Praia da Rainha is the most Instagrammable beach in Cascais.
It's hidden between rocks and cliffs, but this small and picturesque beach (it’s just 50 meters/164 feet long) is the most central in Cascais. It's right by the main pedestrian street (Rua Frederico Arouca, with its emblematic wave-patterned cobblestone pavement), next to the Albatroz Hotel (see below), and just a short walk from the train station.
Praia da Rainha tends to be crowded in the summer.
The name ("Queen's Beach") is a tribute to Queen Amelia, who, in the 1880s, used to sit on the golden sand looking out to the harbor, and swim in the calm and clear waters.
Largo da Praia da Rainha, a small square, overlooks the beach, and is essentially a terrace offering outdoor eating and drinking with a view of the sea.
The beach faces Cascais' harbor.
On weekends and the hotter summer days, there is often little space left to spread your towel by the mid-morning hours, so arrive early.
Praia da Rainha has lifeguard supervision in the summer.
Due to its calm and shallow waters, it’s a good beach for children, and although there are several rocks by the shore, there are few in the sea. Teens often jump off the rocks to the west, but that should be discouraged by parents or chaperones.
Due to the calm and shallow waters, this is a very family-friendly beach.
Beach for: Swimming, Couples, Families/Children, Instagram
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: No
Parking: Nearby
Transportation: Train from Lisbon
The terrace above the beach
How to Get to Praia da Rainha
To reach Praia da Rainha from Lisbon, take the train from Cais do Sodré station. It departs every 20 minutes, and Cascais is the last stop (taking about 40 minutes). The beach is right in the pedestrianized center of town, just a short walk from the train station.
If you have purchased the Lisboa Card, you may ride the train for free.
Attractions by Praia da Rainha
Taking the pedestrianized Rua Frederico Arouca leads you to Cascais’ Museum Quarter, its main squares and cultural attractions, while walking east you reach Praia da Conceição and several other beaches down the promenade.
Hotels by Praia da Rainha
The Albatroz Hotel
Standing right above Praia da Rainha, this beautiful hotel offers a luxurious service, with themed rooms overlooking the bay, an outdoor swimming pool, and a restaurant with a panoramic sea view.
Hotel Baía
Located in Cascais’ main square, just a short walk through a pedestrian street from Praia da Rainha, this hotel offers sea views from most rooms and from a rooftop bar.
Pergola Guest House
A mansion located in one of Cascais’ most attractive shopping streets (close to Praia da Rainha and other beaches) is a highly-rated guesthouse with a beautiful garden and an elegant interior. It’s for adults only, making it even more perfect for couples, on honeymoon or a romantic getaway.