Parede Beaches

Overview

Parede offers a taste of authentic Portuguese coastal life, nestled conveniently on the scenic train line between Lisbon and Cascais. While not a typical resort town, it provides a charming base with its own local shoreline. Its easy train access makes exploring the wider region's famous beaches straightforward, blending seaside relaxation with potential city excursions.

Right in town, you'll find Beach Parede, known historically for its therapeutic sea air and waters. Nearby is Praia das Avencas, a unique spot famous for its fascinating rock pools teeming with marine life, best explored at low tide. These local beaches tend to be rockier compared to the vast sandy expanse of neighbouring Praia de Carcavelos, a hugely popular choice for sunbathers and surfers alike. Remember that swimming is refreshing but brisk, as the Atlantic waters here are naturally cool year-round.

From Parede, venturing further is simple. Head towards Cascais to discover gems like the picturesque cove of Praia da Rainha, once a royal retreat. For a wilder coastal experience, the stunning cliffs and sands of Praia da Adraga, located within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, are well worth the journey. Be prepared for potential coastal winds, a common feature along this stretch of the Atlantic.

Whether you prefer the convenience of local spots like Beach Parede or exploring regional highlights such as Praia de Carcavelos or Praia da Adraga, Parede serves as a great starting point. Discover more about these and other coastal destinations in our full guide to the area's beaches.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is Parede a good destination for a beach holiday?

Parede offers a local Portuguese coastal experience rather than a typical resort holiday. It has its own beaches (Praia da Parede, Praia das Avencas) and is well-connected by train to Lisbon and other popular beach towns like Cascais and Estoril. It's suitable for those wanting a quieter base with easy access to beaches and city life, but might not be ideal if you're looking for a resort-focused vacation with extensive tourist infrastructure directly on the sand.

Beach Parede

Avencas Beach

How do Parede beaches compare to Carcavelos or Cascais?

Parede's beaches (Praia da Parede, Praia das Avencas) are generally smaller, rockier, and more influenced by tides compared to the larger, sandier expanses of Carcavelos or the series of beaches in Cascais. Carcavelos is famous for surfing and its wide sands, while Cascais offers a variety of beaches with more tourist amenities. Parede offers a more local feel, known for its rock pools (Avencas) and historical therapeutic reputation (Parede).

Beach Parede

Avencas Beach

Praia de Carcavelos

Can you swim at the beaches in Parede? Is the water cold?

Yes, you can swim at Parede's beaches, particularly Praia da Parede, especially at high tide as low tide exposes more rocks. Praia das Avencas is more known for its rock pools at low tide. Like all Atlantic beaches in this region, the water is generally cold, typically ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) even in summer. Many people swim, but be prepared for chilly water.

Are Parede beaches good for families with children?

Parede beaches can be suitable for families, but with considerations. Praia da Parede offers sand for playing, especially at higher tides. Praia das Avencas is fantastic for exploring rock pools at low tide, which kids often love. However, the presence of rocks and the colder water temperature are factors to consider. Larger, sandier beaches like nearby Carcavelos might be preferred by some families.

Beach Parede

Avencas Beach

Praia de Carcavelos

Are there hotels or places to stay with easy beach access in Parede?

Parede is primarily a residential town, so it doesn't have large beach resorts directly on the sand like some other areas. However, there are guesthouses, apartments for rent (often found on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com), and some smaller hotels within walking distance of the beaches and the train station.

What is Praia das Avencas known for?

Praia das Avencas is best known for its extensive rock pools teeming with marine life, which are revealed at low tide. It's designated as a Marine Protected Area due to its rich biodiversity. It's more of an exploration beach than a traditional sandy beach for sunbathing or swimming, although swimming is possible at high tide.

Avencas Beach

How do you get to Parede beaches from Lisbon?

The easiest way to reach Parede beaches from Lisbon is by taking the Cascais Line train (Linha de Cascais) from Cais do Sodré station in Lisbon. Get off at Parede station. The beaches (Praia da Parede and Praia das Avencas) are within walking distance (around 10-15 minutes) from the station.

Is it usually windy at Parede beaches?

Yes, beaches along the Lisbon coast, including Parede, can often be windy, especially in the afternoons. The prevailing wind is typically from the north (Nortada). While some days are calm, it's generally a good idea to be prepared for some wind.

Are there cafes or restaurants right by the beaches in Parede?

Yes, there are cafes and restaurants located very close to or overlooking Praia da Parede, offering convenient options for drinks, snacks, or meals with a sea view. Amenities near Praia das Avencas are slightly more limited but still accessible.

Beach Parede

Avencas Beach

Is parking available near Parede beaches?

Parking near Parede beaches, especially Praia da Parede, can be challenging, particularly during peak season (summer) and weekends. There is limited street parking available, and finding a spot often requires patience or arriving early. Using the train is often recommended.

What are the 'therapeutic properties' sometimes mentioned about Praia da Parede?

Historically, Praia da Parede gained fame for the high iodine content in its air and waters, as well as sun exposure, which was believed to be beneficial for treating bone ailments like tuberculosis of the bone. This led to the establishment of nearby orthopedic hospitals. While less emphasized today for specific treatments, it remains part of the beach's local history and identity.

What's the best tide for visiting Praia das Avencas?

The best time to visit Praia das Avencas is during low tide. This is when the extensive rock platform is exposed, revealing the tide pools rich with marine life, which is the beach's main attraction and reason for its protected status.

Avencas Beach