When planning your Lisbon getaway, don’t miss the spectacular coastal treasures just outside this vibrant capital. As a frequent Portugal visitor, I’ve spent countless days exploring these stunning shores. The best beaches near Lisbon offer pristine sands, crystal waters, and authentic coastal charm—all within easy reach of the city.
I still remember my first visit to these gorgeous stretches of coastline. The locals treated their weekend beach excursions almost like a sacred ritual, packing up early with umbrellas, snacks, and plenty of sunscreen. By joining this tradition, I discovered some truly remarkable spots that combine natural beauty with Portuguese culture.
Let me guide you through these coastal gems, sharing personal experiences and practical advice for making the most of your beach adventures near Lisbon. Whether you’re seeking lively atmospheres or secluded coves, this guide covers everything you need for perfect beach days on Portugal’s stunning Atlantic coast.
Best Beaches Near Lisbon: How to Reach the Coast
The journey from Lisbon to its nearest beaches takes surprisingly little time. Depending on your destination choice, you’ll reach golden sands in as little as 20 minutes using public transport from Cais do Sodré station.
Your options include trains, buses, or driving yourself. The transportation method you choose might depend on which beaches you hope to visit. Those connected by train tend to be more crowded, especially during summer weekends, while having your own vehicle opens up possibilities for discovering hidden coastal treasures.
Public transport operates reliably and frequently during summer months, with trains running approximately every 20 minutes along the coastal routes. Pack light but bring essentials, as some of the more remote beaches have limited facilities once you arrive.
Best Beaches Near Lisbon Accessible by Train
Catching the train from Lisbon provides the simplest way to reach several stunning beaches without needing a car. These well-connected shores offer the perfect balance between accessibility and beauty.
Praia de Santo Amaro de Oeiras
Just 20 minutes by train from Lisbon, this sheltered beach provides the quickest coastal escape from the city. Its calm waters make swimming particularly pleasant, while the palm-lined promenade creates a somewhat tropical atmosphere. I spent a lovely Tuesday afternoon here last summer, practically having sections of the beach to myself despite its proximity to the capital.
Praia do Tamariz, Estoril
The golden sands of Tamariz sit directly in front of Estoril train station, making it one of the most convenient beaches near Lisbon. The trip takes around 40 minutes from the city. What makes this beach special is the stunning medieval-looking castle that overlooks the shore. After swimming, I enjoyed a refreshing drink at one of the beachfront cafés while watching fishing boats bob on the horizon.
Praia da Conceição, Cascais
Located in charming Cascais, this family-friendly beach sits just 45 minutes from Lisbon by train. The protected bay makes for calm waters that are great for kids to swim in. After my beach time, I wandered through Cascais’ picturesque streets, stopping for incredible seafood at Casa da Guia restaurant overlooking the Atlantic. The entire area feels like a seaside resort town with plenty to explore beyond just the beach.
Praia de Carcavelos
Without question, Carcavelos ranks as the most popular beach near Lisbon for both tourists and locals alike. This vast stretch of sand takes approximately 30 minutes to reach by train. The beach buzzes with energy—volleyball games, surf schools, and beachside bars create a lively atmosphere. I joined a beginner surfing lesson here and found the waves perfect for learning, with instructors who spoke excellent English.
Best Beaches Near Lisbon by Bus
Beyond the train routes lie additional coastal treasures accessible by Lisbon’s bus network. These destinations often feature wider stretches of sand and slightly fewer crowds than their train-accessible counterparts.
Costa da Caparica
A quick 30-minute bus journey from Lisbon takes you to this extensive coastline that stretches for nearly 15 kilometres. Rather than one beach, Costa da Caparica offers a series of connected sandy stretches, each with its own character. During my visit, I rented a bicycle to explore different sections, finding that the further south I went, the more peaceful the atmosphere became. Beach bars dot the coast, serving fresh grilled fish and cold drinks—perfect after hours of sun and sea.
Best Beaches Near Lisbon by Car
Having your own transportation unlocks access to some truly spectacular beaches near Lisbon that public transport can’t easily reach. These gems require a bit more effort but reward visitors with extraordinary natural beauty and smaller crowds.
Praia do Creiro (Serra da Arrábida)
The turquoise waters of Praia do Creiro (see main featured image) genuinely shocked me the first time I visited—I could hardly believe I was still in Portugal and not somewhere in the Mediterranean. Located about 40 minutes south of Lisbon by car, this beach sits within the breathtaking Arrábida Natural Park. The combination of crystal-clear waters and the dramatic mountain backdrop creates one of the most photogenic beaches I’ve ever seen. Arrive early during summer months, as the car park fills quickly.
Praia de Guincho
Wild and windswept, Guincho attracts surfers and windsurfers from across Europe to its powerful waves. Located about 40 minutes northwest of Lisbon by car, this beach offers a completely different experience from the sheltered bays closer to the city. Even if you don’t surf, watching the action while feeling the constant sea breeze provides quite a spectacle. I packed a picnic to enjoy in the dunes, taking shelter from the wind while admiring Cabo da Roca in the distance—continental Europe’s westernmost point.
Praia da Adraga
Hidden between dramatic cliffs about 45 minutes from Lisbon, Adraga regularly appears on lists of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. The drive requires navigating some narrow roads, but the reward justifies every twist and turn. Distinctive rock formations emerge from both sand and sea, creating natural archways and pools to explore during low tide. I spent hours photographing these remarkable geological features before enjoying fresh octopus at the single restaurant perched above the beach.
Praia das Maçãs
This charming beach sits beside a small holiday town about 40 minutes from Lisbon by car. Its name translates to “Apple Beach,” supposedly because apples from inland orchards once washed down the stream to this shore. During my visit, families gathered on the wide sands while older locals played cards in the shade. For an extra adventure, I rode the historic tram that connects Sintra to this beach during summer months—a delightful journey through verdant countryside.
Best Beaches Near Lisbon: When to Visit
The prime season for enjoying Lisbon beaches runs from May through September, when temperatures regularly climb above 25°C. July and August bring the warmest waters but also the largest crowds, particularly on weekends.
I’ve found June and September offer the perfect balance—warm enough for comfortable swimming but with significantly fewer people. During these shoulder months, you might even have sections of the more remote beaches entirely to yourself on weekdays.
Early mornings provide the most magical beach experiences near Lisbon. By arriving before 10 am, I secured prime spots and enjoyed peaceful swims before the midday crowds arrived. As an added bonus, morning hours offer gentler sun before the intense midday heat sets in.
Tips for Visiting the Best Beaches Near Lisbon
Pack proper sun protection when visiting beaches near Lisbon. The Atlantic coast receives intense sunlight, often accompanied by cooling breezes that disguise how quickly you’re burning. I always bring a high SPF sunscreen, hat, and light cover-up—items that proved essential during long beach days.
Many beaches feature umbrella and lounger rentals, typically costing around €15-20 for a set. For budget travellers or those planning to beach-hop, bringing your own shade makes more sense. I purchased an inexpensive beach umbrella from a local shop that served me well throughout multiple coastal visits.
Portuguese beach etiquette differs slightly from other European countries. Topless sunbathing isn’t as common as in neighbouring Spain or France. Locals tend to dress somewhat modestly when not actually in the water, often covering up when walking to nearby shops or restaurants.
The Atlantic waters around Lisbon feel refreshingly cool even during summer months. Water temperatures peak around 20°C in August—perfect for cooling off from the heat but perhaps chillier than Mediterranean visitors might expect. I found the brisk temperature invigorating rather than uncomfortable, especially during particularly hot days.
Where to Stay for Beach Access Near Lisbon
For convenient beach access while maintaining proximity to Lisbon’s cultural attractions, Cascais offers an ideal base. This former fishing village turned sophisticated coastal town provides its own beaches plus train connections to both Lisbon and other coastal spots. I stayed at Hotel Albatroz, which offers stunning sea views and direct beach access.
Budget-conscious travellers might consider accommodation in Costa da Caparica, where apartment rentals often cost less than central Lisbon or Cascais options. The extensive bus connections make city excursions straightforward while keeping you steps from the sand. The Caparica Mar Hotel provides comfortable rooms at reasonable rates just minutes from the beach.
If renting a car, staying in Lisbon itself still works well for beach access, as most coastal spots lie within 45 minutes of the city. This arrangement gives you maximum flexibility to choose different beaches each day while enjoying the capital’s restaurants and nightlife each evening.
Final Thoughts on the Best Beaches Near Lisbon
Exploring the coastline around Lisbon reveals why Portugal increasingly gains recognition for its spectacular shores. These beaches offer remarkable diversity—from developed stretches with full amenities to wild, natural coves that feel wonderfully unspoiled.
My personal recommendation combines different beach experiences throughout your stay. Perhaps begin with easily accessible Carcavelos or Cascais beaches, then gradually venture further to discover Arrábida’s turquoise waters or Guincho’s dramatic landscapes. This approach provides a comprehensive taste of the unique coastal character surrounding Lisbon.
Remember that each beach near Lisbon has its own personality and charm. By sampling various shores rather than returning to the same spot daily, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this spectacular coastline—surely among Europe’s most impressive beach destinations.
