Beaches
Beaches in Ericeira
Ericeira sits on roughly eight kilometres of cliff-backed Atlantic coast, and the beaches change character every few hundred metres. Here is where to swim, where to sunbathe, and where to simply watch the waves.
North of town
Praia de Ribeira d'Ilhas
The famous surf beach a few kilometres north, all golden sand and cliffs, beautiful to visit even if you never paddle out.
Iconic surf / Cliffs
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Praia da Calada
A sandy cove backed by cliffs on the coast north of Ericeira, much quieter than the town beaches and glorious at sunset, though you will want a car.
Quiet cove / North coast
Read moreIn town
Praia dos Pescadores
The town's own beach, tucked below the fishing harbour and sheltered by the breakwater, the safest place to swim with children.
Most central / Sheltered
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Praia do Sul
The popular main beach just below the old town, with a scenic clifftop boulevard and some of the best sunsets in Ericeira.
Central / Sunset views
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Praia de São Sebastião
A pretty cove a short walk north of the centre, framed by cliffs and the chapel of São Sebastião above.
Walkable / Natural setting
Read moreSouth of town
Praia da Foz do Lizandro
The biggest sandy beach in the area, where the River Lizandro meets the sea, wide open space, surf schools and a boardwalk of cafés.
Largest beach / River mouth
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Praia de São Julião
A long, wide golden bay on the road towards Sintra, space to roam, dependable surf and a restaurant with a view.
Long sandy bay / To Sintra
Read moreNot sure which beach is yours?
Answer 7 quick questions and get the beach that fits you, with parking, food and surf notes.
Facilities, flags and safety
In summer, the main beaches such as Praia do Sul fly the Blue Flag and have lifeguards on duty, along with showers, cafés and parking nearby. The Atlantic here is beautiful but powerful, with strong rip currents, so swim near the lifeguard flags, keep a close eye on children, and take care on the rockier beaches at low tide.
Getting between the beaches
The town beaches are an easy walk from the old centre. The southern beaches, Foz do Lizandro and São Julião, are a short drive away, and in summer a seasonal beach bus links the main surf beaches if you do not have a car. See getting here for transport details.