Caxias beach in Oeiras
Oeiras is the coastal suburb immediately to the west of Lisbon, before the more famous Cascais. It mixes the waters of the Tagus and the Atlantic, and is usually overlooked by tourists, due to the bigger and more popular beaches further down the coast, in Cascais. Still, its proximity to Lisbon makes it a good choice for those with just a couple of hours to get their feet wet. And most of its beaches offer views of the capital, with 25 de Abril Bridge and the Monument to Christ seen in the distance.
You can see Lisbon's 25 de Abril Bridge in the distance from Oeiras' beaches
The main beaches are connected by a promenade, which passes by a number of forts built between the 16th and 17th centuries.
Beaches in Oeiras
- Praia de Santo Amaro
- Praia da Torre
- Praia de Caxias
The largest beach in Oeiras is one of the most family-friendly in the entire Lisbon coast. Its waters are usually calm and there are often slides and other attractions for children, while a short walk to the west is a large seawater pool (open in late spring and summer only). It offers a view of Lisbon’s 25 de Abril Bridge and is overlooked by a 17th-century fort.
Beach for: Families
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Rentals: No
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: Yes
Parking: Nearby
See the complete Praia de Santo Amaro Guide.
Named after a 16th-century “tower” or fortress on its western side, this is a very popular beach among local families. Surfers have also discovered it, although its waters are relatively calm in the summer.
Beach for: Families, Surfers
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
See the complete Praia da Torre Guide.
The closest real beach to the center of Lisbon (it’s just 15 minutes away), is found between two 17th-century forts. It’s never crowded and its café in the shadow of palm trees is a destination on sunny days throughout the year.
Beach for: Sunbathing
Lifeguards: No
Bathrooms: Yes
Showers: No
Rentals: No
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: No
Parking: Nearby
See the complete Praia de Caxias Guide.
How to Get to the Beaches in Oeiras
Oeiras is on the Cascais train line. Trains depart every 20 minutes from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré station and reach Oeiras 24 minutes later. Oeiras station is a long walk from the beaches, so you’re better off exiting at the stations before it, depending on where you want to go (if you have purchased the Lisboa Card, you may ride the train for free). You’ll find complete transportation details on the guides to each beach above.
Hotels in Oeiras
Vila Galé Collection Palácio dos Arcos
This refurbished 15th-century palace is the best place to stay in Oeiras. It offers spacious rooms, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, and a spa.
Riviera Hotel
This 4-star hotel in Carcavelos is within reasonable walking distance of Praia da Torre. It has rooms with balconies, two swimming pools, a spa, and a gym.