The closeness of Lisbon to this splendid coast is not well published, and few visitors realize that vacations in Lisbon can combine the pleasures of a city break with the relaxation of a beautiful and exclusive beach holiday.

Guincho

Housed in a nature reserve, Guincho in Cascais, just 30 minutes from Lisbon, it is a revitalizing and windy beach, with impressive Atlantic breakers roaring in over golden sands. Perched on the rocks just above the ocean, but within every sound of the pounding waves is the little 17th century fort called Fortaleza do Guincho, From the beach, you can see the lighthouse and Cabo da Roca, which marks mainland Europe’s most westerly point –once thought of as the end of the world.

There you will find some excellent seafood restaurants, however, and the rolling waves and stiff breeze make this a hot spot for surfing (the World Windsurfing Championships are often held here). Perfect for watching sunsets or dramatic storms late at night.

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Tróia

The Tróia Peninsula by the Sado Estuary has several superb soft sand beaches. With 18km of sandy beaches you can easily spend a relaxing day with a picnic without the hordes of people, you can find untouched sandy beaches lined with dunes and pinewoods, or even attempt to see some dolphins from one of its boat trips.

In Troia there are beach restaurants and snack bars where you can taste the famous fish dishes and seafood of the region of Setubal, whilst enjoying a stunning view of the Setubal bay and Arrábida Hills, in a really relaxing environment.

A frequent car ferry service departs from the port in Setubal, reaching Tróia in 15 minutes.

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Portinho da Arrábida

Located within the Serra da Arrábida Natural Park a peaceful beach sheltered by pine forests and ideal for long walks by the sea. This delightful small beach nestled in a bay has calm, crystal blue-green water that is excellent for swimming and diving to enjoy the diverse marine life although fishing itself is forbidden given that the seabed itself is included in the Natural Park’s protected area. Umbrellas, small watercraft and games are available for hire on the beach. This beautiful scenario is perfect for contemplative relaxation.

The harbour is guarded by a tiny 17th century fort, now home to a museo, which features live and stuffed marine animals from the region. A seafront restaurant features a similar variety of fish and seafood on its menu.

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Meco

One of the best beaches on the Lisbon coast, very well persevered surrounded by forest. The waves from the North Atlantic Ocean provide excellent surf conditions at the Praia do Meco Beach, which is also well known for its clean and unspoilt stretch of sand. This seaside offers many sections with secluded spots, making it popular with nudist beach lovers. The adult nudists can enjoy their privacy without imposing on families, for whom another stretch of soft sand, on the opposite end of the beach, awaits further down the coast. There are numerous beach amenities available along the coast, making it a convenient beach outing for people coming from close by Lisbon.

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The Estoril Coastline

There are many great beaches along the Estoril coastline, the stretch of shoreline that extends from Lisbon in the east to Cascais in the west. All of these beaches are connected by a frequent and inexpensive train service, which make them ideal as an excursion from Lisbon. This coastline is best suited for families, due to the very calm and non-tidal sea, and tourists who just want to lie and sap up the sun. Also, it is surround by many good bars and restaurants.

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