Top 15 Stunning Beaches to Visit in Portugal

Portugal’s rich maritime history is filled with captivating narratives. Since the 15th Century, Portuguese explorers competed with the English, Dutch, and Spanish across the world’s oceans.

The country boasts two unique coastlines—one facing west toward the Atlantic and the other south into the Mediterranean. The maritime influence is evident in Portugal’s culinary heritage, notably with its national dishes of salt cod and sardines.

Portugal’s beaches are unequivocally of high quality. While the temperatures on the Atlantic Coast may not always match the warmth of the Mediterranean, both coastlines encompass some of the finest beaches in Portugal.

Atlantic Coast

1. Praia Forte do Paço, Viana do Castelo, Porto

Northern Portugal’s coastline is characterized by an array of beaches, dunes, and coves. Praia Forte do Paço, approximately 800 meters in length, derives its name from an 18th Century fort now in ruins. This beach is not frequently crowded, even during peak summer, making it ideal for families.

Shallow pools formed during low tide provide safe paddling opportunities for young children, and the ruins offer a safe place for exploration. Since no amenities are available on-site, it is advisable to bring your own refreshments.

2. Dunas de São Jacinto, Aveiro, Porto

Situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Sierra da Freita, Arestal and Caramulo, these dunes form a protected reserve perfect for birdwatching, featuring species such as gannets and ospreys. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the pristine environment as the white sand stretches for approximately eight kilometers with minimal human activity.

Although there are no cafes or lifeguards present, boardwalks have been constructed to facilitate beach access. However, limited infrastructure is available, with no current plans for expansion.

3. Praia da Miramar, Arcozelo

This picturesque beach features a charming chapel perched on rocks. Typically, it is rare to encounter large crowds, even during the summer months, and midweek visits often yield a secluded experience.

Visitors may encounter a refreshing breeze, and although shelter is limited, the stunning sands compensate. Capturing the chapel, Cadela do Senhor da Pedra, in silhouette at sunset forms an ideal photograph. Nearby, the town of Miramar provides various shops, cafes, and restaurants.

4. Praia do Baleal, Peniche, Lisbon

Spanning four kilometers, this beach arcs along the Peniche Peninsula north of Lisbon. It offers an excellent environment during low tide, revealing rock pools filled with crabs and shells among the seaweed.

For those seeking adventure, caves and ravines await exploration just north of the beach. Various cafes and restaurants offer an array of menu options, with seafood being a notable feature. Waters are generally tranquil for swimming, yet the area remains a favorite among surfers.

5. Praia da Adraga, Sintra-Cascais, Lisbon

This region above Lisbon is rich in historical significance. However, Praia da Adraga also entices visitors with its scenic beauty. The cove’s unique shape resembles an elephant’s trunk, and rocks provide natural shade on sunny days.

Though popular among surfers, this beach seldom becomes crowded. At low tide, adventurous visitors can explore a small cave that is revealed. A local restaurant offers fresh seafood just off the beach, while a five-kilometer clifftop trail leads to the westernmost point of mainland Europe.

6. Praia do Guincho, Lisbon

For those seeking an untamed beach in proximity to Lisbon, Praia do Guincho is an excellent choice. Nestled between Sintra and the resort of Cascais, it serves as a prime spot for surfers, and its limited public transportation contributes to its relatively uncrowded nature.

Wind conditions also allow for kite-surfing enthusiasts to revel in the experience. If you wish to gather with friends and enjoy the beach, you will find yourself in the right location. Nevertheless, having a vehicle for access is advisable, as the area is somewhat exposed with only minor dune coverage. Available facilities include showers, bars, and restaurants.

7. Portinho da Arrabida, Sierra da Arrabida

Upon traveling south of Lisbon, one encounters a beautiful region featuring pristine beaches with mountains in the backdrop. The exquisite white sand beach is in proximity to fishing villages, where traditional Portuguese fare is readily accessible.

This entire area is considered a nature park and is celebrated as one of Portugal’s most scenic locales. Its impressive landscapes are home to diverse and rare wildlife. The beach itself is just one of several located along a short coastal stretch. The limited public transportation benefits those willing to venture out and escape the crowds.

8. Praia da Amália, Brejão, Alentejo

As one journeys south along the wild Atlantic Coast of Portugal, Alentejo stands out for its historical ruins, tracing back to the Moors, as well as its stunning beaches and coves—this beach exemplifies that charm. A waterfall cascades onto the beach, providing a refreshing shower on warm days.

This beach is named for the renowned Fado singer, Amalia Rodrigues, and is accessible via former smuggler trails historically used by fishermen. Fresh local fish is a must-try while visiting.

9. Praia Zambujeira do Mar, Alentejo

This idyllic beach is located within the Costa Vicentina e Sudoeste Alentejano Natural Park. Visitors often divide their time between the beach and the surrounding nature park. The beach, encircled by cliffs, offers spectacular views.

Surfing is popular here, especially in the morning when powerful waves break on the shore, while trekking is a fantastic afternoon activity. However, novice surfers may find the conditions challenging. Although the beach is not usually crowded, it does host a large music festival in August, the Sudoeste Rock Festival.

Mediterranean Coast

10. Praia da Santa, Salema, West Algarve

The Algarve region is celebrated for its stunning beaches, and Praia da Santa is a prime example. A short distance west of Salema, this small cove showcases beautiful sands and offers unique features such as dinosaur footprints dating back 125 million years and Moorish remnants from centuries past.

This beach retains a wild feel, although the Mediterranean waters are typically calmer than those of the Atlantic Ocean.

11. Praia da Senhora da Rocha, West Algarve

Traveling east from Portimão leads to this attractive beach, noted for its scenic beauty. Every year, on the first Sunday in August, a procession of the Madonna takes place from the chapel to the sands.

Surrounded by sheer cliffs that shine with an orange hue at sunset, this sheltered beach is accessed through a tunnel. The sands are filled with scallop shells, and the beach has a steep gradient into the sea, making it a worthwhile spot to explore. A lifeguard is present during peak season, along with several small cafes nearby for refreshments.

12. Sao Rafael Beach, Albufeira, Algarve

Sao Rafael is a quaint sandy beach, with lifeguards on duty during the summer season. This scenic spot is enveloped by cliffs and is located in the heart of Portugal’s most frequented tourist region, which offers a multitude of water sports.

The waves are favorable for surfing, and for those who prefer gentler activities, kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent. Numerous cafes and restaurants serve traditional Portuguese dishes, including a seafood restaurant conveniently located on the beach, which is famous for its sardines.

13. Praia da Marinha, Lagos, Algarve

Praia da Marinha is renowned as one of the premier beaches in the Algarve region, particularly in Lagos. The soft white sand lies in front of stunning cliffs, providing an idyllic setting.

The beach is not overly crowded, possibly due to limited public transport access. Visitors must descend the cliff steps after parking. Snorkeling enthusiasts will revel in the clear waters, and the beach is suitable for both swimming and sunbathing. However, the steps may not be ideal for families with very young children.

14. Praia do Barril, Ilha da Tavira, East Algarve

Located on an island within Ria Formosa Natural Park, this beach with picturesque dunes is approximately a 40-minute drive from Faro Airport. The dunes serve as a natural barrier, separating marshes from the sea.

Visitors can walk through the marshes to an expansive beach that stretches for 11 kilometers. While it can become busy, ample space ensures visitors may still find tranquility. The western part of the island features a restaurant that attracts guests, though the beach’s size allows for an escape from crowds. The relatively calm waters of Praia do Barril create an excellent environment for relaxation.

15. Praia de Cacela Velha, East Algarve

Located to the east of Ria Formosa Natural Park, adjacent to a large lagoon, Cacela Velha beach offers a unique experience. The most convenient access is by boat, though the endeavor of visiting the beach is rewarding even by foot, albeit somewhat arduous.

For those preferring amenities such as cafes, lifeguards, and restrooms, Cacela Velha may not meet expectations, as it tends to attract a more selective audience. Nevertheless, children will find joy exploring small tidal pools that may host crabs and fish at low tide, ensuring ample space for relaxation.