Lisbon Beach guide
The best beaches close to Lisbon
Lisbon Beaches
Surrounding Lisbon are some of the finest beaches, making a trip to the coast a fantastic addition to your city holiday. The beaches in the Lisbon region stretch across four diverse coastlines, offering everything from wide, surfing-friendly beaches to tranquil, family-oriented resorts. Only a few visitors realize that a holiday in Lisbon can be more than just a city getaway. Enjoying beachside relaxation is a viable option, with many of Lisbon's beaches accessible via public transport, making them an ideal complement to city sightseeing.
What is the distance between Lisbon and the sea?
To better discover Lisbon's most beautiful beaches, you should brush your eyes off the map. When you look, you will notice that the Tage forms a vast reservoir area just before it jets into the Atlantic Ocean (called the Tage Estuary). The centre of Lisbon is conveniently located in this area, on the banks of the Tage, just before it goes out to sea. However, the distance between the centre of Lisbon and the sea is just a few kilometres, around 10.
Which beaches are easily accessible?
They are located along the coast, just after sunset and on the route from Lisbon to Cascais. Here, the beaches are aligned like pearls and are easily accessible by public transport.
The beaches located along the Lisbon-Cascais route, just after the river embankment, are very popular as they are easily accessible by public transport, especially by train. They offer numerous advantages.
Firstly, they are easily accessible and have good infrastructure with many bars and restaurants, bathrooms, etc. This makes the stay pleasant. Unfortunately, due to their location, these beaches are not very sandy. This is particularly advantageous for families with children as they can nibble and play in calm waters without too much noise from the waves. The most famous between them is the beach of Carcavelos.
However, it is also important to note that these beaches are inconvenient to them. The main inconvenience is the increased volume of traffic, especially at weekends. This means that it is almost impossible to find a parking space. However, the beaches on this route are popular and offer an excellent opportunity to enjoy the sun, sand and sea, as close as possible to the city of Lisbon.
Photo gallery Linha de Cascais
Simple Guide to Accessing Lisbon's Best Beaches
Carcavelos
Carcavelos Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the Lisbon coast and is located around 20 kilometres west of the city centre. Access to this beautiful beach is also extremely practical and good in shared transport by car.
By train:
The simplest and fastest way to get to Carcavelos Beach is probably the train from Cais de Sodré:
- Train: Take the Cascais line train towards Cascais. The journey lasts about 20 minutes.
- How to get to Carcavelos: Go down to the Carcavelos stop. From there, you have to walk about 10 minutes to reach the beach. Simply follow the panels or walk towards the coast.
Estoril
Tamariz Beach is the most important beach in Estoril, around 25 kilometres west of Lisbon. The beach is easily accessible and offers a variety of equipment, making it an ideal destination for daily excursions.
By train:
The most comfortable and fastest way to get to Praia do Tamariz is by train:
- Departure from Lisbon: Departure from the Cais do Sodré train station, which benefits from central location and excellent public transport connections.
- Train: Take the Cascais line train towards Cascais. The journey lasts about 30 minutes.
- How to get to Estoril: Descend to the Estoril stop. From there, it won't take you long to walk to the beach. Follow the panels or simply walk towards the sea.
Cascais
Praia da Ribeira in Cascais is a beautiful beach located about 30 kilometers west of Lisbon. It is very popular among locals and tourists thanks to its central location and the charming surroundings of Cascais. Access to Praia da Ribeira is particularly easy and comfortable.
By train:
The most practical way to get to Praia da Ribeira is the train:
- Departure from Lisbon: Departure from Cais do Sodré station, well served by public transport.
- Train: Take the Cascais line train towards Cascais. The train lasts about 40 minutes and offers beautiful views of the countryside.
- Arrival in Cascais: Take the train to the Cascais terminal. From there, it won't take you long to walk to the beach. Simply follow the panels towards the centre or walk towards the sea.
Guincho
Located around 30 kilometres west of Lisbon, near Cascais, Praia do Guincho is known for its impressive natural beauty and its excellent conditions for practicing wind sports. This vast beach, surrounded by dunes and rocky cliffs, also welcomes the love of nature as well as adventurers.
By car:
Travelling by car is one of the most comfortable ways to get to Praia do Guincho:
- Car from Lisbon: Take the A5 towards Cascais and follow the signs for the N247 which takes you directly to the beach.
- Parking: There is a large parking lot near the beach, paid and free. However, it can get dark in the high season, so it is recommended to arrive early.
By train and bus:
A combination of train and bus offers a stress-free journey:
- Departure from Lisbon: Exit the Cais do Sodré train station and take the Cascais Line train towards Cascais. The journey lasts about 40 minutes.
- Arriving in Cascais: Go down to Cascais and take bus 405 or 415 which will take you directly to Guincho. The bus runs regularly and the journey takes around 15 to 20 minutes.
- By walking distance: It is only a few minutes walk from the bus stop at the beach.
Costa da Caparica
Costa da Caparica is located around 15 kilometres south of Lisbon and is a popular destination for locals and tourists. The vast beaches stretch for several kilometers along the Atlantic coast and offer a multitude of activities and goods.
By car:
Installing it in the car is quick and easy:
- Car from Lisbon: Exit Lisbon via the April 25th bridge heading south. Follow the A2 then turn onto the IC20 which takes you directly to Costa da Caparica.
By bus:
Costa da Caparica is also easily accessible by bus:
- Departure from Lisbon: Use the TST (Transportes Sul do Tejo) bus lines which stop at different points in Lisbon, such as Praça de Espanha or Cacilhas train station. Travel times vary depending on the departure point and traffic, but are generally between 30 and 40 minutes.
Photo gallery Costa da Caparica
Top 15 Beaches in Lisbon & surroundings
Guide to the top 15 beaches - Click & Go
1. Praia da Adraga
Praia da Adraga is located about 45 kilometers north-west of Lisbon and is accessible by car in 40 minutes. This picturesque coast is impressive due to its natural beauty and its accidental rocky formations. The golden sand beach is surrounded by impressive rocks which emerge in a spectacular way from the Atlantic, giving the area a distinct atmosphere.
The marine caves, accessible to the low sea, constitute a fascinating experience for explorers. Crystal water is ideal for swimming and freediving. For hiking enthusiasts, the region offers numerous trails and an incredible view of the surrounding landscape.
There is a small restaurant on site serving fresh seafood, as well as toilets at the disposal of visitors. Praia da Adraga is the least frequented than some of the most famous beaches in the region, making it an ideal destination for a pleasant and relaxing stroll.
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2. Praia do Guincho
Guincho beach is located around 30 kilometres west of Lisbon and is accessible in 40 minutes by car. This long sand beach is known for its impressive size and strong winds, making it a popular destination for surfers, paragliders and kitesurfers.
The coast is surrounded by dunes and rocky hills which offer spectacular landscapes. The lively blue water and powerful waves create ideal conditions for nautical sports and create a dynamic beach environment. For those who love nature, there are also many hiking trails in the nearby Sintra-Cascais Nature Park.
There are several restaurants on site offering local specialities, as well as toilets and surveillance installations to ensure the safety of rodents. Guincho beach is also accessible by public transport; The buses run regularly between Lisbon and Cascais, from where the taxis take you to the beach.
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3. Praia da Ribeira - Cascais
Praia da Ribeira is located in the heart of Cascais, just 30 kilometres west of Lisbon. You can reach Cascais by train from Cais do Sodré station in Lisbon, just 40 minutes away. This town centre beach is ideal for those who want to enjoy the charm of the historic beach town of Cascais.
The beach itself is impressive with its fine and golden sand and its calm and clear waters, ideal for swimming. Thanks to its central location, many cafés, restaurants and shops can be found in some places, making visits pleasant and varied.
A particular attraction is the nearby pleasure port, which invites you to stroll and admire the impressive boats. Ribeira beach is particularly suitable for families with children because the beach is well monitored and swimming conditions are safe.
Sanitary facilities and clothing are available directly on the beach. In brief, Praia da Ribeira offers a harmonious blend of urban comfort and a deconstructed beach atmosphere, ideal for a leisurely day trip away from Lisbon.
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4. Tamariz Beach
Tamariz beach is located in Estoril, around 25 kilometres west of Lisbon and is accessible by train from Cais do Sodré station in just 30 minutes. This beach is known for its ideal location and its proximity to many attractions, including the famous Estoril Casino and its charming promenade.
The fine and golden sand and the calm and clear waters of Praia do Tamariz make it a popular destination for families and rodents. Conditions adapted to children and the presence of safety guards guarantee the safety and pleasure of swimming without worry.
There are many commodities on site, notably cafés, restaurants and beach bars offering a wide variety of dining and drinking options. The beach is also equipped with swimsuits, bathrooms and showers, making the stay very comfortable.
A particular attraction is the salt water pool.
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5. Praia de São Pedro do Estoril
The beach of São Pedro do Estoril is located about 25 kilometers west of Lisbon and is accessible by train from the Cais do Sodré train station in 30 minutes. This beach is particularly popular with locals and tourists because of its peaceful atmosphere and its picturesque setting.
The beach is impressive with its large golden sand and its dry swimming conditions, particularly suitable for families. The slightly deep and crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming and deep diving, while the natural rocks and cliffs offer splashing landscapes.
There are basic installations in place of toilets and showers. Many cafés and restaurants close to the beach offer a selection of dishes and drinks so that your physical well-being is well taken care of.
For those who want to be active, there are walking paths and nearby viewpoints to enjoy the surrounding landscape from different angles.
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6. Carcavelos beach
Carcavelos beach is located around 20 kilometres west of Lisbon and is easily accessible by train from Cais do Sodré station, 20 minutes away. This long sand beach is one of the largest and most popular beaches in the region, known for its lively atmosphere and its various leisure options.
The beach offers fine and golden sand and water ideal for swimming and surfing. The large and shallow areas are perfect for beach games and sun sports, which make Carcavelos particularly popular with families and sports enthusiasts.
Numerous installations are available on site, in particular showers, toilets and wardrobes. A variety of bars and restaurants on the beach ensure your physical well-being, and a safety regulation service ensures the safety of rodents.
A particularity is the proximity of the fort of São Julião da Barra, which offers a historic view and a charming frame. Carcavelos beach combines all the elements of a perfect beach day: comfort, activities and a relaxing atmosphere, ideal for a beach holiday since Lisbon.ulião da Barra, die einen historischen Einblick und eine reizvolle Kulisse bietet. Carcavelos Beach vereint alle Elemente eines perfekten Strandtages: Komfort, Aktivitäten und eine entspannte Atmosphäre, ideal für einen kurzen Ausflug aus Lissabon.
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7. Costa da Caparica
Costa da Caparica is located around 15 kilometres south of Lisbon and is easily accessible by car and public transport.
The beaches of Costa da Caparica extend for about 30 kilometres and offer a diverse landscape with dunes, areas of golden sand and clean water. The large main beach is ideal for surfers, while the southern area is quieter and more popular with surfers.
There are many amenities on site, including cafés, restaurants and beach bars offering local and international cuisine. Toilets, showers and wardrobes are also available, increasing the comfort of visitors.
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8. Fonte da Telha
Fonte da Telha is located around 25 kilometres south of Lisbon and is accessible by car within 40 minutes. This pearl is part of the Costa da Caparica region and is impressive for its natural beauty, its vast sandy beaches and the surrounding pine forests.
The beach itself offers a large golden sand, ideal for long walks, sunny baths and various beach activities. The crystal waters are ideal for swimming and surfing, and the strong winds in the water easily catch kitesurfers.
Numerous beach bars and restaurants on site serve fresh seafood and local specialities. Toilets and parking spaces are available, making the visit pleasant. The insurers expect high-season bathing safety at the expense of others.
A particular emphasis is placed on the proximity of the Arriba Fóssil nature park in Costa da Caparica, which offers opportunities for hiking and nature observation.
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9. Praia da Lagoa de Albufeira
The beach of Lagoa de Albufeira is located around 30 kilometres south of Lisbon and is accessible by car in 45 minutes. This special destination combines beach and lake to create a fascinating natural experience and offers visitors a wonderful variety of activities.
The beach is impressive with its fine and golden sand and the clear and slightly deep waters of the lagoon, which are particularly popular with families and young sailors. The calm waters of the lake are ideal for activities such as swimming, stand-up paddleboarding and sailing.
There are several small beach restaurants and bars nearby serving fresh seafood and local specialties. The basic facilities such as toilets and parking spaces are also available, making the visit comfortable.
A particularly important point is the possibility of observing birds in environmentally humid areas which exclude many species of birds.
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10. Praia do Meco
Praia do Meco is located around 40 kilometres south of Lisbon and is accessible by car in 45 minutes by road. This large and preserved beach is a paradise for those in love with nature and those who seek peace and tranquility.
The beach borders a long, fine and golden sand coast and is surrounded by impressive cliffs. The wild beauty and powerful waves attract surfers and paragliders, while the crystal waters are ideal for swimming. An exclusive beach area is also reserved for nudists.
You will find several beach restaurants and bars in the area serving fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes. There are toilets and parking spaces available, but there are no security guards, which is particularly important for families.
For those who love nature, the hiking trails close to the cliffs offer incredible views of the Atlantic coast.
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11. Beach California - Sesimbra
Praia da California is located in Sesimbra, around 40 kilometres south of Lisbon, and is accessible in 45 minutes by car. This popular beach is characterized by its sandy beach, its clear and calm waters and its picturesque frame characterized by the surrounding mountains and the historic charm of the town of Sesimbra.
The beach is ideal for families and rodents as the waters are calm and safe. There is a wide variety of nautical sports available, including swimming, freediving and paddle boarding. For sun lovers, the vast sand dunes offer plenty of space to relax.
On the promenade you will find many restaurants, cafés and bars offering a wide variety of local and international restaurants. Toilets, showers and wardrobes are available to ensure the comfort of visitors. The insurers expect high-season bathing safety at the expense of others.
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12. Praia do Portinho da Arrábida
The beach of Portinho da Arrábida is located around 50 kilometres south of Lisbon and is accessible by car within an hour. Located in the heart of the Arrábida Natural Park, this picturesque beach is known for its scattered landscapes surrounded by clear blue waters and golden hills.
The beach offers fine and white sand and the calm and crystal waters are ideal for swimming, freediving and diving. The wealth of the underwater world makes the region particularly attractive for diving enthusiasts.
There are a few restaurants in the area serving fresh seafood and local specialties, as well as small cafés where you can relax and enjoy the view. Toilets and limited parking are available, but you must come early to ensure you have a space, especially during the high season.
A particular emphasis is placed on the proximity of the walking trails in the Arrábida Nature Park, which offers spectacular views of the coast and the surrounding landscape.
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13. Praia da Figueirinha - Setubal
Figueirinha beach is located around 40 kilometres south of Lisbon and is accessible by car in 45 minutes. This popular beach is located near Setúbal and offers a stunning combination of natural beauty, turquoise waters and hills.
The beach is known for its soft and golden sand and its clear and calm waters, ideal for swimming and families with children. At the low tide, a sand bank is formed which allows you to walk straight to the sea, which contributes to a particular beach experience.
You will find a restaurant on site and a beach bar serving local dishes and refreshing drinks. Sanitary facilities, wardrobes and toilets are also available, ensuring the comfort of visitors. During the high season, the safety of the swimmers is paramount.
It is convenient to note particularly the proximity of the Arrábida Nature Park, which offers a variety of hiking trails and viewing points since then you can enjoy the spectacular surrounding scenery.
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14. Praia da Saúde - Setubal
Praia da Saúde is located in Setúbal, around 50 kilometres south of Lisbon, and is easily accessible by car within 50 minutes. This charming urban beach offers a relaxing atmosphere and is a popular destination among locals and tourists.
The beach is characterized by its fine and golden sand and its calm and transparent waters, ideal for swimming and families. The long beach promenade is ideal for walks and offers a magnificent view of the bay surrounding Setúbal.
There are many commodities on site, notably restaurants, bars and cafés offering a wide variety of food and drink options. Toilets, showers and wardrobes are also available. The insurers are on duty during the high season to ensure the safety of the rodents.
It is particularly convenient to note the proximity of the fishing port and the historic centre of Setúbal, both easily accessible on foot. The region also offers boat rides where you can see the sharks.
Combining urban comfort and natural beauty, Praia da Saúde offers a harmonious blend of beach pleasures, culinary experiences and cultural discovery.
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15. Praia Tróia Mar
The beach of Troia Mar is located on the Tróia peninsula, around 60 kilometres south of Lisbon. You can easily reach this idyllic beach by car and ferry from Setúbal , with a total journey time of around 90 minutes.
The beach is known for its fine sand and white waters and its crystal waters, ideal for swimming and various nautical sports. With its magnificent landscape surrounded by dunes and verdant pine forests, Troia Mar Beach offers a wonderful natural experience.
There are some beach restaurants and bars on the square serving fresh seafood and other local specialities. Toilets, showers and wardrobes are also available to ensure the comfort of visitors. The savers are at service during the high season.
From one of the region's fortifications you can see the sharks in the natural environment of the Sado estuary - an absolutely unforgettable experience. The Troia peninsula also offers historical sites such as the Roman ruins of Troia, which are worth visiting.
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Exploring Lisbon's Scenic Beaches
Both the North Shore and South Shore of Lisbon provide unique coastal experiences. Whether you prefer quick, convenient train rides to lively beach towns or a leisurely drive to more tranquil and expansive shoreline environments, there's a perfect escapade waiting for you. The proximity and accessibility of these scenic beaches make them ideal destinations for anyone looking to explore beyond the city while enjoying the spectacular coastal beauty of the Lisbon region.
North Shore
The North Shore extends westward from Lisbon along the Linha de Cascais and is renowned for its vibrant beach towns and beautiful coastal scenery.
Access by Train:
The easiest way to reach the North Shore beaches is by train. Starting from Cais do Sodré station in Lisbon, you can catch a train heading towards Cascais. The journey takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes and offers picturesque views of the coastline. Once you arrive at your chosen destination, it's typically a short walk, usually around 5 to 10 minutes, to reach the beach.
Access by Car:
Driving is another convenient option. Departing from Lisbon's city center, you can take the A5 motorway, which will lead you directly towards the coastal areas. Depending on the traffic, the drive can take anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes. However, it's worth noting that parking near the beachfront can be challenging during peak times, so an early start is advisable.
South Shore
The South Shore, situated south of the Tejo River, presents a mix of expansive beaches and serene natural spots that are slightly less crowded yet equally captivating.
Access by Car:
To reach the South Shore by car, start your journey from the heart of Lisbon. Cross the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge and follow the IC20 road. This route typically takes about 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. There are several parking areas near the beaches, but they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
Access by Bus:
For those preferring public transportation, buses provide a straightforward option. Buses to the South Shore depart from various points in Lisbon, including Praça de Espanha or Cacilhas. The bus lines operated by TST (Transportes Sul do Tejo) take you directly to various beach destinations. The typical journey lasts between 30 and 40 minutes, followed by a short walk to the waterfront from the bus stops.
Access by Combination of Train and Bus:
Alternatively, you can take the Metro to Pragal station and then transfer to a local bus. This combo route is relatively swift, with the bus segment taking around 20 to 30 minutes. The final leg involves a brief walk from the bus stop to reach the beach