Key Take Aways About Beaches in Portugal
- Praia da Marinha: Iconic Algarve beach with limestone cliffs; ideal for snorkeling.
- Praia de Benagil: Famous for its sea cave; best accessed by boat or kayak.
- Praia do Amado: Popular with surfers, offers consistent waves and surf schools.
- Praia da Adraga: Less crowded, offers fine sand and stunning sunsets.
- Porto Santo Island: Known for its long sandy beach; therapeutic and peaceful.
- Cabo da Roca: Not a beach, but Europe’s westernmost point with dramatic views.
- Praia de São Rafael: Family-friendly with golden cliffs and beach bars.
Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha, in the Algarve region, is often called the postcard beach of Portugal. It’s tucked away with those dramatic limestone cliffs and azure waters. If you’re into snorkelling, it’s a pretty neat spot. The clear waters offer a decent display of marine life, something not to be missed. It’s a bit of a trek to get down to the beach, but hey, that’s what makes it less crowded. You won’t find those sprawling resorts nearby, so pack what you need and enjoy the natural vibe.
Praia de Benagil
Not far from Praia da Marinha is Praia de Benagil. What’s unique here is the sea cave. You might’ve seen it in a bunch of those travel magazines—the one with the circular hole in the roof letting the sunlight through. It’s best accessed by boat or kayak. Get there early, especially in summer, since everyone seems to want that perfect Instagram shot. On the water, you might have a laugh at some tourists trying to paddle their way through the surf—it’s all part of the fun.
Praia do Amado
Praia do Amado is where the surfers hang out. Located on the west coast of the Algarve, it’s a bit wild and rugged. The waves are consistent, making it a surfing haven. Don’t worry if you’re not a surfer; just watching from the beach can be entertainment enough. The beach is backed by sand dunes, a place where you can catch a breather away from the wind. The on-site surf schools ensure that you won’t feel like a total rookie.
Praia da Adraga
North of Sintra, you’ll find Praia da Adraga. It’s a spot less talked about, which can be a good thing. The sand is fine and white, and the rocky cliffs are perfect for those short hikes. The waves here can be a bit challenging, so swimming may not always be on the cards. A little café serves up fresh seafood, a simple yet satisfying way to end the day. The sunset here? Worth waiting around for, though don’t expect blazing oranges and reds every time.
Porto Santo Island
While not part of mainland Portugal, the beaches here deserve a mention. Porto Santo is about an hour flight from Lisbon and boasts a 9-kilometer stretch of golden sand. Unlike the rocky beaches on the mainland, this one’s mostly flat. It doesn’t get as crowded, which is always a plus. The therapeutic properties of the island’s sand are well-known, making it a relaxing escape. The leisurely pace here might just melt away any stress.
Cabo da Roca
Technically not a beach for lounging, Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point of mainland Europe. The view? It’s grand. You stand there, realizing there’s a whole ocean until the next land. The cliffs are steep and the wind is persistent—it’s more about the experience than a beach day. Bring a jacket, even in summer. The nearby lighthouse adds some history to the visit, and the area has a stark beauty that makes for good photos.
Praia de São Rafael
Near Albufeira, Praia de São Rafael is a gem. Surrounded by golden cliffs and interesting rock formations, it’s a place where you might find yourself just staring at the scenery instead of diving into the water. The beach is family-friendly, so expect some kiddos building sandcastles or just enjoying the sun. There are a couple of beach bars for when you fancy a cold beverage. Come for the day, and you’ll leave with sun-kissed skin and a relaxed mind.