Hi,
We are planning a family trip to Portugal next summer for a family wedding. The wedding is in July outside of Porto. We do however want to explore a bit south of Lisbon. My concern with going to the Algarve is that it is a very busy time there and potentially will be crowded (and too touristy). Are there towns (with beaches possibly) on the west coast of Portugal that would be a nice alternative?
THanks.
Posted by
Ottawa, Canada
691 posts
Lots of beaches on the west coast from Porto to Lisbon.
Close to Nazaré is a kid friendly beach in Sao Martinho do Porto. (Waves can be very big in the Nazare area, surfing paradise)
Near Lisbon, there are beautiful sandy beaches from Cascais to Carcavelos, 20-30minutes by train to Lisbon.
You will love Portugal!
Martine
Posted by
Cascais, Portugal
1669 posts
I think your concern about the Algarve in July is very justified - and there are many great beaches much closer to Lisbon.
The other poster mentioned good ones. There is also Caparica outside of Lisbon. It has a big beach that is very popular. However, I’ve been told by Portuguese people the town is not great.
São Martinho do Porto has a nice beach with virtually no waves and there are others in the Silver Coast area that you might like. Closer to Lisbon, Cascais has several small beaches and outside of town is Guincho, which is much bigger and has bigger waves. There are also beaches in the Sintra area that are lovely..