Planning to visit Lisbon? You’re in luck! We’ve put together the ultimate list of beaches around Lisbon that will truly take your breath away! Are you chasing the perfect wave? Are you looking for a serene spot to unwind? Or are you on the lookout for picturesque coves where time seems to stand still? If you’ve said yes to any of these (or even if you didn’t), you’ll definitely find your destination in our list!
So, pack your swimsuit, slip on your sandals, and get ready to explore the best coastal gems just a short journey from Lisbon’s doorstep! Oh, and don’t forget your sunscreen!
Here are the 13 best beaches close to Lisbon!
1. Praia de Albarquel
Praia de Albarquel is one of Setúbal’s hidden gems, a stunning urban beach just minutes from the city center. Tucked away in a sheltered bay, it offers breathtaking views of the Tróia Peninsula and the surrounding coastline!
What makes this beach truly special is its easy accessibility and tranquil surroundings. A scenic pedestrian promenade, completed in 2019, runs along the coast from the Albarquel Urban Park and allows you to enjoy breathtaking views on your way to have fun at the beach. On the calm waters, you’ll often see small boats drifting, adding to the peaceful vibe.
During the summer, wicker parasols are available for rent, costing between 20 and 30 EUR for the entire day or 12-15 EUR for half of the day. Lifeguards are also on duty throughout the bathing season, so you can enjoy your time by the sea with complete peace of mind.
It takes approximately 30 minutes to get to this beach from the city center on foot. Alternatively, you can take the bus (4471), which departs every 20 minutes from Avenida Luisa Todi and reaches the beach in 10-15 minutes.
Keep in mind that it’s not recommended to go to this beach by private car, as parking is incredibly difficult. It’s probably even better to take an Uber, Bolt, or local taxi than drive your own car.
2. Praia da Figueirinha
Praia de Figueirinha is among Setúbal’s (and Portugal’s, for that matter!) most popular coastal spots, known for its wide sandy area and breathtaking views of the Arrábida Natural Park!
What makes this beach stand out is its large area of soft, golden sand that stretches even farther at low tide to reveal a shimmering sandbar: a dreamy spot for unhurried strolls or a splash of windsurfing. In short, if you’ve always wanted to visit the Maldives, you can head to Setúbal instead (spoiler alert: you’ll probably like Setúbal more!). Also, the crystal-clear waters are calm, shallow, and pleasantly (but not considerably!) warmer than those of nearby beaches.
During the summer, you can enjoy parasol and lounger rentals, lifeguard supervision, restrooms, showers, a beach bar-restaurant, and ample parking (though it fills up on busy weekends). In recognition of its quality, this beach has earned the Blue Flag and the Gold Quality awards, which attest to its clean waters and excellent services.
You can easily reach Praia de Figueirinha by public transport from Setúbal. You can take the 4474 bus from the Alegro mall (or check its other stops throughout the city).
3. Praia Galapagos
Nestled within the Arrábida Natural Park (yes, another one indeed! Arrábida has plenty of beaches!), Praia de Galápos is one of the region’s most stunning beaches: a small, sheltered bay with translucent turquoise waters and a backdrop of green hills. The fine, golden sand and calm sea make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply floating in the water. On clear days, the water is so transparent you’ll spot fish darting around your feet!
The beach does have limited space, so it can feel busy in summer, though its beauty always compensates. Facilities are modest, but there’s a beach restaurant and sunbed rentals in peak months, along with lifeguard supervision.
You can reach Praia de Galápos by car from Setúbal in 15–20 minutes, though keep in mind that parking is difficult during summer weekends. Many visitors prefer to arrive early.
There is also a bus that can take you from Praia de Galapos to Praia dos Galapinhos and Praia do Creiro if you want to enjoy all three beaches on the same day!
4. Praia dos Galapinhos
Often described as one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches, Praia dos Galapinhos is a natural treasure within the Arrábida coastline. With its powdery white sand, crystal-clear shallows, and lush, wild-green surroundings, it feels more like a tropical cove than somewhere just an hour from Lisbon. The water is calm, perfect for swimming and snorkeling!
Getting there is part of the adventure: access requires a short but steep walk down a footpath from the main road, meaning it’s less suited for families with lots of gear but ideal if you’re seeking a peaceful retreat. As facilities are scarce (no bars or rentals on the sand), bring water and snacks with you.
Praia dos Galapinhos is a UNESCO-protected area, so its natural beauty remains carefully preserved. In short, it’s one of those rare beaches that feels truly untouched!
5. Praia do Creiro
Arrábida’s Praia do Creiro is utterly breathtaking. Limestone cliffs watching over a sweep of dazzling white sand and impossibly clear water… What else can you wish for on a hot summer day? If you’re up for a hike, you can also check the archaeological site nearby!
Praia do Creiro is easy to reach by car, though parking is guarded by the luck of the early riser. Facilities include a beach café, toilets, and sunbed rentals during the main summer months. There are also lifeguards on duty when it’s busiest.
Parking can be a challenge on weekends and holidays, so it’s best to arrive early.
6. Praia da Saúde
Just a short walk from the heart of Setúbal, Praia da Saúde offers a sheltered shoreline with gentle waves and a laid-back, local atmosphere.
The water is generally calm, so you can swim safely with your family and enjoy a stress-free day at the beach. You can stretch out in the sun, take a gentle swim, or go for an evening walk as the light softens over the bay, just as the locals do. Oh, and let’s not forget that, from Praia de Saúde, you can reach Praia de Albarquel on foot, enjoying the beautiful scenery (just take great care while you’re walking by the rocks!).
Praia da Saúde offers easy access, nearby parking, and proximity to city restaurants and cafés. You can easily reach it on foot from Avenida Luisa Todi. Plus, a cosy beach bar awaits right on the sand, so you can grab a coffee or a cocktail and enjoy your summer vacation!
7. Troia Peninsula Beaches
The Troia Peninsula is located just a short distance from Lisbon and is considered one of Portugal’s most exclusive holiday destinations. Also, this place lies just about 4 kilometers from Setúbal, separated by the Sado River estuary: just perfect for a quick and scenic ferry ride of around 15 to 20 minutes that connects the two!
In summer, you’ll want to set aside enough time to enjoy the beaches of Troia because there are plenty of spots to delight in! Praia de Troia Mar is the closest to the ferry. It has plenty of facilities, especially if you’re travelling with children.
If you’re in the mood for exploration, you can wander further along the shore to discover quieter beaches. You might settle into the peaceful rhythm of Bico das Lulas or let yourself be drawn to the beauty of Praia Atlântica.
Whichever spot you choose, you’ll find yourself surrounded by nature, gentle waves, and the feeling that you’ve escaped somewhere special, yet you’re still just minutes from the ferry back to Setúbal!
Keep in mind that ferries run every 30 minutes, with tickets costing around 4.5 EUR per person.
8. Praia do Meco
Praia do Meco is one of the most iconic beaches in the region, being famous for its wild beauty and powerful waves! Backed by dramatic cliffs and fragrant forests, it feels wonderfully untamed compared with the busier stretches closer to Lisbon.
Despite its remote location, Praia do Meco offers good facilities near the main access point, including restaurants, bars, and beachside cafés. Lifeguards are also present in the main bathing season, but the sea is often rough, so it’s recommended to be extra careful when swimming.
It will take you roughly 45 minutes to get there by car from Lisbon. There are plenty of parking spots near the beach. And keep in mind that some of the region’s best seafood restaurants are nearby!
9. Praia das Bicas
Just down the coast from Praia do Meco, Praia das Bicas is a quieter alternative and something of a surfer’s paradise! However, the currents can be strong, so it’s less suitable for casual swimming. Instead, most visitors come for surfing, bodyboarding, sunbathing, and the sweeping views from the cliffs!
The access to the beach is via a steep path, which adds to its wild and secluded atmosphere! There are no major facilities on the sand itself, so it’s best to bring everything you’ll need for the day.
Praia das Bicas is around an hour’s drive from Lisbon, and because it remains relatively off the tourist trail, you won’t find too many people there.
10. Praia da California, Sesimbra
Praia da Califórnia is Sesimbra’s signature town beach, stretching gently along the sheltered bay at the foot of the castle. It combines golden sand with calm, transparent waters, perfect for safe swimming and family days by the sea! Plus, the wide promenade running along the beach is lined with cafés, seafood restaurants, and ice cream shops, so you can easily spend an entire day in Sesimbra!
During the summer, you can rent parasols and loungers, and lifeguards are on duty to ensure a carefree swim. Being right in town, Praia da Califórnia is very easy to reach on foot from Sesimbra’s center, so you can enjoy a dip in the ocean and then stroll straight into a terrace for lunch! Parking can be tricky on busy weekends, so it’s best to arrive early or come by bus if you’re visiting from Lisbon.
Other beaches you can enjoy in Sesimbra include Praia do Ouro, a smaller, more sheltered spot with fine sand and shallow water, and Praia da Ribeira do Cavalo, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. And, of course, Praia de Sesimbra, which is near Praia do Ouro!
11. Praia de Lagoa de Albufeira
Praia de Lagoa de Albufeira is a tranquil beach located in the Arrábida region. Known for its calm and shallow waters, this beach is perfect for families, swimmers, and anyone looking to escape the crowds.
The area around the lagoon is rich in natural beauty, with peaceful walking trails, picnic areas, and abundant birdlife. In short, the ideal spot for a relaxing day outdoors! Birdwatchers will likely have a great time as well, as the Albufeira Lagoon is a popular spot for birdwatching!
The beach itself is relatively undeveloped, so facilities are limited. There are no cafes or restaurants nearby, so you should bring your own food, water, and beach gear.
Praia de Lagoa de Albufeira is about a 50-minute drive from Setúbal. The most convenient way to reach it is by car. Parking is available near the lagoon, but it can be limited during busy periods, so it’s recommended to arrive early. If you don’t have a car, you can take a local taxi, Uber, or Bolt since public transport to this specific beach is limited.
12. Praia de Carcavelos
Praia de Carcavelos is undoubtedly one of the most famous and beautiful beaches near Lisbon! It’s situated between Lisbon and Cascais and has ample space even on busy summer days. Plus, the Atlantic waves are perfect for beginners and experienced surfers. There are even several surf schools right on the beach!
Praia de Carcavelos is very well-equipped. There are lifeguard patrols, showers, changing rooms, sunbed and umbrella rentals, and a variety of beachfront cafés and restaurants.
This beach is easily accessible from Lisbon. You can take the train to Cascais from Algés, for example. It takes roughly 30 minutes to reach Carcavelos, and the train station is just a short walk from the beach, so it’s quite convenient for those without a car.
12. Costa da Caparica Beaches
Just across the river from Lisbon, Costa da Caparica boasts a seemingly endless stretch of sandy coast! In fact, more than 15 kilometers of it! The northernmost part near the town is more developed, with plenty of beach bars, cafés, lifeguard stations, and easy access points.
Closer to Lisbon, you’ll find Praia da Cova do Vapor and Praia do CDS, which are especially popular with surfers and kitesurfers, while further south, the beaches become wilder and quieter.
One of the easiest ways to explore Costa da Caparica is by taking the Transpraia mini-train, which runs in the summer along the dunes and makes it simple to hop between beaches. Note: the Transpraia is currently being refurbished but will hopefully open again soon. Facilities vary depending on where you stop, but you’ll always find wide sand, great waves, and the Atlantic stretching endlessly in front of you.
Costa da Caparica is just 20-30 minutes by bus or car from Lisbon, so, ultimately, it’s one of the most popular city escapes!
