Did you know that you can exchange Lisbon’s mountain streets by train or (rented) car in no time for long sandy beaches and the waves of the Atlantic Ocean? It makes the Portuguese capital the perfect destination for a city trip and a sunshine holiday in one. But which beaches near Lisbon should you put on your list? You definitely don’t want to miss these five highlights.
1. Praia do Tamarez in Estoril
From Lisbon you can reach Estoril in half an hour by train. After stopping for sweet pastries in Belem, follow the Costa de Lisbon to the beautiful seaside resort of Praia do Tamarez. Those who want to experience some culture can continue the journey to nearby Forte da Cruz, a 17th-century castle located by the sea.
2. Praia do Guincho in Cascais
Cascais is the next stop on the Costa de Lisbon. You can also go here by train, but it is more fun to go on foot from Estoril. A beach walk of about five kilometers takes you from Estoril to Cascais. In this old fishing village, you can have a nice drink on the seaside terrace or surf on a surfboard in Praia do Guincho.
3. Praia da Ursa
Want to escape the tourist crowds in Estoril and Cascais? Then take a car to Praia da Ursa Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal. This secluded beach is located about an hour’s drive from Lisbon. You climb over a rocky path to the idyllic beach between the cliffs.
From the rocks surrounding Praia da Ursa you can enjoy a beautiful view of the beach and sea.
4. Praia dos Jalapinhos
Praia de Galapinhos can easily be called one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. The calm waves of this bay in Parque Natural da Arrábida, south of Lisbon, are perfect for a refreshing summer swim.
5. Learn how to surf on the Costa da Caparica
The Portuguese coast is famous for its many surfing spots. The waves of the Atlantic Ocean are ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers. Is this your first time on a skateboard? Then the beaches of Costa da Caparica south of Lisbon are an ideal place to learn this sport. The coast is divided into smaller beaches by piers, making it easy to (learn) to surf at your own level.
Read also: What to do in Lisbon and Sintra?
Willick Van Doorn studied journalism, traveled the world for a while, and eventually ended up in the editorial offices of Quest, National Geographic, and Runner’s World across the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. She is interested in the world, prefers to travel every month and always takes her running shoes with her.
