Beat the heat at these 7 amazing beaches near Lisbon

The sandy riverside at Ribeira das Naus in Lisbon offers a tempting place to spread out your towel and wade into the Tagus River, though it's not technically a beach. Luckily, the Portuguese capital is just a short journey from numerous golden sandy beaches where you can sunbathe, swim, enjoy the ocean breeze, and even learn to surf.

While beach season typically spans from June to September, lovely beach weather can begin as early as May and extend into mid-October. During the off-season, most amenities are closed, and lifeguards are not on duty. Here are the best beaches easily accessible from Lisbon.

1. Alburrica Beach is the nearest beach to Lisbon

Take a ferry from Terreiro do Paço across the Tagus River to the revitalized city of Barreiro. A short walk from the ferry terminal leads you to three windmills set against a stretch of white sand, offering stunning views of Lisbon. As the river beach closest to the mouth of the Tagus, Alburrica Beach features waters that blend river and ocean, but without the strong currents typical of ocean beaches. With showers, a bar, and a volleyball court, it’s a popular destination for locals on weekends and hot summer evenings after work.

Local tip: On chilly days, or when only kite surfers brave the winds, locals utilize the wooden walkways for hiking and cycling.

2. Carcavelos Beach is the go-to spot for beginner surfers

If you’re looking to catch your first wave, hop on the train at Cais do Sodré and disembark at Carcavelos. The waves here are gentle enough for novice surfers to tackle, yet still present a good challenge for honing new skills. Before heading out into the surf, consider taking a lesson with Carcavelos Surf School, the first school established on this beach, boasting over 20 years of experience.

Numerous seaside restaurants and cafes are available for you to unwind between swims or to savor views of the ocean alongside the São Julião da Barra fort. Carcavelos is one of the most frequented beaches in the Cascais region and is among the closest to Lisbon city center accessible by train, making summer weekends particularly lively here.

Local tip: Beat the crowds by visiting the beach early in the morning or on weekdays.

3. Guincho Beach is ideal for seasoned surfers

Guincho, with its windy and wavy conditions, may deter casual beachgoers, but it’s a perfect haven for seasoned surfers looking for adventure not far from Lisbon. Eager to hit the waves but forgot your wetsuit and board? Moana Surf School offers rentals and private lessons for those wanting to learn how to surf the Atlantic. If you prefer to relax and watch, visit the nearby Bar do Guincho for drinks by the powerful sea.

Planning tip: Each October, Guincho Beach often hosts the final round of Portugal’s professional surf championship. Arrive early to claim a spot on the dunes and cheer on your favorite surfers as they compete for the title.

4. Fonte da Telha is ideal for families

As soon as the warm weather arrives, families from Lisbon head to Costa da Caparica for weekend getaways filled with swimming and sunbathing. With nearly 20 miles of sandy coastline, which beach should you choose?

Nestled in a former fishing village, Fonte da Telha is a bit of a hidden gem and one of the top family-friendly beaches near Lisbon, located just a half-hour drive from the city center (not accessible by public transport). Stick to the area near the parking lot and restaurants, and you’ll find all you need. While the chilly Atlantic waters may take some getting used to, there’s ample space on the golden sand to lay your towel and soak up the sun. For kids, it’s a fantastic spot for building sandcastles. Local tip: The fact that this beach is only reachable by car can be a blessing: you can come and go at your leisure, avoiding the crowds.

5. Adraga Beach is the perfect place to catch a sunset

Tucked between Cascais and Sintra, Adraga is one of the finest beaches north of Lisbon, perfect for romantic strolls along the shore. The dark, rugged rocks contrast sharply with the glistening sand, and as the sun sets, the crashing Atlantic waves shimmer like liquid gold. The scenic route leading to the beach adds to its allure, though it can get quite busy on summer weekends.

Local tip: If you're seeking a romantic ambiance, enjoy a dinner for two with a view at the beachfront Restaurante da Adraga.

6. Foz do Lizandro is the best choice for accessibility

Located about an hour's drive west of Lisbon, Foz do Lizandro is one of the most favored beaches in Ericeira and is well worth the journey. Recognized as one of the most accessible beaches in Portugal, Foz do Lizandro offers wooden ramps, amphibious chairs, and facilities for visitors with reduced mobility. While many beaches along Portugal’s west coast are known for being windy and chilly—great for surfers—Foz do Lizandro provides a more sheltered area where the river meets the ocean. Detour: After your beach day, immerse yourself in the quaint atmosphere of Ericeira, featuring its historic center and local restaurants serving fresh seafood dishes.

7. Tróia-Mar is the ideal beach resort near Lisbon

Nestled about a two-hour drive from Lisbon, Tróia-Mar's beach feels like a slice of paradise. Here, you can catch your first glimpse of Portugal's southern Alentejo region while staying at an all-inclusive resort beside the calm deep-blue waters and soft sands. Although it can get crowded during the summer, this lively atmosphere comes with the convenience of being just steps away from bars, cafes, restaurants, and the ferry port linking Tróia to Setúbal. The stunning views of Serra da Arrábida and the serene vibe of this beach destination make the journey well worth it.

Planning tip: To reach Tróia, take an early morning train from Lisbon to Setúbal, followed by a quick 15-minute ferry ride.