Discover the Best Beaches Around Lisbon: Your Guide to Fun in the Sun!
Hello, beach lovers! If you’re in or near Lisbon and craving some sun, sand, and surf, you’ve come to the right place. With its stunning coastline, the area around Lisbon offers a plethora of beautiful beaches that cater to every type of beachgoer. In this post, I’m thrilled to take you on a journey through the best beaches, dividing them into three fun groups! So grab your sunscreen, pack your beach towel, and let’s set sail (well, metaphorically) to the best sun-soaked spots!
Group 1: Public Transportation Gems – Easy Access to Praia da Torre and Praia Nova
Are you someone who enjoys the thrill of exploring without worrying overly much about logistics? If yes, you’ll love the accessibility of our first two beach picks! Both Praia da Torre and Praia Nova are easily reachable via Lisbon’s public transportation, making them a perfect choice for spontaneous beach days.
Praia da Torre
Getting There: To reach Praia da Torre, start with a journey on the Lisbon metro. Take the blue line towards “Amadora Este” and get off at the “Cais do Sodré” station. From here, hop on the Cascais train, which runs frequently and takes about 30 minutes. Then, you’ll only need to walk for about 15 minutes to hit the beach! A round-trip ticket will cost you around €5.40, which is a steal for such a marvelous beach experience!
Beach Highlights: Praia da Torre is not just a beach; it’s an adventure in itself! This beach boasts soft golden sands and gorgeous views of the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or even trying out water sports like paddleboarding or surfing. The relatively calm waters make it a favorite spot for families.
Nearby Attractions: After a day of sun and fun, take a stroll down the promenade where you’ll find various cafes and bars. One great option is “Tasca do Chico,” known for its atmosphere and tasty local dishes. Imagine enjoying some grilled sardines while gazing at the sunset—pure bliss!
Praia Nova
Getting There: For Praia Nova, the journey is quite similar. Start at “Cais do Sodré” and once again jump on the Cascais train. Get off at “Estoril” station and take a leisurely 10-minute walk to the beach. The round-trip ticket price is about the same, keeping it budget-friendly!
Beach Highlights: Praia Nova offers a more relaxed vibe, with its beautiful cliffs and less crowded shores. It’s also known for its charming beach bars, where you can sip on refreshing cocktails or local wines while enjoying mouthwatering snacks. The beach is lined with stunning rocky outcrops that make for great exploration—perfect for those picturesque Instagram shots!
Nearby Attractions: One of the must-visit nearby spots is “Praia do Tamariz,” located next to the Estoril Casino, which offers fantastic nightlife options. But if you’re looking for a bite to eat, head over to “Restaurante O Pescador,” which is celebrated for its seafood dishes and lovely views of the Atlantic.
Group 2: The Taxi or Uber-Accessible Beaches – Praia de São João
For those days when you’re itching to hit the beach but don’t want to navigate public transport, grabbing a Taxi or Uber is the way to go! One of the top picks in this category is Praia de São João, a delightful beach that’s only a short drive away from Lisbon.
Praia de São João
Getting There: The beauty of Praia de São João is that it’s just around 25 kilometers from Lisbon, which takes approximately 30-40 minutes by taxi or Uber, costing you around €30-€40 depending on your location in Lisbon.
Beach Highlights: This beach is known for its wild, untouched beauty, with crystal-clear waters surrounded by dramatic cliffs. It’s less commercialized, making it a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can relax on the warm sand, take a leisurely swim in the cool waters, or explore the rugged coastline.
Best Restaurants: You absolutely cannot visit Praia de São João without stopping at “Cervejaria Ramiro” in nearby Ericeira. This seafood restaurant is often referred to as one of the best in the area, renowned for its fresh catch of the day and the famous garlic shrimp. Pair your meal with a nice vinho verde for the perfect culinary experience.
Afterwards, if you’re up for it, take a scenic walk along the beach or hike up the cliffs to witness stunning panoramic views of the coastline—just don’t forget your camera!
Group 3: The Hidden Gem of Arrábida – Portinho da Arrábida Beach
If you’re up for a little adventure, it’s time to rent a car and hit the road to discover one of the best-kept secrets near Lisbon: Portinho da Arrábida Beach! This stunning beach is a true hidden gem, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility.
Portinho da Arrábida Beach
Getting There: The beauty of driving to Portinho da Arrábida is the breathtaking views you’ll experience along the way! From Lisbon, the drive takes about an hour, and you can rent a car for around €30-€50 per day, depending on the rental company. Once you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into paradise!
Beach Highlights: Portinho da Arrábida is known for its dramatic cliffs that rise majestically out of the turquoise waters. The beach is surrounded by the stunning natural park of Arrábida, providing a perfect backdrop for your beach day. The waters are calm and inviting, making it a perfect spot for swimming or snorkeling to discover the enchanting underwater world.
Nearby Attractions: What truly sets Portinho da Arrábida apart are the nearby hiking trails and lookout points. Don’t miss the chance to hike up to the “Convento da Arrábida,” where you’ll be rewarded with one of the most breathtaking views in the region!
And let’s not forget about food! Make sure to stop by “Restaurante A Nova Casa” where you can delight in dishes such as grilled fish or traditional Portuguese fare, all while soaking up the serene atmosphere.
In Conclusion: Beach Bliss Awaits!
So there you have it, a dive into some of the best beaches to explore around Lisbon, divided into three fun and accessible categories. Whether you’re hopping on public transport to Praia da Torre and Praia Nova, taking a taxi to enjoy the wild beauty of Praia de São João, or renting a car to uncover the hidden delights of Portinho da Arrábida beach, adventure awaits!
No matter which beach you choose, you’re bound to create unforgettable memories in the sun-soaked paradise that is Lisbon’s coastline.
Happy beach-hopping, my friends! Remember to pack your sense of adventure and enjoy every moment under the sun! 🏖️✨