Sprawling around the Portuguese capital, the Lisbon Coast encompasses golden beaches, rugged protected areas and seaside towns overlooking the Atlantic Sea. It’s a popular getaway destination for Lisboetas and famed for its southerly swell, with world-class surfing conditions.
For a day on the sand, head to Praia da Adraga, which is particularly stunning at sunset when its cliffs glow amber. On the other side of the River Tagus is Praia dos Galapinhos, a stunning crescent of sand that forms part of Parque Natural Arrabida and can be combined with a visit to its 16th-century convent.
Stretch your legs on one of the trails that wind through Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais, which encompasses majestic pine forests and fairytale-like castles. Sweeping views across the Lisbon Coast are on offer from the Paisagem Protegida da Arriba Fossil da Costa de Caparica, where round-winged eagles and barn owls build their nests.
Getting there
Humberto Delgado Airport is the main aviation gateway to the Lisbon Coast while international trains connect to the Santa Apolonia railway station. Regional trains travel to towns along the Lisbon Coast while renting a car is the most convenient way of accessing its more remote beaches.