Portugal, with its spectacular coastline and pristine beaches, is the perfect destination for a family holiday. The country offers a multitude of beaches in Portugal to suit all tastes, from vast stretches of golden sand to secluded coves. Each of these beaches in Portugal offers a variety of activities to delight young and old alike. Here is a selection of the most beautiful family beaches in Portugal.
Praia da Rocha, Portimão
Located in the sunnyAlgarve region, Praia da Rocha is one of Portugal’s must-visit destinations for families. This beach, famous for its vast expanse of fine sand and clear waters, offers a wide range of water sports. Whether you want to surf, windsurf or simply relax, Praia da Rocha has it all.
Along the beach, visitors will find a lively promenade dotted with shops, restaurants and entertainment options. This unique combination of natural beauty and practical facilities makes it an ideal place for those who want to spend time with their family without being far from all the urban conveniences.
Nearby: Don’t miss the Portimão marina and the Santa Catarina fort for panoramic views over the mouth of the River Arade. For history buffs, visit the Portimão Museum, which tells the maritime history of this region of theAlgarve beaches.
Meia Praia, Lagos
Meia Praia, located in the charming town of Lagos, is an impressive stretch of sand stretching for several kilometres. It’s an ideal beach for families, with plenty of space for children to build sandcastles and play beach games.
The wide strip of sand ensures that there is plenty of room for everyone to sit comfortably. The calm, tranquil waters also make for safe swimming, which will reassure parents who want to let their children have fun in the water.
Nearby: After a relaxing day on this Portuguese beach, explore the historic centre of Lagos, with its cobbled streets and bustling markets. For an unforgettable experience, take a boat trip to the caves of Ponta da Piedade, one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches.
Falésia Beach, Albufeira
In the picturesque landscape of Falésia in Albufeira, families will discover an exceptional beach with distinctive red cliffs and crystal-clear waters. It’s a haven for those seeking conviviality and relaxation. The natural setting provides a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for forgetting the stresses of everyday life.
The beach is well equipped with quality services, including clean sanitary facilities and food outlets. The space available also makes it easy to get away from it all and enjoy the sun and gentle Atlantic waves.
Nearby: Explore the cliffside paths that offer spectacular views of this Algarve beach, perfect for photo memories. Falésia is also one of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches, with easy access from the main resorts.
Praia de Carcavelos, Lisbon
Just outside Lisbon, Carcavelos beach offers a perfect escape for city dwellers in search of nature and fresh air. It is famous for its relaxed family atmosphere, where everyone can find something to have a good time.
It attracts locals and tourists alike, with everyone finding a reason to come back. From beach volleyball matches to waterside crêpes and lively discos on summer evenings, it’s impossible to get bored here.
Nearby: Easily accessible by train from Lisbon, this beach is ideal for a day trip. Combine swimming and cultural discovery with a visit to the São Julião da Barra fort, located at the end of the beach.
Praia da Marinha, Lagoa
Known as one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches, Praia da Marinha is sure to charm. With its impressive rock formations and turquoise waters, it’s a picture postcard escape.
The small coves offer perfect spots for a swim in complete privacy. For families, discovering the many paths is an ideal opportunity to enter into a symbiotic relationship with nature, observing the local fauna and enjoying the sumptuous panoramic views.
Nearby: Praia da Marinha is a major stop on the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, one of Portugal’s most beautiful coastal walks. It’s also a paradise beach in Portugal, perfect for snorkelling thanks to its crystal-clear waters.
Other beaches in Portugal to discover
Praia da Apúlia
Located in northern Portugal, in the protected area of Esposende, this beach is renowned for its natural beauty. Perfect for lovers of water sports such as surfing and bodyboarding, it also delights visitors with its serene setting.
Nearby: Discover the traditional windmills lining the beach, which add a picturesque touch to this typical northern Portuguese landscape. For nature lovers, the Cávado estuary nature reserve is an ideal destination for watching migratory birds and exploring quiet paths.
Praia de Nazaré
World-famous for recording the biggest wave ever surfed, Nazaré is a paradise for thrill-seekers. With its traditional fishing village atmosphere, it welcomes families in search of authenticity.
Nearby: Take the funicular up to the “Sítio”, a spectacular viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramas of Portugal’s beaches. Take the opportunity to visit the hermitage of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré, a religious site steeped in history.
Praia de Nazaré
World-famous for recording the biggest wave ever surfed, Nazaré is a paradise for thrill-seekers. With its traditional fishing village atmosphere, it welcomes families in search of authenticity.
Nearby: Take the funicular up to the “Sítio”, a spectacular viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramas of Portugal’s beaches. Take the opportunity to visit the hermitage of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré, a religious site steeped in history.
Praia de São Martinho do Porto
Surrounded by a natural shell-shaped bay with particularly calm waters, this beach is extremely popular with families. Located not far from Nazaré, it is an ideal option for those seeking tranquillity and safety for their children.
Nearby: Take a stroll along the seafront promenade lining this beach in Northern Portugal, ideal for a bike ride or a gourmet break in one of the many cafés. In the evening, watch the sun set on one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches for families.
Praia de Berlenga Grande
Accessible only by boat from Peniche, this heavenly beach in the Berlengas archipelago is a hidden treasure. Its crystal-clear waters and golden sand appeal to discerning holidaymakers looking for a complete change of scenery.
Nearby: Explore the island on foot and discover Fort São João Baptista, an ancient fortress with breathtaking views over the Atlantic. Diving and snorkelling enthusiasts will love exploring the seabed, rich in flora and fauna, making Berlenga Grande a true paradise beach in Portugal.
Praia de São Julião
- 250 metres long.
- Popular with surfers and fishermen.
- Surrounded by high cliffs offering breathtaking views.
- Close to the towns of Cascais and Sintra.
Nearby: After a day on the beach in Portugal, explore Sintra, a cultural treasure trove with magical palaces such as the Pena Palace and the Monserrate Palace. This region is a must for lovers of history and nature.
Praia da Saúde
To the south of Lisbon, on the Costa da Caparica, this charming beach boasts colourful houses typical of the Portuguese seaside. A visit to Praia da Saúde combines coastal relaxation with cultural immersion.
Nearby: Discover the fishing villages along the Costa da Caparica or venture into the Serra da Arrábida for a hike with spectacular ocean views…
Praia da Fonte da Telha
Still on the Costa da Caparica, Fonte da Telha beach stretches for four kilometres. Renowned for its fishing village and artisanal techniques, this beach offers an authentic encounter with local traditions.
Nearby: Fans of water sports, such as kite-surfing, will find ideal conditions here. For a moment of total disconnection, explore the surrounding pine forest, perfect for a shady stroll.
