Top 5 Best Beaches in Lisbon

The area around Lisbon is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.

In summer, a visit to the beach is a great addition to your holiday. Lisbon's beaches stretch along four distinct coasts, offering a variety from wild surfing beaches to quiet family beaches to charming resorts. Few visitors know it, but Lisbon is close to some beautiful beaches.

Thus, a stay in Lisbon can combine the pleasure of an urban stay with the relaxation of the beach.

In addition, most of Lisbon's beaches are easily accessible by public transport, making it an excellent option for a day trip from the city.

1. Carcavelos Beach, Lisbon

The Lisbon coast has a remarkable beach called Praia de Carcavelos, renowned for its natural beauty.

This beach has soft, golden sand and clean sea water, as well as many tourist attractions, including cafes, restaurants, beach sports and water activities. The beach is spacious and lively, making it an ideal location for a beach-centric day trip from Lisbon.

It is suitable for all ages, from families with young children to adults, and is extremely popular with Lisbon residents during the summer months.

When the weather conditions are right, the surfing waves are decent, making it a popular place to learn to surf with surf schools located on the beach.

Praia de Carcavelos is easily accessible from Lisbon by the Lisbon-Cascais urban railway, and there is ample parking behind the beach for those who prefer to drive.

2. Praia da Conceição

When the tide is low, Praia da Conceição is connected to the neighbouring beach of Praia da Duquesa, but the two separate as the tide rises.

To the east of the beach is Casa Faial, an impressive 19th century villa, while at the opposite end, a rocky spur houses the Albatroz, probably the most famous hotel in Cascais.

This beach is ideal for families as it has many facilities and has been awarded the Blue Flag.

Seasonal lifeguards are also present to ensure the safety of bathers. Being located within the boundaries of Cascais Bay, the beach is very quiet.

In addition, the shops and cafes of Cascais are within walking distance and there is a ramp for easy access to the beach.

3. Costa da Caparica

Costa da Caparica is a beautiful 26 km long stretch of coastline with beautiful sandy beaches, powerful Atlantic Ocean waves and spectacular natural scenery.

It stretches along the west coast of the Setubal peninsula and takes its name from the largest town in the region, Costa da Caparica, which is a modern and lively seaside resort.

Further south are sites such as the traditional fishing village of Fonte da Telha, the pretty lagoon of Lagoa de Albufeira and vast stretches of unspoilt beaches. Much of the southern coast of Costa da Caparica is protected in the 'Fóssil d'Arriba' nature reserve, which has prevented major development and preserved the fossil-rich cliffs.

This nature reserve offers an exceptional environment for local wildlife and is a popular place for hiking, cycling and outdoor activities. The beaches of Costa da Caparica are perfect for surfers, swimmers and families.

The waves of the Atlantic attract surfers from all over the world, while the sandy beaches offer safe and enjoyable swimming spots for children and adults.

Fonte da Telha beach is a secluded beach that offers a contrast to the busy beaches of Costa da Caparica. Located near the fishing village of the same name, this beach is known for its crystal clear waters and sand dunes.

Visitors can enjoy the tranquillity of this unspoilt beach while having access to essential facilities such as showers and local restaurants.

Visitors can also explore the Lagoa de Albufeira area, a natural lagoon located near the beach. This area is a natural habitat for many species of birds and fish, and is particularly popular for fishing and sailing activities.

4. Tamariz Beach, Estoril

Located in the seaside resort of Estoril, the family-friendly beach of Tamariz (Praia de Tamariz) is an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the beach without being far from home, especially during the busy summer weekends.

Although not the most picturesque in the area, Tamariz offers a long, wide strip of sand surrounded by many fine bars and restaurants.

However, it should be noted that the beach is very busy at weekends, and visitors will have to share the space with other holidaymakers from the Cascais-Estoril area. The medieval-style castle overlooking the beach adds further charm to the place.

Tamariz beach is ideal for families, due to the very calm and non-tidal sea, and for tourists who just want to lie down and enjoy the sun.

5. Praia de São Pedro, Estoril

The beach of S. Pedro do Estoril is an impressive place with a vast expanse of sand visible during low tide.

Its setting is dominated by the imposing geological accident of the Pedra do Sal to the west. This rock formation is mainly made up of limestone and margas that are 90 to 120 million years old.

S. Pedro do Estoril beach is easily accessible on foot or by car, making it a popular choice for school trips and holiday camps.

During the bathing season, it is supervised and has a medical post for first aid. The whole environment is conducive to contemplation and relaxation.