With so many small towns surrounding Lisbon, it’s no wonder Portugal’s capital is a popular beach destination. There are endless beach towns to explore, from Sintra to Cascais and from Costa da Caparica to Estoril and Cabo da Roca. Each beach town offers a different experience. From surfing to hiking to shopping and sunbathing to fine dining and spa experiences, there is something for everyone. It makes me wonder, what are the best beach towns to visit near Lisbon?
What Are The Best Beach Towns to Visit Near Lisbon?
The best beach towns to visit near Lisbon, Portugal, within one hour of driving are Cascais, Sintra, Estoril, Sesimbra, and Ericiera. Less than 2 hours away are the beach towns of Nazare, Peniche, Setubal, Vila do Conde, and Fatima.
Situated in Portugal, the dynamic capital of Lisbon serves as a gateway to numerous picturesque beach towns. One such tourist haven is Cascais, popular for its enchanting coastline and inviting ambience. Nestled close is Estoril, distinguished for its luxurious seaside resorts and charming aura.
Further South, Troia graces the region with its calming beaches and dolphin sightings. Parallelly, the surf-friendly stretch of Costa da Caparica extends a rugged, natural coastline that enchants visitors. Also known for its surf-worthy swells is Ericeira, displaying a charming blend of seafood dining and distinct allure. In contrast, Sesimbra pulls travellers towards its charming vistas and diverse gastronomic delights.
Mafra, a neighbouring town, reveals a majestic Baroque palace alongside tranquil beaches, offering cultural insights during your beach vacation. The broad surf beaches amidst windswept dunes of Guincho are an unavoidable sight for the adrenaline chasers, as is Carcavelos’ extensive sandy region perfect for family escapades.
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Sintra uniquely juxtaposes Praia das Maçãs and Azenhas do Mar’s yellow sand beaches against its towering mountains. Adjacent beach towns of Praia Grande, Adraga, and Praia do Magoito define their own surf and nature culture.
Towards the end of the list are Fonte da Telha, famed for its gorgeous sunset views from wooden houses along the sandy beach, and São Pedro de Moel, offering serenity with a pine-laden coastline. These towns near Lisbon tell a tale of Portugal’s splendid coastal scene, offering visitors a dive into vibrant local culture and mesmerizing natural beauty.
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and the largest city on the Iberian Peninsula. Lisbon is also one of the most popular summer vacation destinations in Europe. Tourists flock to the city for several amazing things like beautiful beaches and historic sites. Some of the most popular beaches include Costa da Caparica and Guincho Beach. In addition, Lisbon is known for its nightlife and eclectic architecture. Many of Lisbon’s historic landmarks are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
- 1. The beach towns near Lisbon are amazing, with tons of activities to do there for families and couples alike. There are beaches with amazing views and tons of awesome activities. One favorite activity is surfing which one can try at the beaches near Lisbon.
- 2. One of the favorite beaches near Lisbon is Praia de Miradouro da Graca which is known for its beautiful scenery and amazing views of the surrounding hills.
- 3. The beaches near Lisbon are also perfect for surfing and swimming. One need not travel far to have a great time at the best beaches near Lisbon.
- 4. Another major highlight of the beach towns near Lisbon is the awesome food options at the restaurants. One can treat their taste buds with some amazing dishes to devour while watching the sunset over the ocean.
- 5. The beaches near Lisbon have amazing options for accommodation as well
In this article, I’ll cover the best beach towns you can easily visit in Lisbon and some ideas of what to experience when you are there. Stick around and keep reading; you’ll get some great ideas!
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What Are the Best Coastal Towns to Visit Near Lisbon, Portugal? (within 1 Hour Driving)
The best coastal towns to visit near Lisbon are Cascais and Estoril, which are less than one hour’s driving from Lisbon and well worth the visit.
Cascais
Cascais is a town located in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area. It’s well known for its architectural features and is a popular destination for travelers looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon. The town has many wonderful restaurants offering fresh seafood delicacies, including the restaurant Flecha Azul. Cascais is also known for its fortress and museums, making it an interesting place to visit. The beaches are why most tourists stop by Cascais; they’re worth visiting! You can catch a train from Cais do Sodre to Cascais, or take a taxi from Lisbon to Cascais if you don’t feel like walking. The taxi will cost you around €80, but it’s worth it!
Cascais is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Portugal. This town is located about 20 minutes away from Lisbon.
It is famous for its beautiful beaches, restaurants, and nightlife. There are many hotels and resorts available in Cascais.
Sintra
Sintra is another popular tourist destination in Portugal. It is located about 30 minutes away from Lisbon. It is famous for its castles, palaces, and gardens.
Estoril
Estoril is another popular tourist destination near Lisbon. It is located about 40 minutes away from Lisbon. This place is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches, golf courses, and shopping malls.
Sesimbra
Sesimbra is a fishing town located in the Setubal district of Portugal. It’s well known for its paradisical beaches, which offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Our favorite beach is Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo, but there are many nudist beaches around the town center of Sesimbra.
If you’re looking to visit Sesimbra from Lisbon, there are several options: you can take the bus (the trip takes about an hour), or you could take the train (which takes about 30 minutes). You can also rent a car and drive to Sesimbra it’ll take about 50 minutes to an hour.
The Troia Peninsula is a popular destination for those who want to explore the beaches; it’s only a short drive away from Sesimbra. Azeitao is another nearby town that can be an alternative to Sesimbra and Setubal if you’re looking for something new. The Arrabida Mountains are near Azeitao and are home to historical sites and unique cuisine. If your stay includes wine, then the vineyards of this area will be worthy of your attention!
Ponta Delgada is a city, with the surrounding area being an alluring destination for anyone wanting to learn about Spanish tile art and sip some good wine. Ponta Delgada is the number one best coastal town to visit near Lisbon, Portugal.
Ericeira
If you’re looking for a charming seaside town to visit near Lisbon, Portugal, Ericeira is the perfect place. This town can only be reached by taking a bus from Campo Grande, but it’s well worth the trip. It is about 40 minutes driving. Ericeira is home to picturesque blue and white cottages and some of the country’s best seafood restaurants. Plus, it hosts surf competitions that attract world-renowned surfers. If you’re looking for waves or calmer waters, Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas is an excellent spot.
What Are the Best Beaches for Surfing Near Lisbon, Portugal?
Beaches for surfing near Lisbon include Ponta da Piedade, Praia do Norte, and Praia do Guincho and Nazare
Surfers’ Paradise in Portugal: Nazare Beach Town – 50 Minutes from Lisbon
If you’re looking for an incredible surfing experience, look no further than the small town of Nazare in Portugal. The ocean beaches here are beautiful, and the waves are high and gnarly, perfect for surfing. Nazareans specializes in goose barnacles – a traditional Portuguese dish that’s delicious and fun to eat!
The best time to visit is in winter, when there are fewer tourists and the waves are at their peak. This city is known for its dried fish specialty; take a plate of these delicious crustaceans when you visit! And don’t forget to check out the Safari tours – a Jeep tour that allows people to experience the inland sea from above and meet local farmers and fishermen.
The Best Beaches for Surfing Near Lisbon, Portugal
Google Maps lists the best beaches for surfing near Lisbon, Portugal. The map can be clicked to see more information about each beach town, including locations and photos. In addition to the map, there is also an interactive table with information about each beach town, including weather conditions and transportation options for when you want to go out for a day at the beach (by car or public transport).
Sagres is a not-so-popular beach town in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. Sagres has great surfing and other outdoor activities, with minimal tourist crowds.
Three beaches near Lisbon are known for surfing: Praia da Mareta, Guincho Beach, and Peniche. You can rent a board or take lessons in Sagres to improve your surfing skills. You can watch the sunset at Cabo de S. Vicente or Cabo de Sagres both beautiful locations!
What Are the Best Beach Towns to Visit Near Lisbon, Portugal? (with 2 Hours Driving)
Some of the best beach towns near Lisbon within 2 hours’ driving are Peniche and Setubal. You can experience beaches or historical landmarks to visit.
Peniche
Peniche is a small town in Portugal that’s known for its beaches and fishing industry. It’s also home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, Praia do Baleal. This beach has soft sand and gentle waves, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
The town has a longstanding connection with the fishing industry, which is still popular today. The port is full of colorful boats used for commercial and recreational fishing. There are also several seafood restaurants in Peniche that serve up fresh-caught fish.
Peniche is close to Berlengas Island and other landmarks like that, making it perfect for a beach vacation near Lisbon. In addition to its world-class fortress (Fortaleza de Peniche), the town has some great nightlife spots after dark.
Setubal
Setubal is yet another popular tourist spot near Lisbon. It is about 70 minutes away from Lisbon. Setubal is famous for its beautiful green landscapes, historical monuments, and museums.
Setubal is a port city in Portugal located about an hour and a half from Lisbon. It is a great place to visit if you want to enjoy the beach, as there are several towns near the city with beautiful beaches. The Troia Peninsula is a great place to go for a beach vacation, and you can catch the boat from Setubal to get there.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Lisbon, I recommend staying near either the old quarter or the Jeronimos monastery. Both of these areas are very tourist-friendly and have plenty of activities and attractions for visitors. The Jeronimos Monastery is worth seeing; it has some amazing views of Lisbon. Another great attraction in Lisbon is the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, which has an incredible collection of azulejos (Portuguese tiles). If you’re interested in history and culture, I recommend visiting Convento da Madre de Deus, which displays some beautiful religious art.
Vila do Conde
If you’re looking for a great beach town to visit near Lisbon, Portugal, Vila do Conde is an excellent choice. It has fine sand, clear water, and good waves – perfect for swimming or surfing. The beaches are also packed in summer with people sunbathing or enjoying the water.
In addition to its beautiful beaches, Vila do Conde is a great place to eat. Many restaurants serve both fresh fish and seafood options. Plus, the prices are very affordable compared to other beach towns in this area.
Vila do Conde is only about an hour away from Porto by car or metro, making it easy to visit. If you’re looking for a place to stay while in town, we recommend the Pilgrim Suite in Lisbon.
Fatima
Fatima is yet another popular tourist attraction near Lisbon. It is 90 minutes away from Lisbon. Fatima is famous for its beautiful basilica, religious sites, and pilgrimages.
What Are the Best-Kept Secrets for Beach Towns Near Lisbon, Portugal?
The best-kept secrets for beach towns near Lisbon, Portugal, are the beaches. The coast offers some of the most spectacular seascapes in Europe and is a popular destination for tourists. You can find world-class surfing, and the coastal towns are mostly affluent and full of beautiful architecture reminiscent of the region’s past.
Secluded Ocean Beaches
The best-kept secrets for beach towns near Lisbon, Portugal are Lagoa de Albufeira, Praia da Ursa and Vila Nova de Milfontes.
Lagoa de Albufeira is only 30 minutes from the city of Lisbon. The pristine lake is surrounded by a nature reserve with a wide variety of birds and occasional deer or wild boar sighting.
Praia da Ursa is next to a town where the Mira River meets the Atlantic Ocean. This hidden gem offers some of the best waves in the area but is also a popular surfing beach.
Vila Nova de Milfontes includes an exceptional combination of beaches, history, and nightlife that swells in summer from about 7,000 to 50,000 people. It’s perfect for those looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon!
Charming Beauty of Historic Seaside Towns Near Lisbon
Portugal is well-known for its stunning coastline, and with good reason as it has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. While many people flock to Lisbon, the capital city, plenty of charming seaside towns nearby offer a slower pace of life and plenty of charm.
The top six towns according to Portugal’s tourism board are Camara de Lobos, Angra do Heroismo, Ofir, Vila do Conde, Costa Nova and Nazare. All boast lovely beaches and great seafood restaurants perfect for enjoying fresh Atlantic ocean catches.
If you’re looking for a quieter getaway near Lisbon but still want easy access to this vibrant city’s sights and sounds, check out these historic seaside towns!
The Best Time to Visit Lisbon’s Beach Towns Is in The Spring or Fall
The high tourist season for Portugal beaches is July to August. However, the best-kept secret for a beach town near Lisbon is its good weather throughout the year. Many people prefer to visit during the spring (February to May) or fall (September to November) because the crowds are smaller and the temperatures are more pleasant.
What Are the Best Things to Do in The Beach Towns Near Lisbon, Portugal?
Lisbon is a beautiful city with amazing beaches in the nearby towns. If you are looking for things to do near Lisbon, Portugal, head to Sesimbra and enjoy its beach.
The best things to do in the beach towns near Lisbon, Portugal, are:
– Visit the Jeronimos Monastery.
– Go on a boat ride around Sesimbra.
– Eat at one of the many restaurants in the center of town.
-Go swimming
-Visit some tourist attractions
What Is the Closest Beach to Lisbon Portugal
If you’re looking for a great beach town near Lisbon, Portugal, Aveiro is the place for you. It’s only about an hour and a half away from the city and has a very Venetian appearance, with whitewashed houses and romantic canals. You’ll find that Aveiro is less touristy than other places with the same name, so it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy some quiet. The most common way of getting from Porto to Aveiro is by train, a ride of about an hour and a half for approximately €7.
Explore Country Villas
Portugal is a country located on the Atlantic Coast of Europe. With over 1,100 miles of coastline, many seaside towns exist to explore. Inland, you’ll find rolling hills and traditional villages dotting the landscape. Portugal is well known for its wine production, so don’t forget to enjoy a glass or two while taking in the stunning scenery.
The country’s popularity as a tourist destination has been growing in recent years, with good reason – Portugal has something for everyone! If you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, pick one of Lisbon’s many golden sand beaches. If you’re after more excitement, head to Porto for some nightlife action or visit one of the charming mountain villages in the interior.
No matter what kind of holiday you’re after, we think you’ll love exploring all Portugal offers!
Go Shopping
In most of the small towns by Lisbon, you can find small shops and go shopping. Some of the shops have local arts and crafts to choose from and some of the bigger stores have brand-name items.
Explore historic sites near Lisbon
Lisbon is Portugal’s capital and the country’s largest city by population. The capital city means many historical sites to visit in the city and surrounding areas.
-Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site operated by the local government.
-Obidos has a beautiful castle and cobblestone streets.
-Fatima is home to the famous Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima and the Basilica of Our Lady of Fatima.
-The town of Cascais and Estoril are both seaside resorts.
What Are the Best Restaurants in The Beach Towns Near Lisbon, Portugal?
The best restaurants in the beach towns near Lisbon are seafood restaurants. The closeness to the Atlantic ocean and many fishing boats enables fresh fish all along the coast.
Seafood Restaurants Along the Coast
If you’re looking for some great seafood restaurants near Lisbon, look no further than the coastline! The best restaurants offer waves of opportunities, with something for everyone.
One such spot is the moon-shaped beach in Nazare, a worthy destination for surfers and visitors looking for some quiet or breath-taking views. The O Sitio beach town area offers amazing views from above the town to enjoy a dramatic meal at the cliffside restaurant, but be warned: there are no railings to keep you safe!
Another great option is Obidos, home to several excellent seafood eateries on the water. Be sure to try the local crustaceans they’re delicious! And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try dried fish? This specialty can be found at vendors on the street.
Fatima and Nazare are two other nearby beach towns that are worth exploring.
Parting Shot
So there you have it, some tips about the best beach towns near Lisbon. From the capital city of Lisbon to the picturesque fishing villages along the coast, there’s plenty to keep travelers busy for weeks or months.
I’ve covered the best towns within one hour’s driving and the best towns a bit further but with two hours driving and some great surfing towns to check out. For your next trip to Portugal, take these tips and apply them to your situation. The best thing you can do for traveling is to have a good plan and then get moving to implement it.
