Costa da Caparica
Almada, Setúbal, 2825
Across the red 25th of April Bridge (Ponte 25 de Abril) from Lisbon begins a prized strip of coastline called the Costa da Caparica. Extending for about 16 miles (26 kilometers) from a city of the same name down to the Arriba Fóssil nature preserve, the area is a Portuguese mainstay for surfing and sunbathing. Head to its windswept beaches to watch fishermen and kitesurfers in action, then take in the scenery from a different angle on clifftop trails.
The Basics
Costa da Caparica comprises a number of beaches, each with its own vibe and each beloved by Lisboans and visitors alike. From the party atmosphere of Caparica town beach to the more laid-back Morena Beach (Praia da Morena) to Lisbon’s original nudist Meco Beach (Praia do Meco), there’s something for everyone along the coast.
Tours to Costa da Caparica generally involve surf lessons or bodyboarding, as the waves here are perfect for beginners. There are coastal horseback-riding tours from Lisbon, as well. For those who want to explore the entire coast, beach-hopping tours are available in summer.
Things to Know Before You Go
Costa da Caparica is a must for beach lovers and beginner surfers.
Some beaches have limited facilities while others have beach bars serving Portuguese fare, snacks, and drinks.
There is little shade along the coast, so wear plenty of sunscreen and rent or bring a beach umbrella.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Costa da Caparica from Lisbon is by car or taxi. Alternatively, take the private TST bus 153 from Praça de Espanha or 161 from Praça do Areeiro, or hop the 5-minute ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas and get bus 135 from there. Once on the coast, a mini-train runs 6 miles (9.5 kilometers) from Caparica to the less-crowded beaches farther south.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Costa da Caparica is during summer, when the weather is hot and the cold Atlantic water is refreshing. If you want to surf, arrive early in the day for the best waves and the fewest people vying for them.
Historical Points of Interest
While Costa da Caparica is known for its beaches, there are also a few historical locations to explore. A 16th-century monastery overlooks the town of Caparica, and farther south you can find the Arriba Fóssil da Costa da Caparica, a nature reserve where 15-million-year-old fossils have been discovered. Other notable points include the estates of Medos (Quinta dos Medos) and São Miguel (Quinta de São Miguel), the residence of Robert Gulbenkian, and the rock-and-limestone House of the Crown (Casa da Coroa).
Ways to explore
About 30 minutes from Lisbon by car, the Costa da Caparica makes for an easy day trip from the Portuguese capital. Each beach has its own vibe; generally, those closest to Costa da Caparica town have more restaurants and amenities, while the southern beaches have the best views of cliffs and dunes.
Costa da Caparica tours often include transportation from Lisbon, such as surf lessons that teach beginners how to ride the coast’s approachable waves. ATV tours take you off-roading around the area’s beaches and fossil-filled cliffs, while history-focused excursions visit the 16th-century Convento dos Capuchos that overlooks the coast.
Accessibility
Some private tours of the Costa da Caparica are wheelchair accessible; contact the provider in advance to make arrangements.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, water bottle
What to wear
Dress for the beach—the Costa da Caparica is primarily a summer sunbathing destination. To explore the Arriba Fóssil nature preserve, wear hiking boots.
Not allowed
Rules vary by tour, but most don’t allow pets or smoking.
Amenities
Most of the coastline is equipped with shops and restaurants, especially those closer to Costa da Caparica town.
Address
The easiest way to reach the Costa da Caparica from Lisbon is to drive, as it’s just half an hour away. The coast is also easily accessible by taxi or rideshare app, or you can take the bus or join a tour with included transportation.
Driving
From central Lisbon, drive south on A2 (crossing the 25th of April Bridge), then head west on A38 toward the water. You’ll find parking lots and street parking up and down the coast.
Public transportation
Take the 3710 bus from Lisbon’s Praça do Areeiro to the Costa da Caparica bus station, which is located within walking distance of the town center and beaches.
Best times to visit
If you want to surf along the coast, arrive early in the day for the best waves and the fewest people vying for them.
Best days to visit
The beaches of the Costa da Caparica are especially popular on weekends, so aim to go Monday to Friday to find a more secluded sunbathing spot.
Best months to visit
The Costa da Caparica is busiest in the summer, but anytime from May to September is good to soak up its warm weather and lively beach-town atmosphere.
Special events
Popular events include the Caparica Surf Fest in April and several music festivals in the warmer months, such as August’s O Sol da Caparica event dedicated to Portuguese Lusophone music.
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