Top Summer Portugal Spots for Expats
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min read
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As a resident expat, you deserve to experience the real Portugal, and that includes its stunning coastline.
Let's dive deep into the knowledge shared by locals to bring you a curated list of beaches in Portugal that offer something special—whether it's tranquility, unique scenery, or a true taste of Portuguese culture.
Think about this guide your insider, ready to simplify your search for the perfect, less-touristic beach escape.
Ditching the tourist trail: What beaches locals recommend in Portugal?
Beyond the typical "top 10" lists, we bring a focus on beaches that are frequently mentioned and praised within Portuguese residents conversations. Here's where the locals enjoy the great weather of summer in the Portuguese coast.
Northern Portugal
Praia de Carreço, Viana do Castelo
If you're looking for a quieter beach day in the North, Carreço is worth checking out. The rock pools are excellent for kids to explore; just be mindful of the tides.
- Crowd: Generally quieter than beaches closer to Porto.
- Water Temp: Cold, but invigorating!
- Beach Type: Sandy beach with rock pools exposed at low tide, perfect for exploring.
- Weather: Can be windy, but the rocks offer some shelter.
⚠️ Carreço is a go-to! Kids love exploring the rock pools, and it's never too crowded.
Praia da Arda - Afife, Viana do Castelo
For a more rugged and natural beach experience, Arda is an option. It's a bit out of the way, but that means fewer crowds. Be prepared for wind!
- Crowd: Known for being less crowded, even in the summer months.
- Water Temp: Cold. It's the Atlantic!
- Beach Type: Long, sandy beach backed by dunes, offering a more wild and natural feel.
⚠️ Excellent for kitesurfing.
⚠️ Arda is a bit of a drive, but worth it for the peace and quiet.
Central Portugal
Praia da Foz do Arelho, Caldas da Rainha
Foz do Arelho is a solid choice if you have kids. The lagoon offers calmer, warmer water, while the ocean side is there if you want waves. It can get busy, though, especially in August.
- Crowd: Offers both ocean and lagoon sides, so you can choose your vibe. The lagoon side is calmer and better for families.
- Water Temp: The lagoon side is significantly warmer than the ocean.
- Beach Type: Sandy beach with both ocean waves and a calm lagoon.
- Weather: Can be windy on the ocean side, sheltered on the lagoon.
⚠️ Foz do Arelho is perfect for families with young kids. The lagoon is shallow and safe.
Praia do Magoito, Sintra
Magoito is a beautiful beach with dramatic cliffs. The real draw is the rock platforms that appear at low tide—just be sure to wear sturdy shoes, as they can be slippery.
- Crowd: The beach can become busy on weekends, but it is generally less crowded than the beaches that are closer to Lisbon.
- Water Temp: Cold.
- Beach Type: Sandy beach backed by dramatic cliffs. At low tide, extensive rock platforms are exposed, teeming with marine life**.**
- Weather: Be prepared for windy.
⚠️ Magoito is beautiful, especially at low tide when you can explore the rocks. Bring sturdy shoes!
Praia da Ursa, Sintra
A stunning beach nestled beneath dramatic cliffs, Ursa rewards those willing to brave the steep descent with breathtaking views and a sense of seclusion.
- Crowd: Lower than other Sintra beaches, but popularity is increasing. The hike helps deter some.
- Water Temp: Cold.
- Beach Type: Sandy beach at the bottom of steep cliffs. Nudity is common.
- Weather: Can be windy.
⚠️ Ursa is stunning, but the access is not simple. It's worth it for the views and the feeling of being away from everything.
Praia da Adraga, Sintra
Combine a beautiful beach day with a taste of authentic Portuguese cuisine at Adraga, where excellent seafood restaurants line the shore.
- Crowd: Moderate; can get busy on weekends, but less so than more central beaches.
- Water Temp: Cold.
- Beach Type: Sandy beach with intriguing rock formations.
- Weather: Usually windy.
⚠️ Adraga is excellent for a beach day followed by a delicious seafood meal. It's a bit more 'authentic' than some of the more touristy spots.
Southern Portugal: Sesimbra & Alentejo
Praia da Califórnia, Sesimbra
If you're staying in Sesimbra and want a convenient beach option, Califórnia is a good bet. It's right in town, so you can easily grab lunch or ice cream.
- Crowd: Popular with locals but less touristy than some other beaches in the area.
- Water Temp: Cold, but slightly more sheltered than exposed Atlantic beaches.
- Beach Type: Sandy beach right in the town of Sesimbra, with calm waters, ideal for families.
- Weather: Generally sunny and sheltered.
⚠️ California is perfect if you want a beach day without having to drive far. You can walk to restaurants and shops easily.
Praia do Creiro/Portinho da Arrábida, Sesimbra
Portinho da Arrábida is stunning, but be warned—it gets packed in the summer. Go early (really early!) to snag a parking spot and enjoy the clear water.
- Crowd: Can get busy in summer, especially on weekends; arrive early!
- Water Temp: Cold, but incredibly clear.
- Beach Type: Sheltered cove with turquoise waters and white sand, part of the Arrábida Natural Park.
- Weather: Sheltered and calm.
⚠️ Portinho da Arrábida is stunning! The water is so clear, perfect for snorkeling.
Praia da Ribeira do Cavalo, Sesimbra
Ribeira do Cavalo is a true gem, but be prepared for a bit of a challenge to get there. The hike down is steep, but the turquoise water and stunning scenery are worth the effort.
- Crowd: Becoming more popular, but still requires some effort to reach, so less crowded than easily accessible beaches.
- Water Temp: Cold.
- Beach Type: Small cove with turquoise water, surrounded by cliffs.
- Weather: Sheltered from the wind.
⚠️ Ribeira do Cavalo is absolutely breathtaking, but the hike down is no joke! Wear comfortable shoes and pack light.
Praia do Malhão - Vila Nova de Milfontes, Alentejo
If you're looking for a wilder, more secluded beach experience, Malhão is a wonderful choice. It's popular with surfers and naturists, so be prepared for anything!
- Crowd: A bit more remote, so usually less crowded.
- Water Temp: Cold.
- Beach Type: Long, wild, and beautiful beach, popular with surfers and naturists.
⚠️ Strong waves.
⚠️ Malhão is one of a favorite among Alentejo beaches. It's wild and beautiful, and you can always find a quiet spot.
Praia da Zambujeira do Mar - Zambujeira do Mar, Alentejo
Zambujeira do Mar is a beautiful beach with a lively atmosphere, especially during the Festival do Sudoeste. Just be prepared for crowds if you go during peak season.
- Crowd: Can get busy in summer, especially during the Festival do Sudoeste.
- Water Temp: Cold.
- Beach Type: Picturesque beach at the bottom of dramatic cliffs, with a charming village above.
- Weather: Can be windy.
⚠️ Zambujeira do Mar is beautiful, but be prepared for the crowds during the festival. The cliffs are stunning.
Southern Portugal: Algarve
Praia dos Tomates - Albufeira, Algarve
Praia dos Tomates is an option if you want to escape the crowds in Albufeira. It requires a bit of a walk down a dirt track, but that helps keep the beach quieter.
- Crowd: Significantly less crowded than nearby beaches like Praia da Falésia.
- Water Temp: Moderate.
- Beach Type: Sandy beach accessed by a dirt track, giving it a more secluded feel.
- Weather: Generally sunny and warm.
⚠️ Praia dos Tomates is a secret escape in Albufeira. It's a bit of a walk, but worth it for the peace and quiet.
Praia do Barranco - Vila do Bispo, Algarve
Barranco is for those who love a pristine beach and stunning natural scenery.
- Crowd: Usually very quiet, even in summer. It requires a short walk to reach.
- Water Temp: Moderate.
- Beach Type: Small, secluded beach surrounded by cliffs and nature.
- Weather: Can be exposed to the wind.
⚠️ Barranco is for those who want to get away from it all. It's a bit of a hike, but the reward is a pristine beach all to yourself.
Praia da Coelha - Albufeira, Algarve
Praia da Coelha offers a picturesque setting with golden cliffs and clear waters. While it can get busy, it's generally less crowded than the main Albufeira beaches and has a more relaxed vibe.
- Crowd: Moderate; it can become busy during peak season, but it is generally less crowded than the main beaches in Albufeira.
- Water Temp: Moderate, as well.
- Beach Type: Sandy beach surrounded by cliffs, accessed by a short walk.
- Weather: Generally sunny and warm, sheltered from strong winds.
⚠️ Coelha is a beautiful beach, and the walk down is excellent. It's a wonderful option if you want something a bit more relaxed than the main Albufeira beaches.
Praia da Ilha Deserta - Faro, Algarve
For a truly unique beach experience, take a boat trip to Ilha Deserta. As the name suggests, it's a deserted island with a long, unspoiled beach. Just be sure to bring everything you need, as there are limited facilities.
- Crowd: Accessible only by boat, which keeps the crowds down.
- Water Temp: Moderate.
- Beach Type: The beach is part of Ria Formosa Natural Park and features a long, unspoiled sandy stretch located on a desert island.
- Weather: Can be windy.
⚠️ Ilha Deserta is a must-do. Take the ferry from Faro and enjoy the peace and quiet of a truly deserted island.
Islands
Praia do Porto do Seixal, Madeira
Experience the unique beauty of Madeira at this black sand beach, where calm waters and stunning scenery create a memorable swimming experience.
- Crowd: Can get moderately busy, but less crowded than the more popular beaches in Funchal.
- Water Temp: Moderate.
- Beach Type: Black sand beach with calm, clear waters, surrounded by cliffs.
- Weather: Generally sunny and sheltered.
⚠️ Seixal is a beautiful black sand beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming. It's a must-see in Madeira.
Praia da Viola - São Miguel, Azores
A hidden oasis in São Miguel, where a cascading waterfall meets a secluded black sand beach, offering a truly unique and tranquil experience.
- Crowd: Generally quiet, even in the summer, due to the slightly more challenging access.
- Water Temp: Cold.
- Beach Type: Small, black sand beach with a waterfall.
- Weather: Can be misty or rainy.
⚠️ Viola is a magical place. The waterfall makes it exceptional. It's a bit of a walk to get there, but it's worth it.
Wondering about river beaches? Portugal has some magical fluvial beaches. You can check it all here.
Final words
Portugal's coastline is a treasure of diverse beaches, from the well-known Algarve hotspots to the hidden gems whispered about in local communities. As you settle into your new life as an expat, take the time to explore beyond the tourist trail and discover your own personal paradise.
Remember, finding the perfect beach is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the spirit of adventure, tap into the local knowledge available online and offline, and don't be afraid to venture off the beaten path.
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