Estremadura and the Ribatejo
We’ve compiled the best of the best in Estremadura and the Ribatejo - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
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We’ve compiled the best of the best in Estremadura and the Ribatejo - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
One of Portugal's most picturesque beaches is framed by steep cliffs and a fast-flowing stream. Strong tides can make the ocean here hazardous, but there are lifeguards on duty in summer. The beach itself bustles with sporting activity, and at night the village bars are lively. Some local houses have an alpine look, thanks to the availability of pine from the forests that blanket the Leiria region—which also makes for lovely fresh air. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: sunset; surfing; swimming; walking.
About 24 km (18 miles) northwest of Torres Vedras, is a broad, light sweep of sand backed by a small settlement with plenty of places to eat and drink. But if you want to get away from it all, there are cliff-top trails that are lovely for hiking. The waves here are suitable both for beginner and advanced surfers. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: sunset; surfing; swimming; walking.
Across the mouth of the Óbidos Lagoon, a large spit of sand juts out into the brackish tidal water. The broad expanse of sand here and the calm waters of the lagoon make it popular with families with young kids, not least because the beaches here have been awarded the coveted Blue Flag (for water quality, safety, and access) several years running. As well as the public facilities, there are several lively esplanades along the promenade. Amenites: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: partiers; sunset; swimming; windsurfing.
Hedged in by rocky cliffs topped with the greenest of vegetation, this is one of the region's prettiest beaches. The strand is fairly narrow at high tide, but it rarely gets very crowded because it is served only by a simple café. Access to the beach is via a wooden walkway. The beach is signposted off the N247 north of Santa Cruz, where the beaches are broader but busier. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (no fee). Best for: solitude; sunset; surfing; walking.
This beach on a natural island that's now an artificially created peninsula has long been a surfer hangout thanks to its great waves—it's home to a well-reputed surf school. But Baleal Beach is also popular with families who lounge about under rented umbrellas. Note that there are rocks in the water in some parts of the beach. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: partiers; sunset; surfing; swimming; windsurfing.
One of Europe's best beaches for surfing—pretty much any time of year—Ribeira d'Ilhas regularly hosts national and world championships. When the surf is up on weekends, expect a crowd. There's a large, modern restaurant where you can grab a bite. The beach is 2 km (1¼ miles) north of Ericeira, set in a picturesque gorge amid tall cane. Amenities: food and drink; parking; toilets; water sports. Best for: partiers; sunset; surfing.
The perfect horseshoe-shape bay here, 12 miles west of Alcobaça, makes this one of Portugal's prettiest beaches, lapped by calm waters that are safe for children. The ample strand—patrolled by lifeguards so long as beach cafés are open—has fine, yellow sand (cleaned daily) and areas with sunshades for rent. Much of it is lined with well-preserved dunes; at its northern end, set back from the promenade, are elegant old homes in the typical Caldas style, restaurants, and many hotels. The beach is popular with local families, so don't come in high summer if you dislike crowds. Local companies offer boating and canoeing trips. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (no fee); toilets; water sports. Best for: sunset; swimming; walking.
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