The best Portuguese beaches to visit in 2019 / Pixabay
The best Portuguese beaches to visit in 2019 / Pixabay

The heat is on... instead of complaining, why not pack your suitcase and make the most of it by discovering Portugal's best beaches? It’s difficult to decide where because there are so many options of beautiful and special beaches, bathed by the cool waters of the Atlantic.

Here are some of the best beaches in Portugal for your summer holiday in 2019.

1. Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, Island of São Miguel

Sāo Miguel island / Wikimedia commons
Sāo Miguel island / Wikimedia commons

The Azores islands captivate thousands of tourists every year and one of the most successful destinations is the islet of Vila Franca do Campo.

Opposite the island of São Miguel, an ancient underwater volcano helped to shape this pearl of the Atlantic. Its circular shape creates the perfect climate for a natural pool where the favourite pastimes are swimming and diving.

Getting to this beach isn’t easy as it’s on a very small island, but if you want to spend an unforgettable afternoon in this paradise in the Azores, rent a boat and sail out to this little bay. It's well worth the effort!

2. Praia das Crianças, São Martinho do Porto

Praia das Crianças / Wikimedia commons
Praia das Crianças / Wikimedia commons

If you’re looking for somewhere to take young children for a swim, Praia das Crianças (Children's Beach) is the perfect option. Within the bay of São Martinho do Porto, the waves don’t reach the beach which makes this beach perfect for children, who can bathe without problems.

In addition to restaurants specialising in fish and seafood, another of the great attractions of this beach is the wooden walkway that crosses the entire bay. Don't miss the opportunity to take a walk and discover the other beaches in the area.

3. Praia da Ursa, Sintra

Wild beach in Sintra / Wikimedia commons
Wild beach in Sintra / Wikimedia commons

Access to this beach is kind of difficult and dangerous, but Praia da Ursa rewards indomitable adventurers with its wild and natural beauty.

It will be a real challenge to reach this magical corner of Sintra. The access route is long and quite tricky, so plan ahead as it will take at least an hour's walk from your car to this pristine beach.

When you get there, though, you can lay out your towel on the expanse of sand, relax and enjoy one of the country's most coveted beaches.

4. Praia da Rocha, Portimāo

Portimāo beach / Wikimedia commons
Portimāo beach / Wikimedia commons

Many believe that this is the most famous beach in Portugal, offering not only beautiful surroundings but a wide range of leisure facilities too. The word Portimão is synonymous with ‘holidays’, and the inviting climate and various organised leisure activities make this city a dream destination.

Among the places you absolutely can’t miss in Portimão is Praia da Rocha beach. With its refreshing waters and fine golden sand, here you can find the perfect way to enjoy the environment, landscapes and huge variety of restaurants, bars, discos and entertainment.

5. Praia da Dona Ana, Lagos

Wonderful Lagos beach / Wikimedia commons
Wonderful Lagos beach / Wikimedia commons

Among the cliffs of the Costa D'Ouro, nature offers up the most picturesque beach in the Algarve, Praia da Dona Ana. Situated in a small bay with high cliffs which block the wind, this beach has fine, golden sand which combines perfectly with the calm, crystal clear waters.

If you want to make memories that will stay with you and your family forever, be sure to visit the Praia da Dona Ana this summer 2019.