Can anyone recommend a great beach near Lisbon or Sintra? I’ll have a car. I don’t have time for the Algarve, but would still love to get to a beach. One for beauty and also for swimming. Thank you!!
Posted by
364 posts
My preferred beach is Carcavelos
https://lisbonlisboaportugal.com/lisbon-beaches/Praia-Carcavelos-beach-Lisbon.html
If you prefer a "wilder" beach, Guincho
https://lisbonlisboaportugal.com/lisbon-beaches/Praia-Guincho-beach-lisbon.html
Posted by
OP
Philadelphia
5 posts
Thank you for your kind response! Still working on an itinerary.
Posted by
Chicago
15 posts
Guincho is a solid pick I was there a week ago as part of a e-bike tour. Definitely better for beach vibes than the beaches in the center of cascais. However, the water is a bit rough at Guincho. I also went to the Costa da Caparica which have more traditional sandy calmer beaches with less tourists. I would recommend going to both if time allows.
Adam
Posted by
OP
Philadelphia
5 posts
Thank you, Adam. It’s helpful to know about the one with calmer waters. I loved the movie about the big waves in Nazare, but would be petrified to swim in that water. Those surfers are amazing.
Posted by
Cascais, Portugal
1821 posts
There are several smaller beaches closer to Sintra. Praia Grande and Praia de Adrega come to mind. A bit further is the smaller town of Ericeira, which has lovely beaches that are popular with surfers. It’s also a very cute town.
Posted by
Chicago
15 posts
Thank you Kathryn for the guidance on Praia de Adrega and Ericeira. I definitely want check those out my next time in Portugal.
I’m already planning my next trip. I came back to the U.S. this week and am going through deep withdrawal of missing Portugal. It’s really such an amazing place especially if you connect with the people who don’t work necessarily in the tourism, service or hospitality industry. They are so friendly, kind and share their views so openly.
Adam
Posted by
OP
Philadelphia
5 posts
Kathryn, thank you so much for your posts on Portugal. I’ve read many! They really help to inform my decisions.
So far I’ve booked 4 nights in Lisbon, one night still open (a Saturday night), then booked 2 nights in Sintra. After that, I’ll be heading north to Porto (still have to figure that part out). Will be in Portugal for about 12-14 days, first half of September.
Any suggestions for where to stay on that open Saturday night? Somewhere near to the beautiful beaches? Obidos? I know it’s crowded but looks charming.
I’ll have a car.
Posted by
Chicago
15 posts
Not sure of your budget or preference but if it’s not an issue this place is well worth it. Totally different vibe than Lisbon but within 30 minute range.
EVOLUTION Cascais-Estoril Hotel