Lisbon is blessed as a European capital located so close to sandy beaches. Although the waters are not as warm as in the south of the country (Algarve), the Lisbon coast offers beautiful beaches that range from sheltered little coves to miles of dune-backed sands. Most of them are clean and fly the European Union Blue Flag for excellence, and are ideal for a refreshing day in the sun.
Lisbonites usually head to the beach every chance they get, on holidays, weekends, or even for an hour or two after work, including in the winter months, if only to gaze out at the sea.
Along the railway line linking Lisbon to Cascais are several broad beaches that attract locals and tourists, and that are usually packed in summer (especially Carcavelos which is popular among local youngsters who play beach soccer, and Tamariz in Estoril).
In the center of Cascais are Praia da Conceição and Praia da Rainha. These are within 20 to 30 minutes from the capital, ending at Guincho, a beautiful beach known world-wide for surfing.
But for the longest stretches of sand, head south of the city, to Costa da Caparica, or better yet, to refreshing Meco, sandy Troia, or secluded Adraga, ranked as one of the best beaches in Europe.
Use the links on the menu below for more information on these and other beaches.
HOTEL ALBATROZ, Cascais
- 5-star boutique hotel with 5-star ocean views from the rooms and gourmet restaurant.
CASCAIS MIRAGEM, Cascais
- Beachfront hotel with views of the sea.
SANA ESTORIL, Estoril
- Overlooks the bay of Cascais and just steps from the beach.
VILA GALÉ ESTORIL, Tamariz Beach, Estoril
- Overlooks the beach and just around the corner from the famous casino.
PALACIO HOTEL, Tamariz Beach, Estoril
- Legendary hotel (James Bond novel was written and film was shot here), by the casino and the beach.
FORTALEZA DO GUINCHO, Guincho Beach, Cascais
- In a 17th century fortress overlooking the beach.
GRANDE REAL VILLA ITALIA HOTEL & SPA, Cascais
- Fantastic views, spa, and luxurious facilities and service.
HOTEL INGLATERRA, Estoril
- Charming hotel just a short walk to the beach.
SENHORA DA GUIA, Cascais
- Elegant 5-star hotel with ocean views.
QUINTA DA MARINHA RESORT, Cascais
- Peaceful surroundings, views of the sea, and golf courses.
TRYP LISBOA CAPARICA MAR HOTEL, Costa da Caparica
- All of the Caparica beaches are accessible, by foot or public transportation.
FOR WINDSURFING and BAYWATCHING: Guincho
FOR SURFING: Ericeira, Carcavelos
FOR SWIMMING: Sesimbra, Portinho da Arrábida
FOR SUNBATHING: Costa da Caparica, Troia
FOR SECLUSION & TO BARE IT ALL: Meco, Fonte da Telha,
FOR NATURAL BEAUTY: Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo, Praia da Ursa, Praia dos Galapinhos, Adraga, Santa Cruz
FOR FAMILIES: Praia da Rainha, Praia das Maçãs
Book your room for free (no booking fees) and pay later at the hotel:
HOTELS SEARCHCentral, stylishly furnished, and cheaper than many hotels:
APARTMENTS SEARCHStylish, award-winning budget accommodation in the city center:
HOSTELS SEARCHSkip the long lines for taxis or the hassle of navigating public transportation when you arrive at the airport, and go straight to your hotel:
AIRPORT TRANSFERSGo on a day trip or on an organized tour around Lisbon:
TOURS & TICKETS SEARCHPlanning to travel around Portugal? Save time and look for the best deals here:
CAR RENTAL SEARCHSave time and money: Get FREE or reduced admission to most of Lisbon's attractions and ride the city's metro, buses, and trams for free with the Lisboa Card:
ORDER YOUR CARDJoin GoLisbon on Facebook for regular updates on what's happening in the city:
GOLISBON FACEBOOK