Lisbon is blessed with a stunning seafront, the Lisbon Coast, which encompasses the resort towns of Estoril and Cascais.
Dotted along this fabulous waterfront are some excellent beaches, famed for their calm shallow waters, soft golden sands and brilliant water sports facilities. The bathing season begins in May and continues through to the end of September.
During this period, teams of qualified lifeguards supervise the beaches listed below. In addition, every beach has been awarded a Blue Flag, a coveted environmental citation indicating that the area meets stringent management and sustainability criteria, the water quality is of the highest order and safety measures – lifesaving and emergency services – are in place.
Praia do Tamariz in Estoril and Praia de Carcavelos, sited nearer the city, are two of the most popular Lisbon beaches and perfect for family days out. The furthest beach from Lisbon, the wild and beautiful Praia do Guincho, is an established wind surf and kite board destination. In Cascais, sunbathers and beachcombers are spoilt for choice, with pretty Praia da Rainha, Praia de Conceicao, Praia da Duquesa and Praia da Ribeira all within walking distance of each other, set as they are along the oceanfront promenade. Closer to Estoril are Praia da Poça and Praia das Moitas while further east back towards Lisbon is a local favourite, Praia S. Pedro do Estoril.
Besides the Blue Flag, note that a green flag hoisted over the sand indicates that swimming is allowed; a yellow flag means do not swim. If a red flag is flying, do not enter the water. A chequered flag signifies that the beach is temporarily without lifeguard supervision.