Praia do Tamariz

Tourist Guide

Praia do Tamariz Beach, Estoril

Tamariz is one of the most crowded beaches on the Lisbon coast

Tamariz is one of the most popular beaches on the Lisbon coast -- both during the day and at night. People from Lisbon, from the suburbs (especially the Afro-Portuguese community) and from around the world come here for the sun and to relax at the bars, which stay open until late. Its location immediately across the casino made it famous, but so did its castle, which featured in many postcards and tourism brochures.
That castle is currently private property, but was once a fort (the Fort of the Cross), when it was built in the 1600s. It was remodeled in 1890, and is said to have belonged to the royal family of Monaco. It’s not open to visitors, but you may rent it for special events.

Praia do Tamariz Beach, Estoril

A castle that started as a fort in the 17th century stands over the beach

The beach’s ties to royalty go back to the early-to-mid-20th century, when monarchs escaped to the Lisbon coast during WWII. They gambled at the casino and stayed at the Palácio Estoril Hotel (see below), where author Ian Fleming also stayed at the time and came up with the idea to create the James Bond character.

Praia do Tamariz Beach, Estoril

Tamariz is the main beach in Estoril

Part of the beach is reserved for those who rent parasols, but there’s also space for those who want to spread their towel or play sports by the shore. If it’s too crowded (as it often is, especially on weekends), just walk west down the promenade, and you’ll find more beaches, all the way to the center of Cascais.
The water here is usually calm and clean, so it’s a beach to bring the kids, but don’t expect peace and quiet. There are lifeguards on duty, and, as a crowded touristy beach, a strong police presence.

Beach for: Drinks in the sun; Instagram
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: Yes
Parking: Nearby
Transportation: Train from Lisbon

How to Get to Praia do Tamariz


To reach Praia do Tamariz from Lisbon, take the train from Cais do Sodré station. It departs every 20 minutes, and Estoril is 36 minutes away, with the station right behind the beach.
If you have purchased the Lisboa Card, you may ride the train for free.


Attractions by Praia do Tamariz


The castle is not open to the public, but you may pose for photos at its doorstep. Across the road is the Casino Estoril, which opens from 3pm to 3am, so it’s a popular after-beach destination.


Hotels by Praia do Tamariz


Palácio Estoril Hotel

Palácio Estoril Hotel

The most glamorous hotel on the entire Cascais coast was built across the road from Tamariz in the 1930s. It includes a leafy garden, a large swimming pool, a wonderful spa, and luxurious, classically-styled rooms.

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Intercontinental Cascais-Estoril Hotel

Intercontinental Cascais-Estoril

This luxury hotel, of the well-known international chain, is located steps from Tamariz Beach. It has indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and rooms with balconies offering panoramic views over the ocean.

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Hotel Inglaterra

Hotel Inglaterra

Featuring a classic interior to match the building’s “Belle Epoque” architecture, this 4-star hotel is a 10-minute walk from Tamariz Beach. Some of the rooms have balconies, from where guests enjoy views of Estoril and the sea, but best of all is the rooftop swimming pool.

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Vila Galé Estoril

Vila Galé Estoril

Facing the castle of Tamariz, this 4-star hotel is just across the road from the sand and the sea. It has spacious rooms, an outdoor pool and a health club.

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