Thinking about going on a beach vacation in Portugal? Well, then buckle up and let me guide you through a list of beaches you simply cannot miss during your trip!
Portugal has a reputation for being a cultural and historical destination, but did you know it’s also one of the most popular beach vacation spots in Europe? Whether you’re looking for some well-deserved relaxation or great surfing opportunities, this is the place to be!
Today, I’ll tell you why you should consider going on a beach vacation in Portugal and what are my favorite beaches there. Ready? Let’s go!
5 reasons to choose Portugal for your beach vacation
Before I get into my recommendations, let’s talk about why you should choose Portugal for your beach vacation.
- Portugal is an affordable country. In fact, it offers incredible value for money compared to other beach destinations in Europe. There, you’ll find reasonable prices without compromising on quality, allowing you to make the most of your travel budget.
- You’ll find fresh seafood and high quality wines pretty much everywhere! Portugal’s traditional cuisine utilizes a lot of fish, shellfish and crustaceans, and there’s no shortage of places to enjoy these dishes, especially in coastal areas. Trust us, every bite is worth it!
- The beaches are as mesmerizing as they look on photographs, and they’re also very well-kept and equipped to welcome tourists and locals alike. So, unless it’s a wild beach, you’ll find excellent infrastructure, with bathrooms, showers, restaurants, beach umbrella rentals, lifeguards and more.
- Last but not least, Portugal is such a small country that it’s entirely possible to choose one location to serve as base while you explore all the other beaches, towns and villages around it, be it by car or on foot. I just can’t recommend enough that you take some time to discover hidden beaches, small quaint villages, and even historical sites. In my opinion, it’s the best way to really get to know Portugal!
Are you still not convinced to go on a beach vacation in Portugal? Well, then you’ll definitely be when I finish listing all my favorite beaches!
Best beaches in Portugal
With over 1,100 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline, Portugal is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Trust me, even though I already knew what was waiting for me, it still took me by surprise when I saw just how stunning they really are!
From golden sand to black pebble beaches, nothing can prepare you for the views that await you. I can, however, introduce you to some of my favorite beaches in the country. So, let’s do this!
Index
1. Algarve
When talking about beaches in Portugal, the Algarve is probably the first place that comes to most people’s mind, and for a good reason!
This is the most southern region of the country, where sunshine is guaranteed year-round and the golden sand beaches are surrounded by majestic cliffs and turquoise waters. It’s also a great spot for water sports, such as surfing, paddleboarding and kayaking.
Here are my top picks in the Algarve:
Praia do Camilo
Praia do Camilo is one of the most famous and beloved beaches in the Algarve, and it’s not hard to see why. It has a very unique landscape, with iconic yellow sea stacks rising from crystal-clear turquoise waters. It’s truly a sight to behold!
This is also where you’ll find some of the greatest snorkeling opportunities in the region. It’s an indescribable experience to dive beneath the calm waters and find a totally new underwater world, with colorful fish swimming alongside you.
There’s just one downside to Praia do Camilo: reaching it can be quite challenging, since you can only get there via a wooden staircase. If you’re traveling with young children or individuals with limited mobility, this might not be the most suitable beach for you.
You should also keep in mind that this is a very popular beach that can get quite crowded during peak season. So, it’s best to arrive before 11am to get a good spot on the sand. You won’t need to worry about amenities, though! There are bathrooms and a restaurant in the parking lot, beach umbrella rentals and a bar right on the beach.
Praia da Quinta do Lago
Associated with a high quality tourist resort, Praia da Quinta do Lago is a soft golden-sand beach located in the heart of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, in the district of Loulé.
This is the place to be if you want to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying great infrastructure. And when I say great, I mean it! Here, you’ll find tennis courts, golf courses and even an equestrian center!
Overall, it’s a great spot to relax and soak in the serene landscape, where well-preserved dunes rise against the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. And, because the Ria Formosa Natural Park provides a habitat for numerous bird species, it’s also a great beach for birdwatching enthusiasts!
Praia do Amado
Praia do Amado is a hidden gem near Carrapateira, on the Algarve’s west coast. This beach is about 1 kilometer long, and its wild and rugged surroundings make it the perfect place to run away from the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet.
This beach is located between majestic cliffs that not only provide breathtaking views, but also protect against strong winds. This means that even on windier days, you can still enjoy a pleasant time at this stunning seaside spot without being (literally!) blown away.
Just keep in mind that this is a wild beach, which means you won’t find the same amenities as other beaches. However, its untouched beauty more than makes up for it!
Nature lovers and photographers in particular will fall in love with the beach’s northern side, where there are colorful rock formations, from vibrant reds and ochres to delicate pinks.
Praia de Dona Ana
Praia de Dona Ana is often referred to as the most beautiful beach in Lagos, with its soft sand and crystal-clear waters. But does it live up to the hype? Well, even though Praia de Dona Ana really is beautiful, you can find other equally gorgeous beaches in the region. In my opinion, what actually sets it apart from others is its excellent infrastructure.
That’s because, unlike some beaches that leave you scrambling for a bathroom or snack, you’ll find everything here! There are clean bathrooms conveniently located, a restaurant and rental services for chairs and umbrellas.
To reach Praia de Dona Ana, you have to take a flight of stairs, but every step is worth it! The view from above is breathtaking, with vibrant blue waters contrasting against golden cliffs and lush greenery that surround them.
Praia da Falésia
Praia da Falésia is probably the most well-known beach near Albufeira. With its golden sands stretching for miles, pristine turquoise waters and high cliffs, it’s no wonder why this beach attracts visitors from all over the world.
One of the highlights of Praia da Falésia is its expansive coastline that invites leisurely walks and offers unbelievable views of towering cliffs. Just be careful not to stand too close to them, as there’s always a risk of landslides.
But don’t let that stop you from visiting! The tranquility and serenity of this place is unmatched. If you want to relax under the sun or witness stunning sunsets, away from the worries of everyday life, you’ll love it here.
2. Alentejo
Nestled between the Tagus River and the Algarve is the Alentejo region. It covers a third of Portugal and is known for its rural charm, sparsely populated areas, exceptional wines and cuisine.
Alentejo offers plenty of opportunities for cultural tourism, with ancient castles and adorable villages with whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets, as well as magnificent beaches to explore.
Since a lot of the beaches here are part of the Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina Natural Park, nature tourism and sport also thrive in this region. There are endless opportunities to connect with nature, from hiking along scenic trails or birdwatching at the preserved coastline.
Here are my top beach recommendations:
Zambujeira do Mar
Zambujeira do Mar is a charming fishing village in Alentejo’s coastline. Here, you’ll be treated to panoramic views overlooking the beach. And, trust us, the combination of rugged cliffs, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters creates a setting that feels like it’s straight out of a postcard!
With its serene charm and natural beauty, Zambujeira do Mar is an excellent spot for both relaxation and outdoor adventures, such as hiking, birdwatching, surfing, and kayaking.
Praia do Almograve
Located within the Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina Natural Park, Praia do Almograve is a hidden gem in the village of Almograve. This beach stands out not only because of its beauty but also because of its tranquility and lack of crowds.
The long stretch of golden sand is surrounded by majestic cliffs on both ends, providing a sheltered spot even on windy days. So, if you’re looking to unwind and relax or enjoy water activities, this is the place!
You can also venture beyond the shore into the nearby Almograve village, where you’ll find traditional Portuguese restaurants serving fresh seafood and other mouthwatering dishes.
Praia da Franquia
Praia da Franquia is located in Vila Nova de Milfontes, and has a long-standing reputation as one of the area’s most beloved beaches. In fact, Praia da Franquia has been featured in literature since the 19th century!
With calm waters and gentle waves, this is the perfect beach for families with children and for anyone who loves water sports like canoeing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.
And, unlike some other beaches that can be overcrowded during peak season, Praia da Franquia remains relatively uncrowded year-round, so you won’t have to worry about arriving early to secure a good spot.
This beach is also conveniently close to town, and offers amenities such as lifeguards, clean bathrooms, and cozy cafes.
3. Lisbon and central area
While Lisbon is usually associated with historic neighborhoods and azulejo-tiled buildings, it’s time to let you in on a little secret: the stunning beaches you can find along the Estoril Coastline, which extends from Lisbon to Cascais, as well as the ones on the south bank of the Tagus River.
These sandy shores are among Europe’s finest beaches, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
The fact is that I’ve already listed 12 reasons to visit Lisbon, with its strategic location near the ocean being just one of them. Now, let’s explore a few of my favorite beach options along the central area:
Praia de Carcavelos
Praia de Carcavelos is the closest beach to Lisbon and the first on the Estoril Coastline, easily accessible via the Lisbon-Cascais railway. This is one of the biggest and most popular beaches in Portugal, ideal for water sports, relaxing and swimming.
What’s amazing is that both locals and tourists alike are attracted to this beach, which creates a very unique and friendly vibe. It also has excellent infrastructure, such as bathrooms, restaurants, beach bars and more.
With medium-sized waves, Praia de Carcavelos is a great surfing spot for all levels. And there are surf schools right on the beach, so if you’ve always dreamt of taking surfing lessons this is your chance!
Praia da Comporta
Praia da Comporta is a 12-kilometer stretch of soft golden sand within the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve. To reach it, you’ll need to drive about 125 kilometers or take a ferry boat from Setubal.
The beach offers bathrooms with showers, wheelchair ramps for accessibility, parking, umbrella and sun bed rentals, as well as many great bars and restaurants. Currently, Praia da Comporta has become very popular among the richest Portuguese and tourists, but there are options for all types of budgets!
This is a hotspot for kitesurfing, with many competitions being held throughout the year, but you’ll also see a lot of people surfing, bodyboarding or simply sunbathing while enjoying an incredible view.
Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo
Often hailed as one of the most beautiful in Portugal, Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo used to be a hidden gem in the Arrábida Natural Park. However, nothing that beautiful can stay hidden forever, right?
In recent years, this beach has gained a lot of popularity, but no need to worry: it still retains its natural beauty and secluded vibe! After all, there are only 2 ways to reach Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo: by boat or via a pedestrian trail, which offers breathtaking views, but is quite challenging, especially on your way back.
Just a short distance from Lisbon, this beach offers a perfect escape into nature. Here, you won’t find any lifeguards, services, or vendors, so make sure to pack everything you’ll need for your day at the beach, such as food, drinks, umbrellas, and any other essentials.
Praia de Galapinhos
Praia de Galapinhos is another paradise-like beach in the Arrábida Natural Park, in Setubal. Located between the beaches Galapos and Coelhos, it’s possible to cross them on foot to reach Galapinhos when the tide is low.
The other way to access it is to make your way through a trail among the vegetation and descend a steep wooden staircase. But don’t worry, the views you’ll have from there more than make up for it! And, because it’s not easy to reach, Praia de Galapinhos continues to be a more secluded destination.
Here, you won’t find facilities such as bathrooms, just one place that serves sandwiches and drinks. On the other hand, you’ll be able to enjoy this untouched beauty with calm and clear waters, perfect to spot fishes and other marine species even without a snorkel.
Praia do Norte
Praia do Norte in Nazaré is famous worldwide for its gigantic waves. This is where Garret McNamara surfed the world’s largest wave at an astonishing 24.38 meters high!
Sure, waves this big don’t happen every day, but heights over 15 meters are not uncommon during the wave season, which is roughly from October to March.
Because of its strong winds and impressive swells, this beach also offers ideal conditions for water sports like bodyboarding, surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. However, swimming can be extremely dangerous due to the unpredictable waves and strong currents, even if the ocean seems calm and inviting.
Getting to Praia do Norte requires a short journey from nearby town Nazaré. Although there is no public transportation directly to the beach itself, buses will take you within approximately 4 kilometers of your destination.
Parking spots can be found near Praia do Norte, but there aren’t any facilities on-site. However, you’ll find cafés and restaurants nearby so you can refuel after marveling at nature’s power.
4. Porto and Northern Portugal
Northern Portugal is a region that will capture your heart with its rich culture, historic cities, and stunning landscapes. From the moment you step foot there, you’ll be greeted by a warm atmosphere brimming with authenticity.
While it’s true that the weather here can be slightly cooler and wetter than other parts of Portugal, don’t let that stop you from visiting the incredible beaches scattered along this coastline.
The summer months offer ideal conditions for beach vacations in northern Portugal, and when it comes to recommendations, I have a few favorites up my sleeve:
Praia de Moledo
Praia de Moledo, located in Caminha, is a hidden gem that has been attracting Portuguese elites and politicians since the 20th century.
This beach offers tranquility and unspoiled beauty, providing a peaceful escape from crowded southern beaches. With fewer visitors, you can enjoy true relaxation without overwhelming crowds.
Praia de Moledo has excellent conditions for all kinds of water activities, such as surfing, bodyboarding, and windsurfing. Besides that, the waters at this beach have therapeutic properties thanks to its high concentration of iodine, which means just taking a dip can improve your well-being.
I always thought going on a beach vacation was essential to my health, but this takes it to a whole new level!
Praia de Canide Norte
If you go to Vila Nova de Gaia, you must make a stop at Praia de Canide Norte. With its vast golden sand and well-preserved dune system, this beach offers a paradise-like setting.
Besides the beautiful surroundings, you’ll find a great water sports scene, with surfers, bodyboarders, and kitesurfers from all over the country. There are even competitions held there throughout the year!
Praia de Canide Norte also provides comfort with umbrella rentals, clean bathrooms, and nearby bars and restaurants offering local delicacies.
Praia de Lavradores
The closest beach to Gaia is Praia de Lavradores, a place that combines both convenience and natural beauty. What really sets it apart is its lengthy stretch of sand, ideal for long walks or bike rides along the coast.
Praia de Lavradores is a semi-urban beach that seamlessly combines the best of both worlds, with crystal-clear waters surrounded by green areas. If you’re traveling with children, you’ll be glad to know there’s a playground to keep them entertained for hours.
Facilities include bathrooms, changing rooms, and umbrella rentals for a comfortable beach experience. Besides that, nearby bars and restaurants offer delicious local cuisine to complete your beach day.
5. Madeira Island
Known for its black pebble and sand beaches, crystal-clear seas, and mountainous landscapes Madeira Island is the largest and most populous island of the Madeira Archipelago, an autonomous region of Portugal.
One of the main advantages of visiting Madeira Island is its mild temperatures year-round. Whether you’re escaping the summer heat or seeking a warm winter getaway, this island offers an inviting climate that will make your beach vacation in Portugal truly unforgettable.
When it comes to beaches on Madeira Island, my top recommendations for you are:
Praia Formosa
Praia Formosa is the largest public beach on Madeira Island, just a short 10-minute drive from Funchal’s city center. Its unique combination of pebbles and black sand stretches for over 2km, attracting both locals and tourists without feeling crowded.
It has excellent tourist facilities, including restaurants, parking, changing rooms, and a first-aid post.
While Praia Formosa may not be known for waves, you can still enjoy water-related activities here. The beach even has a natural pool filled with seawater overflow, ideal for a calm swim and for children.
Praia do Seixal
Praia do Seixal is one of the few black sand beaches in Madeira. Its dark sand offers a striking contrast against the turquoise waters and cliffs adorned with lush greenery.
The waves there are big enough for a ride, but not as aggressive as in some other Portuguese beaches. This makes it appealing to both seasoned surfers and newcomers to the sport, as well as bodyboarders.
This beach also features family-friendly attractions, like a waterfall that cascades into the sea, and a natural saltwater swimming pool, ideal for children of all ages.
Praia do Garajau
Praia do Garajau, situated in the Garajau Partial Natural Reserve just south of Funchal, is a very popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers, with its rich biodiversity and unbelievable underwater landscapes.
To preserve its natural beauty, there are strict regulations on fishing and navigation, which is why this beach is only accessible by a cable car ride. That way, it’s possible to better control the environment and preserve this untouched beauty (and the breathtaking views you’ll get during the ride are a great bonus!)
This beach provides convenient facilities such as toilets, changing rooms, a first-aid station and restaurants.
Praia de Machico
When I first learned that Praia de Machico was an artificial beach, I must admit I was a bit skeptical about it. But I stand corrected: this golden-sand beach ended up being totally worth a visit!
Conveniently situated near the airport of Machico, this beach is perfect for families with children because of its warm, calm, and shallow waters, which allow for them to play safely while you enjoy the sun.
There, you’ll also find a range of facilities, from clean toilets and showers to snack bars and restaurants. Whether you’re craving some fresh seafood or a refreshing drink, there are plenty of dining options available nearby.
6. Azores
When you think of beach vacations in Portugal, the Azores might not be the first place that comes to mind. But trust me when I say that these volcanic islands have some breathtaking beaches just waiting to be explored!
One of the highlights of this archipelago is the abundance of hot springs, which offer therapeutic benefits for both your body and mind.
Meanwhile, surfing enthusiasts will also find excellent spots with options for all skill levels, from powerful breaks to gentle rolling swells.
These are my beach recommendations in the Azores:
Praia de Santa Barbara
Praia de Santa Barbara on São Miguel Island in the Azores stands out among Portugal’s beaches with its stunning 1km stretch of volcanic black sand.
Surrounded by impressive cliffs, the beach not only offers breathtaking scenery but also ideal conditions for water sports, particularly surfing and bodyboarding. There are surfing schools and board rentals, ensuring everyone can experience the thrill of the waves in the Azores.
This beach is well-equipped with ample parking, showers, bathrooms, and restaurants, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination.
Praia Porto Pim
Praia Porto Pim, a golden sand beach near Horta on Faial Island, holds historical significance as the first settlement on the island.
Popular among locals and tourists, the beach has lifeguards and provides amenities like toilets and showers for a comfortable experience. There are nearby bars and restaurants that offer delicious local cuisine.
When you’re there, don’t forget to explore Horta, just moments away from the beach. This adorable city is filled with pastel-colored houses lining cobblestone streets that will definitely charm you!
Praia do Fogo
Praia do Fogo, just 7km from Furnas on São Miguel Island, is a unique Portugal beach due to its warm waters year-round.
Named “Beach of Fire” due to hydrothermal vents keeping the seawater pleasantly lukewarm, this beach offers relaxation and quietude away from the crowds.
It’s also a very popular choice for families with children, since the kids get to enjoy the warm waters while the adults sunbathe on the soft sand.
Here, you’ll find convenient parking, well-maintained stairways, comfortable seating under parasols for shade and restaurants.
When is the best time to visit Portugal’s beaches?
Depending on which beaches you’re heading to, you’ll find year-round sun. For example, in the Algarve you might spot people sunbathing even in December, if the weather is good enough! Though, of course, most people will be fully clothed between October and April.
But when deciding when to visit Portugal’s beaches it all depends on your goals. If you wish to soak up as much sun as possible and enjoy the best swimming conditions, then summer is definitely the right answer for you.
Just keep in mind that July and August are peak season months, which means Portuguese beaches will be bustling with visitors from all over.
However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience with fewer tourists around but still want warm and pleasant days by the sea, I highly recommend visiting between May and June.
During this time of year, when spring is at its finest, the days are long and warm without being overly crowded.
September and October are also good options, as this is when most tourists have returned to their homes. These months offer an ideal opportunity to enjoy some warm sunshine while avoiding large crowds before the rainy season starts.
When is the surfing season?
Now let’s talk surfers! If catching waves or witnessing those famous giant ones in Nazaré is high on your agenda, then November should be circled on your calendar. This is the best month to witness the epic giant waves at their finest.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for calm seas for swimming and other water activities, I recommend that you go in the summer.
Regardless of when you choose to visit Portugal’s stunning beaches, though, rest assured that you’ll have a great time!
Safety tips and important information
The last thing you need to know before embarking on your Portugal beach vacation is how to remain safe during your trip. Here are my tips:
- Familiarize yourself with the system of colored flags that lets visitors know about the swimming conditions and ensures your safety. A green flag indicates safe swimming, yellow signals caution, and red forbids swimming. Blue and white checkered flags indicate a temporary lack of lifeguards.
- Pay attention to warnings about falling rocks! If you see this sign, don’t ignore it, and make sure to keep your distance.
- Since it’s possible to encounter some dangerous undercurrents in the beaches of Portugal, as well as very big waves, children should be supervised at all times, especially in windy beaches. If you happen to get caught by a water current, go out with it until you can swim side waves or get behind the waves.
- Finally, remember to get a beach umbrella to protect you from the sun, wear lots of sunscreen and hydrate. As you’ve seen, most beaches have places to rent umbrellas and sunbeds, so it shouldn’t be a problem.
With these safety precautions in mind, you’re ready to explore Portugal’s top beaches!
