Silver Coast
Stretching along Portugal’s Atlantic shoreline between Ericeira and Nazaré, the Silver Coast (Costa de Prata) is a treasure trove of wild beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming seaside towns. While locals might not use the term “Silver Coast,” this region has captivated international travelers with its surfing havens, fresh seafood, and timeless Portuguese charm. Whether you’re chasing waves, savoring coastal sunsets, or diving into history, here’s your guide to exploring this breathtaking stretch of coastline.
Ericeira
Ericeira, a charming fishing village on Portugal’s Silver Coast, is a paradise for surfers, culture seekers, and coastal explorers. Renowned as a World Surfing Reserve, its dramatic cliffs and golden beaches—like Praia do Sul and Ribeira d’Ilhas—draw thrill-seekers with world-class waves. Wander its cobblestone streets past whitewashed houses trimmed in blue, savor fresh seafood at family-run tascas, or soak in panoramic Atlantic views from the historic Forte de Nossa Senhora da Piedade. Just 50km north of Lisbon, Ericeira balances laid-back village charm with vibrant surf culture, offering cliffside hikes, artisan shops, and sunset ginginha (cherry liqueur) sipping spots. It is a must-visit for those craving authentic Portuguese coastal magic.
Things to do in Ericeira
Lisbon's soul, where every alley whispers history.
Surf Spots
Ribeira d’Ilhas (host of the WSL Pro) and Coxos for advanced surfers.
Ericeira, a UNESCO World Surfing Reserve, is a paradise for wave riders and beach lovers alike. Renowned for its consistent swells and diverse breaks, this coastal gem offers something for every skill level. Ribeira d’Ilhas, a flagship surf spot, hosts international competitions and delivers long right-hand waves ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. Beginners can head to Praia do Sul or Foz do Lizandro, where gentle rollers and surf schools like Ericeira Surf School provide lessons and gear rentals. Beyond surfing, the area’s golden sands and dramatic cliffs create idyllic settings for sunbathing and sunset strolls. The laid-back surf culture here infuses the town with an energetic yet welcoming vibe, making it a must-visit for ocean enthusiasts.​
Incredible Eats
Mar d’Areia or Tik Tak restaurant.
Ericeira’s culinary scene celebrates Portugal’s rich maritime heritage. For an authentic taste of the sea, Mar d’Areia is a local institution, serving fresh grilled fish and seafood stews in a cozy, family-run setting. For a modern twist, Tik Tap offers creative petiscos (Portuguese tapas) paired with craft beers, while Esplanada Furnas dazzles with cliffside views and succulent clams “Bulhão Pato” style. Don’t miss Taberna do Gabão, where traditional dishes like octopus rice and açorda de marisco (seafood bread stew) highlight farm-to-table ingredients. Pair your meal with a crisp vinho verde or a sip of ginja (cherry liqueur) for the full Ericeira experience.
Must-See
Historic Village Center
Step into Ericeira’s postcard-perfect historic center, where cobblestone streets wind past whitewashed buildings adorned with vibrant blue trim. The 17th-century Igreja de São Pedro church anchors the village, while boutique shops showcase handmade ceramics, azulejos (painted tiles), and surf-inspired art. Pause at a pastelaria for a velvety pastel de nata (custard tart) or grab a bica (espresso) at a sunlit café. As evening falls, the squares come alive with locals and visitors mingling over petiscos, embodying the town’s timeless charm and slow-paced allure.
Walkthrough
Coastal Hiking Trails
Beyond the waves, Ericeira’s rugged coastline offers breathtaking hikes along the Ecovia do Litoral, a scenic trail linking beaches, cliffs, and hidden coves. The Fisherman’s Trail segment rewards adventurers with panoramic Atlantic vistas, windswept dunes, and the chance to spot seabirds soaring above. For a shorter walk, follow the clifftop path from Praia do Norte to Ribeira d’Ilhas, where crashing waves and ocean spray set a dramatic backdrop. These trails also connect to the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, making Ericeira a gateway to exploring Portugal’s wild, untamed beauty—perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Peniche
Peniche, a rugged coastal gem on Portugal’s Silver Coast, is a haven for surfers, history buffs, and nature lovers. Famous for Supertubos—one of Europe’s best beach breaks and a World Surf League hotspot—its wild Atlantic waves lure adrenaline chasers year-round. Steeped in maritime lore, the town’s star-shaped 16th-century Peniche Fortress once guarded against pirates and later served as a political prison; today, it houses a museum revealing tales of resilience. Stroll through the working fishing port to watch colorful boats unload their catch, then feast on fiery caldeirada de peixe (fish stew) at waterfront taverns. Just offshore, the UNESCO-listed Berlengas Archipelago beckons with crystal waters, hidden caves, and hiking trails across its pristine island sanctuary. Roughly 90km from Lisbon, Peniche blends raw oceanic energy with timeless traditions, offering cliffside sunsets, salt-sprayed charm, and a gateway to untamed beauty. Ideal for those drawn to Portugal’s wilder side.
Things to do in Peniche
Where Lisbon's heart beats to the rhythm of history
Surf Spots & Beaches
Rip Curlin the waves
Peniche, a mecca for surfers, is home to some of Portugal’s most legendary waves. Supertubos, dubbed the "European Pipeline," is the crown jewel—a powerful, barreling beach break that hosts the World Surf League’s Rip Curl Pro event. Intermediate surfers flock to Lagide for its forgiving waves, while Baleal Beach offers a mix of peaks suitable for all levels, framed by a tombolo (sandbar) connecting it to the Baleal peninsula. For a quieter vibe, head to Consolação, where sheltered coves and tide pools add charm to its golden sands. Surf schools like Peniche Surf Camp provide lessons and rentals, ensuring everyone can ride Peniche’s iconic swells. The raw energy of the Atlantic here creates an adrenaline-fueled yet welcoming surf culture.
Incredible Eats
coastal Cuisine
Peniche’s coastal location means seafood reigns supreme. Restaurante Tasquinha do Joel is a local favorite, serving melt-in-your-mouth grilled sardines and caldeirada de peixe (fish stew) in a rustic, maritime-themed setting. For modern flair, Sete Mares combines fresh lobster and octopus with inventive plating and ocean views. Don’t miss O Alambique, a hidden gem dishing up hearty arroz de marisco (seafood rice) and percebes (gooseneck barnacles). Pair your meal with a crisp Alvarinho wine or a cold imperial (local beer) at Marisqueira Avenida, where the catch-of-the-day is hauled straight from the docks.
Must-See
Peniche Fortress (Fortaleza de Peniche)
Dominating Peniche’s coastline, the 16th-century Fortaleza de Peniche is steeped in history. Once a military stronghold and later a political prison during Portugal’s dictatorship, it now houses the Museu Nacional Resistência e Liberdade, detailing the country’s struggle for democracy. Wander its imposing walls for panoramic views of the Atlantic and Berlenga Island, or explore the eerie prison cells and secret tunnels. The fortress’s blend of rugged architecture and poignant storytelling makes it a cultural must-see. Nearby, the charming Bairro dos Pescadores (Fisherman’s Quarter) adds color with its narrow streets and blue-hued boats.
Walkthrough
Peniche Coastal Loop
For a scenic stroll, follow the Peniche Coastal Walk, a 6-kilometer loop showcasing the region’s wild beauty. Start at Porto de Pesca (fishing port), where colorful trawlers unload their catch, then trace the cliffs past Praia da Gambôa and Cabo Carvoeiro, a dramatic headland with jagged rock formations like the iconic Furado Grande sea arch. The path winds down to Baleal Beach, where you can cross the tombolo to explore the tiny island of Baleal. Finish with a sunset stop at Nau dos Corvos viewpoint, overlooking Supertubos’ roaring waves. This walk blends ocean vistas, maritime history, and salty breezes—a perfect way to soak in Peniche’s essence.
Nazaré
Nazaré, a legendary seaside town on Portugal’s Silver Coast, is synonymous with raw oceanic power and timeless tradition. Famed for Praia do Norte, where monstrous winter waves—fueled by the underwater Nazaré Canyon—crash into record-breaking heights (over 30m!), this is ground zero for big-wave surfers and thrill-seekers. Yet beyond the adrenaline, Nazaré enchants with its old-world charm: fisherwomen in patterned aprons dry sardines on sunlit sands, while the clifftop Sítio district, reached by a vintage funicular, offers breathtaking views from its hilltop sanctuary, Nossa Senhora da Nazaré. Explore cobbled lanes lined with rustic taverns serving garlicky arroz de marisco (seafood rice), or watch local boats launch from the bustling harbor. By winter, the waves roar; by summer, the golden beaches hum with families and festivals. Just 120km north of Lisbon, Nazaré balances mythic surf lore with authentic Portuguese coastal life—a place where folklore, faith, and the untamed Atlantic collide.
Things to do in Nazaré
Where Lisbon's nights ignite with music and mischief.
Surf Spots & Beaches
Biggest Waves available
Nazaré is synonymous with big-wave surfing, drawing adrenaline seekers to its awe-inspiring swells. The legendary Praia do Norte is home to the Nazaré Canyon, an underwater gorge that amplifies waves to record-breaking heights—like the 101.4-foot monster ridden by Garrett McNamara in 2011. While experts tackle the winter giants at North Beach, the calmer Praia da Nazaré (Main Beach) offers family-friendly swimming, golden sands, and colorful fishing boats lining the shore. Surf schools like Nazaré Surf Experience cater to beginners, while the Miradouro do Sítio cliff-top viewpoint lets spectators marvel at the ocean’s raw power. Whether you’re riding waves or watching surf legends in action, Nazaré’s beaches deliver unforgettable drama.
Incredible Eats
A Tasquinha
Nazaré’s culinary soul lies in its fresh-off-the-boat seafood and traditional Portuguese comfort food. A Tasquinha, a cozy family-run spot, is famed for its caldeirada de peixe (fish stew) and grilled squid. For a seaside feast, Restaurante Maria do Mar serves platters of garlicky clams, buttery lobster, and arroz de marisco (seafood rice) with panoramic ocean views. Don’t miss Taberna d’Adélia, where rustic dishes like bacalhau à lagareiro (salt cod with olive oil and potatoes) pair perfectly with local wines. Cap off your meal with trouxas de ovos (egg custard rolls) from Pastelaria Bijou—a sweet nod to the town’s maritime heritage.
Amazing History
Sítio da Nazaré
Perched high above the town, the historic Sítio da Nazaré district is steeped in legend and lore. Ride the Ascensor da Nazaré (funicular) to reach this cliff-top enclave, where the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré houses a revered medieval statue linked to miraculous tales. Stroll the cobblestone square, browse handicraft stalls, and soak in sweeping views of the coastline from the Miradouro do Suberco lookout. The annual Festa de Nossa Senhora da Nazaré (October festival) transforms the area with processions and folklore, but its timeless charm shines year-round.
Walkthrough
Farol da Nazaré & Coastal Walk
For breathtaking vistas, walk from Nazaré’s main beach to the Farol da Nazaré (lighthouse), perched on the edge of the cliffs. The trail passes the Memorial à Vítima do Trabalho no Mar, a tribute to fishermen lost at sea, and leads to the lighthouse’s North Beach viewpoint, where you can watch surfers battle colossal waves. Extend your walk along the cliffside promenade to Praia do Salgado, a quieter beach framed by dunes. As the sun dips, the lighthouse glow and crashing waves create a cinematic backdrop—ideal for photographers and sunset chasers.
Lourinhã
Lourinhã, a captivating blend of prehistoric wonder and coastal charm on Portugal’s Silver Coast, is a treasure for fossil enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Dubbed the “Dinosaur Capital of Portugal,” this ruggedly beautiful town is famed for its Jurassic-era discoveries, including dinosaur eggs and skeletons showcased at the Museu da Lourinhã—a must-visit for budding paleontologists. Its coastline stuns with golden sands like Praia da Areia Branca, a laid-back surf spot framed by limestone cliffs, while hidden coves like Praia da Peralta invite tranquil swims. History echoes through the 12th-century Church of Santa Maria do Castelo, perched above the town, and the Atalaia Lighthouse, where windswept cliffs offer sweeping Atlantic vistas. Savor hearty coastal fare—think garlicky ameijoas à bulhão pato (clams) or fresh octopus grilled over charcoal—at family-run marisqueiras. Just 65km north of Lisbon, Lourinhã balances adventure with authenticity: hike cliffside trails, hunt for ancient fossils, or join lively summer festivals celebrating fishing traditions. A destination where Earth’s primordial past meets timeless seaside magic.
Things to do in Lourinhã
Where Lisbon's elegance meets artistic soul
Surf Spots & Beaches
Praia da Areia Branca
Lourinhã’s rugged coastline offers a mix of wild beauty and surf-friendly breaks. Praia da Areia Branca is the star here, a Blue Flag beach with consistent waves ideal for beginners and intermediates, plus golden sands backed by striking cliffs. Surf schools like Lourinhã Surf Camp provide lessons and gear rentals, while nearby Praia da Peralta draws experienced surfers with its powerful swells and secluded vibe. For families, Praia do Porto das Barcas offers calm waters and tidal pools teeming with marine life. Whether you’re riding waves or soaking up the sun, Lourinhã’s beaches blend adventure with unspoiled coastal charm.
Amazing History
Museu da Lourinhã
Step into Portugal’s prehistoric past at the Museu da Lourinhã, home to one of Europe’s largest dinosaur fossil collections. Highlights include the Lourinhanosaurus, a carnivorous dinosaur discovered nearby, and rare fossilized dinosaur eggs. The museum also showcases the town’s cultural heritage, from Roman artifacts to traditional fishing tools. Just a short drive away, Dino Parque brings history to life with over 180 life-sized dinosaur models spread across forested trails. This immersive outdoor museum is a hit with families and paleontology enthusiasts alike, cementing Lourinhã’s reputation as Portugal’s “Dinosaur Capital.”
Incredible Eats
Restaurante O Burriche
Lourinhã’s dining scene thrives on fresh seafood and rustic Portuguese flavors. Restaurante O Burriche is a local legend, dishing up hearty arroz de tamboril (monkfish rice) and grilled sardines in a cozy, maritime-themed setting. For a modern twist, Taberna do Frade serves creative petiscos like octopus carpaccio and clams in garlic butter, paired with regional wines. Don’t miss Mar à Vista, a beachfront gem known for its caldeirada de peixe (fish stew) and sunset views over Praia da Areia Branca. End your meal with a queijada da Lourinhã—a sweet cheese pastry that’s a town specialty.
Walkthrough
Santa Bárbara Eco-Trail
For a nature-filled escape, hike the Santa Bárbara Eco-Trail, a 4.5-kilometer route linking rural landscapes to dramatic coastal cliffs. Starting near Praia da Areia Branca, the trail winds through pine forests, past windmills, and along clifftops with sweeping Atlantic views. Keep an eye out for seabirds and fossil-rich rock formations, remnants of the region’s ancient past. The path culminates at the Miradouro de Santa Bárbara, a viewpoint overlooking secluded coves and crashing waves. This serene walk blends Lourinhã’s natural beauty with its geological wonders—a perfect way to unplug and reconnect with the wild Silver Coast.
Foz do Arelho
Foz do Arelho, a tranquil coastal escape on Portugal’s Silver Coast, captivates with its rare duality: where the serene Lagoa de Óbidos meets the wild Atlantic Ocean. This unspoiled village offers two faces of beauty—calm lagoon waters, perfect for paddleboarding or kayaking, and windswept ocean beaches like Praia do Mar, where dramatic waves crash against golden sands. Stroll along the lagoon’s sandy isthmus, framed by dunes and pine forests, or hike cliffside trails for panoramic views of the coast’s rugged beauty. Savor fresh seafood at rustic beachfront restaurants, indulging in local specialties like lagostinha suada (steamed crab) or grilled fish paired with crisp Vinho Verde. Don’t miss the charming village center, dotted with whitewashed cottages and the iconic Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Guia, a sentinel overlooking the coast. Just 90km north of Lisbon, Foz do Arelho remains blissfully crowd-free, blending laid-back charm with raw natural splendor—ideal for families, nature lovers, and those seeking quiet moments by the water’s edge.
Things to do in Foz do Arelho
Where Lisbon's riverfront comes alive with flavor and rhythm.
Surf Spots & Beaches
Praia do Mar
Foz do Arelho captivates with its dual coastal personality, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the tranquil Lagoa de Óbidos. Praia do Mar (Foz do Arelho Beach) is a surf hotspot, offering powerful waves favored by intermediate and advanced riders, while surf schools like Foz do Arelho Surf School provide lessons for newcomers. For a gentler experience, head to Praia da Lagoa, the lagoon-side beach with calm waters perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. The dramatic contrast between the roaring ocean and serene lagoon creates a unique backdrop, ideal for sunsets or leisurely strolls along the sandy isthmus connecting the two.
Incredible Eats
Restaurante D. Jorge
Foz do Arelho’s dining scene shines with fresh seafood and rustic Portuguese fare. Restaurante D. Jorge, perched above Praia do Mar, is renowned for its arroz de marisco (seafood rice) and grilled squid served with panoramic ocean views. For a cozy, family-run vibe, O Paulo dishes up hearty bacalhau à lagareiro (salt cod with olive oil and potatoes) and ameijoas à bulhão pato (garlic clams). Don’t miss Lagoon Bar & Kitchen, nestled near the lagoon, where creative dishes like octopus tacos and local white wines pair perfectly with sunset vistas over Lagoa de Óbidos.
Must-See
Lagoa de Óbidos
This sprawling coastal lagoon, one of Portugal’s largest, is the heart of Foz do Arelho’s natural allure. Kayak or paddleboard through its calm waters, spotting flamingos, herons, and other migratory birds, or hike to the Miradouro do Facho viewpoint for sweeping vistas of the lagoon-ocean divide. The lagoon’s ever-changing hues—from emerald green to golden at sunset—make it a photographer’s paradise. In summer, join locals for a dip in the lagoon’s warm shallows or explore its hidden coves by boat.
Walkthrough
Passadiço da Lagoa
Trace the wooden boardwalk of Passadiço da Lagoa, a serene 2-kilometer trail winding along the lagoon’s edge. Start near Praia da Lagoa, passing reed beds and salt marshes teeming with birdlife, before looping toward the ocean. The path offers uninterrupted views of the lagoon’s shimmering waters and the Atlantic’s crashing waves, culminating at a cliffside vantage point. For a longer adventure, follow the coastal trail to Cabo Carvoeiro, where windswept cliffs and rock formations frame the horizon—a peaceful escape into Foz do Arelho’s untamed beauty.
