Lisbon has become one of the most popular city breaks in Europe. Not far from this magnificent capital is a glorious coastline with some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Long family beaches, secret coves, peaceful lagoons and surf spots among the Atlantic waves: here is a selection of the most beautiful beaches near Lisbon.
Located north of Cascais, Praia do Guincho is whipped by north-west winds, and lapped by large waves from the Atlantic Ocean. It is a renowned surfing spot, regularly hosting national and international surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing competitions. Water sports equipment is available to rent, while the Bar do Guincho is the perfect place to have a drink as the sun goes down or to party well into the night. Regular buses run the 6 km route from Cascais.
South of Lisbon, the Parque Natural da Arràbida is home to Praia dos Galapinhos, often referred to as one of the most beautiful beaches in the country and even in Europe. Nearby and less well known, Praia dos Galapos is a true natural wonder. This secluded bay, with its calm waters, is ideal for snorkelling. There are two restaurants to choose from: O João and Ondagalapos. We recommend the one-hour train ride from the capital, as it can be difficult to find parking around Setúbal in summer.
To the north of the capital, Sintra is renowned for its beautiful beaches and for offering the best cuisine in Lisbon. Its Its forest-clad hills hide ancient castles and lead to beautiful, steep cliffs and sandy coves. These include Praia da Adraga, which is less crowded than its neighbour, Praia das Maçãs. It has only one restaurant, Restaurante da Adraga, but it is excellent, with ocean views and fresh daily seafood.
About half an hour's walk from Cabo da Roca, Praia da Ursa isn't the easiest beach to get to...but it's well worth the trip. Hidden from the crowds, this isolated beauty can only be reached by taking a rather steep path. The cove is about 50 metres wide and makes an outstanding spot for watching the sun set, while theatrical shadows are cast on the limestone. We recommend that you bring a picnic and... be careful when swimming as the waves and currents of the Atlantic are deceptively strong.
This beach in Lisbon is the longest stretch of sand on the Estoril coast, dominated by the imposing fort of São Julião da Barra. Praia de Carcavelos is a lively place with many activities for sports enthusiasts. In summer, regular beach volleyball and football competitions take place on the shore. In winter, the strong southern swell provides the perfect playground for bodyboarders and surfers. It is one of the most popular beaches in Lisbon, as it is easily accessible from the city.
The peninsula of Peniche is a great surfing spot, and plenty more besides. An hour's drive north of Lisbon, Praia do Baleal is a honey-coloured crescent of sand, dotted with rocks that create secluded nooks and swimming lagoons. Further north, limestone cliffs plunge into marine caves and ravines, attracting rock-climbing enthusiasts. Seafood restaurants and beach bars along the coast offer delicious fresh seafood dishes prepared from the day's catch.
Set against emerald green hills, Praia da Figueirinha is an arc of sand dotted with umbrellas and sun loungers, whose calm, shallow waters make it one of the best family beaches in Lisbon. The clear blue sea also makes it easy to spot fish. There is a beach café for refreshments and a lifeguard on site during the summer.
