5 amazing beaches, just 30 minutes from Lisbon

June 17, 2019

It’s no secret: it’s perfectly possible to get lost in Lisbon’s typical streets and neighborhoods for days and not even realize how much time has gone by. But now that summer is fast approaching, don’t forget that Portugal’s capital is only two minutes away from the coast, with fantastic dunes and beaches.

So, if you feel like a change of scenery and working on your tan, we suggest these 5 neighboring beaches: they’re not two, but 30 minutes away from Lisbon, and each one is perfect for a day well spent by the sea and taking a good dip in the ocean.

1. Carcavelos Beach

a sandy beach next to a body of water

With a very long and inviting stretch of sand, here there’s more than enough room to stretch out your towel, read, sunbathe, play a game of volleyball, watch the surfers, run or take a walk by the sea, enjoy some ice cream or a beer at one of the many beach bars, while savoring a magnificent sunset.

At this beach, halfway between Lisbon and Cascais, guarded by the impressive São Julião da Barra Fort, the vibe is always summery and it earns extra points thanks to how quick and easy it is to access by train from Cais do Sodré (about 25 minutes).

2. Tamariz Beach

a group of people on a beach with palm trees

A setting that seems to have come straight out of a book… and the truth is that it inspired one! If you didn’t know, now you do: Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond, was inspired by this corner of Estoril and the elite who holidayed here, in order to write his book about the most famous secret agent in the world.

Surrounded by luxury hotels, the well-known casino, a medieval castle, and a fantastic oceanic swimming pool, Tamariz Beach is conveniently located and only a short train ride from the capital.

3. Guincho Beach

a rocky island in the middle of a body of water

Right next to the Sintra National Park, at Guincho beach, the wild beauty of the sea and nature in its purest form come together to create one of Portugal’s most unique sceneries, located a mere half an hour from Lisbon.

The natural beauty is not this beach’s only attraction, whose atmospheric and sea characteristics bring together the perfect conditions for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing – whether you want to grab a board or simply watch from your towel.

And because there’s always another adventure waiting for James Bond, it was on this beach that several scenes from the 1969 movie “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” were shot. A trip that is worth every minute.

4. Costa da Caparica

a view of a beach next to a body of water

On the other side of the 25 de Abril Bridge, you’ll find the beautiful and vast Costa da Caparica, with its 15 kilometers of beaches ready to be discovered. You’ll find your place in the sun, with music, animation, cool beach bars, and a mini-train that, during the summer months, travels 8 km along the coast until the Fonte da Telha beach – perfect for exploring the entire area or for finding a quieter spot.

A tip for crossing the river to the south side and escaping traffic on the bridge: catch the ferry at Cais do Sodré and enjoy the sun on your face, while you fill your eyes with the landscapes that separate Lisbon from one of its best beach areas.

5. Santo Amaro de Oeiras Beach

a large body of water with a city in the background

Located between the western wall of the Recreio Port and the São Julião das Maias Fort, right next to the beach you’ll also find the Oeiras Maritime Promenade, perfect for taking a walk or exercising alongside the healthy and relaxed local residents.

There are plenty of friendly beach bars and restaurants to grab something delicious to eat, and if after lunch all you can think of is a pleasant spot in the shade, go ahead and relax in the cool and colorful Municipal Garden. You’ve got everything you need right here!

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