This European nation boasts some of the most stunning river beaches on the planet.

Portugal is renowned for its picturesque beaches, featuring over 1,000 miles of coastline that range from the pristine white sands kissed by turquoise waves in the Algarve to the rugged cliffs meeting the deep blue waters north of Porto. It includes the towering waves of Nazaré, the gentle surf breaks suitable for beginners at Ericeira, the celebrity-frequented beaches of Comporta, and the hidden gems along the Alentejo coast, all offering a diverse beach experience. Yet, some of Portugal's finest waterside locations may be found far from the ocean.

According to Luís Lacerda, the chief marketing officer of Indie Campers, a van rental company with Portuguese roots and locations worldwide, "Portugal's rivers and river beaches present a captivating mix of scenic beauty and adventure that’s difficult to replicate. Whether you seek breathtaking landscapes, thrilling water sports, or a serene place to relax, the Portuguese rivers provide exceptional destinations for all these activities."

In July, my husband, our dog, and I embarked on an adventure in one of the company's vans—the Nomad Pop Top—to discover these idyllic destinations for ourselves. However, upon arriving at our first location, we quickly realized that Lacerda's description fell short; this spot was even more incredible than we had anticipated.

For our inaugural swim in the rivers of Portugal, we headed to Praia Fluvial Alqueidão, a beach situated along the Albufeira da Barragem do Castelo de Bode, a dam system running through the town of Tomar in the heart of the country. On that Friday afternoon, one of the hottest days of summer, we nearly had the entire place to ourselves.

The rocky coastline gently sloped into the serene and crystal-clear waters, which felt more akin to the warm Caribbean than the usual cooler Atlantic temperatures along the Portuguese coast. We frolicked with our dog until sunset, then drove our van to the nearby campsite, Camping Pelinos, which brought a whole new level of excitement to our adventure with its vibrant tiki bar and lively crowd, all reveling in the great outdoors like us.

In the morning, we rose with the birds and the sun, eager to journey to our next riverside destination: Praia Fluvial do Agroal.

This river beach is arguably one of the most picturesque in the country, thanks to the man-made pool adjacent to the River Nabão. Since dogs weren't permitted on this beach, my husband ventured further downstream while I checked the water temperature here. And I can assure you, it’s cold—refreshingly so. The area is lively with fellow water enthusiasts, all looking to savor the day and cool off in style. This beach is also perfect for families, offering a concession stand, restrooms, green spaces, and even lifeguards on duty.

For those seeking a bit more seclusion, just around the corner is a tiny patch of soft white sand that leads into the same chilly waters. The water here is very shallow, ideal for just dipping your toes. If you stroll along the riverbed for a short distance, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of delicate white flowers blooming directly from the water, resembling something out of a Narnia tale.

"Vast expanses of greenery and crystal-clear waters make every river a thrilling destination," said Lacerda. "Whether you're kayaking down the Douro, swimming in the pristine waters of Alentejo, or simply unwinding on a sandy riverbank, there’s something for everyone to enjoy."

River Beaches Worth Exploring in Portugal

One of the finest ways to truly appreciate the stunning beauty of Portugal's inland areas, Lacerda noted, is by traveling along the National 2 road. "Starting from the north, you can relish the terraced vineyards and delightful villages that create a magical ambiance in the Douro region," he said. Along the Douro River, be sure to visit tranquil spots like Praia Fluvial da Lomba and Praia Fluvial de Crestuma for a peaceful escape.

As you head southward, be sure to uncover the hidden gem river beaches along the River Zêzere. Lacerda particularly recommends Fraga da Pena and Penedo Furado, both of which showcase beautiful cascades and stunning surrounding forests.

Following that, proceed to Alqueva, home to Europe’s largest artificial lake. "Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and delve into the rich history of medieval Portuguese castles," Lacerda remarked. If you're up for it, you can continue all the way to the Algarve to discover river beaches like Pego do Fundo River Beach, located near the Spanish border. Or, you may choose to save that adventure for another time, as once you experience the river beaches of this country, you’ll find yourself wanting to return time and again.