Top 10 Best Beaches in Lisbon - Must Visit!

Top 10 Best Beaches in Lisbon - Must Visit!

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is not just a city of historical charm and vibrant culture; it's also a gateway to some of the most breathtaking and diverse coastal destinations in Europe. Along its Atlantic shoreline, the town boasts a collection of beautiful beaches in Lisbon from tranquil coves and pristine stretches of sand to surfers' paradises and bustling waterfront promenades. In this article, we'll embark on a coastal journey to explore the top 10 Lisbon beaches, in and around the city, each with its unique character and allure. 

 

Best Beaches in Lisbon


The Portuguese capital has a large array of holiday destinations, from small secluded Lisbon beaches to commercialized locations with restaurants and shops. After discovering the hidden gems that lie within the city on the Lisbon free walking tour, make a journey to one of the numerous best beaches in Lisbon. 

 

Galapinhos Beach


Galapinhos Beach is one of the best beaches in Lisbon and is located on the stunning Arrábida Natural Park in the Setúbal Peninsula. This pristine, unspoiled cove is nestled within a protected natural reserve, renowned for its rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and fine golden sands. One of the most tranquil beaches in Lisbon, it offers an idyllic setting, making it a favorite spot for those seeking a peaceful escape from the bustling city life of Lisbon.

Galapinhos Beach

Surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation, one of the best beaches Lisbon provides an excellent backdrop for nature lovers and hikers. The beach can be reached by descending a breathtaking trail through the forest, adding an adventurous element to your visit. The beautiful waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while its sheltered location makes it one of the most popular beaches in Lisbon for sunbathing.

Galapinhos Beach

Tamariz Beach


Tamariz Beach is the best beach in Lisbon for those who want to expand a relaxing vacation with culture and history. Situated along the picturesque Estoril coastline, it is a vibrant and iconic beach destination. With its golden sands, clear waters, and a backdrop of stunning 19th-century mansions, Tamariz Beach is among the best Lisbon beaches with natural beauty and historical charm.

Tamariz Beach. Top 10 Best Beaches in Lisbon

This best beach in Lisbon is known for its inviting atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Visitors can lounge on the sandy shores, take a refreshing dip in the Atlantic Ocean, or enjoy beachside cocktails at the lively bars and cafes that line the promenade. Among the most visited beaches in Lisbon, it is also home to Tamariz Restaurant and Bar, housed in a charming castle-like building, offering delicious seafood and Portuguese cuisine with a view.

 

Praia da Adraga


Praia da Adraga is one of the best beaches in Lisbon for nature enthusiasts and beachgoers seeking a more secluded and rugged coastal experience. Nestled between tall cliffs and framed by a backdrop of lush greenery, this best beach Lisbon boasts golden sands that stretch along the Atlantic shoreline. It's known for its striking rock formations, sea caves, and dramatic cliffs, making it a photographer's dream. 

Praia da Adraga

This best beach in Lisbon is relatively untouched by commercial development featuring a charming seafood restaurant where visitors can savor fresh catches while enjoying magnificent ocean views. Among the most beloved beaches in Lisbon, Praia da Adraga is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Portugal's coastline, all within a convenient distance from Lisbon.

 

Praia do Guincho


Praia do Guincho, located just a short drive from Lisbon, is a windswept coastal gem that offers a unique and invigorating Lisbon beaches experience. Nestled within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, this expansive sandy expanse is known for its powerful Atlantic waves, making it a favorite spot for surfers and windsurfers. Guincho Beach's dramatic setting is characterized by its tall, rugged dunes and picturesque cliffs, providing a sense of wild beauty. The strong winds and consistent swells make this one of the most visited beaches in Lisbon an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts and an excellent place for kite flying.

Praia do Guincho

One of the top Lisbon best beaches, it is also renowned for its relaxed and pure atmosphere, allowing visitors to bask in nature's glory. While there are a few beach bars and seafood restaurants nearby, the overall ambiance is one of tranquility and natural wonder. One of the best Lisbon beaches for those looking to enjoy the pristine coastal landscapes and the exhilarating forces of nature. 

 

Praia da Ursa


Praia da Ursa is the best beach in Lisbon for adventure seekers. This secluded beach, located near Lisbon within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, offers a pristine and untamed coastal experience. Accessing Praia da Ursa requires a short but challenging hike, which adds to the sense of adventure and exclusivity. The path leads visitors through a stunning landscape of dense forests and cliffs, alongside the magnificent ocean views. 

Praia da Ursa 

At the top of the best beaches in Lisbon, it’s relatively small, making it an intimate and tranquil spot for those looking to escape the crowds. One of the most charming Lisbon beaches, Praia da Ursa is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers seeking unspoiled coastal beauty.

 

Praia de Carcavelos


Praia de Carcavelos, located a short distance from the town, is one of the most popular and accessible beaches in Lisbon. This expansive, sandy shore along the Estoril coastline is renowned for its inviting atmosphere and lively ambiance. Carcavelos Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. One of the best beaches in Lisbon for sunbathing, its clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean provide excellent conditions for swimming and water sports. The consistent waves also make it a great spot for surfing, making it a favorite among surf enthusiasts.

Praia de Carcavelos

The best beach in Lisbon for foodies, it is lined with beach bars, restaurants, and facilities, ensuring visitors have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable day by the sea. Its proximity to the city, easily reached by train, makes it a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike, making it a great place to relax, socialize, and experience the lively coastal culture of beaches in Lisbon.

 

Praia da Rainha


Praia da Rainha, or "Queen's Beach," is a charming and historic gem tucked away in the coastal town of Cascais, a short journey from the capital. One of the best Lisbon beaches, it is known for its intimate and secluded atmosphere, making it a favored destination for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The name "Queen's Beach" has royal origins. In the late 19th century, Queen Amelia, the wife of King Carlos I of Portugal, was captivated by the charm of this beach and claimed it as her personal bathing spot, thus giving it its regal name. Among the best beaches near Lisbon, it retains a sense of elegance and old-world charm, with a delightful sheltered cove framed by unique rock formations.

Praia da Rainha

Visitors to Praia da Rainha can enjoy the clear and calm waters for swimming and snorkeling. Among the top Lisbon beaches, it is easily accessible from the town center, and the scenic walk along the seaside promenade adds to the charm of the visit. Although it may be one of the smaller beaches in Lisbon, its historical significance and serene ambiance make it a truly special place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Portuguese coast.

 

Best Beaches Near Lisbon


In case you are up for a short car trip and would like to expand your travel guide, head to one of the best beaches near Lisbon. In this section, we will focus on the marvelous spots that are worth visiting while you are in Portugal. Let’s explore the best beaches near Lisbon that this gorgeous country has to offer. 

 

Praia do Meco


Praia do Meco, situated on the Sesimbra Peninsula just a short drive from the city, is a hidden paradise for those seeking a more tranquil and natural coastal experience. The best beach near Lisbon, this pristine spot is backed by towering cliffs and flanked by golden sands, creating a dramatic and unspoiled setting. Renowned for its natural ambiance and sense of seclusion, the beach is quite extensive, providing ample space for visitors to find their own peaceful spot. Among the best beaches near Lisbon for nudists, it offers a designated nudist section known as "Praia das Bicas."

Praia do Meco

The strong Atlantic waves at Meco Beach also make it a favorite spot for surfers, and its ample space ensures that both swimmers and surfers can enjoy their preferred water activities without interference. One of the best beaches near Lisbon, it hasn’t been commercialized yet which makes it a perfect secluded place. However, there are some bars and seafood restaurants nearby where visitors can enjoy the catch of the day and the sound of the crashing waves. 

 

Praia da Figueirinha


Praia da Figueirinha, situated along the scenic Arrábida coastline near Lisbon, is a hidden treasure that captures the essence of natural beauty and tranquility. Nestled within the Arrábida Natural Park, this best beach near Lisbon is a well-kept secret known for its stunning scenery, calm waters, and unspoiled charm. The beach is relatively small, surrounded by lush hills and forests, creating a serene and intimate setting. 

Praia da Figueirinha

The surrounding cliffs and rock formations add to the beach's picturesque beauty, and the backdrop of the Arrábida hills provides a sense of seclusion. The best beach near Lisbon, it attracts visitors with its clear and calm waters which make it a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling, and its sheltered location offers protection from strong Atlantic winds. Despite the limited facilities at Praia da Figueirinha, it’s one of the best beaches in Lisbon for those seeking a quiet and unspoiled coastal escape within easy reach of the capital. 

 

Praia das Maçãs


Praia das Maçãs, or "Apple Beach," is a charming seaside destination located just northwest of Lisbon in the Sintra region. This quaint location is the best beach near Lisbon that’s known for its unique name, cozy atmosphere, and proximity to the traditional village of Colares, which is famous for its apples. Praia das Maçãs offers a vast sandy shoreline that is perfect for sunbathing, and its waters are relatively calm, making it a suitable spot for swimming and family activities. One of the best beaches near Lisbon, it is also framed by rugged cliffs and distinctive rock formations, adding to its natural beauty.

Praia das Maçãs

Among the most popular beaches in Lisbon, it features a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops where visitors can savor fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes while enjoying the view of the Atlantic Ocean. A vintage tramline connects the beach to Sintra, providing a picturesque journey through the region's scenic landscapes.
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