Characterised by golden sands and windswept landscapes, the beaches in Porto have the most to offer to surfers and sunbathers. While the surf crowd is generally drawn to the big swells further south, the powerful Atlantic waters still produce consistent waves off Portugal’s north coast. Sun seekers are in luck, as the country averages 300 days of sunshine per year.

From secluded shores to social gathering spots, there are 10s of beaches to choose from. Most are accessible by inexpensive public transit, while a vehicle gives you access to places off the beaten track. Read on to find out where to get great seafood, ride the best waves and see the most spectacular coastal vistas in and around Porto.

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    Praia dos Ingleses

    A vibrant gathering place near the Douro

    Praia dos Ingleses
    • Ζευγάρια

    Praia dos Ingleses is a stunning stretch of Atlantic coastline just 20 minutes by tram from the city centre. Situated near the mouth of the Duoro River, the beach is a large swath of sand bordered by rocky outcrops. While the waves and currents may be too strong for a relaxing swim, it’s popular for sunbathing and socialising.

    Located in the affluent Foz do Douro district, Praia dos Ingleses offers easy access to the neighbourhood's best eateries. Michelin-starred Pedro Lemos has tasting menus featuring homegrown produce in a laid-back setting. But if you don’t want to leave the beach, you don’t have to: the promenade is lined with busy cafes and bars that stay open long past sunset.


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    Lavadores Beach

    A tranquil and safe Blue Flag beach

    Lavadores Beach
    • Οικογένειες

    Lavadores Beach is about as serene a spot as you’ll find this close to Porto. Situated just south in Vila Nova de Gaia, this Blue Flag beach is 1 of 17 in the municipality awarded the distinction for its super clean waters.

    The wide beach dotted with clusters of huge granite rocks makes an ideal setting for walks along the coast. The rocks also give this already quiet beach a more secluded feel: you can easily find a nook all to yourself.


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    Praia da Baía

    Surf's up in this former fishing village

    Praia da Baía
    • Περιπέτεια

    One of the best surf spots in Portugal, Praia da Baía draws surfers and sunbathers alike to its wide beach of soft sands. This popular beach has several surf schools offering lessons for all levels plus boards and wetsuits for rental. The waters are swimmable, but if the Atlantic is just too rough for you, head behind the beach to Piscina Solário Atlântico. The facility has 2 seawater pools that allow you to reap all the health benefits of saltwater without the crashing waves.

    Praia da Baía is located 20 km south of Porto in the town of Espinho, formerly a fishing village. Restaurants here serve top-notch seafood, so pop into a beachfront spot and try the local grilled squid.


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    Praia da Sereia

    Perfect for strolling down the boardwalk and lounging on the sands

    Praia da Sereia
    • Οικογένειες

    Praia des Sereias (or Mermaid Beach) is an idyllic place to soak up some sun. This long stretch of coastline is backed by dunes sprouting seagrasses and an elevated boardwalk. Wide open swaths of sand are interrupted by clusters of rocks that break the waves.

    Another popular surf spot, the waves here are consistent throughout the year. The strong winds and rough waters mean you probably won’t want to swim, but it’s a lovely spot to relax and watch the ocean roll. Praia des Sereias has lots of umbrellas and loungers, plus a cluster of eateries near the boardwalk, making this a great spot to bring the family.

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    Matosinhos Beach

    Surf, sand and seafood not far from the city centre

    Matosinhos Beach
    • Φαγητό

    Easily accessible by public transit from Porto’s city centre, Matosinhos Beach is the largest and most visited in the region. A lively gathering place, groups of friends flock here in the summer to surf, socialize and kick the football around. Matosinhos hosts several surf schools and is a solid spot to learn the basics of the sport.

    The location is highly convenient, just on the other side of the port, you’ll find a cluster of some of the best and most reasonably priced seafood restaurants around. So, when you’ve worked up an appetite, you know where to go.


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    Praia de Moledo, Moledo

    A dazzling gem on the Costa Verde

    Praia de Moledo, Moledo
    • Περιπέτεια
    • Οικογένειες

    The gorgeous Praia de Moledo is no secret – it has been a holiday destination for Portuguese politicians since the early 20th century. Thankfully, its remote location keeps most of the crowds away. Located near the border with Spain, it takes 1 hour by car or 90 minutes by train from Porto, but it’s worth the trek. This is one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches.

    The long, gently curving coastline is bordered by the dense Mediterranean pines of the Mata of Camarido, a protected forest with walking trails. The beach is bordered on the north by the Minho River, and beyond it stands the grand, sloping silhouette of Spain’s Monte Santa Trega.


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    Praia do Senhor da Pedra

    A historic chapel on sandy shores

    Praia do Senhor da Pedra
    • Οικογένειες

    Praia do Senhor da Pedra is a favourite of Porto locals. A quick and inexpensive trip from São Bento station, the beach borders the town of Miramar, a trendy suburb of Vila Nova de Gaia. This is one of the best spots on our list for families, as it has a dedicated children’s playground and plenty of cafes nearby.

    The central feature of Senhor da Pedra is the charming 17th-century chapel perched on a rocky outcrop along the shoreline. The little white church has been braving the North Atlantic winds and waves for centuries and gives this beach its distinctive look.


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    Moreiró Beach, Vila do Conde

    Simple charms of a picturesque small town

    Moreiró Beach, Vila do Conde
    • Οικογένειες

    For a more secluded beach, head north to Praia de Moreiró. This is a quiet, no-frills place: there are a few sun umbrellas stuck into the sand and a single beachside bar. Accessible only by car, it’s a 30-minute drive from the city.

    The south end of the beach is studded with rocks, so stay on the north side for safe swimming. This beach is clean and is especially popular with families in the summer months. Pack yourself a picnic or grab sandwiches from the friendly local couple that runs the beach bar.


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    Praia da Madalena

    Solitude in the grassy dunes

    Praia da Madalena
    • Οικογένειες

    Praia de Madalena is the kind of beach where people come to unwind. Slatted fences lean along the edge of a long stretch of rising and falling sand. Long grasses wave in the wind. Waves crash against rocks clustered at the water’s edge. Formerly one of the most popular beaches in Gaia, these days beachgoers can enjoy the scenery without the crowds.

    The water is rocky, so opt instead to lounge on the sand. If you need a break from the sun, rent one of the little shade huts or grab a drink at one of the bars along the beach.


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    Praia do Molhe

    A small beach with neoclassical charm

    Praia do Molhe
    • Ζευγάρια

    Praia do Molhe has a distinct old-meets-new feeling. Thick vines climb the walls of a Renaissance mansion surrounded by modern apartments. The iconic Pérgola da Foz defines the beach. Constructed in the 1930s to beautify the landscape, the buttercream-coloured neoclassical pergola looks out over the shoreline and gives the place a touch of romance.

    The water is relatively calm thanks to a stone jetty built to defend against strong northerly swells, so make sure to take a dip in the Atlantic. Proximity to the popular Foz district makes this a great destination for a date, with excellent restaurants and bars a short walk from the beach.