The 8 most beautiful beaches in Porto to discover

Activities

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Romane

Published on 10/09/2025

Nestling on Portugal’s Atlantic coast, Porto offers much more than its architectural heritage and famous wine cellars. The country’s second-largest city boasts an exceptional coastline with fine sandy beaches, wild coves and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet getaway with the family or a relaxing day on the Atlantic Ocean, the beaches of Porto and the surrounding area have something for everyone. Discover our selection of the 8 most beautiful beaches for swimming in Porto and let yourself be seduced by the beauty of the Portuguese coastline.

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1. Praia de Matosinhos: the most accessible beach from Porto

Located just 20 minutes from Porto city centre, the Praia de Matosinhos is undoubtedly the most popular and easily accessible beach for swimming. This 1 kilometre stretch of fine sand attracts thousands of visitors every summer, thanks to its proximity to the city and its excellent public transport links.

This beach in Porto offers ideal conditions for swimming, with relatively calm waters and lifeguards on duty during the summer season. Water sports enthusiasts will also find plenty to do here, with numerous surf schools offering courses for all levels. The lively seafront is packed with restaurants specialising in fresh seafood, perfect for a gourmet break after a swimming session.

To get there from Porto, simply take metro line A to Matosinhos Sul station. Car parks are available nearby for those who prefer to come by car.

2. Praia do Senhor da Pedra: the beach with the emblematic chapel

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Miramar, around 30 minutes by train from Porto, is home to one of Portugal’s most photographed beaches: Praia do Senhor da Pedra. This exceptional beach was even named one of Europe’s best beaches in 2015, thanks in no small part to its unique monument: a small chapel perched on a rock in the middle of the waves.

The Capela do Senhor da Pedra, built on this rock against which the Atlantic waves crash, is a breathtaking sight, especially at sunset. This beach in Porto is the perfect combination of swimming and cultural wonder. The golden sand stretches for several hundred metres, offering plenty of space even in high season.

In June, you may be able to attend the annual 3-day pilgrimage in honour of the Senhor da Pedra, a centuries-old tradition that attracts thousands of worshippers. There are several bars and restaurants in the area where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean.

3. Praia de Mindelo: a family beach sheltered from the wind

Unlike most beaches in northern Portugal, the Praia de Mindelo at Vila do Conde has the major advantage of being sheltered from the northerly winds. This natural protection makes it one of Porto’s most popular beaches for families to swim, with its 2 kilometres of fine golden sand.

This beach offers a peaceful, relaxing setting, with shallow waters ideal for children. There’s no shortage of activities on offer: volleyball, sand football, or simply swimming in optimal conditions. The authentic charm of Vila do Conde adds a cultural dimension to your seaside getaway.

Several bars and restaurants welcome you to discover Portuguese specialities, especially freshly caught seafood. It’s easily reached by train from Porto (urban line) or by car via the A28.

4. Praia dos Ingleses: the trendy beach in Foz do Douro

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In the chic district of Foz do Douro, the Praia dos Ingleses (Beach of the English) stretches over 600 metres of fine sand. Its name dates back to the 19th century, when it was mainly frequented by Porto’s British community. Today, it attracts a cosmopolitan crowd in search of a relaxed atmosphere.

This beach in Porto is known for its trendy atmosphere and its late-night clubs. Ideal for admiring the spectacular sunsets over the Atlantic, it also offers good swimming conditions with its relatively calm waters and summer surveillance.

Access is particularly easy thanks to the historic tram line 1, which takes you directly from the centre of Porto. The surrounding area is full of trendy cafés, restaurants and bars, perfect for extending your day at the beach.

Download the audio tour to discover Porto on foot and on your own

Make the most of your seaside break to explore Porto’s hidden treasures with our audio tour itinerary. Discover 27 must-see places of interest by letting yourself be guided through the city’s picturesque alleyways, historic monuments and authentic districts. It’s an itinerary designed to let you experience Porto like a local, between two swimming sessions on its magnificent beaches.

5. Praia da Madalena: the Blue Flag beach

In Vila Nova de Gaia, opposite Porto, Praia da Madelena has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag environmental label. This recognition testifies to the exceptional quality of its waters and facilities. Accessible in 15 minutes by car from the centre of Oporto via the Pont da Arrábida, it reveals a stretch of white sand as far as the eye can see.

This beach in Porto is divided into two distinct areas: the more family-friendly northern part and the rockier, wilder southern part. Wooden footbridges protect the dunes and invite you to take a contemplative stroll. Swimming conditions are excellent, with crystal-clear waters and professional supervision.

Lulled by the sound of the waves and protected by unspoilt natural surroundings, Praia da Madalena offers the perfect setting for a relaxing day out with the family. Modern facilities include showers, toilets and refreshment points.

6. Praia de Lavadores: the beach with spectacular rock formations

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Close to Vila Nova de Gaia, Praia de Lavadores has a unique blend of fine sand and spectacular granite formations. These sculptural rocks create a striking natural backdrop, perfect for photography enthusiasts and families in search of originality.

This beach offers very pleasant bathing conditions, with crystal-clear waters and sheltered areas between the rocks. Access is made easy by the proximity of the town centre and the presence of a car park. Facilities adapted for people with reduced mobility testify to the attention paid to accessibility.

The surrounding restaurants offer authentic Portuguese cuisine with a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean. An ideal setting for combining seaside pleasures with gastronomic discoveries during your visit to Porto.

7. Praia de Memória: the historic beach of Matosinhos

In Matosinhos, the Praia de Memória stands out for its emblematic obelisk erected on a pontoon. This monument commemorates the 1832 landing in Mindelo during the Portuguese Civil War, adding a historical dimension to this magnificent beach in Porto.

Particularly suitable for families, this beach features small natural pools formed between the rocks and shallow waters ideal for children. Lifeguard surveillance during the summer season guarantees safe swimming conditions.

The natural environment, made up of rocky formations and sandy areas, offers a remarkable diversity of landscapes. The modern infrastructure and easy access from Porto make it the perfect destination for a relaxing day by the sea.

8. Praia da Aguda: the authentic fishermen’s beach

Between Vila Nova de Gaia and Espinho, Praia de Aguda retains its authenticity as a traditional fishing village. This Porto beach offers a colourful spectacle with its fishing boats washed up on the shore, witness to centuries of maritime activity.

Accessible in less than 30 minutes from the centre of Porto, this beach has all the facilities you need: parasol and deckchair hire, lifeguard posts and lifeguards. Swimming conditions are excellent, and surfers particularly appreciate the regular waves along the shore.

The rocky seabed is home to an abundance of underwater life that attracts fishermen and divers alike. The authentic atmosphere, far from mass tourism, allows you to discover traditional Portugal while enjoying a magnificent day’s swimming.

In conclusion, Porto’s beaches offer a remarkable diversity for all lovers of swimming and the Atlantic landscape. From the urban proximity of Matosinhos to the authentic charms of Aguda, via the emblematic Senhor da Pedra chapel, each beach reveals a unique facet of the Portuguese coastline. These 8 seaside destinations are the perfect complement to your discovery of Porto, adding a maritime dimension to your cultural and gastronomic stay in this magnificent city in northern Portugal.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the best beach near Porto?

The Praia do Senhor da Pedra in Miramar is often considered to be the most beautiful beach near Porto. Ranked as one of Europe’s best beaches in 2015, it boasts a unique chapel perched on a rock amid the waves and a spectacular setting.

How do I get to the beach from the centre of Porto?

For Matosinhos, take metro line A to “Matosinhos Sul”. For Foz do Douro and Praia dos Ingleses, take tram line 1. For more remote beaches such as Senhor da Pedra, opt for the city train or car.

What are the best beaches for families in Porto?

The Praia de Mindelo in Vila do Conde is ideal for families as it is sheltered from the wind and has shallow waters. The Praia de Memória in Matosinhos is also suitable, with its natural pools and lifeguard surveillance.

Is it possible to swim all year round on Porto’s beaches?

Swimming is most enjoyable from June to September, when water temperatures reach 18-20°C. In winter, the water is cool (13-15°C), but some brave souls venture out. The beaches remain magnificent for walking all year round.