Beaches

Other European capitals can only dream of having beaches as close as Lisbon does. And these are no ordinary beaches — they are stunning, with clear waters and sweeping stretches of sand.

Guincho Beach / Carlos Caetano – stock.adobe.com

Most Lisboetas have a deep-rooted passion for sand and the Atlantic Ocean that is woven into their culture and on display all year round. Lisbon's average year-round temperature hovers around 17°C, so at the first hint of sunshine, locals head to the city's famous nearby beaches to enjoy the wonders of Lisbon's climate.

Most beaches are suitable for swimming and feature amenities such as showers, restrooms, restaurants, and other signs of "civilization" just minutes from Lisbon. From the city center, you can reach the nearest beaches in about 30 minutes by train, car, or bus.

Beaches near Lisbon

Some of the most famous and well-known beaches near Lisbon are Guincho, the beaches of Cascais and the beaches of Costa de Caparica.

Cascais©Samuel B. – stock.adobe.com

Beaches of Cascais

If you want to take a dip somewhere beautiful and as close as possible to Lisbon by public transport, the Cascais beaches are the perfect choice.

Just hop on the train at Cais do Sodré station in Lisbon heading to Cascais and you'll arrive in under an hour — step off the train and walk just a couple of blocks to sink your feet in the sand.

In Cascais you'll find urban beaches right in the town center, as well as wilder stretches if you follow the coastline — for example, to the beach mentioned below: Guincho.

Guincho, Portugal © ricardo rocha – stock.adobe.com

Guincho Beach / Praia do Guincho

One of Portugal's most famous beaches is Praia do Guincho and it is a paradise for surfing and windsurfing.

Cresmina Beach © cezarksv- stock.adobe.com

Cresmina Beach / Praia da Cresmina

This is probably one of the least-known beaches on the Cascais Line. All because, just a few kilometers further along, lies the world-famous Guincho beach. The best thing about this beach is that it is relatively sheltered from the wind, making it a peaceful spot to relax. Watch out for the rocks, and enjoy the refreshing Portuguese waters.

Tróia Peninsula © moedas1 – stock.adobe.com

Tróia Peninsula

The Tróia Peninsula beach is not strictly within the Lisbon District but in the neighboring Setúbal, just 1 hour by train plus a 15-minute ferry ride. Here, crystal-clear water and white sand make you feel as though you've arrived on a tropical island — until you actually touch the water, of course, and realize you're standing in the Atlantic Ocean. A stunning beach.

Costa de Caparica ©timursalikhov – stock.adobe.com

Costa da Caparica

The Costa de Caparica is one of the favorite spots of Lisbon locals. And for good reason: this stretch of coast extends for 30 kilometers and has 56 beaches. You just need to venture a little way along it and pick one that takes your fancy.

Some of the best-known beaches are Terras da Costa, Acacias, and Medos. Do keep traffic in mind, though. It is only 30 minutes from Lisbon, which means congestion on the hottest days of the year can be heavy.

Playa Grande, Sintra © Kushnirov Avraham – stock.adobe.com

Playa Grande / Praia Grande

This is a very popular beach in Sintra. It also boasts one of the largest saltwater pools in Europe at the Hotel Arribas. The trip here also gives you a chance to learn about the dinosaurs that left their mark on the beach's cliff face.

Portinho da Arrábida © moedas1 – stock.adobe.com

Portinho da Arrábida

Portinho da Arrábida is tucked away from civilization. This beach, also located near Setúbal, is impossible to reach without a car or a guided tour. Yet it is probably one of the most highly recommended beaches in the greater metropolitan area, nestled at the foot of the Serra da Arrábida, a mountain visible from the hilltops of Lisbon.

This gem is joined by equally spectacular neighbors such as Praia de Galápos and Praia de Galapinhos. A paradise to enjoy and protect.

Ribeira Do Cavalo © Helissa – stock.adobe.com

Ribeira do Cavalo Beach

The Praia da Ribeira do Cavalo is a beautiful, well-kept secret that can only be reached on foot across difficult terrain. It belongs to Sesimbra and takes 45 minutes by car to reach a patch of land where visitors leave their vehicles. From there, a long, rustic downhill trail awaits — well-worn from use, though we still recommend staying alert so you don't lose your way.

Naturism is practiced here.

Map of beaches near Lisbon

We have put together for you a map of the top beaches in Lisbon

Surfing in Lisbon

If you want to know which are the most popular beaches for surfing in Lisbon and the surrounding area, check out this post on Surfing in Lisbon.

Without a doubt, the beaches are among the greatest attractions of Lisbon.