4 coastal towns and villages to discover in Portugal
Discover Portuguese coastal towns and villages Wikimedia commons

The line that separates the sea from the land is the coastline and in mainland Portugal it stretches for 943 kilometres, thus confirming the well-known phrase by the poet Tomás Ribeiro that describes Portugal as "a garden by the sea".

That's why we embarked on a journey to discover four cities and towns on the Portuguese coast. Although the beach and sea scenery may look the same, each of these places has its own charm and characteristics. With breathtaking views, long sandy beaches and fishing villages, let's discover these wonders that are neighbours on the Atlantic Ocean side. 

Odeceixe: a fishing village in the Alentejo

Despite belonging to the district of Faro, this town stands out for having a quieter pace that reveals a more rural side to the region, far from the typical crowded towns of the Algarve. The Roman bridge, the medieval castle and the town square full of cafés are a must-see. 

Odecieixe beach
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The small town of Santa Luzia, known as the octopus capital, is an excellent place to visit for those who want to try this speciality in the region's typical restaurants and enjoy the afternoon for a stroll along the Ria Formosa, where the colourful boats stand out, or to take a dip on one of the white sandy beaches

Take advantage of your holidays to get to know Tavira and choose one of the accommodations we've selected for you. 

Peniche: a story on the beach by the sea

Peniche is synonymous with the sea. Known for being one of Portugal's largest fishing harbours, this city is home to a variety of maritime activities. As well as the beach, it's worth visiting the historic centre and the famous and incomparable Berlengas Island.

Fishing has always been one of the people's sources of income, but the region's typical birlos lace has also been perfected by the women over the years while their husbands were out at sea. 

Berlengas island
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Peniche's beaches are a hit. Ideal for family holidays, you can discover the bay of Consolação and Baleal. If you're a surfer and want to catch some good waves, you can opt for Praia de Medão Grande, known as Supertubos beach, sought after by many surfers from all over the world for its large toboggan-shaped waves.

At the end of the day, you can enjoy a meal of seafood and fresh fish in one of the region's many typical restaurants. Some dishes you can't miss are caldeirada, seafood rice or charcoal-grilled sardines

Whatever your plans, if you want to be close to the sea and smell the sea air, Peniche is the perfect place. 

Sesimbra: film-worthy landscapes

Sesimbra is a picturesque town, a land of sea and fresh fish, but also of (almost) paradisiacal beaches. From the top of its hill, around its castle, you can see the perfect curve of its bay and the infinite blue of the sea, forming a landscape worthy of note.

Sesimbre
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Its beaches are truly worthy of a paradise beach film set, -except for the water temperature. Ribeira do Cavalo beach was voted by many to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the region and deserves a visit. Praia do Meco is also one of the most famous nudist beaches, although there are also many families on the long stretch of sand.

After the beach, you can discover the charms of Sesimbra's seafront, one of the busiest areas in the region, day or night, where you'll find people everywhere, scattered between restaurants and terraces.

Discover the charms of Sesimbra and spend a few relaxing days!

Cascais: the town painted with a brush

Situated by the sea, the fishing village of Cascais played a key role in the mid-19th century. XVI, as it was a busy port of call for ships passing through on their way to Lisbon. With the passing and changing of time, Cascais has attracted countless people who are curious to take a walk there. 

Cascais bay
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With its cosmopolitan design and lively atmosphere, this town still preserves its majestic air. Along the streets, which are almost like a labyrinth, you'll find various shops and terraces for a moment of relaxation in the open air.

The beaches continue to be a major attraction for residents and tourists alike, and the truth is that there are countless options: whether you stay in the town's bay, or take a short diversion to the Guincho area where you can practise water sports. The Boca do Inferno also arouses the curiosity of many visitors who try to understand this natural phenomenon. We're talking about an indentation in the coast surrounded by rocks and caves where the sea, when it's rough, creates a unique spectacle to behold.

Take advantage of the sunny days to explore this colourful place and let it surprise you!

Afurada: the colourful houses that enchant

This picturesque parish in Vila Nova de Gaia emanates soul and tradition. Here you'll find colourful houses lined with tiles and there's no shortage of good fish. Visiting this place is almost like travelling back in time, as you can still find women washing clothes in the communal pond and chatting to fishermen who know the sea better than anyone and have many stories to share.

Afurada, Vilanova de Gaias
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With breathtaking views that are well worth photographing, another experience you can't miss on your visit to Afurada is the market, where you can hear the traditional fishmongers trading.