Ah, the beach… that blend of sea spray, light sensations, warm sand, relaxation and time for yourself or with others. For many, the beach means holidays, pleasure and happiness.
Very few people are lucky enough to live by the sea, especially those in big cities, who long for one thing on holiday: to run to the beach and dive into the water! The beach is also where we treat ourselves and break our daily routine: a dip, an ice cream, a surf lesson, sunbathing, playing with the children, running along the shoreline, devouring a book to the sound of the waves…
But strangely, you are not the only ones who enjoy this! Many locals and travellers feel the same. So which spots should you choose to avoid the crowds? Although Porto is very close to the water and means “port” in Portuguese, the city is not quite facing the Atlantic (though not far from it). To swim, you need to leave Porto and follow our tips for the 3 best beaches around the city.
1 – Praia da Luz
Ideally located and accessible by public transport from Porto, Praia da Luz is one of the jewels of Foz do Douro. Wild and splendid, you can choose between strolling along the pier or laying your towel next to a rock on the coarse sand of the northern beaches. Don’t miss the famous beach bar along the path towards Praia do Gondarem, with its sunloungers lined up against the low wall. Take the chance to discover the town of Foz too — its magnificent historic centre, colourful houses, mansions and winding streets.
2 – Praia do Senhor da Pedra
A magnificent beach on the southern coast of Porto, in the bay of Vila Nova de Gaia. Famous for its waterside sanctuary, this huge beach can be enjoyed in many ways — on foot or by bike. Its shores are protected, with no wild construction or blocks of flats as seen on some beaches in the north. Its great advantage is that it is extremely long, so you can always find a quiet spot to lay your towel. You will also find beach bars and easy parking.
3 – The beaches of Espinho
An excellent idea to get away from the tourists if you have a car or scooter (we work with local companies offering very attractive prices — contact us to learn more). Espinho has one of the most beautiful and raw stretches of coastline, with excellent authentic, local seafront restaurants and particularly unforgettable sunsets.
Bonus – Piscinas das Marés
Inaugurated in 1966 and designed by the renowned and talented architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, the Piscinas das Marés (tidal pools) were classified as a National Monument on their 40th anniversary — a striking blend of architecture and ocean, well worth a visit.
