Summer is one of the most eagerly awaited times of the year. After all, the days are longer and the sun shines brightly, calling for outdoor activities. From swimming in the pools to having fun in the water parks, everything serves as an ‘excuse’ to ‘cool off’. However, for those who can’t live without afternoons on the sand, we’ve decided to create an article with some beaches in and around Porto.
This year, Porto was recognized as “Best Metropolitan Seaside Destination” at the “Tourism Oscars”. So we couldn’t remain indifferent to this scenario, nor to our readers’ summer desires. In this context, take a look at the list and, if you feel like diving out of town, we also have some suggestions… so you don’t miss a thing!
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Beaches to spread your towel on in Porto
Blessed with a river and a sea, the truth is that there is no shortage of beaches in Porto where you can spread out your towel and spend a nice afternoon in the sun.
However, although there are others, we want to focus our attention on the Blue Flag beaches.
Gondarém Beach
Despite its small size, this is one of Porto’s best-known beaches and has been awarded the Blue Flag for the 2024 bathing season. With a short stretch of sand, its landscape is dominated by rocks and it is especially popular with sport fishing enthusiasts.
However, it is still an option to consider for those who want to take their children to play in the sand, for example. Or take the opportunity to relax in the bar just above the beach. So, while you enjoy the sea breeze, you can have a cocktail or a snack.
Homem do Leme Beach
Like the other beaches in Porto in this area, the rocks ‘fill’ the short stretch of sand.
Right in front, there’s a playground to keep the kids entertained and bars for adults to relax in, overlooking the sea.
Aquário Beach
This beach in Porto is particularly popular with fans of water sports. However, there is another reason to take a stroll here, namely the existence of pedestrian paths, such as the Passadiço das Ondas.
Foz Beach
The last of Porto’s four Blue Flag beaches is Foz. In fact, this is the designation given to a group that includes the beaches of Ourigo, Ingleses and Luz.
This area is particularly conducive to surfing and has a pleasant range of leisure activities, including several bars and terraces.
Beaches less than an hour from Porto
In Greater Porto and beyond, there is an endless variety of beaches where you can spend your summer.
From the municipalities of Matosinhos to Vila Nova de Gaia, not forgetting Espinho and Esposende, these are just a few of our favorites.
Angeiras Beach
Located between Matosinhos and Vila do Conde, this is a guarded beach with a parking lot, bars, toilets and other entertainment and leisure facilities.
It has a wide stretch of sand, allowing for distance between towels and groups.
Aguda Beach
Aguda beach is located between Gaia and Espinho and its sand runs from Miramar to Granja. It’s a favorite spot for surfers due to the rough seas.
As well as being a good beach, in the same area you’ll find some of the best restaurants. It could be an idea for a different and very pleasant weekend.
Silvalde Beach
Located in Espinho, this beach is preferred by many who want to escape the crowds of Espinho beach.
Here you’ll find tranquillity and lots of surfers, as the sea invites them to take part in this sport. It belongs to an old parish whose main activities were, for a long time, agriculture and fishing.
Praia da Memória
It was once known as Praia da Arenosa or Praia dos Ladrões, but is now known as Praia da Memória, due to the Obelisk that stands there.
This represents the landing place of Pedro V’s troops in 1832, who came to oust his absolutist brother, Miguel, from the country’s throne.
Beaches in Esposende
Esposende is known for being a beach destination of excellence, so it had to be on this list.
The beaches are safe and secure and are marked with the blue flag. In addition, they offer hygiene , entertainment and leisure facilities.
Esposende is also a fantastic city to spend a few days in, so it could be the destination you’re looking for on your vacation.
Agudela Beach
Located in Lavra, Matosinhos, this can be a good alternative to the more central beaches of Porto or Matosinhos.
It’s a good option for those who want to go to the beach or stroll along the wooden walkways that cross the beach.
Editor’s note: the order presented in this list is random and our team updates this article frequently. You can send us your suggestions via Facebook and/or Instagram!
Article originally written by Carolina Bessa, recently updated by Filipa Santos Sousa.