While the Algarve beaches are renowned as the most beautiful in the territory, northern Portugal is home to equally stunning beaches that deserve a visit. Between vast wild stretches, dramatic dune landscapes and thriving surf spots, we invite you to discover the most beautiful beaches around Porto and throughout the north of the country.

1. Praia de Miramar and its iconic chapel
   

Sometimes called Praia do Senhor da Pedra, Praia de Miramar ranks among Portugal's most stunning beaches. It was even named one of Europe's most beautiful beaches by the European Best Destination guide in 2015. 

Located just north of Porto in the town of Vila Nova de Gaia, this expansive sandy stretch stands out for the presence of a chapel, the Capela do Senhor da Pedra. Built in 1686 upon the rocks in the heart of the beach, it creates an unforgettable focal point. 

How to get there? You can reach Praia de Miramar by car (approximately 20 minutes) or train (40 minutes) from Porto's city center.

2. Praia de Moledo with views over Monte de Santa Trega
   

Situated near the town of Caminha, Praia de Moledo is considered by many to be the most beautiful beach in northern Portugal. And for good reason. First, it offers breathtaking views across the Galician coastline and toward Monte de Santa Trega in Spain. Second, this beach is highly sought after for its mineral-rich waters with therapeutic properties (high in iodine). 

It's also a favorite among water sports enthusiasts: kitesurfing, surfing, bodyboarding, windsurfing and more.

How to get there? You can reach Moledo from Porto by car (approximately 1 hour drive) or train (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes).

3. Praia da Aguda and its dune landscapes

Located 13 km south of Porto, Aguda is a small fishing village with a peaceful atmosphere. Beyond the numerous fishing boats dotting the shoreline, Praia da Aguda is renowned for its magnificent dunes. 

You can even visit the Parque de Dunas da Aguda free of charge, a natural park created in 1997 with the goal of raising awareness about the importance of preserving the dune ecosystem. During a hike, you'll discover dune vegetation and observe seabirds in their natural habitat.

How to get there? You can reach the town of Aguda and its beach by car or train from Porto. Allow approximately 15 to 20 minutes by either mode of transport.

4. Praia da Apúlia and its historic mills

 

Located within the protected landscape zone of the Esposende coast, approximately 50 km north of Porto, Praia da Apúlia is a long sandy beach prized for swimming. 

It's also renowned for its ancient mills perched atop small dunes, which were once used to grind corn. Wooden boardwalks offer pleasant pathways winding around these historic structures. 

How to get there? You can reach the town of Apúlia and its beach by car (approximately 30 minutes drive) from Porto.

5. Praia de Afife, a beach in its natural state

Situated north of Viana do Castelo, Praia de Afife is a long sandy expanse. With its dunes and lack of development, it remains a wild, unspoiled beach. A true haven for travelers seeking nature and tranquility.

Exposed to the wind, this beach is highly prized by surfers and other water sports enthusiasts. For those looking to swim, the southern section of the beach offers calmer waters.

How to get there? You can reach the town of Viana do Castelo and its beach by car (approximately 50 minutes drive), train (50 minutes) or bus (1 hour 30 minutes) from Porto.

6. Praia da Costa Nova and its colorful houses
   

Located near the city of Aveiro, south of Porto, the village of Costa Nova is a former fishing village celebrated for its magnificently painted houses lining the esplanade: the palheiros. These are distinctive elevated structures that once served as storage spaces for fishing equipment, characterized by bold, colorful stripes. 

Dating from the nineteenth century, these charming houses have been lovingly restored and now serve as residences. You can admire them particularly along the main seafront promenade, Avenida José Estevão.

How to get there? The most convenient way to reach Costa Nova and its beach is by renting a car. Allow approximately 50 minutes drive from Porto.

7. Praia da Madalena, the athletes' beach

Eager to surf or learn to surf? Head to Praia da Madalena, a beach that hosts various water sports competitions and is home to several surf schools. It's also a favorite among beach volleyball enthusiasts. 

The site features hiking trails and a cycling path. For those preferring to simply relax, the expansive sandy beach offers plenty of space to unwind. Note that the southern section contains more rocky outcrops. 

How to get there? You can reach Praia da Madalena from Porto by bus (45 minutes on line 906) or by car (approximately 25 minutes drive).

8. Praia de Leça da Palmeira and the pools designed by architect Alvaro Siza

Located just north of Porto, directly across from Matosinhos harbor, Praia de Leça da Palmeira is far from an ordinary beach. You'll either love it or find it intriguing. The reason: it presents an unusual blend of industrial landscapes, historic structures and striking contemporary architecture. 

On one side, you'll spot the cranes and storage tanks of an oil refinery; on the other, the seventeenth-century Leça da Palmeira fortress and the impressive Farol da Boa Nova, Porto's lighthouse. The beach is particularly known for the Piscinas de Marés, two innovative swimming pools designed by architect Alvaro Siza and ingeniously carved into the rocks at the beach's edge.

How to get there? You can reach Leça da Palmeira beach from Porto city center by metro (30 to 40 minutes on line A), bus (approximately 20 minutes on line 500), or car (approximately 10-15 minutes).