Top Five Beaches to Visit in Portugal

Sun, surf, and sand. If you’re planning to visit Portugal, it’s imperative that you take advantage of its beautiful beaches. Portugal’s beaches are perfect for relaxing, cheap holidays in 2014.

Of course, no beach is exactly the same. Depending on whether you’re there for a beautiful view, a fun day working on your tan, or looking for a place to get active in the water, Portugal has a large selection of lovely beaches that offer something for everyone. Here’s a list of some of the best beaches for your fun-in-the-sun getaway.

 

Top Five Beaches to Visit in Portugal

 

Falesia Beach

Covered in beautiful white sand, this beach is one of the most visually appealing beaches on our list. The beach’s backdrop is comprised of large, red cliff faces that make a stunning contrast to the sky and water. Falesia Beach is also rarely crowded, and the water is warm enough to swim in even in October. It’s the perfect place for a low-key scenic swim. If you’re the type who enjoys cycling, this beach is also known for its well-kept and beautiful cycling paths, offering another way to enjoy the water and view of the cliffs.

 

Tamariz Beach

The Estoril Coast is very close to the capital, Lisbon, and makes a great day trip for those looking for a casual getaway. Tamariz is one of Estoril’s best beaches. It is a perfect place to sunbathe and work on your tan while still being close to conveniences like shopping, restaurants, and other amenities. Estoril is also home to the Casino Estoril, if you’d like to round off your day in the sun with a little night-time fun.

 

Guincho

This beach near Lisbon is a popular place for surfing enthusiasts. The strong winds that pervade the beach whip up the perfect surfing conditions and is also great for other kinds of surfing such as windsurfing or kitesurfing. If you’re new to the sport, local surfing schools can coach you in the basics before you start trying your new skills in the azure waves.

 

Costa de Caprica

A beach perfect for families, Caprica offers long beaches and calm waters. Its popularity with the locals means it can occasionally get crowded, but it’s nevertheless a beautiful view for a relaxing day playing in the surf and sand. Costa de Caprica has almost 15 miles worth of beaches, so even if one area is crowded, a leisurely walk next to the water will let you find the perfect spot. Beautiful sunsets make this a perfect place for a stroll at sundown.

 

Praia do Creiro

It’s not just the beach’s clear water or stunning white sand that makes this the perfect beach for nature-lovers, but also the mountain nearby. The “white mountain” is a gorgeous backdrop to this secluded beach, which has become more accessible over the years with additional paths and parking lots. It’s also home to the rock formation the Stone of Anicha, a small island nestled in the bay in front of the mountain.

 

 

Photo Credit: Dan Taylor via Creative Commons.