15 Best Beaches in Portugal: Top Coastal Spots

Portugal is well known for its beautiful coastline, offering a variety of beaches for every kind of traveler. Whether you're looking for lively surf spots near Lisbon or tranquil, unspoiled beaches in the Azores, this guide will help you find the best beaches in Portugal for your next tour. From golden sands to dramatic cliffs, a beach holiday in Portugal has something for everyone.

Best Beaches in and Near Lisbon

Carcavelos Beach - Surf, Sun, & a Buzzing Aura

Best for: Surf, Sun, and City Vibes

Carcavelos Beach is a favorite beach for locals, located about 45 minutes from Lisbon. The beach is known for its excellent surf conditions, making it a hotspot for surfing and bodyboarding, especially in the winter and early spring months when the waves are at their best.

During the summer, Carcavelos Beach attracts sunbathers, families, and sports enthusiasts, with regular beach volleyball and football competitions. Nearby, a variety of beachfront cafes, bars, and renowned restaurants provide the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sun after a swim or a surf session.

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Costa da Caparica - Lisbon's Endless Summer Escape

Best for: Surfing, beach parties, families

Just a short drive (about 30 min) from the heart of Lisbon, Costa da Caparica is a long stretch of coastline extending for about 30 km. Some well-known sandy beaches along this coast include Praia da Mata, Praia da Morena, and Praia da Saúde, each with its own unique vibe.

Popular among both locals and tourists, the area is ideal for surfing, sunbathing, and enjoying lively beach bars. With plenty of facilities and safe waters, it's also a great choice for families.

Praia da Ursa - Wild Beauty at the Edge of Europe

Best for: Seclusion, hiking, nature lovers

Ursa is a hidden gem located near Cabo da Roca, Portugal's westernmost point, about 40 km from Lisbon. This beach is only accessible via a challenging hike, but the reward is worth it - a pristine, secluded stretch of sand surrounded by towering cliffs.

The rugged beauty of the landscape, combined with the dramatic rock formations, makes it one of the most breathtaking beaches in Portugal. Because of its remote location, Praia da Ursa remains an untouched paradise, perfect for those who want to escape the crowds.

Praia da Ursa Beach

Top Beaches Around Porto

Matosinhos Beach - Surf, Seafood & Lively Atmosphere

Best for: Surfing, beach sports, easy accessibility

With excellent public transport connections from Porto, Matosinhos Beach is one of the most accessible beaches in northern Portugal. Less than an hour away from Porto, Matosinhos Beach is famous for its consistent surf breaks, making it a popular choice for surfers of all levels.

The wide, sandy beach provides plenty of space for sunbathers, joggers, and beach volleyball enthusiasts. Along the promenade, numerous seafood restaurants and bars create a lively atmosphere, perfect for a post-surf meal or a relaxing afternoon by the sea.

Praia de Miramar - A Peaceful Escape With Iconic Sights

Best for: Peaceful walks, surfing

Located about 30 minutes south of Porto, Praia de Miramar is a quieter beach with beautiful golden sands and clear waters. It offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, making it ideal for relaxation.

One of its most iconic sights is the Church of Senhor da Pedra, a striking chapel perched on the rocky shoreline, creating a breathtaking backdrop for photos. The beach's serene atmosphere and scenic surroundings make it a wonderful spot for a relaxing beach holiday.

Church of Senhor da Pedra

Praia Cabedelo do Douro - Where the River Meets the Sea

Best for: Nature lovers, birdwatching, tranquility

Situated at the mouth of the Douro River, just south of Porto, Cabedelo do Douro is a peaceful beach known for its natural beauty and ecological importance.

It is a part of the Douro Estuary Nature Reserve, making it a prime location for birdwatching enthusiasts. With soft golden sands and stunning views of the river meeting the Atlantic Ocean, it's an ideal spot for a relaxing day in nature. The stiff sea breezes draw kitesurfers here, but it's also a relaxed spot to kick back on the sand and watch the sunset.

Popular Beaches Along the Coast of the Algarve

Praia Dona Ana - Crystal Clear Waters & Scenic Cliffs

Best for: Scenic beauty, swimming, snorkeling

Just a 15-minute drive from Lagos, Praia Dona Ana is conveniently accessible and well worth the visit. Its calm, crystal-clear waters make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with vibrant marine life just below the surface.

Though smaller than some other Algarve beaches, its sheltered location provides a more intimate and scenic experience. Accessible by a set of stairs leading down from the cliffs, Praia Dona Ana is a favorite among visitors looking to relax and explore.

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Praia da Marinha - Crystal Waters & Cliffside Views

Best for: Swimming, snorkeling, photography

Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve, easily accessible from Albufeira and Faro, Praia da Marinha is a breathtaking stretch of golden sand surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs.

The crystal-clear waters make it an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling, with plenty of marine life to discover beneath the surface. Well-known for its striking rock formations and secluded coves, Praia da Marinha is one of the most photographed beaches in Portugal.

Praia da Falésia - Red Cliffs & Endless Sands

Best for: Surfing, rugged beauty, long walks

Stretching for several kilometers along the Algarve coast, Praia da Falésia is a stunning beach backed by dramatic red and orange cliffs. Its vast golden sands and crystal-clear waters make it ideal for long walks, picnics, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views.

The beach is easily accessible and offers excellent amenities, including restaurants and bars. Whether you're looking to take a refreshing swim or admire the sunset from the clifftops, Praia da Falésia is the place to be.

Stunning Cliffs & Sandy Beach at Praia da Falesi

Best Beaches in the Azores

Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara (São Miguel) - Black Volcanic Sand & Epic Surf

Best for: Surfing, dramatic landscapes, adventure

Located on São Miguel Island in the Azores, Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara is one of the most popular beaches in the region. Known for its long stretch of black volcanic sand and powerful Atlantic waves, it is a favorite spot for surfers and bodyboarders.

The surrounding lush green cliffs create a stunning contrast against the dark sand, making it a visually striking destination. While the waves make it a thrilling spot for watersports, there are also calmer areas where you can relax.

Lighthouse in Sao Miguel

Praia dos Moinhos (São Jorge) - Seclusion & Unspoiled Beauty

Best for: Seclusion and unique landscapes

Located on São Jorge Island, Praia dos Moinhos offers a serene escape with its relaxed atmosphere and dramatic cliffs. This picturesque beach is surrounded by lush greenery and rugged rock formations, creating a striking natural setting.

It's a great place to unwind, take in the scenery, or explore the surrounding hiking trails, which offer incredible coastal views. With its peaceful vibe and breathtaking landscapes, Praia dos Moinhos is perfect for those looking to enjoy a quiet, nature-filled retreat away from the crowds.

Best Beaches in Madeira

Praia de Porto Santo (Porto Santo Island) - Golden Sands & Crystal-clear Waters

Best for: Walking, swimming, peaceful retreat

Praia de Porto Santo is one of Madeira's most famous beaches, stretching over nine kilometers along the coast. It's known for its fine golden sand, which is believed to have therapeutic properties due to its rich mineral content.

The crystal-clear, shallow waters make it a great place for swimming, while the long shoreline is perfect for a peaceful walk. Unlike the rocky coastlines found on the main island of Madeira, this beach offers a true island paradise feel.

Seixal Beach (Madeira Island) - Black Sand & Majestic Mountain Views

Best for: Swimming, enjoying unbelievable landscapes, photography

Seixal Beach is a hidden gem on the northern coast of Madeira, famous for its stunning black volcanic sand and lush green mountains that rise dramatically from the coastline.

This beach is a paradise for photographers, as the contrast between the dark sand, turquoise waters, and towering cliffs creates a breathtaking scene. Nearby, you'll find natural lava pools, where you can take a refreshing dip in calmer waters. The untouched beauty of Seixal Beach makes it one of the most picturesque coastal spots in Madeira.

View of Madeira Cliffs Coastline

Best Beaches in the Alentejo Region

Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo - A Hidden Paradise

Best for: Adventure, seclusion, hiking, swimming

Tucked away near Sesimbra, Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo is a hidden paradise accessible only by a challenging hike or boat. With its turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations, it's often compared to a tropical destination. The lack of facilities means visitors should come prepared, but the breathtaking scenery makes the effort worthwhile.

Praia dos Alteirinhos - Quiet Retreat With Cliff Views

Best for: Seclusion, dramatic cliffs, and naturism

Located in the Alentejo region, Praia dos Alteirinhos is a secluded beach surrounded by striking cliffs. Known for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere, it is a favorite among those looking to escape the crowds. The beach is also known as a popular spot for naturists. At low tide, you can explore tidal pools and caves, adding to the beach's charm.

Dramatic Cliffs Along the Coastline

Other Popular Beaches in Portugal

• Praia da Luz - A charming beach in the Algarve, perfect for families and water sports enthusiasts, located just a short drive from Lagos.
• Praia do Castelejo - A wild and rugged beach on the Costa Vicentina, ideal for surfers and nature lovers, just 15 minutes from Sagres, near Vila do Bispo.
• Praia da Nazaré - Famous for its vibrant waterfront and cultural significance, as well as its waves. It's located in central Portugal, about 1.5 hours from Lisbon by car or bus.
• Praia do Norte - A world-renowned surf spot known for record-breaking waves - situated in Nazaré, accessible by car or public transport from Lisbon.
• Praia de Benagil - Home to the famous Benagil Cave, one of Portugal's most iconic natural wonders.
• Ilha de Tavira - A pristine island beach in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, accessible only by boat from Tavira.

Benagil Cave

With Odynovo, Find Your Ideal Beaches in Portugal

With such an extensive and diverse range of beaches across Portugal, there's a beach for every kind of traveler. Whether you're looking for golden sands, dramatic cliffs, or quiet coves, Portugal's coastline will not disappoint. From the bustling beaches of Lisbon to the serene shores of the Azores, each destination offers its own unique charm and beauty. So, feel free to contact us! Pack your sunscreen, grab your towel, and set off on an unforgettable Portugal adventure along these stunning beaches!