodation well in advance 

Portugal’s growing popularity means some of the best places to stay get booked up months in advance. This is especially true if you’re traveling in the peak months of June through August .  Once you have your itinerary organized, reserve your lodging. If you’re traveling off-season (November through March), you’ll have much more flexibility – so you can book your first few nights and plan your other nights on the go. 

Lower your carbon footprint by traveling on trains and buses

You can go green by ditching the car and getting around by public transportation. Portugal has a decent train network that connects major cities like Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra and Faro. Buses help fill in the gaps to smaller towns across the country. Service has expanded in recent years, particularly in the south, where the new Vamus Algarve covers just about every part of the Algarve, from tiny beach villages on the central coast to the soaring sea cliffs near Sagres . Skipping the car rental also means you won't have to hassle with parking, toll roads and heavy traffic, among other things.     

Don’t bother taking a taxi from the airport

Speaking of trains and buses, as soon as you arrive, you can save money and cut down on CO2 emissions by hopping on public transport from the airport. Portugal’s three international airports all have good options for whisking you into town. The Lisbon metro’s linha vermelha (red line) can get you into the center, as can the speedy Aerobus, while Porto’s metro (violet line E) runs from the airport to the heart of town. From Faro airport in the south, you can take the Vamus Algarve Aerobus, which shuttles into Faro and also to the key towns of Albufeira , Lagoa, Portimão and Lagos .

Remember the cardinal rule of dining in Portugal: nothing is free 

Servers often bring bread, butter, olives and even cheese or other appetizers to diners before their meal. Keep in mind that these unordered items will always be added to your bill if you choose to partake. If you don’t want them, just send them away – a polite "no thank you" ( não obrigado/a ) will do the job. Prices for couvert range from €2 per person and upwards. 

Bring a few smart-casual outfits 

Shorts are fine on the beach, but if you wear them around the city, you’ll quickly brand yourself as a tourist. At nicer restaurants, bars and nightclubs, you’ll want to follow the local lead and dress things up a bit.

Become an expert on tipping etiquette

At restaurants in Portugal, many locals don’t tip at all or simply round up when paying for a meal. In more tourist-oriented establishments, a tip is more common – usually around 10% – and may even be added as a service charge. Tipping is not expected in cafes or bars. However, if you’re in a fancy high-end place, you should plan on tipping (along the lines of €1 for a specialty cocktail). Rounding up the fare is also common practice when taking a taxi or rideshare. 

Bring your own bag to the market 

Portugal has huge markets where you can see stalls of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as charcuterie, cheeses, olives, bakery items and other fare. Amid such culinary largesse, you can assemble a first-rate picnic, just be sure to bring your own bag to the market. You might want to throw in a corkscrew so you’re always prepared to pop open a bottle of vinho verde , an Alentejo red and other good-value Portuguese wines. 

Pack sturdy shoes

Even if you limit your travels to the city, you’ll want to have good shoes. You’ll find steep streets, loose cobblestones and uneven sidewalks in Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra and many other towns. Save the heels and dress shoes for nicer restaurants and nightclubs. Good shoes will also come in handy when you want to take a walk beyond the town. Across the country, Portugal has some magnificent hikes , like the stunning clifftop trail of Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos – not difficult to do, but you need proper footwear. 

Dress modestly when visiting churches

Save the shorts, short skirts and tank tops for the beach – keep things covered up when visiting the cathedrals ( Sés ) and monasteries of Portugal.

And don’t forget to throw in the swimsuit 

No matter where you roam in Portugal, you’re never far from the beach or a sparkling inland lake or river. Porto and Lisbon both have lovely beaches within easy reach of the city center, while remote corners of Portugal – like Peneda-Gerês National Park have waterfalls and natural pools. It would be a mistake not to bring your swimsuit, even if you think you won’t need it.   

Learn some Portuguese and use it

Outside of Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve, you might encounter people with limited English. For smooth sailing, it helps to learn some Portuguese. If nothing else, locals appreciate the effort to speak their language, however rudimentary your accent. When entering a room, it’s polite to say " bom dia " (good day) or " boa tarde " (good afternoon) to those around you.

Be mindful of petty crime 

Portugal is generally a safe country to visit with a low overall crime rate – violent crime is extremely rare. Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are the main concerns to keep in mind, especially when traveling on the trams and metro in Lisbon or Porto. Avoid moving around during the crowded peak times, and don’t zone out on your phone. At night, be cautious walking around empty streets wherever you are: you’re better off taking a taxi. 

Car break-ins can also happen, and rental vehicles are sometimes targeted. Don’t leave anything of value in your car, and it's best not to leave luggage or other items in the trunk/boot of your vehicle (yet another good reason to embrace public transportation). 

This article was first published Aug 9, 2022 and updated Feb 25, 2024.

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