Get ready to discover the 19 best beaches in Portugal – from hidden coves to stunning coastlines! Which one will capture your heart? Read more to find out!
Imagine basking under the sun on golden sands, the Atlantic waves crashing nearby, or discovering hidden coves with crystal-clear waters. Portugal’s coastline is a treasure trove of stunning beaches, each offering unique experiences. From vibrant surf spots to tranquil, secluded bays, there’s something for everyone. The rugged cliffs of the Algarve, the serene shores of the Alentejo, and the lush landscapes of the north promise adventure and relaxation.
Renting a car lets you explore these gems at your own pace, unveiling the magic of each beach as you go. So, start the engine and get ready for an unforgettable coastal journey through Portugal’s 19 dreamy beaches!
1. Zambujeira do Mar
🚘📍 Directions: Zambujeira do Mar
Located on the stunning Alentejo coast, Zambujeira do Mar is a picturesque beach about 230 kilometers south of Lisbon. This spot is perfect for those who adore breathtaking coastal landscapes and vibrant local culture. You can reach the golden sandy shore embraced by rugged cliffs via a charming staircase leading from R. de Sao Jose Street.
Zambujeira do Mar is a lively spot, especially in August during the Sudoeste Festival, drawing crowds with its energetic vibe. It’s an excellent choice for both relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for swimming and exploring the surrounding cliffs.
Around Zambujeira do Mar, the town boasts adorable shops and delightful cafes where you can savor local delicacies. The cliff-top views are mesmerizing, providing a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a scenic picnic. When driving to Zambujeira do Mar, observe the Portuguese traffic rules that require you to move on the right side.
🅿️ Parking Tips: You’ll find a convenient area near the intersection of CM1158 and Av. do Mar, a 7-minute walk from the shore. It’s free and usually has enough space, but caravans and campervans can’t access it.
2. Praia Baleal
🚘📍 Directions: Praia Baleal
Praia Baleal is among the most amazing beaches near Lisbon. Located in the Peniche area, is a dreamy spot for families and water sports enthusiasts. This sandy paradise offers fine, white sand and calm waters, and is equipped with essential facilities. Praia Baleal is particularly known for its vibrant water sports scene, including windsurfing and bodyboarding, attracting both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts.
Keep in mind Portugal’s driving rules, such as always carrying your driver’s license and car documents, and obeying the local city speed limit of 50 km/h (31 mph).
Nearby, the charming community of Peniche awaits exploration. You can visit the historic Peniche Fortress or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
🅿️ Parking Tips: You can use Parking da Praia do Baleal, located 50 meters from the coast – it’s paid and can be busy during the summer months, so arriving early is advisable to secure a spot.
3. Praia do Amado
🚘📍 Directions: Praia do Amado
Take a ride south to Aljezur and you’ll find Praia do Amado, a haven for surf enthusiasts and nature lovers. This place is a massive stretch of sand framed by grassy dunes and towering cliffs. Known for its excellent waves, Praia do Amado caters to surfers of all levels. While the beach retains a wild charm, surf schools and rental shops provide necessary equipment. In nearby Aljezur, you can delve into the local culture and history.
🅿️ Parking Tips: You’ll find a free and spacious parking area behind the Amadobar.
4. Praia de Moledo
🚘📍 Directions: Praia de Moledo
If you’re searching for the best beaches in Northern Portugal, set off to Praia de Moledo situated near the Spanish border. It offers a serene escape with a long sandy stretch and scenic views of the Camarido Forest and Spanish hills – this setting is perfect for nature lovers. Its often windy conditions and strong waves make it a prime spot for kite surfers and windsurfing enthusiasts.
Praia de Moledo features basic amenities and provides a peaceful retreat even outside of the busy August season. The nearby town of Moledo is charming, with a tranquil ambiance perfect for unwinding. If reaching this place with kids under 12 and less than 1.50m in height, be sure that they must travel in the rear in a special restraint system adapted to their size.
🅿️ Parking Tips: Leave your car at the designated area near Argaco Food & Drinks, with easy access to the water.
5. Praia da Amália
🚘📍 Directions: Praia da Amália
Praia da Amália is a hidden gem for nature lovers – you’ll find it in Brejão, about a 2-hour drive south of Lisbon. This secluded beach, named after the famous Fado singer Amália Rodrigues, offers an adventurous journey just to get there. You’ll need to park your car and embark on a 1km walk that takes you across small streams, through a lush bamboo thicket, along a sandy path, and finally down rough-hewn stairs to the beach.
Nearby attractions include hiking trails along the stunning Vicentine Coast Natural Park and the charming town of São Teotónio. For dining, savor fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese cuisine at the nearby Herdade Amalia Rodrigues Hotel.
🅿️ Parking Tips: You should park your car along the fence, before the entrance to the Herdade Amalia Rodrigues Hotel.
Other Amazing Beaches To Visit
6. Praia da Cordoama
🚘📍 Directions: Praia da Cordoama
On the dramatic Algarve coast near Sagres, Praia da Cordoama beckons surfers and nature lovers. This place is a favorite for its golden sands and consistent waves, plus it stretches long and wide, creating a perfect setting for leisurely walks at low tide.
Start your visit at the Miradouro da Cordoama viewpoint, where breathtaking coastal views await. It’s an excellent spot for surfing, with sandbanks that create ideal conditions depending on the swell. Also, you can bring along a bottle of wine and stay for a sunset that looks fantastic at Praia da Cordoama. When getting to the beach by car, remember to respect local wildlife protection zones.
🅿️ Parking Tips: You’ll find a spacious lot near Bar da Praia, 50 meters from the water.
7. Praia de São Jacinto
🚘📍 Directions: Praia de São Jacinto
Situated on the northern coast near Aveiro, Praia de São Jacinto is a great answer for those looking for cozy beaches near Porto, Portugal. It’s a sanctuary for nature and watersports lovers. Bordered by dunes and a nature reserve, this expansive sandy coast feels wild and wonderfully deserted.
The waves here are good for surfing, and the long, untouched shoreline is ideal for peaceful strolls. There are no cafés or bars on the shore, so it’s the perfect place to disconnect, bring a book, and enjoy the soothing sounds of the waves.
🅿️ Parking Tips: Parking Praia de São Jacinto offers numerous free slots 150 meters from the shore.
8. Praia da Arrifana
🚘📍 Directions: Praia da Arrifana
Along the rugged Costa Vicentina in Aljezur, Praia da Arrifana offers a dramatic and picturesque escape. This sandy beach is sheltered by towering orange sandstone cliffs that create a natural amphitheater. Popular with surfers, the waves here are perfect for both body surfing and traditional surfing.
For a meal with a charming panorama, visit the local restaurant that serves fresh fish right by the beach. Beyond the sand, the coastal paths of Aljezur and the Rota Vicentina offer stunning hikes over the cliffs. Also, you can book a unique donkey trek with Burros e Artes for a memorable adventure.
When driving to Praia da Arrifana, observe local driving rules, including respecting the narrow, winding roads typical of this region. Also, don’t use your mobile phone for navigating, talking, or texting while driving, as it can result in a fine of up to €600.
🅿️ Parking Tips: Free parking is available at the top of the cliff, along the M1003-1 road, but spaces can fill up quickly during peak season.
9. Praia de Carvoeiro
🚘📍 Directions: Praia de Carvoeiro
Tucked into the craggy coastline of the Algarve, Praia de Carvoeiro is like stepping into a postcard. Just 5 km from Lagoa, this beach is surrounded by whitewashed houses that seem to cascade down the cliffs, meeting the golden sand below. It’s a beach that promises serenity and beauty, perfect for families and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
The shore is soft and sandy, caressed by calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for children and relaxed swims. Praia de Carvoeiro is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby cafés to keep you refreshed. If you like adventures, take a kayak ride to hidden coves or explore the nearby Algar Seco rock formations. Also, don’t miss the chance to visit the secluded Praia do Paraíso offering even more breathtaking views.
🅿️ Parking: You’ll find a convenient and free parking area at the top of the cliffs, near the Decadente Lounge & Shop.
10. Benagil Cave Secret Beach
🚘📍 Directions: Benagil Cave
Benagil Cave is deservedly among the best beach places in Portugal. Yes, it’s more than just a beach – it’s a natural wonder tucked away within a colossal sea cave. Located in Carvoeiro, Algarve, and just a 10-minute drive from Lagoa, this hidden gem is accessible only by boat or kayak, adding an air of mystery and adventure.
The starting point for visiting Benagil Cave is Praia de Benagil, a beach located just outside of Carvoeiro. It’s an easy 15-minute drive from central Carvoeiro to reach the beach. From the parking area, follow the signs downhill towards Praia de Benagil – this is where you’ll board your boat tour or rent a kayak to access the famous sea cave.
🅿️ Parking: A small parking area is available near Praia de Benagil, along Estr. de Benagil, well-marked with signs and markings.
11. Costa da Caparica
🚘📍 Directions: Costa da Caparica
Just a 20-minute drive from the Portuguese capital, Costa da Caparica is the city’s beloved coastal escape – it’s even included in the list of 12 best beaches in Lisbon. Stretching over 26 kilometers along the western coast, this sandy paradise offers something for everyone. Families flock here for the vast sandy shores, while surfers chase the waves that break consistently along the coast.
You’ll find equipped areas with sunbeds and parasols, along with beach bars that serve up cold drinks and tasty snacks. Outside the busy summer months, Costa da Caparica takes on a quieter, more relaxed vibe, perfect for long walks or a peaceful retreat. Nearby, you can explore the charming town of Caparica or head to the protected Arrábida Natural Park for a day trip.
🅿️ Parking: There’s a large paid parking lot nearby, costing €0.50 per hour, or a maximum of €5.50 per day.
12. Bordeira’s Beach
🚘📍 Directions: Bordeira’s Beach
If you are looking for the best beach in the Algarve, why not choose Bordeira? Nestled in the wild beauty of the Costa Vicentina Natural Park in Aljezur, it’s a dream for nature lovers. This spot offers a sprawling expanse of golden sand, flanked by towering dunes and dramatic cliffs – It’s a place where the untamed Atlantic meets untouched land, perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Bordeira’s Beach remains largely unspoiled, with only a few basic facilities. Surfers will love the powerful waves, while the calm lagoon at the northern end is ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. Also, you can take a hike up the cliffs for breathtaking panoramic views or explore the traditional villages nearby to sample local honey and sweet potatoes.
🅿️ Parking: You can freely park your car 100 meters from the coast, with ample space even during peak season.
13. Azenhas do Mar Beach
🚘📍 Directions: Azenhas do Mar Beach
Azenhas do Mar Beach sits on the edge of a cliff and feels like a hidden paradise where time slows down. Just 50 minutes from Lisbon and a mere 15-minute drive from Sintra, this place offers an enchanting retreat, with the village cascading down the cliffs.
When driving to Azenhas do Mar, remember that dipped headlights are mandatory in low daytime visibility conditions and when driving through tunnels.
The sandy shore, cradled by rocky formations, is well-protected from the winds, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful day of sunbathing and swimming. The beach is wild yet serene and remains blissfully uncrowded, which is good news for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
🅿️ Parking: Find a convenient parking spot at the top of the cliff, near A Prancha and Agua e Sal cafes.
14. Fuseta Beach
🚘📍 Directions: Fuseta Beach
Fuseta Beach in Olhão is where the Algarve reveals its most tranquil side. Just 30 minutes from Faro Airport, this beach sits next to Fuseta, the quaint fishing village. The sandy stretch is wide and welcoming, offering ample space for sunbathers who seek solitude and serenity. What’s more, the warm, shallow waters make it perfect for families, while the uncrowded shores invite peaceful reflection.
This beach offers a mix of wild and equipped areas, with sun loungers and umbrellas available for hire. Watersports enthusiasts will find kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities, and the calm sea is ideal for a refreshing swim. Nearby, you can explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a haven for birdwatchers and naturalists.
🅿️ Parking: You’ll find a free car park near Fuseta Harbor, with plenty of spaces available.
15. Nazaré Beach
🚘📍 Directions: Nazaré Beach
Located along the Silver Coast, Nazare Portugal Beach is an iconic relaxation place just 90 minutes north of Lisbon. Nazaré is famous for its enormous waves, courtesy of the Nazaré Canyon, an underwater marvel that creates some of the world’s biggest surfable waves.
In summer, the wide sandy shore transforms into a lively resort, welcoming families and beachgoers who flock to enjoy the sun and surf. In winter, it becomes a playground for extreme surfers chasing record-breaking waves. The beach amenities include restaurants, bars, and sun loungers, making it perfect for a full day out. Also, don’t miss to explore the town’s fishing heritage, with traditional boats and fish-drying racks lining the shore.
🅿️ Parking: Leave your car at Nazare Car Park located in the central part of the bay. It costs €0.8 per hour, with a maximum of €14.40 for 24 hours.
16. Marinha Beach
🚘📍 Directions: Marinha Beach
Marinha Beach on the Algarve’s southern coast is a masterpiece of nature. Just a short drive from Carvoeiro, this spot is framed by dramatic limestone cliffs and adorned with natural arches and caves. Indeed, it’s a haven for nature lovers and photographers, with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and revealing an underwater world of colorful sea life.
Marinha Beach is mostly wild and provides a more rugged and untouched experience. Plus, the nearby coastal trails guarantee breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for a day of relaxation and discovery. If you get to the Marinha coast by car, be sure to comply with Portuguese road safety rules – wear seat belts for all front and rear seat occupants.
🅿️ Parking: Praia da Marinha’s car park is free, but spaces are limited. Once the car park reaches capacity, the police close the sole access road to prevent illegal parking and avoid blocking the surrounding streets.
17. Portimão Beaches
🚘📍 Directions: Portimão
Portimão features extensive beach areas in Portugal, each with its own distinct charm. You can step onto the golden sands of Praia da Rocha, where towering limestone cliffs cradle a stunning stretch of coastline. It’s a lively spot, perfect for those who crave a mix of relaxation and excitement.
For families, Praia do Vau offers a more serene atmosphere. With its calm waters and gently sloping sandy shore, it’s the ideal place to let the kids run free while you soak up the sun. Then there’s Praia de Alvor, a nature lover’s dream. This beach, backed by the Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve, is a haven for birdwatchers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. The soft sands stretch out, inviting you to take long walks as the waves whisper at your feet.
🅿️ Parking: You’ll find dedicated parking areas near Praia da Rocha (€1.50 per hour), Praia do Vau (free), and Praia de Alvor (€1.50 per hour).
18. Praia do Portinho da Arrábida
🚘📍 Directions: Praia do Portinho da Arrábida
Just under an hour from the bustling streets of Lisbon, Praia do Portinho da Arrábida offers a sandy paradise in the lush embrace of Arrábida National Park. Here, the waves are gentle, making it an ideal spot for families and those who want to float in calm waters. The beach is largely undeveloped and provides a more natural experience.
Nearby, the park’s green hills beckon for a hike, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the coastline. And if you’re in the mood for a bit of culture, visit Convento da Arrábida for a glimpse into the region’s rich history. Driving to Praia do Portinho da Arrábida is easy, though the roads can be winding as you approach the park.
🅿️ Parking: Free slots are available at a lot near the coast, a 7-minute walk to the water.
19. Praia da Dona Ana
🚘📍 Directions: Praia da Dona Ana
In the vibrant Lagos, you’ll find Praia da Dona Ana with its golden cliffs that dramatically drop into the emerald and turquoise waters. The shore is sandy and welcoming, perfect for lounging with a book or letting the kids build sandcastles. It’s a place where the cliffs provide natural windbreaks, making it an inviting spot even on breezier days.
If you’re looking for adventure, take a boat tour to explore the surrounding caves, or grab a kayak and paddle out to Ponta da Piedade, where the coastline reveals even more hidden treasures. Nearby, the town of Lagos offers a lively mix of history, culture, and nightlife, with seafood restaurants that will tantalize your taste buds.
🅿️ Parking: Parking is paid (€1.50 per hour) if you want to park very close to the beach. A bit further away, parking is free.
Exploring the Portugal vacation spots is an adventure, and it’s better to enjoy it by car. Want to feel the freedom of the open road? Go for a compact car – it’s perfect for navigating narrow coastal roads and finding parking near those hidden gems. If you’re traveling with family or friends, an SUV offers comfort and space for all your beach gear. For a touch of luxury, why not indulge in a convertible and enjoy the ocean breeze?
Renting a car gives you the flexibility to discover every inch of Portugal’s breathtaking coastline at your own pace. So, find your favorite car at Rental24h.com, buckle up, and start your beach-hopping journey!