18 Best Beaches in Cascais That You Should Visit!
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Cascais is a stunning seaside town not too far from Lisbon that see’s over half a million visitors each year. The town is known for it’s white sandy beaches, excellent swimming conditions and of course surfing.
I have been lucky enough to visit on a number of occasions and wanted to write a detailed guide on all the best beaches in Cascais.
In this post, we will discuss everything you need to know before planning a beach day in the area. From what beaches have onsite toilets, showers, restaurants and bars to the beaches most suited for families, adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Disclaimer: I want to thank Visit Cascais for making our trip to the beautiful region possible as some of my visits to the town were part of a press trip, we had the most amazing time exploring the beautiful silver coast. As always, all opinions are my own.
How to get to Cascais?
One of the best things about Cascais is how close it is to Lisbon. It’s not too hard to get to the charming town from the capital.
The train leaves from Cais do Sodre and gets to Cascais in just under 40 minutes. I was glued to the window the whole time because the views were so beautiful. Click here for Google Maps directions.
It is important to note that neither of my international debit cards worked in the ticket machines. To pay with a card, I had to wait in queue at the ticket counter. You should keep this in mind because the lines can get long here. If you want to use the machines to buy your tickets, I suggest that you bring coins. It costs €2.30 to go one way at the moment.
The nearest airport to Cascais is Lisbon. If you’re taking public transport, the best way to get there is to take the metro to Cais do Sodre and then take the train as described above. Or, depending on the time of day, an Uber or Bolt will cost about €15 to €25.
1. Praia da Azarujinha
Praia da Azarujinha is a lovely beach for those looking to get away from the crowds.
It is small, almost cove like, and tends to be protected from the wind due to it’s surrounding walls.
It’s important to note, durning high tide the sand is fully covered so planning is needed.
There is no beach bar or restaurant onsite, perhaps this is the reason for less people.
However, there are public bathrooms and showers for rinsing off.
The waves can be big at times, so take cation when swimming.
| ℹ️ Praia da Azarujinha Key Information |
|---|
| 🚾 Bathrooms: Yes 🚿 Showers: Yes 🍻 Beach Bar/Restaurant: No 🛒 Shop: No |
2. Poça Beach
Poça Beach is a nice spot for those looking to sun bade or swim while staying in Estoril.
Personally, I do think there are nicer beaches in the area, as this one can get rather crowed and there are not many facilities.
I could not see any public toilets at this beach however there are two bars/restaurants, called Opíparo and Surpresa on the boardwalk above.
The beach is easy to access with a ramp for strollers and wheelchairs. Making it a great option for families with young children.
In the summer months, it is possible to rend a bed and umbrella.
| ℹ️ Poça Beach Key Information |
|---|
| 🚾 Bathrooms: No public toilets 🚿 Showers: No public showers 🍻 Beach Bar/Restaurant: Yes 🛒 Shop: Bar snacks at Surpresa |
3. Piscina Oceânica do Tamariz
Ok, so Piscina Oceânica do Tamariz is not actually a beach but I did want to include it in this piece as it is a fantastic spot for those wanting to go for a relaxing swim.
It is a man made natural swimming pool, and at low tide it remains pretty calm and still. As a result, visitors can enjoy a nice swim without dealing with the waves of the Atlantic. Making it perfect for families with small children!
The water also tends to be a little bit warmer here thanks to the lack of movement. So, if you are not a fan of the cold then this might just be the place for you.
It is also quite a scenic spot, sitting right in front of the Forte da Cruz.
| ℹ️ Piscina Oceânica do Tamariz Key Information |
|---|
| 🚾 Bathrooms: No but the ones at Tamariz Beach 🚿 Showers: No but the ones at Tamariz Beach 🍻 Beach Bar/Restaurant: No but the ones at Tamariz Beach 🛒 Shop: No |
4. Tamariz Beach
Just a stone throw away from Piscina Oceânica do Tamariz lies Tamariz Beach. One of the best beaches in the Cascais/Estoril area.
The beach itself is rather long, meaning visitors can spread out and leave space to relax.
The water is crystal clear, and the white sand is nice and soft to walk along.
There is a range of facilities surrounding the beach such as public toilets and showers to rinse off. And, there are plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from.
Personally, I think this beach is suited to all kinds of people, families, couples and solo travellers.
| ℹ️ Tamariz Beach Key Information |
|---|
| 🚾 Bathrooms: Yes 🚿 Showers: Yes 🍻 Beach Bar/Restaurant: Yes 🛒 Shop: No |
5. Praia da Rata
This is quite a small beach, but didn’t appear to be all to busy compared to others surrounding it.
It tends to be a popular place for surfers when the waves are high. So, I’d advise taking this into consideration if you wish to swim.
There is a bar/restaurant for those looking to have lunch or a drink with a view as well as public toilets and showers to wash off.
There is also a little pier that visitors can walk along to get a better view of the beach/surrounding area’s. And it is a nice way to move about without having to get in the water.
| ℹ️ Praia da Rata Key Information |
|---|
| 🚾 Bathrooms: Yes 🚿 Showers: Yes 🍻 Beach Bar/Restaurant: Yes 🛒 Shop: No |
6. Praia da Duquesa
Both times I visited Cascais was in the off season, and Praia da Duquesa was the only beach that seemed to have chairs and umbrellas out.
So, if you are looking to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach with a little bit of comfort this may be the spot for you!
I also noticed that there where lifeguards on duty at this beach. So, it may be a great option for families with young kids.
There is a bar/restaurant onsite, as well as a public toilet and shower.
More or less everything you need to for day out by the sea.
| ℹ️ Praia da Duquesa Key Information |
|---|
| 🚾 Bathrooms: Yes 🚿 Showers: Yes 🍻 Beach Bar/Restaurant: Yes 🛒 Shop: No |
7. Praia da Ribeira de Cascais
Techinically on the same strech of sand as Praia da Duquesa is another beach called Praia da Ribeira de Cascais.
The reason why I have seperated them in this post is because Praia da Ribeira de Cascais is home to a beach tennis club.
I really like coming to this beach and watching to the locals bat the ball back and forward over the net.
Everyone looks so happy, all having fun with their family and friends.
If you would like to give it a go for yourself I’d suggest getting in contact with the beach tennis club Cascais.
9. Praia da Rainha
I almost missed Praia da Rainha on my walk from Estoril to Cascais. It is located in the actual town itself, therefore easy to miss as the boardwalk ends before reaching the beach.
It is quite small, but due to being so close to the main parts of Cascais it tends to be rather busy.
However, with that being said, the beach has everything you need to have a nice day by the ocean.
There is a bar/restaurant onsite, as well as public bathrooms and out door showers.
In the summer months you can rent a bed with an umbrella but I recommend getting there early as they can fill up fast.
| ℹ️ Praia da Rainha Key Information |
|---|
| 🚾 Bathrooms: Yes 🚿 Showers: Yes 🍻 Beach Bar/Restaurant: Yes 🛒 Shop: No |
10. Praia da Ribeira
Praia da Ribeira is Cascais’s main beach so of course it tends to be more on the busy side of things.
However, it does have quite a decent stretch of sand for a beach right in the centre, making it not too difficult to find a place to set your towel down.
From what I could see there is not direct public toilets or showers at the beach but there are many restaurants/bars a quick walk away.
If you are looking for some food nearby I highly recommend eating at Hotel Baia. The food is supper tasty and the views of the beach from the restaurant are stunning.
| ℹ️ Praia da Ribeira Key Information |
|---|
| 🚾 Bathrooms: Not directly but near by 🚿 Showers: Not directly but near by 🍻 Beach Bar/Restaurant: Not directly but near by 🛒 Shop: Not directly but near by |
11. Praia de Santa Marta
This is by far one of the most scenic places to swim when visiting Cascais. Located at the Santa Marta lighthouse, just passed the marina.
While this is rather a busy spot, there is still something rather tranquil about relaxing here. Listening to the sounds of the people passing by, the waves crashing and the birds singing.
The water is also quite calm here due to the beaches location, and it tends to be a little warmer than other beaches.
It is important to note that there are no showers/toilets here.
And for those looking to eat, it is best to walk towards the marina for a section of restaurants and bars to choose from.
| ℹ️ Praia de Santa Marta Key Information |
|---|
| 🚾 Bathrooms: Not directly but near by 🚿 Showers: Not directly but near by 🍻 Beach Bar/Restaurant: Not directly but near by 🛒 Shop: Not directly but near by |
12. Praia da Cresmina
One of my favourite beaches in Cascais is Praia da Cresmina.
It is rather large in size, meaning you can have space to yourself to relax in the beautiful landscapes.
However, it does have a much more famous big brother, Praia do Guincho next to it.
Yes, it is a little bit further away from the town, the best way to reach it is by bike or car but it is the perfect place to spend the day by the sea.
There is a bar which serves food onsite, with bathrooms if needed.
Also, there are lifeguards on duty durning the busy seasons.
13. Praia do Guincho
Praia do Guincho, is possibly, one of the most famous beaches in the area, known as a fantastic surf spot particularly in the winter months.
If you are hoping to chance your arm at a little bit of surfing while there then I recommend booking with Cascais Routes, they where more than accommodating and patient with my friend Aoife and I, especially considering we fell off the board pretty much every time we caught a wave 🤣
There are toilets and showers at the entrance to the beach as well as two bars/restaurant on either end.
Guincho is surrounded by mountains making it such a scenic backdrop for a day by the beach. There is also an extended boardwalk across the sand dunes for those looking to stretch their legs.
| ℹ️ Praia do Guincho Key Information |
|---|
| 🚾 Bathrooms: Yes 🚿 Showers: Yes 🍻 Beach Bar/Restaurant: Yes 🛒 Shop: Yes |
14. Ursa Beach
If you are looking to combine a beach day with an active challenge then consider visiting Ursa Beach.
This stunning beach is often missed by tourists or over shadowed by its famous neighbour Cabo da Roca.
It tucked away along the rugged coastline of the most Western Point, and boasts some raw and unspoiled beauty.
It is possible to follow a trail behind the lighthouse towards Ursa Viewpoint.
You can choose to descend onto the beach itself, although I didn’t personally give this a try so I have found a link to an All Trails Route for further directions.
The trail is said to be a little bit difficult on approach to the beach so make sure you wear the correct foot ware. They closest facilities, such a toilets is back at Cabo da Roca so keep this in mind before trekking out to the beach.
15. Praia do Magoito
No trip to Cascais is complete without renting a car, it gives you the freedom to explore beyond places that are only accessible by public transport like ‘Praia do Magoito’. A stunning beach that lined by soaring cliffs.
This is a beautiful place to strech your legs and walk along the hot sand. Or, perhaps jump into the Crystal clear waters for a swim.
There are showers located at entrance of the beach as well as a restaurant/shop up top. However, it is important to note that they only take cash!
There are two car parks for this location, I’d advise parking in the upper car park as it is closer to the beach. However, I do recommend walking towards the lower car park before hopping back in the car as the views at the end a breathtaking
| ℹ️ Praia do Magoito Key Information |
|---|
| 🚾 Bathrooms: Yes 🚿 Showers: Yes 🍻 Beach Bar/Restaurant: Yes 🛒 Shop: Yes |
16. Praia da Aguda
While roading tripping along the Sintra/Cascais Coast I tried to visit Praia da Aguda but unfortunately the walkway to the beach was closed.
I decided to still include it in the post because judging by the reviews on Google this is not always the case.
People did state that the walk in not easy, so do make sure that you bring the correct foot ware for the descent down.
There is a bar onsite but it is a little bit on the pricey side so perhaps a picnic is a better option here.
It is quite a secluded beach so if you are looking for a nice peaceful place to enjoy nature this may be the spot for you.
17. Praia da Adraga
There are so many beautiful beaches along the Sintra/Cascais coastline that it is hard to choose which one to visit.
I really enjoyed, Praia da Adraga, a stunning beach with many sea stacks that really enhance it’s beauty.
I must admit, getting to the beach by car posed a slight challenge. The road is quite narrow with people taking up space by parking their cars to one side of it.
However, we did find parking easy enough once we drove closer to the beach itself.
There is a beachside restaurant ‘Restaurante da Adraga’ for those of you looking to eat by the ocean.
And there are a free outside showers and toilets onsite too.
18. Praia das Azenhas do Mar
The postcard town of Azenhas do Mar is the perfect place to visit if you are looking for somewhere to swim without getting all too sandy.
Down the bottom of the tiered town lies a natural swimming pool with umbrella’s and chairs that line it.
The pool is surrounded by sand, however, it is easy to avoid if you wish.
There is a nice but quite expensive sea food restaurant just before the pool if you are feeling a little bit peckish.
The towns iconic whitewashed houses remind me of a fusion of Greek, Italian and Portuguese villages. It is quite a cool place to visit.
Where to Stay in Cascais
📍 Hotel Baia
On my second stay in Cascais I was hosted by the lovely Hotel Baía. The hotel is in a great spot for people who want to explore all of the town’s fun things to do. Restaurants, shops, and activity providers are all within easy walking distance.
There are balconies in every room that have a view of Praia da Ribeira, which is Cascais’s main beach. A great place to watch people after a long day of exploring 😉
The hotel also has a restaurant where you can eat breakfast every morning in the form of a buffet and lunch and dinner à la carte.
On my last day, I had the Duck and Mushroom Risotto for lunch. It was my favourite meal of the whole trip. It was too good to stop.
The hotel staff did everything they could to make sure we were taken care of. It was a great stay, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to see more of Cascais.
Beaches in Cascais FAQ
With so many wonderful options it is hard to choose just one beach in Cascais to visit. For those looking to spend a full day at the beach I would recommend either Tamariz for a beach close to the town centre or Praia do Guincho for a beach with less crowds.
Ursa Beach is extra magical, the chrystal clear water, soaring sea stacks and remote location makes is a special place to visit. You do need to do a little bit of work to get there but the walk is completely worth it for the scenery.
Yes, of course, the waters a really clean and safe to swim in. The only thing you should be extra cautious of is large waves. This area tends to see some rather big waves come in off the Atlantic. That’s why it is considered such a great spot for surfing.
The best time to visit Cascais is in the Spring/Summer months. The temperatures tend to be warmer at this time of year and laying on a beach for the day is definitely more desirable. However, with that being said Cascais is a year round destination with the weather remaining mild even in the Autumn and Winter time.
Yes, I think Cascais is an amazing place to visit, not only does it have an incredible range of beaches to enjoy. It also serves as a gateway to so many wonderful Portuguese destinations such as Sintra and Lisbon. I have a detailed guide on my opinion of Cascais if you would like to check it out.
Two to three days would be the perfect amount of time to spend in Cascais. This gives you enough time to see the town, relax on the beach, and take a day trip to a nearby city like Sintra or Lisbon. But if you only have one day to spare, even that can be fun and give you a feel for the city’s charm.
When it comes to beaches Cascais is far more accessible as you have many to choose from without needing to rent a car. However, both towns do share the same coastline, personally, I prefer staying in Cascais and day tripping to Sintra.
After personally staying in both towns, I think it really depends on your travel style. If you are looking to spend most days by the beach relaxing with a slow paced day then I think Estoril is a great option. However, if you are looking to explore Cascais town, take part in some water based activities and dine in some tasty restaurants then I would look at staying in Cascais.
While Cascais is more expensive than some other Portuguese towns, it is a fair bit cheaper than Lisbon, making it a popular base for tourists.
The cost of accommodation, food and activities can vary depending on the season and location within Cascais, but overall it is considered to be a relatively affordable destination in Europe.
More Things to do in Cascais
I do have a detailed guide on 27+ things to do in Cascais, so if you are planning an extended trip then I highly recommend you check it out. However, I did want to mention some of my favourite things in this post to inspire you to spend more than one day in this beautiful town.
1. Santa Marta Lighthouse
The Santa Marta Lighthouse is one of the most famous places in Cascais that you should see. The building was first used as a fort and was later changed into the lighthouse we see today.
The museum costs 5 euros to get into and tells people about the building’s history. It also has a collection of lights that were used in lighthouses across Portugal and talks about the history of the country’s coastline.
For 5 euros, you can get into the lighthouse and use the viewing platform, which has stunning views of Cascais and the surrounding areas. Just seeing the view is worth the price of admission.
I’m not going to lie, I easily spent over an hour here admiring the views and watching the boats bob by.
2. Go Dolphin Watching
Going on a boat tour with Four Adventures to see dolphins was one of the most magical things I did in Cascais.
It is a morning I will never forget! We had a great time out at sea and saw two different kinds of Dolphin families.
The dolphins were so fun to watch. They swam up to the boat and jumped all over the water. I was like a 5 years old child, filled with excitement. I just couldn’t contain how happy the experience made me feel.
They also showed us what Cascais looked like from the water at the end of the tour. It was really cool to see the Santa Marta Lighthouse and the Boca do Inferno from a different angle.
3. Boca do Inferno (Hells Mouth)
If you want to see the most beautiful view in Cascais, then I suggest walking out to Boca do Inferno. The name of this beautiful spot in English means “Hell’s Mouth.”
The Boca do Inferno is a group of rocks by the water that rises above the Portuguese coast.
It is the perfect place to go to admire the striking cliff edge, victorious waves and scenic backdrop.
There is a platform where you can walk out and see the waves coming in and out of “Hell’s Mouth.”
There is a 10-minute walk from Cascais Marina to the Boca do Inferno.
4. Take in the Views at Europe’s Most Westerly Point – Cabo Da Roca
If you go to Cascais, you have to see the beautiful Cabo Da Roca, it is without a doubt, one of the best things to see in Cascais.
The famous spot is only a 25-minute drive or 40-minute bus ride from the middle of town on the 403 bus route. The trip costs €4.50, and as you get closer to the cliffs, you can see amazing views of the coast.
But the views aren’t the only thing that makes this place famous as it is also the westernmost point of Europe. If time allows I recommend sticking around for sunset because it is sure to be a good one!
There is a bathroom and restaurant on site which is important to note as it is easy to spend a couple of hours here admiring the scenery.
5. Cycle to Guincho Beach
Renting a bike and riding along the beautiful coast is one of my favourite things to do in Cascais. The bike path goes all the way to the Praia do Guincho Beach and is 5 kilometres long.
The path is pretty simple, and there are no unexpected hills along the way. One thing to keep in mind is that Portugal can get very hot, especially if you choose to ride your bike during the hottest part of the day.
The main place to stop on the Cascais bike path is Praia do Guincho, but every few metres there are stunning views. So, be ready to stop with your camera to take pictures of the waves crashing against the cliff.
We chose Aqua Start to rent our things because they seemed safer. With the lock and key that came with the bikes, which allowed us to head off and explore a little further.
