Experience holidays on the best beaches in Portugal. Bathing vixens, water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers will find both unspoilt and exceptional stretches of beach along the coasts of Portugal. The sun-drenched Algarve and verdant northern Portugal will spoil you with everything you expect from the best beaches in Portugal.
Are you planning a round trip through versatile Portugal? Then you should rent a campervan in Portugal and always have your own comfortable home with you. You are flexible in your planning and explore the most diverse country in Southern Europe on a relaxed road trip.
Round trips to the dream beaches on the Atlantic Ocean
Most campervan fans are drawn to the beaches of the Algarve. Starting in Faro, fine white sandy beaches alternate with bizarre rock formations, colourful fishing villages and charming small towns all the way to the capital Lisbon.
Others swear by the austere charm of the west coast from Lisbon northwards to the fine baroque city of Porto. Further on, culture fans head up to the far north, with churches, monasteries and nature parks.
From Porto to the Algarve, unique landscapes and the best beaches in Portugal
The adventure begins in Porto. Here you can rent your campervan or van at the airport and head south along the west coast. Start with a detour to Praia de Mindelo:
- Praia de Mindelo is 13 kilometres north of Porto
- 220 kilometres south is the seaside resort of Nazaré on the Costa de Prata
- The journey continues for 130 kilometres to Lisbon
- Only 50 kilometres away is Setubal and the Portinho de Arrábida
- 87 kilometres away is Praia da Comporta
- 68 kilometres to the Isla de Pessegueiro
- 84 kilometres to Lagos and the Praia de la Marina in the Algarve
- 40 kilometres away is the next dream beach, Praia de Cavoeiro
- After 93 kilometres you have reached your destination, the Isla de Tavira and the departure point Faro
What to expect at the best beaches in Portugal
Praia de Mindelo – before heading to Mindelo beach, explore the baroque city of Porto. Surrounded by vineyards, you’ll find the Roman city walls and impressive fortifications. Stroll through medieval alleys and admire the 800-year-old cathedral.
Huge rocks protect the beach of Praia de Mindelo from the strong wind. In the dune area to the north, birds have a nature reserve to breed in peace.
At the elongated crescent of Nazaré Beach, surfing is the absolute attraction. Europe’s largest underwater gorge forms the “Canhão da Nazaré”, the cannon. This geomorphological underwater phenomenon causes gigantic waves to build up. This phenomenon became known worldwide through the surfer Garrett McNamara from Hawaii. Surfers from all over the world come here. You can watch the daredevils from the beach.
An insider tip is the former city palace Casa do Alentejo at Rua das Portas de Santo Antão No. 58. Inconspicuous from the outside, the interior courtyard is a real gem.
Portinho da Arrábida is hidden between the Atlantic Ocean and Mount Arrábida. In the heart of the Arrábida National Park, the beach and village were chosen as one of the seven wonders of the country. The snow-white sand and bizarre cliffs add both charm and beauty to the place. This place is one of the best beaches in Portugal.
At Praia da Comporta, in the extreme south of the Tróia peninsula, you will find a huge natural area. It is part of the nature reserve in the Sado estuary. The moderate waves offer good conditions for kite surfing. The parking facilities at the beach are very good, so you can also plan a longer stay. Stay in the cosy alcove of your rented campervan.
On the Alentejo coast, near the village of Porto Covo, lies the Isla de Pessegueiro. The “peach island” attracts visitors with numerous beaches and a wonderful beach promenade. Traces of a fishing centre from Roman times have been discovered and excavated here.
In Lagos and at Praia de la Marina you have reached the Algarve. The beach is surrounded by large, spectacular cliffs. It is not only one of the best beaches in Portugal, but it is also the most beautiful beach in the country. It is the highlight of your journey along the coasts. The old seafaring town of Lagos, surrounded by a unique environment and its historical character, invites you to stay longer.
Travelling the Portuguese coasts in a campervan is a dream holiday. You are completely free in terms of time and can plan individually. Your home always travels with you. Enjoy the sunset right by the sea after a sunny day of swimming or an exciting day of exploring. Snuggle up in the cosy alcove in the evening and be ready to experience exciting new things the next day.