Top 7 Beaches Near Porto for a Relaxing Coastal Escape

Shahina Sultana
2 days ago
6 min read

Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is renowned for its stunning riverside views, historic sites, and renowned port wine. But if you drive a little way from the city, you'll find some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, with everything from golden sands to cliffs and clear waters. Porto's beaches have something for everyone, whether you want to relax, play water sports, or visit beautiful coastal towns.

This blog post will explore the best beaches near Porto, highlighting what makes each one special, the ease of access, and what else is nearby. So, grab your sunscreen and let's explore the best beaches near Porto for your next coastal getaway!

7 Must-Visit Beaches Near Porto

Whether you're after a relaxing escape or an exciting surf adventure, these 7 beaches near Porto offer the perfect combination of sun, sea, and local charm. Plan your beach day today!

1. Matosinhos Beach (Praia de Matosinhos)

Distance from Porto: 10-15 minutes by car (9 km)

Public Transport: Take Metro Line A (the blue line) and get off at Matosinhos Sul.

Matosinhos Beach is the closest and most accessible beach to Porto, making it a great choice for those who want to spend a day at the beach without leaving the city. Families and surfers love the long, sandy beach. It has calm areas for relaxing and more active waves for water sports.

Why Visit Matosinhos Beach

Surfing Hotspot: Surfers love the beach because the waves are always present, which is ideal for both beginners and experienced riders. There are a lot of surf schools along the beach, like the well-known Surf School Matosinhos, where you can rent boards and take lessons.

Family-Friendly: Matosinhos is great for families with kids, as it offers ample space and calm waters near the shore.

Lively Atmosphere: Matosinhos boasts a bustling seafront promenade featuring numerous seafood restaurants, cafes, and other dining options. While you eat fresh seafood like grilled sardines, you can also enjoy the view.

Accessibility: The beach is easily accessible by Porto's metro, making it ideal for tourists who want to spend a day by the sea.

2. Praia do Senhor da Pedra

Distance from Porto: 30-40 minutes by car (22 km)

Public Transport: Bus 906 from Porto’s main bus station

Praia do Senhor da Pedra in the town of Miramar is beautiful and not too busy. It's a great alternative to Matosinhos Beach. The Chapel of Senhor da Pedra, which is on a big rock at the edge of the water, is the most well-known thing about this beach. It boasts a beautiful, peaceful setting that is ideal for those seeking to escape the crowds.

Why Visit Praia do Senhor da Pedra:

Iconic Chapel: The Chapel of Senhor da Pedra, a famous landmark, is situated atop a granite rock formation. The chapel is an ideal spot for taking pictures, and the Atlantic Ocean offers a unique and dramatic backdrop.

Quiet Beach: This beach is typically less crowded than Matosinhos, making it an ideal spot to relax in a quieter environment.

Natural Beauty: The beach is surrounded by rocky outcrops and lush green areas, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Close to Porto: Praia do Senhor da Pedra is a great place for a day trip, as it's conveniently located near Porto and remains relatively quiet.

3. Praia Redonda (Póvoa de Varzim)

Distance from Porto: 40-45 minutes by car (35 km)

Public Transport: Train from Porto São Bento to Póvoa de Varzim, then a short walk

Praia Redonda is a hidden gem in the town of Póvoa de Varzim. It has a beautiful coastline and calm waters. The beach is distinct from other local beaches due to its rounded shape. This beach is quieter, which is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the crowds.

Why Visit Praia da Granja:

Unique Shape: The beach's round shape makes it visually distinct and adds to its charm.

Calm and Quiet: Praia Redonda is less crowded than the nearby beaches, making it an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation.

Nearby Attractions: Póvoa de Varzim is renowned for its casinos, historic markets, and notable historical sites. It's a great place to spend a day relaxing on the beach and learning about the area's culture.

4. Praia da Azurara (Vila do Conde)

Distance from Porto: 35-40 minutes by car (30 km)

Public Transport: Train from Porto São Bento to Vila do Conde, then a short walk

Praia da Azurara is not far from the town of Vila do Conde. It has a lovely sandy beach and great amenities. This beach is quieter than those in Porto, but it offers a great mix of natural beauty, clean water, and local amenities. The beach is ideal for families and those seeking a relaxing seaside experience.

Why Visit Praia de Espinho:

Family-Friendly: Praia da Azurara is an excellent destination for families with kids, as the water is calm and the facilities are easily accessible.

Calm Setting: The beach is typically quieter than other beaches in the area, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing and playing games.

Nature Reserve Nearby: The beach is surrounded by beautiful natural areas, such as the Azurara Forest, where you can take a quiet walk or enjoy a picnic.

5. Praia das Sereias (Espinho)

Distance from Porto: 30-40 minutes by car (20 km)

Public Transport: Train from Porto São Bento to Espinho, then a short walk

Praia das Sereias is a stunning beach in Espinho, renowned for its golden sands and vibrant atmosphere. The beach is renowned for its expansive sand, making it ideal for beach volleyball, picnics, and family-friendly activities. It's a quiet area of Espinho, perfect for those who want to avoid the busier beach spots.

Why Visit Praia das Sereias:

Wide Sands: The expansive beach is ideal for activities like beach volleyball, frisbee, or simply relaxing in the sun.
Calm Waters: Praia das Sereias is renowned for its tranquil waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, particularly for families with young children.
Local Vibe: Espinho is renowned for its lively atmosphere, but Praia das Sereias offers a more laid-back vibe compared to other parts of the town, making it perfect for those who want to relax by the sea.

6. Praia da Ladeira Norte (Vila do Conde)

Distance from Porto: 35-40 minutes by car (30 km)

Public Transport: Train from Porto São Bento to Vila do Conde, then a short walk

Praia da Ladeira Norte is a small, beautiful beach in Vila do Conde that is ideal for those seeking solitude. This beach is less crowded than others in the area, making it a peaceful spot to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of the coast.

Why Visit Praia da Ladeira Norte:

Secluded Beach: Praia da Ladeira Norte is ideal for those seeking a more private and tranquil beach experience.
Ideal for Nature Lovers: Surrounded by natural landscapes, this spot is an excellent retreat for nature lovers to unwind and enjoy the serenity.
Close to Vila do Conde: The beach is close to the lovely town of Vila do Conde, where you can learn about the area's history, shop, and eat after a day of relaxing on the beach.

7. Praia das Pedras do Corgo

Distance from Porto: 20-30 minutes by car (15 km)

Public Transport: Metro from Porto to Lavra (Line A, blue line)

Praia das Pedras do Corgo is a hidden gem near the village of Lavra. It has a beautiful rocky coastline and calm waters. There are fewer tourists at this beach, making it a quiet place to relax and enjoy nature. The rocks and clear water make it a great place to swim and walk on the beach.