10 Beautiful Beaches in Portugal for you to Discover

With a coastline as expansive as Portugal’s there is no shortage of beaches for you to check out on your travels. Finding the right one that’s away from the crowds and off the beaten track is another story and there's nothing more defeating than reaching the beach only to have to scramble for your spot of sand. The best way to discover the beaches that are free from the tourist resorts and that only the locals know is probably to hop on a scooter or in the car and drive along the stunning Atlantic coastline of the country.

The scenery is unparalled and if you never tip your toe in the sea it's a trip that's still worthwhile, If you haven’t got the time for such an extensive road trip however, here are ten Portuguese beaches for you to enjoy- just don’t forget to pack your sun cream!

1 Portinho da Arrabida, Setúbal

Portinho da Arrabida, Setúbal, Portugal

Image courtesy of Pedro Veloso.

Located just outside the capital Lisbon, Setúbal is a thriving suburb and a great base to explore the outdoors in Portugal. Portinho da Arrabida is located within the Arrabida Natural Park, Portinho da Arrabida features crystal clear waters that are great for snorkelling. The sand, like so many of Portugal’s beaches, is soft and inviting but the water can be quite cold so either pack a flask or pack your wetsuit if you want to explore under the sea.

2 Praia da Comporta

Praia da Comporta

Image courtesy of Gustavo Veríssimo.

Another Setúbal favourite is the Praia da Comporta on the southmost tip of the Tróia Peninsula. As the beach is a bit further out, you’ll need to get there by car but parking is easily available nearby, and the beach is a particular favourite for kite surfers. There are also plenty of nice little snack bars and restaurants located along the beach so you can camp out here for the day.

3 Praia da Lagoa de Albufeira, Sesimbra

wide lens shot of Praia da Lagoa de Albufeira over the lagoon

Image courtesy of Tiago Lima.

Close to Sesimbra, Praia da Lagoa de Albufeira is a lagoon-laden beach that is great for anyone looking to drip their foot into the world of kitesurfing. The lagoon’s gentle water is ideal for beginners and with the beach situation within the Reserva Ecológia Nacional, it’s a must-see place for anyone with an interest in nature and bird-watching. Outside of the lagoons, the sea can have quite strong currents so less confident swimmers may be best sticking to calmer waters.

4 Praia da Marinha, Lagoa

Praia da Marinha, Lagoa

If you’re looking for a beach that fits the postcard image of Portugal, look no further than Praia da Marinha in the Algarve. Situated amid a myriad of coves and cliffs, Praia da Marinha is a great place to go exploring by land or by sea. During the summer months, there is a snack bar on the beach to you can spend the day here but take a look at the tidal times before you go. Much of the golden sand of this beach disappears at high tide. Another great place for snorkelling or for spending the day with the family.

5 Odeceixe Beach, Aljezur

Odeceixe Beach, Aljezur

Image courtesy of Roman Königshofer.

A definite favourite with surfers, Odeceixe is a small town located by a river of the same name. The beach itself is located slightly outside of the village and is a great place to bring the family for the day as the water here is relatively calm and safe for swimming. Outside of peak season, this is a blissfully sleepy and secluded place and the beach and surrounding area is a great place to discover on foot or by bike.

6 Praia do Magoito, Sintra

Praia do Magoito, Sintra

The town of Sintra to the north of Lisbon is an old-world town with something of a magical feel to it. Located further up the coast, the village of Magoito and its beach continue this them with the imposing cliff faces and curious rock formations a winner for anyone with an interest in geology or photography. There are a lot of steps down to the beach however to perhaps not the best spot for anyone with reduced mobility, but it’s a spot that it often the radar for most tourists so has a more relaxed feel to it.

7 Foz do Arelho, Caldas da Rainha

Foz do Arelho, Caldas da Rainha

Image courtesy of Rui Ornelas.

Close to the major surfing beaches of Peniche and Nazaré, Foz do Arelho is the quiet stop-off point between the two that still has some great waves. The tranquil lagoon is a great place to swim while the beach itself is a favourite with windsurfers. Foz do Arleho is still an active fishing town so when you’re worn out after a day on the ocean; it’s a great place to grab a reasonably priced bite to eat.

8 Praia do Beliche, Sagres

Praia do Beliche, Sagres

Photo credit: Tobias Abel

The southwest tip of Portugal is crowned with the town of Sagres and the region is a favourite for anyone with an interest in sailing, diving or spear-fishing. Praia do Beliche is favourite for surfers and for anyone look to sit back and enjoy the sun. While the rip currents on the waves can be strong, the beach is sheltered by the dramatic cliffs that which guard it from the wind. There are around 200 steps down to Beliche but the walk is definitely worth it.

9 Praia da Salema, Algarve

Praia da Salema, Algarve

Image courtesy of ClearFrost.

Situated between the towns of Sagres and Lagos the fishing village of Salema is in the heart of the Algarve but very much off the regular tourist trail. There are plenty of tasty restaurants along the promenade where you can enjoy the view and taste the catch of the day while the beach and nearby hills are a great spot for hill walkers.

10 Praia do Burgau, Algarve

Praia do Burgau, Algarve

Just down the coast of Salema is the fishing village of Burgau. Much like Salema it is another unspoilt enclave in the Algarve that is great for families. The hills surrounding the beach protect it from the stronger winds and it’s a lovely, secluded spot for families and swimming.

If the sight of all these sandy beaches has made you want to book your next getaway, have a look at our listings for Portugal.

Find your next homestay by the sea.

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