Beaches in Porto

The city’s most popular beach, Matosinhos offers golden sand and vibrant beach energy within easy reach of Porto’s centre. Known for its fresh seafood market nearby and public art installations like the “She Changes” sculpture, it’s ideal for walks, casual surf lessons, and sunset drinks. Trams and buses run directly to the promenade.

Getting There: Tram or bus from central Porto (~20 min)
Nearby: Famous seafood market and art displays
Best For: Surf lessons, walking, sunbathing

Nestled at the Douro River mouth, this beach provides sweeping views and elegant promenades. It’s renowned for good accessibility—including ramps and adapted showers—and a nearby garden playground. Home of a historic riverfront atmosphere ideal for families and gentle strolls.


Location: Foz do Douro district, walkable from city tram line
Access: Wheelchair-friendly facilities and lifeguards
Best For: Scenic walks, easy swimming, families

Marked by the imposing Obelisk of Memory, this beach is beloved for its dunes, walking trails, and Blue Flag credentials. It’s quieter but still feels close to the heart of Foz. Wooden boardwalks wind through protected dunes before you reach a stretch of wide, natural sand.

Feature: Iconic obelisk landmark and dune walkways
Atmosphere: Clean, less crowded than central beaches
Best For: Photography, tranquility, gentle ocean swims

These scenic side-by-side beaches are scenic, with gently undulating sands and shallow water pools. Beach bars and kiosks serve snacks and drinks, and the area is served by a city tram line with station stops right at the entrances. Perfect for relaxing or people watching.

Access: Tram stops right at each beach’s edge
Facilities: Bars, showers, loungers
Best For: Lazy afternoons with cocktails and water views

About 20 minutes south of Porto by train, Granja retains a classic charm with its warded seafront and seasonal wooden huts. It’s Blue Flag certified, often less crowded, and framed by leafy public gardens and historical summer mansions—a nostalgic beach escape.

Transport: Suburban train from Porto (~30 min)
Features: Blue Flag, beach huts, quiet community feel
Best For: Historical ambiance and calm sands

This tranquil long beach is edged by dunes and known for its iodine-rich waters—a historic fishermen’s spot still popular with locals. Life here revolves around seafood stands and forested trails, with firm sand and subtle surf.

Distance: 13 km south of central Porto
Known For: Therapeutic sea waters and fishing village roots
Best For: Quiet walks and coastal charm

Understory to the iconic Senhor da Pedra chapel perched dramatically on a rock, Miramar is both scenic and intimate. It's perfect for a short breezy visit or photo stop, with a handful of cafes and wide sandy stretch but minimal services.

Landmark: Chapel on a sea rock (Senhor da Pedra)
Ambience: Peaceful, scenic, artsy local hangout
Best For: Photography and coastal walks

A breezy and sparsely visited stretch north of Porto, this beach draws surfers and quiet walkers. Backed by dunes and yellow-flowered grasses, it feels remote but accessible by car or coastal road.

Getting There: 25 min drive north of Porto
Track: Sandy dunes, quiet shoreline
Best For: Solitude, coastal drives, surfing

This expansive white-sand beach is favored for long walks, surfing, and beachside cafés. Located about 20 km north, it’s cleaner and less crowded than city beaches—offering open views and a strong community surf scene.

Distance: 20 min drive or train to Vila do Conde
Beach Type: Wide sand with surf-grade waves
Best For: Full-day trip, surfing, alfresco dining

Close to Porto by train (~30 min), Espinho’s main beach line features soft sand, a seaside casino, and weekend markets year-round. It’s lively without being overwhelming—great for a beach day combined with local entertainment.

Essentials

Access: Frequent train service from Porto
Nearby: Casino and a beachfront promenade
Best For: Families, markets, longer visits