Lisbon is the capital of Portugal. It’s a fun city with colorful buildings, tasty food, and beautiful views. But did you know that just outside the city, there are amazing secret beaches? These beaches are quiet, peaceful, and perfect if you want to escape the crowds.
Some are hard to find, but that makes them extra special. If you like nature, the sound of waves, and soft sand, you will love these hidden beaches near Lisbon.
Let’s look at the best secret beaches you can visit on your next trip.
1. Ursa Beach
📍 Near Cabo da Roca – About 45 minutes by car from Lisbon
Ursa Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches near Lisbon. It is next to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point in Europe. This beach is wild and natural. Big rocks rise from the sea, and the view is amazing.
Why Visit:
- Very peaceful and quiet
- Great for people who like nature and hiking
- A beautiful place for pictures
Things to Know:
- You have to walk down a steep hill to get there (about 30–40 minutes)
- No shops or bathrooms — bring water, snacks, and sunscreen
- Not good for small children or people who don’t like walking
2. Adraga Beach
📍 Sintra-Cascais Natural Park – 45 minutes from Lisbon
Adraga Beach is easier to get to. It is close to the village of Almoçageme. The beach is large and has caves and cliffs. Even though more people know about it, it is still calm and quiet.
Why Visit:
- Easy to reach
- Very pretty, with rocks and caves
- A great place to walk and watch the sunset
Things to Know:
- There is a small restaurant on the beach
- The waves can be strong, so be careful when swimming
- Bring a camera — it’s perfect for pictures!
3. Ribeiro do Cavalo Beach
📍 Near Sesimbra – About 1 hour from Lisbon
This beach is like a secret paradise. It’s hidden between cliffs near the town of Sesimbra. The water is very blue and clear, and the beach is quiet.
Why Visit:
- Looks like a tropical island
- A great place to relax away from crowds
- Amazing for nature lovers
Things to Know:
- You must walk down a rocky path to get there (about 20–30 minutes)
- No stores, no toilets — bring everything you need
- Not good for kids or people with mobility issues
4. Baleeira Beach
📍 Serra da Arrábida – About 1.5 hours from Lisbon
Baleeira Beach is in a quiet part of the Arrábida Natural Park. It is very small and peaceful. Most people don’t know about it, so you may even be alone there.
Why Visit:
- Perfect for a quiet day
- Great for swimming and snorkeling
- Very clean and natural
Things to Know:
- You need to hike or kayak to get there
- No bathrooms or shops
- Bring water, snacks, and a sun hat
5. Creiro Beach
📍 Arrábida Natural Park – About 1.5 hours from Lisbon
Creiro Beach is next to Galápos Beach but less crowded. It’s a pretty beach with green hills and clear water. You can swim, paddle, or relax in the sun.
Why Visit:
- Easy to get to
- Clean, with soft sand and calm water
- Good for families and couples
Things to Know:
- There are restaurants and toilets nearby
- You can walk from Galápos or take a local shuttle
- Great for paddleboarding or a beach picnic
6. Samarra Beach
📍 Near Sintra – About 1 hour from Lisbon
Samarra Beach is small and hidden between high cliffs. A small stream flows into the ocean. It is quiet and perfect if you want to feel far from everything.
Why Visit:
- Very peaceful and quiet
- Good for thinking, reading, or just relaxing
- Feels like your own private beach
Things to Know:
- You have to walk a little from the parking area
- No signal for phones — a good place to unplug
- No shops — bring food and drinks
7. Meco Beach
📍 Near Sesimbra – About 1 hour from Lisbon
Meco Beach is a long beach south of Lisbon. It is bigger and better known than others on this list, but if you walk further down the beach, you can find quiet areas. Some parts of the beach are for naturists (nudists), so be aware of that.
Why Visit:
- Big, with lots of space
- Some parts are quiet even on weekends
- Beach bars nearby for drinks and snacks
Things to Know:
- The sea can be rough — not great for small kids
- Good place for a long walk by the water
- Come early to get the best spot
What to Bring to Secret Beaches
Most of these beaches are wild and natural. That means no shops, no restrooms, and no lifeguards. So it’s important to come prepared:
✅ Water and snacks
✅ Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
✅ A towel or beach mat
✅ Good shoes if there’s a walk or hike
✅ Trash bag — always take your rubbish home
✅ A camera or phone (if there’s signal!)
Final Thoughts
Lisbon is not just a great city — it’s also a gateway to amazing beaches. If you love peace and nature, take time to explore these secret spots. Some are hard to reach, but that’s what makes them special. You’ll find clear water, quiet coves, and views you’ll never forget.
So next time you’re in Lisbon, go beyond the usual tourist places. Visit one of these secret beaches, bring your picnic, and enjoy your own slice of paradise.
