Portugal is blessed with a vast coastline that stretches from north to south. There are stunning beaches all over the country, and Lisbon is no exception.
Some of Lisbon's beaches have long sandy stretches, some are surrounded by mountain cliffs, and others have become a surfing sensation thanks to its giant waves.
When our team of importers at Farah Trading Co is in Lisbon, we always try to make a quick stop to one of the beaches on the train line right outside of the Lisbon city limits for the fresh air a dip in the water and a seafood meal right on the beach. Below are some of our favorite beaches in and around Lisbon.
Cascais Beaches
In the 19th century, Cascais, a small city outside of Lisbon, was a beloved holiday spot for the royal family. You can still see traces of that era in the town’s grand mansions. The most popular beaches here are Praia da Duquesa and Praia da Rainha.
From Cascais, you can cycle to Praia do Guincho, a favorite greater Lisbon beach spot for surfers. Alternatively, you can explore other beaches in the district, like Praia de Carcavelos (Carcavelos train stop) or Praia das Avencas (Parede train stop).
How to get to the beach from Lisbon: Train from Cais do Sodré.
Estoril Beaches
Estoril is also part of the Portuguese Riviera. Some of our favorite beaches here include Praia da Poça (one of my personal favorites!) and Praia do Tamariz. A promenade takes you from São João do Estoril all the way to Cascais. Along the way, you’ll find a series of bars and seafood restaurants.
How to get to the beach from Lisbon: Train from Cais do Sodré.
Sintra
There’s more to Sintra than its fantasy-like palaces and gardens. Along the coast is a series of beaches that deserve a visit. A historic tram takes you from the town center to the golden sands of Praia das Maçãs.
Adventurous folks will enjoy the hike to Praia da Ursa, a stunning secluded cove hidden amid the Sintra cliffs. Further north, the Praia da Adraga is worth the trip for its striking rocky arch and lively seafood restaurant.
How to get to the beach from Lisbon: Train from Rossio to Sintra, plus a tram or bus OR Train from Cais do Sodré to Cascais, followed by a bus.
Ericeira Beaches
This beautiful coastal town is famous for its picturesque blue and white cottages and quality seafood restaurants. It’s also a World Surfing Reserve, attracting surfers from all over the globe.
Many surfing competitions take place at the Praia de Ribeira d'Ilhas. If you’re not here for the waves, we suggest heading to beaches with calmer waters like Praia dos Pescadores or Praia do Sul.
How to get there from Lisbon: Bus from Campo Grande (look for Mafrense buses).
Costa da Caparica Beaches
Costa da Caparica is home to nearly 30km of beaches. We love heading to Fonte da Telha or Praia do Castelo. If you enjoy surfing, we recommend Praia de Santo António or Praia da Sereia. There are plenty of surf schools nearby where you can book a lesson.
How to get to the beach from Lisbon: Bus from Sete Rios or Alcântara.
Sesimbra
Backed by the Arrábida mountains, Sesimbra is famous for its paradisical beaches. Our favorite is the Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo. You’ll also find many nudist beaches around the area, like Praia do Meco. Around the town center are more urban beaches like Praia da Califórnia.
How to the beach from Lisbon: Bus from Sete Rios.
Setúbal Beaches
Sesimbra is only a small part of the Setúbal district. The area is surrounded by majestic beaches and natural wonders. We recommend going to Praia de Galapos, Praia da Figueirinha or Portinho da Arrábida.
From Setúbal, you can catch the boat to the Troia Peninsula which is full of white sandy beaches. Part of the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, it's also home to many species, like flamingos and dolphins.
How to get to the beach from Lisbon: Train from Sete Rios.
Lisbon Beach Culture
With sunshine pretty much all year round, there’s rarely a bad beach day around Lisbon. Beyond swimming and sunbathing, people head to the beach for a relaxing walk or to enjoy a delicious seafood meal in the nearby coastal towns. In the summer, you’ll often find people eating bolas de berlim, a doughnut with a sweet custard filling.
Surfing is also pretty big in Portugal, with whole towns dedicated to the sport like Ericeira or Nazaré. Many schools offer lessons for beginners.
If you want to explore these coastal towns a bit further while trying some local wine, check out our Lisbon day trips itineraries. And if you are thinking of heading to Sintra, check out our guide to visiting Sintra.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Joana Taborda
Hi! My name is Joana, I am a travel writer from Portugal, based between Lisbon and Madeira Island. I love hopping on a train to little-known towns and drinking the local craft beer wherever I gets off!
