Escape The Crowds: The Best Portuguese Beaches Only The Locals Know

Forbes

8 hours ago

Find your own private beach in Portugal... getty
The spectacular coastline is one of the top draws for people looking to retire to Portugal…
The problem?
Tourists!
Most visitors flock to the southern Algarve region and these beaches can be overly crowded during the summer.
Luckily, when you live here, you get to know the lesser-known spots and the places where only the locals know to go.
Here are some of the top beaches to enjoy if you're looking to avoid crowds and beach like a local in Portugal… Nude Beach Culture
Naturism in Portugal is legally permitted in designated areas, and while not mainstream, it has a growing and respectful community.
There are several official nude beaches in Portugal, and nudity is tolerated at many more. These beaches are well signed, so you'll know when you enter the clothed or unclothed areas. getty
The country has nine officially recognized naturist beaches and many more where naturism is tolerated, usually at one end of beaches that have long stretches of sand. Designated nude beaches offer a safe and legal space to enjoy the sun and sea without clothing.
Official naturist beaches include:
· Praia do Meco near Sesimbra
· Praia da Barreta in the Algarve
· Praia da Adegas in Odeceixe
These are typically more secluded and promote values of body acceptance, freedom, and harmony with nature.
Though public nudity outside these areas is not allowed, tolerance is generally high in remote or less crowded coastal spots, especially when practiced discreetly. Algarve's Unknown Shores
The Algarve, Portugal's southernmost region, is famous for its stunning coastline. The dramatic limestone cliffs, sea caves, and turquoise waters make this one of Europe's main beach destinations—but there are still a few beaches here that are less known by foreigners…
Praia do Amado
Situated on the western coast of the Algarve, Praia do Amado is a favorite among surfers. Exposed to Atlantic swells, it offers consistent waves and hosts international surf competitions. Unlike some southern beaches, it retains a wild, undeveloped charm. The reddish cliffs, expansive sandy area, and rolling dunes make it ideal for long walks and wave-watching.
Praia do Amado is one of the lesser-visited beaches in Algarve getty
Praia da Ilha de Tavira
On the eastern side of the Algarve, near the town of Tavira, lies Ilha de Tavira, a barrier island accessible by ferry or water taxi. Unlike the cliff-backed beaches to the west, this stretch of coastline is flat and backed by dunes. The waters here are warmer and calmer, ideal for swimming. The beach is long and wide, so even in the summer, it won't be too difficult to find a spot. Alentejo's Undercover Coasts
The Alentejo coast, running from the Algarve to the Setúbal region, is a bit less crowded and more rugged than its southern neighbor. It's a place where cliffs meet untamed beaches and the pace of life slows down.
Praia da Zambujeira do Mar
This small beach town becomes livelier in August during the MEO Sudoeste music festival, but the beach itself is worth visiting year-round. Sheltered by cliffs and close to the village center, Praia da Zambujeira offers dramatic scenery and good surf. Despite its popularity, it still has much of its low-key charm.
Praia da Zambujeira do Mar is a treat for beach lovers as well as cliff hikers getty
Praia da Samoqueira
Just north of Porto Covo, Praia da Samoqueira is a lesser-known gem. Small, rocky, and with natural pools at low tide, it's perfect for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature—and children who love to splash around in the pools. The surrounding cliffs and rock formations add to the sense of seclusion.
Praia do Malhão
This wide beach, located within the Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina Natural Park, is relatively undeveloped. With no permanent structures on the beach itself, it retains a raw, untouched feel. The waves are strong, making it popular among surfers, while the long stretch of sand is ideal for solitude-seeking beachgoers. Lisbon's Lesser-Known Locations
Even the area surrounding the capital offers a surprising number of excellent beaches. Whether you seek windsurfing, sunbathing, or dramatic scenery, you don't have to travel far from Lisbon.
Praia do Guincho
Located just north of Cascais, Praia do Guincho is famous for its strong winds and large waves, making it a hotspot for wind and kitesurfers. Its expansive sandy area, framed by dunes and overlooked by the Sintra mountains, gives it a wild and remote feel despite being less than an hour from Lisbon. Sunset here is nothing short of cinematic.
Praia da Adraga
Tucked between cliffs in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, Praia da Adraga feels hidden yet theatrical. The winding road to reach it builds anticipation and adds to the sense of discovery. If you love photography, you'll be glad to know this beach is a favorite spot for those looking for picture-perfect sunsets and rock formations (watch out for the 'elephant' on the left). Adraga also has a well-known small but good restaurant serving fresh fish and seafood.
From it's rock formations to its spectacular sunsets, Praia da Adraga is a dramatically beautiful beach getty Central Portugal Charms
Stretching between Lisbon and Porto, the Silver Coast (Costa de Prata in Portuguese) is known for its surf spots, lagoons, and picturesque seaside towns. It sees fewer tourists than the Algarve but offers equally captivating experiences.
Foz do Arelho
Located near Caldas da Rainha, Foz do Arelho is where the Óbidos Lagoon meets the Atlantic. This dual nature creates two very different beach experiences: the lagoon side, with its calm, shallow waters, is perfect for children and stand-up paddleboarding, while the oceanfront waves are great for surfing and bodyboarding.
Foz do Arelho offers both ocean waves and a quiet lagoon—something for every kind of beach lover getty Northern Cool Waters
The beaches of northern Portugal may have cooler waters, but they make up for it with unique settings, rich cultural backdrops, and fewer crowds.
Praia de Miramar
South of Porto, this beach is best known for the 18th-century Senhor da Pedra chapel perched on a rock outcrop right by the sea. The contrast between the small white church and the surrounding elements of sand and sea creates an almost surreal image. The beach itself is spacious, and the sunsets here are especially memorable.
Praia de Moledo
Close to the Spanish border, Praia de Moledo is popular among windsurfers and kiteboarders due to its brisk Atlantic winds. The beach has a distinctive charm, with views of the nearby fortress and the forested hills of the Minho region in the background.
Praia da Apúlia
What makes Apúlia truly unique are the historic windmills that still stand along the dunes. The beach combines natural beauty with a sense of cultural heritage. It's popular with families and also attracts photographers and history buffs. Apúlia is one of the most beloved spots along the Portuguese Coastal Route of the Camino de Santiago. Freshwater Escapes
River beaches, or praias fluviais , offer a different kind of beach experience. Set against forests, hills, or historic villages, these inland spots provide clean, calm waters and a less touristy vibe.
Praia Fluvial de Loriga
Tucked within Portugal's highest mountain range, this river beach is set in a glacial valley. Surrounded by granite peaks, it's perfect for nature lovers and hikers looking to cool off in crystal clear waters. Icy cold and uninviting or fresh and invigorating? You decide.
Praia Fluvial de Fraga da Pegada
Located in the Azibo Reservoir Protected Landscape, this beach offers clean, safe swimming in an artificial lake created by a dam. Sandy banks, clear water, and facilities like showers and picnic areas make it family-friendly. Canoeing and paddleboarding are popular here.
Praia Fluvial do Reconquinho
Near Coimbra, this river beach on the Mondego River is shaded, peaceful, and often overlooked. Surrounded by eucalyptus and pine trees, it's a great place for picnics and swimming.
Praia Fluvial do Alamal
On the banks of the Tagus River, Alamal beach stands out thanks to a picturesque wooden walkway that hugs the riverbank and leads to Belver Castle. It combines historical charm with natural beauty. The sandy stretch is well-equipped and ideal for families.
Praia Fluvial de Monsaraz
Created by the Alqueva Dam, this beach near the medieval village of Monsaraz offers expansive views and calm waters suitable for several water sports. As one of the newer river beaches, it has good infrastructures and easy access. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes 5 Places In Portugal That Are Great For Retirees By Kathleen Peddicord Forbes 5 Places To Enjoy A Sunny, Stress-Free Overseas Retirement In 2025 By Kathleen Peddicord Forbes Moving To Belize: A Guide For Americans By Kathleen Peddicord Forbes Live Rich From $1,200 A Month In These 4 Thai Expat Havens By Kathleen Peddicord