20 Best Beaches in Portugal for Every Traveler (2025 Update)
Portugal is one of the best places in Europe for beach lovers. With more than 1,000 kilometers of coastline, it offers something for every traveler. Some of the best beaches in Portugal are famous for golden cliffs, turquoise water, and hidden caves. Others are wide sandy stretches, perfect for families or surfing. From the Algarve to the Lisbon coast, from the Silver Coast to the islands of Madeira and the Azores, each region has unique beauty. This guide shows you the top 20 beaches in Portugal and explains which ones are best for photos, families, surfers, and quiet escapes.
20 Best Beaches in Portugal (With Visiting Time & Entry Info)
| # | Beach Name | Best Visiting Time | Ticket / Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Praia da Marinha (Algarve) | May–Oct | Free (parking may be paid) |
| 2 | Praia da Falésia (Albufeira) | May–Sep | Free |
| 3 | Praia Dona Ana (Lagos) | Jun–Sep | Free (chairs/umbrellas extra) |
| 4 | Praia do Camilo (Lagos) | May–Sep | Free (stairs access) |
| 5 | Benagil Cave & Praia de Benagil | Jun–Sep | Cave only by boat/kayak tour (~€25–40) |
| 6 | Meia Praia (Lagos) | May–Sep | Free |
| 7 | Praia da Rocha (Portimão) | Jun–Sep | Free |
| 8 | Praia do Barril (Tavira) | May–Sep | Free (mini train ~€1.50 each way) |
| 9 | Praia do Guincho (Cascais) | May–Oct (surf), windy | Free |
| 10 | Carcavelos Beach (Lisbon Coast) | Jun–Sep | Free |
| 11 | Costa da Caparica (Lisbon Coast) | Jun–Sep | Free |
| 12 | Praia da Comporta (Alentejo) | May–Sep | Free (parking fee possible) |
| 13 | Praia do Carvalhal (Alentejo) | May–Sep | Free |
| 14 | Troia Peninsula | May–Sep | Free (ferry to Troia ~€7–8 return) |
| 15 | Nazaré / Praia do Norte (Silver Coast) | Oct–Feb (surf), Jul–Sep (bathing nearby) | Free |
| 16 | Praia de Miramar (North, near Porto) | Jun–Sep | Free |
| 17 | Moledo Beach (North) | Jul–Sep | Free |
| 18 | Porto Santo Beach (Madeira) | May–Oct | Free |
| 19 | Prainha de Caniçal (Madeira) | Jun–Sep | Free |
| 20 | Santa Bárbara Beach (Azores) | Jun–Sep (bathing), Oct–Feb (surf) | Free |
Note:
- Almost all best beaches in Portugal are public and free.
- Extra costs: sunbeds/umbrellas (~€10–20/day), parking fees (varies), ferry/train (Troia Peninsula, Carcavelos), and tours (Benagil Cave, Ponta da Piedade).
Quick Map of All Best Beaches In Portugal
Planning a trip is easier when you can see everything in one place. Below is a simple map of the best beaches in Portugal, including top Algarve beaches, family-friendly spots near Lisbon, and hidden gems along the Alentejo coast. You’ll also find surfing beaches on the west coast and island escapes in Madeira and the Azores. Use this beach map to plan your route, compare regions, and pick the perfect coastline for your style of travel
For Iconic Views & Photography
If you want beaches that look like postcards, Portugal has plenty. Praia da Marinha in the Algarve is one of the best beaches in Portugal for photography. Its golden cliffs and crystal water make it world-famous. Praia do Camilo, reached by wooden stairs, is another Algarve gem where turquoise waves meet dramatic rocks. Near Lagos, the caves of Ponta da Piedade are perfect for boat tours and photos at sunset. These iconic Algarve beaches are not only beautiful but also easy to visit, making them great for travelers who want the best beach views and unforgettable pictures in Portugal.
For Families & Easy Access
Traveling with kids means comfort and safety matter most. Praia Dona Ana in Lagos is one of the best family best beaches in Portugal. It has calm water, lifeguards in summer, and plenty of facilities nearby. Praia da Falésia, a long sandy beach near Albufeira, is easy to reach and gives families lots of space to play. For something fun, take the little train to Praia do Barril in Tavira kids love the ride. Near Lisbon, Carcavelos Beach is popular with families because it has restaurants, restrooms, and lifeguards. These family-friendly Portugal beaches are perfect if you want safe swimming, easy access, and all-day fun.
For Surfers & Adventurers
Portugal is one of Europe’s best surf destinations, and its beaches attract adventurers from around the world. Near Lisbon, Praia do Guincho is famous for strong winds and powerful waves perfect for experienced surfers. On the west coast, Arrifana and Amado are top Algarve surf beaches, popular for lessons and surf camps. If you want to see something extreme, head to Nazaré / Praia do Norte, home of the biggest waves ever surfed. In the Azores, Santa Bárbara Beachis another hotspot for surfing. These adventurous best beaches in Portugal are great for thrill-seekers who want more than just swimming or sunbathing.
For Hidden Gems & Romantic Spots
If you love quiet places and romantic views, Portugal has many secret beaches waiting to be discovered. Praia do Carvalho in the Algarve is a small cove surrounded by cliffs, reached through a tunnel in the rocks. Praia de Odeceixe, on the west coast, is unique because a river meets the sea perfect for peaceful walks. The Troia Peninsula offers long sandy stretches with fewer crowds, while Moledo Beach in northern Portugal is a hidden escape near the Spanish border. These secret of best beaches in Portugal are ideal for couples, photographers, or anyone who wants calm, beauty, and a little adventure away from busy tourist spots.
For Island Escapes
Portugal’s islands also have some of the country’s best beaches. On Madeira, Porto Santo Beach is famous for its 9 kilometers of golden sand and clear water. It’s one of the best beaches in Portugal for long walks, swimming, and relaxing under the sun. For a more intimate spot, try Prainha de Caniçal, a small cove hidden by cliffs. In the Azores, Santa Bárbara Beach is known for surfing, while smaller coves are perfect for snorkeling. These island beaches give travelers a mix of adventure and peace, showing that Portugal’s beauty goes far beyond the mainland.
Safety & Rules
Best Beaches in Portugal’s are stunning, but safety always comes first. Many beaches, like Praia Dona Ana and Carcavelos, have lifeguards and flag systems to show if swimming is safe. A green flag means calm water, yellow means caution, and red means no swimming. Some beaches, such as Praia do Guincho, have strong winds and currents, so they are better for surfing than swimming. The famous Benagil Cave now has strict rules in 2025 visitors can only enter with licensed tours, and swimming inside is not allowed. By checking safety flags and following local rules, travelers can enjoy Portugal’s best beaches with peace of mind.
Blue Flag Recognition
When planning a beach trip, many travelers look for the Blue Flag symbol. This award is given to beaches that meet high standards for safety, water quality, and environmental care. In 2025, Portugal has more than 400 Blue Flag beaches, making it one of the top countries in Europe for clean and safe coastlines. The Algarve alone has over 80 Blue Flag beaches, including popular spots like Praia da Falésia and Meia Praia. Families and swimmers can trust these beaches to have lifeguards, clean water, and good facilities. Choosing Blue Flag best beaches in Portugal is the best way to enjoy the sun while knowing the environment is protected.
Accessibility & Facilities
Not every traveler wants to climb cliffs or walk down steep stairs to reach the beach. Luckily, Portugal has many beaches with easy access and good facilities. Carcavelos Beach near Lisbon has ramps, restrooms, restaurants, and lifeguards, making it perfect for families or older visitors. In the Algarve, Praia da Falésia and Meia Praia offer wide sandy areas with parking nearby. Some hidden coves, like Praia do Camilo, require long staircases, so they may be harder for small children or those with mobility issues. By knowing which best beaches in Portugal beaches have ramps, restrooms, and lifeguards, you can plan a trip that is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for everyone.
Best Times to Visit Best Beaches In Portugal
Portugal’s beaches can be enjoyed almost all year, but the best time depends on what you want. For family best beaches in Portugal like Praia Dona Ana or Carcavelos, summer (June–August) offers warm water and lifeguards, though it’s the busiest season. If you prefer fewer crowds, late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) are perfect. Surfers head to Nazaréand the west coast from October to February for big waves. Eastern Algarve beaches, like those near Tavira, have the warmest water, great for swimming. Whether you want surfing, photography, or quiet escapes, Portugal’s coastline has the right beach season for every traveler.
Planning Tips
Exploring the best beaches in Portugal is easier with a little planning. In the Algarve, renting a car is the best way to reach hidden coves like Praia do Carvalho or Praia do Camilo. Near Lisbon, beaches such as Carcavelos and Praia do Guincho are easy to visit by train from the city center. For extra adventure, book boat or kayak tours to the caves of Benagil or Ponta da Piedade. Families will appreciate beaches with parking, restrooms, and lifeguards, while surfers can plan around wave seasons. With smart planning, you’ll enjoy Portugal’s beaches without stress and make the most of your trip.
FAQs
Which part has the best beaches in Portugal?
The Algarve has the most famous beaches, like Praia da Marinha and Praia da Falésia, but the Lisbon Coast, Alentejo, Madeira, and Azores also have stunning options.
Which beaches in Portugal have the warmest water?
The eastern Algarve, near Tavira and Monte Gordo, usually has the warmest water for swimming.
Can you go inside Benagil Cave?
In 2025, visitors can only enter with licensed tours. Swimming inside the cave is not allowed for safety.
What are the best family-friendly beaches in Portugal?
Praia Dona Ana, Carcavelos, and Praia da Falésia are safe, easy to reach, and have lifeguards.
What are the best surf beaches in Portugal?
Praia do Guincho, Arrifana, and Santa Bárbara are great for surfers, while Nazaré is famous for giant waves.
Conclusion
Portugal is home to some of the best beaches in Europe, and each one offers a unique experience. From the golden cliffs of Praia da Marinha to the family-friendly sands of Praia Dona Ana, and from the surf at Nazaré to the quiet coves of Troia Peninsula, there is a perfect beach for every traveler. The islands of Madeira and the Azores add even more beauty with hidden escapes and surf spots. Whether you want safe family beaches, exciting surf breaks, or romantic secret coves, Portugal’s coastline has it all. Plan well, follow local safety rules, and enjoy the unforgettable charm of the best beaches in Portugal.
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