Portugal is renowned for its stunning coastline and charming seaside destinations. Among the best beach towns in Portugal are Cascais, Lagos, and Nazaré, each offering unique experiences. Cascais, near Lisbon, is a sophisticated town with golden beaches, historic charm, and vibrant nightlife. Lagos, in the Algarve, boasts dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and a lively atmosphere, making it one of the best beach towns in Portugal for adventure seekers and families alike. Nazaré, famous for its giant waves, attracts surfers from around the world while offering a traditional fishing village vibe.
Best Beach Towns in Portugal
Other notable mentions include Albufeira, known for its lively resorts, and Ericeira, a surfer's paradise with a relaxed, bohemian feel. These best beach towns in Portugal are perfect for exploring scenic landscapes, indulging in fresh seafood, and immersing yourself in local culture. Whether you seek tranquility or excitement, Portugal's coastline has something to captivate every traveler.
1. Cascais, for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and historic palaces
Cascais is a lively resort town on the west coast of Lisbon, just 30 km (about 20 miles) away and easily accessible by public transport.
Cascais' beaches offer calm waters that are easy to swim in and play in, and waves for surfing - some beaches make it the perfect place for beginners or children to try surfing for the first time. Praia da Rainha is a great beach to explore and a short walk from the city.
Beyond the beaches, Cascais is a beautiful town with lots to do and see. There are a variety of museums and art galleries, such as the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães, where you can explore the once private summer residence of the 1st Count of Castro Guimarães.
One of the best beach towns in Portugal, Cascais also offers beautiful outdoor spaces, such as the Marechal Carmona Park, where you can see peacocks. On top of that, Cascais is known for its gastronomy and is home to a variety of good restaurants with some of the best seafood.
2. Costa da Caparica, for its beaches and popular surf spots
If you’re looking for a great place to surf in Portugal, Costa da Caparica is it. There are consistently good waves here, but they’re not often very big or challenging. The beach seems to go on and on for 15km of coastline.
The Costa can be divided into sections. (1️⃣) The first is the suburban area, with plenty of holiday accommodation available in the city itself, plenty of places to shop and plenty of places to eat and drink. For great, fresh fish in an unpretentious local atmosphere, check out XS Lounge Beach Bar.
Then we have the (2️⃣) area of São João de Caparica, one of the most chic areas on the Costa. Here you’ll find another great surf beach, Praia de São João. You’ll also find a variety of beach bars, such as the famous Clásico Beach Bar or the less pretentious Pe Nu Beach Club.
Finally, if you (3️⃣) head south along Estrada Florestal and away from the city, you’ll be met with kilometres of unspoilt beaches and beach bars, such as the famous Irmão and Princesa. You can reach these bars by car, bus or scooter (such as Lime or Bolt).
Love kitesurfing? Located about 10km (6 miles) from the city centre of Costa da Caparica, Fonte da Telha is the perfect place to kitesurf. After you’re done, be sure to grab a bite at Kailua Fonte da Telha – my favourite spot for lunch and drinks on the beach.
3. Nazaré, for its world-record giant waves and surfing mecca
Nazaré is known worldwide for its huge waves, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Portugal. The biggest wave ever surfed in Nazaré was over 26 meters, or 86 feet high — the biggest wave ever surfed anywhere in the world.
While there are always waves in Nazaré, they’re not always that big. The best time to see the waves is usually in November and December, but big waves can also come earlier in the fall or spring — check the surf report to see what to expect.
Regardless of the size of the waves, the Farol da Nazaré, or Nazaré Lighthouse, is a great place to look out over the beach and bay and any surfers who might be there.
Long before surfers arrived, Nazaré was already a thriving fishing town — and it still has an active fishing community, so you can get some fresh seafood at one of the city’s best restaurants.
🐠 Check out Rosa dos Ventos for grilled fish and the catch of the day, or Maria do Mar for traditional fish stew.
4. Ericeira, for its World Surfing Reserve status and old town charm
Another surfer’s paradise in Portugal, Ericeira is home to Europe’s only World Surf Reserve, making its beaches and sections of ocean a protected surf spot.
And while that beach offers an incredible opportunity for consistent waves to surf, there are plenty of options for non-surfers too. Praia dos Pescadores has calm waters and is convenient to the town center, making it a great choice for casual swimmers and waders.
Beyond the beach, you’ll find a pretty town with cobblestone streets and whitewashed walls. Stroll along Largo das Ribas for great views of the beach and ocean from the top of the cliffs and down below.
5. Tavira, for its historic architecture and unique island beaches
On the Spanish side and in the Gulf of Cadiz, you’ll find long stretches of sand and small, secluded beaches like Praia da Ilha de Tavira. The clear waters are calm and slightly warmer than Portugal’s Atlantic coast.
Tavira, often called the city of churches, is home to an impressive 20 churches for those drawn to architectural marvels. Many of these historic landmarks date back to the 13th century and showcase a harmonious blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles.
In addition to its historical and natural attractions, including a Roman bridge, Tavira has managed to retain its traditional charm and authenticity. If you’re looking for a quiet beach getaway, Tavira is a beautiful coastal town that could be perfect.
Plus, if you’re into seafood, it’s one of the best beach areas in Portugal as its local menu has some amazing, fresh offerings every day. Check out the classics served by the water at A Barquinha.
⭐️ Tavira is known as one of the best beach towns in Portugal, especially for families. Many foreign families call Tavira home for a variety of reasons, including the private international school Colegio Santiago Internacional.
6. Lagos, for dramatic cliffs and the iconic Praia Dona Aneira
For more things to do both day and night for a larger beach town in Portugal, check out Lagos in the Algarve. The beaches are incredible, with steep, rocky backdrops punctuated by sparkling stretches of sand.
The main beach, Praia Dona Ana, is a beautiful sandy beach within walking distance of Lagos’ old town. The famous Algarve Cliffs back the beach, and the water is gorgeous and clear. Another fantastic spot is Praia Dos Estudantes, or Students’ Beach, where you’ll be stuck in a cliffside by a rock tunnel to a small, sandy beach.
Be sure to take a boat trip by the iconic natural wonder of Ponta da Piedade. These rock formations are carved into grottoes, caves, and arches that jut out of the sea, creating one of the most beautiful places to visit.
Away from the beach, Lagos has a wonderfully laid-back Old Town. The best activity might be to put away your phone and map and get lost. If you do, you’ll likely stumble upon hidden corners and hotspots like the fish market and the city walls, as well as the unspoiled nature.
7. Comporta, for its celebrity-approved, quiet sandy stretches
Comporta is gorgeous. Located just south of Lisbon, the driving distance to Comporta is about 120 km or 75 miles due to the Sado estuary, where there is a ferry crossing but no bridge.
It’s amazing to see an area still so wild and virtually untouched despite so many A-list visitors and investors. Did you know that Christian Louboutin, Monica Bellucci and Carla Bruni have properties here? And I can see why.
Praia da Comporta is a large stretch of sand outside the city. The water is calm, so it’s great for swimmers of all levels. But there’s often a good breeze too, making it a great place for kitesurfers. If you’re not into water sports, you can go horse riding along the beach.
Another great alternative activity in Comporta, one of Portugal’s best beach towns near Lisbon, is to take a boat ride on the rivers of the Tria Peninsula and see how many local dolphins you can spot.
8. Peniche, for surfing waves and gateway to the Berlengas Islands
Peniche sits on a small peninsula jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, about halfway between Lisbon and Nazaré. The small town has long, sandy beaches, fantastic surf breaks and beautiful fishing spots.
Visit Balial Island, which was once an island, although it is now connected to the mainland by the natural and rare phenomenon of a tombolo – a landform that slowly develops to connect to a land mass. On the island, you can catch stunning sunsets and watch surfers all day long.
Further out to sea is the Berlengas Nature Reserve, a group of small islands with virtually untouched natural environments. There is a daily ferry from Peniche to Berlengas from May to October. You can arrange private transportation outside of those months, though you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared for a pretty rough ride.
Once you head inland from the beach, Peniche is a very sleepy town with very little going on. One place you can check out is Fortaleza de Peniche. Even so, don’t expect big parties, but you can still grab a drink at places like Bar Tres As — which is open until 2 a.m.
9. Porto Covo, for its picturesque cove beaches and village serenity
If you’re looking for Portugal as it once was, this might be as close as you’ll get to a beach town. The whitewashed buildings of what was once just a sleepy fishing village make for a laid-back town – and there are still plenty of fishermen.
While you won’t find Mediterranean water temperatures yet, the sea around Porto Covo is noticeably warmer than other beaches in Portugal. Porto Covo is a great spot for beachgoers who want to spend most of their days in the water. One of the best beaches is Praia da Samoquera, where natural rock pools form at low tide.
10. Vila Nova de Milfontes, for its riverside setting and historic castle views
Vila Nova de Milfontes is another of Portugal’s best beach towns that has something for everyone looking for a local small-town vibe.
Sitting along the Alentejo coastline, about halfway between Lisbon and Lagos, Vila Nova de Milfontes is one of the best coastal towns for families.
Its beaches have calm waters – and sitting at the mouth of the Mira River, it has both sea and riverfront beaches. One of these river beaches is Praia da Francia, which is very close to the sea, but being on the river makes it the perfect place for activities like kayaking or supping.
The town is tiny, with a population of just under 5,000. But especially in the summer, it has plenty to offer. Check out the delicious seafood at Pátio Alentejano or grab a drink at Statera Milfontes - a cocktail bar.
And of course, check out the castle (sometimes referred to as a fortress) — the citadel of Vila Nova de Milfontes. Built in the early 17th century, the castle has been well-preserved over the years and offers great views of the surrounding area.
11. Olhão, for its fresh seafood market
Olhão sits at the southernmost point of mainland Portugal and can trace its roots back to Moorish times. Part of the town is made up of barrier islands that can only be reached by ferry — each journey takes between 10 and 40 minutes, ensuring that the island’s beaches are relatively quiet and uncrowded.
Praia da Ilha da Culatra is one of those islands with a small town, a few permanent residents, and beautiful pristine beaches — it’s also home to oyster farms. There are no cars on the island, and credit cards are generally not accepted, so be prepared to take your day very slowly.
With such a slow pace of life and such easy access to the sea, it’s no wonder that Olhao is sometimes considered the fishing capital of the Algarve. So, one of the best things to do in Olhao is visit the amazing, bustling seafood market that sells the freshest catch — the Mercado de Olhao Seafood Market.
12. Camara de Lobos, for its picturesque bays and historic fishing heritage
Just off the Portuguese mainland, on the southern coast of Madeira Island, just west of Funchal, is Camara de Lobos. The town was the first settlement on the island and is still steeped in history.
🐠 This is a very active little fishing village in Portugal, and if you get up early, head to the docks to watch the fishermen bring in their colorful boats and the catch of the day.
The specialty is scabbard—a white fish that tastes sweeter than haddock, though. If you’re curious, try a plate of venison at the Vila da Carne restaurant. It’s also a great place to eat poncha if you dare.
13. Figueira da Foz, for its beaches and vibrant watersports culture
For convenient beach access, Figueira da Foz can’t be beat with the town right on the beach. That beach is Buarcos Beach, a wide expanse of sand that is easily filled with umbrellas during peak summer sunshine.
Alongside the sandy bits, there is a paved path that you can use for cycling or rollerblading. The area is also very popular for watersports. It’s a great place to pick up, learn or practice a surfboard. There’s also great kitesurfing as well as windsurfing.
Aside from the beaches, Figueira da Foz has a lot to offer. It’s also home to the oldest casino on the Iberian Peninsula, Casino Figueira. You can go for a gamble, a meal, or a bit of history (recently renovated).
14. Ponta Delgada, for its volcanic landscape
Another beautiful island Portuguese coastal town, Ponta Delgada is a must-see if you’re in the Azores. It’s where cruise ships dock.
Ponta Delgada is the main town on the main island of the Azores – São Miguel. Since it’s a volcanic island, you’ll find many dark or black sand beaches and many with large pebbles or rocks. Just outside Ponta Delgada, Milicias Beach is a great place to hang out. There’s a playground for younger kids and areas for volleyball, soccer, and skating.
Ponta Delgada has some perfect surfing waves. Surprisingly, even though it’s smack dab in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the currents are such that the waters right off the coast are surprisingly temperate and pleasant for swimming.
15. Costa Nova, for its iconic candy-striped beach houses
Another great place for surfing, Costa Nova is considered one of the best beaches in Portugal (in the north). This is due to its long stretch of sand and the brightly colored houses that line it.
While the stretches of beach facing the ocean are beautiful and wonderful for long walks or sunbathing opportunities, the waters can be rough, so if you’re not up for surfing after the waves, you might want to consider heading inland instead of the estuary where the wind and waves are calmer.
The area is also great for bird watching - some of the birds include herons and storks. And if you prefer, the city of Aveiro, also known as the Venice of Portugal, is 11 kilometers (about 6.8 miles) away.
16. Ferragudo, for its picture-perfect fishing village and riverside charm
Ferragudo sits at the mouth of the Arade River as it spills into the sea and is considered one of the prettiest towns in the Algarve region, and for good reason. While it’s no longer the most popular place in the Algarve, it was the first area to be developed for tourism.
Because it has some amazing beaches. Check out Praia da Rocha, a stretch of sand with jagged cliffs punctuating the smooth beach. Or Praia da Angrinha is actually a river beach, albeit just a stone’s throw from the sea.
In town, you’ll find plenty of dining options and a pretty decent amount of nightlife. Head to Praça Reina Dona Leonor, the central square, to see what you fancy.
17. Albufeira, for its vibrant nightlife and golden Algarve beaches
Albufeira Old Town is one of the most popular tourist attractions and one of the best places to have a great time if you’re looking to party.
Albufeira is one of the largest towns in the Algarve and has spectacular beaches backed by sheer red cliffs. One of the best places to sunbathe is Praia da Falésia, which is around 7km (4 miles) long.
But this southern Portugal town isn’t the only one with beaches—all along the coast, there are plenty of rocky shores, coves, and sand dunes just waiting to be explored. The famous Benagil Caves and the spectacular views of Praia da Marina are also not far away.
In town, there’s plenty to do. The Old Town is packed with shops and cafes and comes alive in the evening with a lively, raucous nightlife. Check out Legends Bar for a real party or Casa do Cerro for something a little more chilled. Or you can explore the narrow streets and get lost.
18. Viana Do Castelo, for its historic architecture and scenery
Viana do Castelo is a short drive north of Portugal, just a stone’s throw from the Spanish border. It’s home to beautiful fine-sand beaches, and several of the city’s beaches have been awarded the Blue Flag, meaning they’re both safe and meet high environmental standards.
Check out Praia do Cabedelo, where kitesurfing is a popular pastime, but just lying on the beach is just as easy and enjoyable.
In the city centre, there’s plenty to explore. Check out the lovely Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Santuario de Santa Luzia) and the wonderful views from its rooftops.
19. Sesimbra, for its seafood and family-friendly beaches
Beaches are within walking distance of the city, such as Praia da Califórnia where you can quickly walk from restaurants and bars to the sand and sea.
While the city’s beaches are great, if you want to explore the area a bit further you’ll find absolute gems like Ribeira do Cavalo Beach, about three kilometres away.
In addition to the beaches, Sesimbra is known for its water sports and natural beauty, thanks to its proximity to the Arrabida National Park. Covering over 100 square kilometres, the park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, with unique flora and fauna found nowhere else in the region – it’s also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Portugal.
20. Odeceixe, for its dramatic cliff-lined beach and serene river setting
Located right next to the Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina Natural Park, Odeceixe has a unique geography, giving it both a river beach, a calm sea inlet and an open ocean with great surfing waves.
This makes it a popular destination for families, surfers, paddleboarders or those who just want to relax in the sun. So if you’re looking for one of the best beach towns in Portugal for families, you’ve found it.
You’ll find it all at Odeceixe Mar Beach (Praia de Odeceixe). It’s a peninsula of sand that touches the river, horseshoe cove and open sea. Low tide is the perfect time to swim with young children as the waves recede quite a bit and you can swim in the shallow water.
⛱️ Looking for a nude beach? Praia das Adejes is the ideal place as it is the official nude beach in Odesa, Aljezur (Costa Vicentina, Algarve, Portugal). If you want to go natural, this is the best beach in Portugal.
21. Sagres, for its dramatic cliffs and one of the best sunsets in the world
The small town sits on the southwestern tip of Portugal, jutting out into the sea. In the Middle Ages, Sagres and nearby Cape Saint Vincent (Cabo de São Vicente) were often called the end of the world because they represented the westernmost point of the known European world.
One of the more protected beaches is Praia do Martinhal, which is located on the eastern side of the peninsula. The water is crystal clear and the beach is large and often not very busy.
Beyond the sandy beaches, don't forget to explore the Sagres lighthouse and castle, with amazing views in both directions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are some of the best beach towns in Portugal?
A: Some of the best beach towns in Portugal include Cascais, Lagos, Nazaré, Albufeira, and Ericeira. Each offers unique features such as golden beaches, lively atmospheres, or excellent surfing opportunities.
Q: When is the best time to visit Portugal’s beach towns?
A: The best time to visit is between May and September when the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for beach activities and exploring coastal towns.
Q: Are Portugal’s beach towns family-friendly?
A: Yes, towns like Lagos and Albufeira are popular for families due to their calm beaches, family-oriented activities, and accessible amenities.
Q: Can I surf in Portugal's beach towns?
A: Absolutely! Towns like Ericeira and Nazaré are world-renowned for surfing, catering to beginners and experienced surfers alike.
Q: How do I travel to Portugal's beach towns?
A: Most towns are easily accessible by train, bus, or car from major cities like Lisbon or Faro. Many also have nearby airports.
Introduction
Portugal is a land of breathtaking coastal beauty, where charming beach towns dot the Atlantic shoreline. Known for their golden sands, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, these towns offer something for every traveler, from tranquil retreats to vibrant nightlife. Exploring the best beach towns in Portugal reveals a blend of historic charm, fresh seafood, and exhilarating water activities like surfing and sailing. Whether you're seeking a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled escape, Portugal's coastal gems are sure to leave you enchanted.
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