Praia da Amoreira in the west of the Algarve.
Slow rivers, roaring waves, western Algarve
Praia da Amoreira is located on the more desolate western coastline of the Algarve, close to the town of Aljezur, but unlike many beautiful beaches in the area, it is a beach with a split character. Camp along the vast sandy shores of Ribeira de Aljezur as it sweeps across the Atlantic Ocean. An idyllic westward stroll that takes you from the tranquil cliff bends into the roaring power of the Atlantic – a surfer's dream. But the greatest pleasure is the river itself – jump in and let the water gently carry you on a slow river like no other.
Alcoves of white sand beaches south of Lisbon
Portinho da Arrábida near Setúbal. This is a small niche-style beach located in the Arrábida National Park in the south of Lisbon. So far, its relative inaccessibility has protected it from overcrowding. To get to it, you'll pass by some truly beautiful hilly green landscapes. The beach is fine white sand and there is a desert island about 200 meters offshore for swimming. Preferably in May and June, the holidays end.
Dramatic cliffs, close to Sintra
Praia da Adraga on the Atlantic coast, 19 km north of Cascais, is easily accessible (by car) from historic Sintra. It's a great place to escape the summer crowds. It's more secluded than the nearby Guincho, but still perfect for surfers, combining spectacular cliff views with golden sandy beaches dotted with black volcanic rock formations reminiscent of half-submerged dragons. Although it feels off the beaten track, there is spacious parking, toilets and showers, small shops and delightful restaurants (dine-in and takeaway).
Books and octopuses in the south of Lisbon
The Praia do Carvalhal, close to Comporta, is just over an hour's drive from Lisbon. Usually not crowded, there is a lovely white sand beach surrounded by turquoise sea where you can swim easily. There is even a small library on the country terrace where visitors of all nationalities can leave or take away beach books, usually novels read while sunbathing. Taste seafood at the casual restaurant Dinis: it is run by a fisherman, and the barefoot waiter will serve you an octopus salad and crisp white wine on the beach.
Cable car and marine reserve, Madeira
In the autonomous region of Madeira in Portugal, there are plenty of amazing beaches. Among them, Praia de Garajau, backed by a huge cliff. The only way to get into the beach is to take a cable car ride or walk a long way along the winding road. Once there, Gallagau offers a tranquil view of the stunning blue waters contrasting with the grey stone beaches. It is also a natural marine reserve with a large population of fish.
Surf donuts, western Algarve
Praia do Amado is a stunning beach in the western Algarve, 40 minutes' drive from the popular city of Lagos. However, this beach is hard to find because the signs pointing to it have been covered by surfers hoping to go with stickers there is a surf school on the beach for newbies to try, or for more experienced surfers to brush up on their tricks. The crystal clear waters are surrounded by beautiful cliffs, protecting more relaxed beach visitors from the north wind. Best of all, the beach suppliers are not far away and offer delicious hot donuts!
Erin Brown
Armona, eastern Algarve
The most wonderful beaches are located east of Olhão on Armona Island and part of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Olhão is easy to reach near Faro, but you can only reach the island via a few ferry crossings a day, and there are no cars on the island, you will feel isolated. A boardwalk leads to a wide, windy and desolate beach. Stay in pastel-colored beach huts facing the Atlantic Ocean and enjoy delicious stews at a handful of restaurants.
Aquatic Pantheon, southern Algarve
The beaches of Praia de Benagil are tucked away in a lovely silent bay and can only be reached by rock-hewn steps - get there early and you might have everything. Not far away is benagil sea cave, a mysterious aquatic pantheon where golden sunlight pours in and reflects off the red sandstone walls onto the secluded sandy beach. Sample seafood at the family-run Sul Mar restaurant half a mile from M1273 road, away from the crowded restaurants along the coast.