Estoril offers a charming coastal escape just a short train ride from Lisbon. It's an excellent base if you want golden sands and sea breezes combined with easy trips into the capital or the neighbouring town of Cascais. While perhaps more compact than Cascais, Estoril provides a relaxed seaside atmosphere with very convenient access to the water, making it a good choice for a beach holiday combined with sightseeing.
The heart of Estoril's coastline is undoubtedly Praia do Tamariz. Located right by the train station and below the casino gardens, this historic beach is known for its accessibility and the unique public saltwater swimming pool nestled beside it. Like all beaches here, the Atlantic water is refreshingly cool year-round, but the generally calm conditions on beaches like Tamariz make them suitable for swimming, even if many prefer the adjacent pool.
Beyond Tamariz, the scenic coastal promenade, the 'paredão', connects you to other delightful spots. Nearby Poça Beach is a favourite with locals, especially at low tide when rock pools appear. A short train ride away lies Praia de Carcavelos, the largest and most bustling beach on this stretch of coast, popular for its lively atmosphere. Heading west along the promenade towards Cascais, you'll find the famously beautiful cove of Praia da Rainha, known for its picturesque setting.
The easy walk along the promenade to Cascais reveals even more small sandy stretches and highlights the different character of the two towns, with Cascais offering a wider variety of beaches overall. While Estoril's main beaches can get busy, especially during peak season due to their ease of access from Lisbon, their convenience is undeniable. For a complete look at all the sandy options along this coast, explore our full guide to the area's beaches.
