ALL THE STORIES, DISCOVERING
ESSENTIAL GUIDE FOR THE BEST BEACHES IN PORTO
Summer Holidays in Porto? Yes.
When visiting the city of Porto, most people don’t have planned a trip to the beach on their itinerary. After all, Porto is World-know for the Port Wine, Douro river, tiled churches and monuments, but this city has so much more to offer than just it’s World Heritage status. Take a break from city exploring and head to the beach to work on your tan, learn how to surf or just cool off. From urban beaches in the city to hidden gems in small villages close by, the only trouble you’ll find is choosing your favorite one.
A visit to the beach in the North of Portugal is always a memory to wish for. During the Spring, Summer or even in Autumn, the weather is very mild and chances of catching a good beach day are very high. In the Winter, the best thing is to enjoy the stormy sea from inside the restaurants and bars on the beach, as you drink a warm tea. Throughout the year, the temperature generally ranges from 6 °C to 24 °C (43-75 ºF) and is rarely below 1 °C or above 30 ° C (more than 34 and less than 86 ºF).
In Porto, Summer is pleasant, dry and of almost cloudless sky. The average temperatures go around 20º C – 25ºC in the months of May, June, September and October. And go up to 26ºC – 30ºC in July and August. The long days of Summer invite you to stay on the beach until 9PM to watch the sunset.
Although it’s truth that you will find warmer waters in the South of Portugal, it is also true there are amazing beaches in the North, just around Porto area, and with summer temperatures reaching +30ºC (+86F). Both to the North as to the South of the Douro River, Porto is blessed with a wealth of long, clean, sandy beaches.
Popular Beaches
Best small beach within Porto city limits
Largest sandy beach close to Porto
Best beach north of Porto
Best beach south of Porto
Praia do Carneiro
(6km from city center)
Praia de Matosinhos
(most popular beach)
Praia de Mindelo
(25km from Porto)
Praia do Senhor da Pedra
(14km from Porto)
The closest beaches are at Foz do Douro, however being small beaches, they can become very crowded and less inviting as the other ones surrounding the city. They are quite good to enjoy a relaxing drink in front of the beach, as all of them have restaurants on the beach.
Right next to Foz do Douro, is the Matosinhos beach, known as the beginners spot for surfers, it’s a quite good option for a city beach.
On the South bank of the Douro River, more than 50 km of beaches extend along the Atlantic Ocean, and there you’ll find beaches for all tastes.
The further away you get from the city center the most stunning and exclusive beaches you’ll find, such as the surfer’s beaches close by to Espinho. But expect at least a 45 minute journey with public transports to arrive there.
Some are reachable by Metro, as line B takes you to Vila do Conde or the most recent resort Póvoa do Varzim with 12km of sandy beaches.
18km south of Porto and reachable by train in 35 minutes from São Bento Station is Espinho – with its white sands, surfing and casino.
And within 80 km of Porto, probably the most charming resort town – the Costa Nova beach, next to Aveiro.
If you are travelling by car be aware that most highways in the region have automatic electronic tolls. Some car rental companies might propose you if you want to pay a fee for the automatic control device used to charge for the tolls, as others might not do so and
will charge later the used tolls plus a fee for their services. Ask you car rental company what are the options and make the proper arrangements ahead, not to be surprised later with extra fees.
1. Near City Center
FOZ : Luz, Ingleses, Ourigo, Carneiro and Pastoras beaches.
These are good options if you want to stay near the city center. There are several transportation options to reach the beaches of Foz. The Tram might be the most beautiful one as it takes you to enjoy the view along the Douro River, from the Ribeira until Passeio Alegre’s garden. Once you arrive at Passeio Alegre Garden, take some time to enjoy the beautiful garden, with it’s famous art deco tiles in the Public Baths and surrounded by Art Deco and Art Nouveau Manor Houses, it’s for sure one of the most romantic areas of the city. If you’re travelling with kids, they will most likely enjoy the Mini Golf at Passeio Alegre or the many Playgrounds along the beaches of Foz. Beaches in this area are rocky and sand area is short, but it’s a great option to protect yourself if the north winds are blowing. Carneiro Beach is located next to Farolim das Felgueiras Lighthouse and in front of the fortress of São João da Foz which was built in the late sixteenth century to better protect the coast and the mouth of the Douro River.
Where to eat or have a drink
“Chiringuitos” – Several bars work year long on the many beaches of Porto, being a great option for a sunset cocktail or a dinner at the beach. One of the most recommended is Praia da Luz, ideal to have a cocktail at the end of the afternoon.
Bar Tolo – Very cozy tapas restaurant with a peculiar decoration. Last floor has a very nice open terrace. Recommended dishes: “Bacalhau à Brás Folhado de Queijo Brie”, “Risotto de Camarão”, “Açorda de Camarão”. Average price per person: EUR 20
Varanda do Sol – Located in front of Praia dos Ingleses, this restaurant features Italian cuisine prepared in a wood-fired oven. The panoramic balcony provides spectacular views of the sea. Average price per person: EUR 15
Cafeína – One of the trendiest restaurants in the area. Average price per person: EUR 30
Tavi – A famous pastry shop with a beautiful view of the sea.
Bonaparte – A Pub with a very peculiar decoration and excellent Mojitos, behind Praia dos Ingleses.
Matosinhos Beach:
Known by its gigantic fishing net sculpture “She Changes” (A Anémona) and its all year long Surf and Bodyboard lessons, it’s the beach with the largest sand area and easily accessible from central Porto. If you’re an experienced surfer, the many surf schools in the area, can also rent the surf equipment. A board and wet suit can be rented for around EUR 15 for two hours. For those only willing to give it a try at catching some waves, surf lessons are accessible all year long and prices start at EUR 20. Unlike the beaches at Foz there are almost no rocks and the harbour wall at the northern end can provide shelter from the wind
**Matosinhos is in zone three of the metro network and a single ticket is €1.50, with a return of €3.00. For the first journey on the metro the reusable card must be purchased for an additional €0.60.
Where to eat or have a drink
Lais de Guia Bar – With a few years of existence is quite original in its structure, since it gives the feeling of entering a ship nautical pictures on the walls, sailors’ knots, hatches. The esplanade is very nice. Open until 2 a.m.. Average price per person: EUR 15
Fish and Seafood Restaurants – At Heróis de França Street and you will find a myriad of options with fresh and tasty food, especially fresh fish and seafood as the Fish Harbour is right in front of it!. Average price per person: EUR 15
For desert or a snack in the afternoon we recommend ice-cream at Spirito or Cremosi!
Leça da Palmeira Beach:
Known by its saltwater swimming pools “Piscinas das Marés”, a group of sea swimming pools (one just for kids), right next to the beach promenade. Designed by the Architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, winner of the Pritzker in 1992. This beach is located on the northern edge of the city of Porto, just across the harbour from Matosinhos. Here is also located the beautiful Farol da Boa Nova – Porto’s lighthouse.
Where to eat or have a drink
Fuzelhas – restaurant located on the beach with good food and nice “Sangria“. Great to watch the sunset. Average price per person: EUR 10
Santo Burga – Great burgers on fresh and crispy bread just across the beach promenade. With vegetarian options. Average price per person: EUR 10
Casa de Chá da Boa Nova – an excellent option if you want a sophisticated dinner. This is one of the main gastronomic reference restaurants of the North, winning in 2016 the first Michelin Star. Start the meal with a selection of cheeses and a nice glass of wine. For a complete experience it is best to opt for the tasting menu. The scarlet shrimp with fennel and wild mushrooms or the Bísaro pork with pumpkin and cider sauce are recommended. Don’t forget to make a reservation. Average price per person: EUR 50 (average à la carte price based on a two-course meal excluding drinks).
2. Beaches North from Porto
Very popular among the locals, these fisherman’s beaches are very rich in iodine, and known by the traditional stripped “barraquinhas” (beach cancas tent).
Angeiras North Beach:
The Beach Avenue is a traditional fishing zone, with the municipal market as an attraction well known for its fresh fish. This area is fascinating, with the fishing boats winched up onto the Beach. In addition to fishing nets are also used to catch the “sargaço”, algae used as fertilizer of the land.
Where to eat or have a drink
A Barraquinha – By the sea, this is a very simple and traditional restaurant based on fish namely sea bass, sardines, gilthead, etc. Variety of snacks, codfish, octopus. The Sangria is delicious as is the sandwich of Serrano with egg. Space is limited, therefore its recommended to arrive early. Average price per person: EUR 15
Casa da Guripa – A combination of the typical fresh fish restaurant, with a tapas restaurant. The rice of the sea is a must try as well as the desserts. The restaurant is beautiful, the food is good and the view of the beach it’s magical. Space is small, so it’s always best to book a table. Average price per person: EUR 20
A Barraquinha do Rijo – Located next to the local market this is an excellent option for seafood and fresh fish. It has an interesting wine cellar and good desserts, like strawberry puffs, for example. Average price per person: EUR 20
Although all these restaurants are specialised theme in fresh grilled fish, which has to do with its proximity to the ocean, they have also delicious meat dishes, and also vegetarian options.
Mindelo Beach (Vila do Conde):
The beach of Mindelo has an extension of about 2 km of granite sand, fine to medium, with a dune cord in accelerated regression. The Ornithological Reserve of Mindelo, the oldest in the country (1957) – which is, since 2009, an integral part of the Regional Protected Landscape of the Coast of Vila do Conde harboring more than 150 bird species, also some mammals and a large variety of amphibian species. This is the only coastal zone in the Porto Metropolitan Area that maintains its natural characteristics, is formed by a set of beaches and dunes, agricultural fields and forest patches.
Where to eat or have a drink
Bombordo – Snack-bar right in front of the beach that serves sandwiches but also some main course dishes like the local “Francesinha”. Hot-dogs and beef-sandwiches “prego no pão” are also recommended. Average price per person: EUR 15
Sabor a Lenha – A small and cozy restaurant of traditional Portuguese cuisine. Delicious starters. “Francesinha”, codfish, octopus, roasted lamb are some of the most recommended dishes. Sangria is delicious. And to finish you must try “sopa de nabos”. Average price per person: EUR 25
Salitre – located a bit further away (3 km) but well worth the journey on the beach of Vila Cha this restaurant serves the freshest fish. A popular choice is sea bass “à bolhão pato”, to eat and cry for more,simply delicious. Salitre has also an interesting wine cellar. Average price per person: EUR 40
North from Mindelo beach is the Árvore Beach .This beach has an extensive sand area and is surrounded by dunes with some areas that do not have direct access, which ends up allowing some privacy to those who can get there.
The area that goes from Mindelo Beach up to Azuzara, futher north, has an excellent pedestrian and cycle route track of 8,6 kilometers, 6 of which as a raised wooden walkway. Spectacular place to practice running sports, cycling or even a walking tour with the sound and ambiance of the Atlantic Ocean.
In Vila do Conde you can also go to the National Handicraft Fair during the summer, usually in July and August.
3. Beaches South from Porto
Canidelo Beach:
Located to the south of Douro River, it knows its border at the mouth of the Ribeira de Canide. The sea, usually busy, brings here lovers of water sports. The access to the beach is made by a network of wooden walkways that give protection to the existing dune system in the North and Center zones.
Where to eat or have a drink
Ar d’Mar Bar – Located on beach with a wonderful sea view, great snacks, cakes & pies. It has an unforgettable “sangria” and also good juices. Club sandwich is a must, as well
as the good salads. If you prefer a warm meal, Wellington steak or Shrimp “Açorda” is a good choice. For desert try Lime pie. Average price per person: EUR 20
Vila Mar Pizzeria – Located in front of the beach with a great ocean view. Pizzas cooked in a wood oven. Customers also recommend the soups, risotto, lasagna and linguini. Dishes with an exquisite presentation. Great wines. Executive menu pays off a lot. Average price per person: EUR 12
Principe de Salgueiros, a café and pastry shop where you can enjoy some croissants coming straight from the oven!
Senhor da Pedra Beach:
This beach was voted in 2015 as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe by the European Best Destination, largely due to the Chapel of Senhor da Pedra (Lord of the Rock), the largest beach ex-libris. The chapel was erected on the cliffs in 1686 and, according to legend, before being converted to Christianity was a pagan altar.
The Beach annually welcomes the large pilgrimage in honour of Senhor da Pedra, which lasts for three days beginning on Holy Trinity Sunday (falling on differing dates in June). With an extensive sand area, it is beach where you can practice surf, bodyboard and other water sports.
Where to eat or have a drink
Bar do Bano – Snack-bar on the beach with a great esplanade with view to the sea and chapel of Senhor da Pedra. Recommendations go to the hamburgers and the very typical beach Berliners (bolas de Berlim). Price: €.
Solar Senhor da Pedra Restaurant – Locate right in front of the chapel of Senhor da Pedra. Dishes from the traditional Portuguese cuisine, such as “bacalhau to Solar Senhor da Pedra” (codfish), “arroz de marisco” (seafood rice), “feijoada à transmontana”( bean stew), to roasted chicken, “Francesinhas” and special hotdogs. Great desserts. Price: 15€ (average)
Dom Marisco Restaurant – Located next to the beach. From the fresh seafood to the delicious “arroz de tamboril” (monkfish rice), this restaurant also has traditional Portuguese dishes such as the “Tripas à moda do Porto”. The “açorda de marisco” is also a customer’s choice. Great wine list. Price: 40€ (average)
Aguda and Granja Beach:
Further south you’ll find two small fishermen’s villages. Praia da Aguda is unique as it has a seawall protecting a minor harbour. This sheltered harbour is home to a small fishing fleet who moor their boats on the beach. And right next to Praia da Aguda it’s the Granja beach, which means farm and this refers to a monastery farm that existed there in the 18th century.
At the turn of the 19th/20th century Praia de Granja became quite established as an upmarket resort favoured by the aristocracy and literati. There are still a few reminders of these grander days with some fine old villas lining the small promenade. Both beaches are easily reachable by train directly from the São Bento train station. Also very recommendable for those traveling with kids, as on Praia da Granja it has the Granja poll right in front of the beach.
Where to eat or have a drink
Zizi restaurant – this family restaurant rests right in front of the Aguda beach. It serves fresh fish and it’s famous for the Seabass Rice. The desserts menu is also delicious. Average price per person: EUR 20
Pizzaria Ciao Bella – Thin, crunchy crust pizzas, with tasty and fresh ingredients, you definitely have to try it out. Right in front of the beach. Average price per person: EUR 20
Related posts
DISCOVERING, Events, Explore
Porto will have the brightest Christmas ever
Porto is already preparing for the arrival of the most beautiful time of the year.
DISCOVERING, LIVING
How to Celebrate Holiday Season in Porto
Christmas in Porto begins on December 1st, with the opening of the Christmas Lights in Avenida dos Aliados.
If you’re ever in Porto is this season, and you want to celebrate as the locals do, this guide will help you truly feel, eat and celebrate like a true “Tripeiro”!
DISCOVERING, EATING
The Traditional Holiday Portuguese Cuisine
All major Portuguese holidays have their own unique dishes and sweets, but Christmas is by far the most plentiful among them.
The list of sweets is extensive, but each has their own texture and flavor that is worthy of your attention.
ALL THE STORIES, DISCOVERING, Uncategorized
Douro – undulating hills, vineyards and almond orchards
The hidden gems of Portugal have the power to impress and surprise even lifelong visitors. I remember living in Tabuaço, a small village near Régua, and the best memories that I have from this time of my life are the smell of the freshly baked bread and the view of endless undulating vineyards.
Leave a reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.