From palaces to the ocean
Most visitors to Sintra spend their time among its fairy-tale palaces and gardens. But the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park also includes a stretch of wild Atlantic coastline, with beaches tucked between high cliffs and villages clinging to the edge. Combining the palaces with an afternoon on the coast makes a wonderful day out from Lisbon.
These are powerful ocean beaches, not sheltered Mediterranean coves, so be cautious about swimming and follow lifeguard flags.
Praia da Adraga and Praia Grande
Praia da Adraga is a small, beautiful beach framed by cliffs and rock formations, including a natural arch. At low tide, you can explore caves and rock pools. A restaurant near the beach is known for its fresh fish.
Praia Grande, nearby, is a larger and livelier beach popular with surfers and bodyboarders. It also has dinosaur footprints preserved in the cliff at one end, reached by a set of steps, and a large saltwater pool by the beach.
Both beaches face the open Atlantic, so the water is cool even in high summer, and fog can roll in from the sea on otherwise sunny days. It usually lifts by early afternoon.
Azenhas do Mar and Praia da Ursa
Azenhas do Mar is a village of white houses cascading down a cliff above a small beach and a tidal pool. It is one of the most photographed views on the coast, especially in the late afternoon light.
Praia da Ursa, near Cabo da Roca, is often described as one of the most spectacular beaches in Portugal. It is reached by a steep, unofficial path that requires care and good footwear. The reward is a wild beach with towering sea stacks. It is not a place for casual swimming, as waves and currents can be strong.
Nearby Praia das Maçãs is a small resort with a sandy beach, cafés and a historic tram line that, on some days, runs from Sintra down to the coast.
Cabo da Roca and getting around
Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, is marked by a lighthouse and a monument on a windswept cliff. The views are dramatic, and the wind can be fierce, so bring a jacket.
Buses link Sintra with some coastal villages, but a rental car from Lisbon makes it much easier to combine several stops. Roads are narrow and parking is limited at the most popular beaches in summer.
Good to know
- Visit at low tide to explore caves and rock pools.
- Wear sturdy shoes for steep paths like the one to Praia da Ursa.
- Only swim at lifeguarded beaches and follow the flags.