Lisbon, Portugal’s sunny capital, offers much more than its famous yellow trams and rich historical heritage. One of the most pleasant surprises for visitors is the proximity of magnificent beaches, easily accessible from the city centre.
So, in this article, we’ll take a look at the best beaches in the Lisbon area, ideal for a memorable seaside getaway.
Introduction to Lisbon’s beaches
The Lisbon region boasts an incredible variety of beaches, spread across four distinct coastlines: Oeiras-Estoril-Cascais, Serra de Sintra, Costa da Caparica and Serra da Arrábida. Each coastline has its own charm and offers a unique experience, whether for surf enthusiasts, families or those simply looking to relax in the sun.
Travellers, whether you’re discovering Lisbon as a family or out and about with friends, each beach promises a different and enchanting setting, close to Lisbon’s cultural attractions.
Oeiras-Estoril-Cascais coastline
This group of beaches stretches to the west of Lisbon, offering stretches of golden sand, calm waters and charming seaside resorts. This coastline has excellent rail links thanks to the Lisbon-Cascais line, making it a convenient destination for a day out from the city centre.
Praia de Carcavelos
Praia de Carcavelos stands out among the gems of this coastline. This lively beach is a vast 1.5km long. It caters for families and water sports enthusiasts alike, thanks to the presence of surf schools such as Carcavelos Surf School and Angels Surf School. As well as its gentle waves, ideal for beginners, it offers fine sand and clean waters, perfect for a relaxing day out. The Fort São Julião at the end of the bay adds a touch of history to this idyllic setting.
The main advantage of this beach is its accessibility: served by several trains an hour, Carcavelos is easy to reach, even for a spontaneous excursion!
Other beaches on the coast
- Praia de Santo Amaro de Oeiras: Popular for its calm waters, this is a family beach par excellence.
- Praia da Conceição: Located in Cascais, this picturesque beach is ideal for a relaxing stroll.
- Praia do Tamariz: Located in Estoril, just opposite the famous casino, it’s perfect for a luxurious day at the seaside.
Discover the Costa da Caparica
The Costa da Caparica coastline, to the south of Lisbon, stretches for miles and offers wild beaches perfect for adventurers and experienced surfers. Its long stretches of sand attract a variety of crowds, from families to groups of youngsters looking for a thrill on the waves.
The natural dunes and seafood restaurants along the coastline provide an authentic and soothing setting for a relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Costa da Caparica’s must-see beaches
- Praia da Ursa: Wild and unspoilt, you’ll need a car to get there, but its breathtaking scenery will reward your efforts.
- Fonte da Telha: Very popular with the locals, it combines a relaxed atmosphere with good surf spots.
Serra de Sintra coastline
Further north, the Serra de Sintra coastline features steep coastlines and less crowded beaches, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. Although access can be a little more difficult, the spectacular views are well worth the effort.
Beaches to visit in the Serra de Sintra
- Praia do Guincho: A surfer’s paradise with big waves and strong winds.
- Praia das Maçãs: More family-friendly, with practical facilities and a friendly atmosphere.
Serra da Arrábida coastline
At the other end of the spectrum, to the south of Lisbon, we discover the Serra da Arrábida. This coastline is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, surrounded by lush green mountains and postcard-perfect crystal-clear waters.
Sites marked by their natural beauty
- Praia do Creiro: Famous for its unspoilt natural scenery and tranquillity.
- Península de Troia: Accessible by ferry, this heavenly peninsula is well worth an extended visit to enjoy its vast white sandy beaches.
Practical information
To help you plan your visit to Lisbon’s beaches, here are a few practical tips:
- Transport: Use the train or bus to avoid traffic jams and parking problems, especially in high season.
- Facilities: Take advantage of the many cafés and restaurants available on beaches such as Carcavelos to enjoy local cuisine without having to stray too far from the shore.
- Safety: Keep an eye out for the safety flags before swimming, and prefer supervised areas for added peace and quiet.
As you explore these Portuguese beaches, it becomes clear that Lisbon is much more than just a cultural destination. Adding a beach break to your city break will enrich your trip and provide the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation.
