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Wondering about beaches in Lisbon? While the city center itself doesn't have beaches, you'll find some of Europe's most stunning coastal stretches just a short trip away. Let's explore the best beaches in and around Lisbon, how to get there, and everything you need to know for the perfect beach day.
Does Lisbon Have Beaches?
While Lisbon's city center sits along the Tagus River rather than the ocean, beautiful Atlantic beaches are easily accessible by public transport or car:
15-20 minutes to the closest beaches
30 minutes to popular resort areas
Multiple transportation options
Year-round accessibility
Best Beaches in the Lisbon Area
Praia de Carcavelos
Distance from Lisbon: 20 minutes
Best for: Surfing, swimming, beach sports
Facilities:
Restaurants and cafes
Beach equipment rental
Surfing schools
Public restrooms
Lifeguard service
Praia de Santo Amaro
Distance from Lisbon: 15 minutes
Best for: Family visits, beginners' surfing
Features:
Calm waters
Beach volleyball courts
Children's play areas
Seafront restaurants
Beaches Near Lisbon
Costa da Caparica
A stunning 30km stretch of golden sand beaches including:
Praia do CDS
Perfect for sunbathing
Less crowded
Beautiful dune landscape
Beach bars and restaurants
Praia da Rainha
Historic royal beach
Protected coves
Crystal clear waters
Perfect for families
Cascais Beaches
Praia do Guincho
Known for:
World-class surfing
Windsurfing
Dramatic landscape
Facilities:
Equipment rental
Surf schools
Michelin-starred restaurants nearby
Praia de Conceição
Central Cascais location
Family-friendly
Calm waters
Full facilities
When to Visit Lisbon Beaches
Beach Season Guide
Peak Season (July-August)
Warmest water temperatures (20-22°C)
Crowded beaches
Full facilities operating
Beach bars and activities
Shoulder Season (May-June, September)
Comfortable temperatures
Less crowded
Lower accommodation rates
Most facilities open
Off-Season (October-April)
Perfect for surfing
Few tourists
Some facilities closed
Beautiful for walking
Beach Transportation Guide
From Lisbon to Beaches
By Train
To Cascais: From Cais do Sodré station
To Carcavelos: Lisbon-Cascais line
Cost: €2.25 one way
Frequency: Every 20 minutes
By Bus
To Costa da Caparica
Multiple routes available
Cost: €3-4 one way
Air-conditioned service
By Uber/Taxi/Bolt
Convenient but pricier
Around €15-25 per trip
Available 24/7
Best for groups
Facilities and Activities
Common Beach Amenities
Sunbed rentals (€10-15/day)
Umbrella rentals (€5-10/day)
Beach bars (esplanadas)
Showers and toilets
Lifeguard stations
Popular Activities
Surfing
Lessons available (€40-60)
Board rental (€15-20/day)
All skill levels
Beach Sports
Volleyball courts
Football areas
Equipment rental
Water Sports
Kayaking
Paddleboarding
Windsurfing
Tips for Visitors
Essential Beach Items
Sunscreen (higher prices at beach)
Beach umbrella
Water bottles
Beach towels
Snacks
Safety Tips
Observe flag warnings
Stay within designated swim areas
Watch for strong currents
Use sunscreen and stay hydrated
Local Etiquette
Clean up after yourself
Respect quiet hours
Follow lifeguard instructions
Don't reserve beach space unnecessarily
Beach Season Weather Guide
Summer (June-September)
Air temperature: 25-30°C
Water temperature: 18-22°C
Sunshine hours: 10-12 daily
Low rainfall
Spring/Fall (April-May, October)
Air temperature: 18-25°C
Water temperature: 16-18°C
Sunshine hours: 8-10 daily
Occasional rainfall
Winter (November-March)
Air temperature: 15-18°C
Water temperature: 14-16°C
Sunshine hours: 6-8 daily
More frequent rainfall
Remember: While Lisbon's city center doesn't have beaches directly in town, some of Portugal's most beautiful beaches are just a short journey away. Whether you're looking for surfing waves, family-friendly coves, or peaceful sunbathing spots, you'll find the perfect beach within easy reach of the city.
Last updated: December 2024. Beach facility information and prices subject to change.
