TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN COSTA DA CAPARICA
Costa da Caparica is a quaint beach area that is an extremely popular destination with Lisboetas during the summer. As Costa da Caparica is close to Lisbon (just on the other side of the famous 25 de abril bridge) and is easily reached by public transportation, it’s the perfect day trip or short side trip to take while visiting Lisbon.
Costa da Caparica is well-known for its surf schools and vibrant restaurants/nightclubs right along the boardwalk. There are many beaches separated by small jetties so pick the beach that you like best to set down your towel and don’t forget sunscreen! The Portuguese sun can be intense especially during the summer.
This blog post is about the top 10 things to do in Costa da Caparica and includes where to eat, where to stay, when to go and fun paid experiences in Costa da Caparica.
More About Costa da Caparica
Costa da Caparica, located just a short drive from the city of Almada and Lisbon, is a great place for anyone looking to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. One of the best things about this coastal gem is its beautiful beaches, stretching for miles along the Atlantic coast. Popular spots like Praia da Mata and Praia da Rainha are perfect for relaxing on the golden sands, while Praia Nova offers a quieter retreat, especially during the low season. For nature lovers, the area is surrounded by pine forests and eucalyptus trees, providing a refreshing natural environment just a stone’s throw away from the bustling town of Caparica. Whether you’re into sunbathing, strolling through the woods, or just soaking in the peaceful scenery, Costa da Caparica has it all.
During the summer months, the beaches become a popular spot for both locals and tourists, especially those interested in water sports like surfing and kitesurfing. After a day in the sun, the beach bars offer a great place to unwind with a drink as the sun sets. For those interested in exploring more, the iconic Cristo Rei statue is just across the Tagus River, offering panoramic views of Lisbon. Another favorite spot in Almada is Casa da Cerca and then taking the Elevador Panorâmico da Boca to the riverfront.
Visiting the local markets in the town center of Caparica is another highlight, where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs. The best time to visit Costa da Caparica is in late spring or early autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the beaches are less crowded, allowing you to truly enjoy one of the best places on Portugal’s coast.
Hot Tip:
While it’s not absolutely necessary to have a car to get around Costa da Caparica, it’s extremely handy to have one. It makes it much easier to visit the wooden walking trails and Fonte da Telha. We always use Discover Cars to rent vehicles and have been really happy with their services. Here’s the link if you’d like to rent a car: DISCOVER CARS
WHAT TO DO IN COSTA DA CAPARICA – TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN COSTA DA CAPARICA
Take a Surfing Class
There are numerous surfing schools all along the boardwalk at Costa da Caparica. They offer classes for all age levels and skill levels. Since there are many jetties, the surf doesn’t seem as aggressive as other beaches in Portugal so this is a good area for kids to learn how to surf. Click HERE for the experience.
Walk along the boardwalk
We like to start near Trafaria where the Tejo river meets the Atlantic ocean and walk all the way south until the boardwalk ends. This walk takes an hour, or more, depending on how often you stop to enjoy the views.
Lay down your towel and spend the day at the beach
We like to take our soccer ball and paddles/ball to play some sports on the beach. When we get too hot, we go into the frigid ocean to cool down. It’s wise to bring a beach umbrella or some sort of shade to prevent sunburn.
Check out the adorable little town square
The main tourist street is Rua dos Pescadores. If you take the bus from Lisbon to Costa da Caparica, you will disembark near this street and then walk this street until you reach the beach. You’ll find many tourist shops and restaurants in this area.
Vegan Paradise – Top 10 things to do in costa da caparica
Eat at one of the 2 fully Vegan Restaurants
Costa da Caparica is super fortunate to have 2 100% vegan restaurants! My favorite is Bone Free, especially their tacos, but the other two are also quite good. You could spend all day at the beach and eat at Mr. Vegan for lunch and Bone Free for dinner.
Check out the sunset and then party at one of the beachside nightclubs
If you are staying in town, you must catch the beautiful sunset with the vibrant pink and orange tones. And after the sun has set, you’re walking distance to any of the nightclubs on the beach.
What to do near Costa da Caparica
Convento Dos Capuchos
With a view from the cliff tops of Costa da Caparica, this former convent is a fantastic place to visit and relish the view. Currently, this monument functions as an event space and an exhibition gallery. It’s easiest to reach this location by vehicle.
Fonte da Telha
If you have a car, it’s much easier to reach Fonte da Telha, but it is possible to reach via bus and walking. As it’s more difficult to reach, the beaches are less crowded and have a more local feel. Like the Costa da Caparica beaches, Fonte da Telha has large, wide beaches with soft golden sand and has a plethora of restaurants and cafes to enjoy the view. If it’s a windy day, this is the perfect location to watch the brave windsurfers.
Check out the village of Trafaria
This is a quaint little village filled with narrow streets and alleyways on the bank of the Tejo River, almost where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean. It makes for an interesting couple of hours to learn about the history of the village and walk along the riverbank.
Paisagem Protegida da Arriba Fóssil da Costa da Caparica
If you’re looking for stunning views of the beach, this is the perfect place to go for a hike. This is a protected landscape of coastal plains and fossil cliffs with heavenly-smelling pine forest trails and magnificent sunset views.
Mata dos Medos (one of my favorite places in Portugal)
Visiting Mata dos Medos from Costa da Caparica offers a wonderful opportunity to explore a tranquil, natural haven just a short distance from the town. Located within the Arriba Fóssil da Costa nature reserve, this vast pine forest is perfect for nature lovers looking to escape the bustling beach scene. The Mata dos Medos is crisscrossed with trails, ideal for hiking, cycling, or simply strolling beneath the shade of ancient pines and eucalyptus trees. As you wander through the forest, you’ll encounter breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the long coastline of sandy beaches that define the region. The area’s peacefulness, combined with its natural beauty, makes it an ideal half-day trip for those seeking a mix of forest and sea, and it’s easily accessible from Costa da Caparica.
Beautiful Costa da Caparica
Costa da Caparica is a charming coastal town that has become a popular, yet somewhat hidden gem. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, the Portuguese people here embrace the laid-back beach lifestyle, attracting young people with its surf culture and vibrant nightlife. With its great view of the Atlantic Ocean and the amazing views from the nearby cliffs, Costa da Caparica offers a stunning backdrop for relaxation and adventure. While its coastline of Costa da Caparica is famous for its long sandy beaches, the town also has historical sites that add a touch of cultural richness to this seaside retreat. Fun fact, Costa da Caparica’s beaches are some of the longest in Portugal, making it a perfect spot for beach lovers!
WHERE TO EAT IN COSTA DA CAPARICA
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Bone Free – this is my favorite vegan restaurant in Costa da Caparica. The Mexican-inspired 100% vegan food is flavorful and super creative.
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Mr. Vegan – this vegan restaurant is a bit farther away from the beaches, but has a delicious daily menu special.
WHERE TO STAY IN COSTA DA CAPARICA
- 5th Element Beach House – perfect location and interesting decor, Click HERE for reservations
- Blue Point – super comfy 2 bedroom apartment near the beach, Click HERE
- Paradise – highly rated 1 bedroom apartment with fantastic ocean views, Click HERE
- TRYP by Wyndham – perfect location + beach view on a budget, Click HERE
- Lisbon Ocean Apartments – spacious one-bedroom apartment right downtown, Click HERE
FUN PAID EXPERIENCES
- Surf School – take surfing classes from certified professionals – SURFING CLASS
- Surfing + Yoga – a delightful day of yoga and surfing with a beautiful setting
- Costa da Caparica Bodyboarding experience – how fun is this?? Click HERE
- Kitesurfing experience – try your hand at this exhilarating sport, HERE
- Airport transfer in private vehicle from Lisbon to Costa da Caparica, click HERE
WHEN TO GO TO COSTA DA CAPARICA
It’s always a good time to go to Costa da Caparica. Any time the sun is out, Costa da Caparica warrants a visit! The high season is June-September and it’s also the highest temps at that time. If you go during the summer, definitely try to arrive early as the beaches get very crowded. Hot tip: many locals prefer to go to the beach after lunch around 3:00 p.m. so if you arrive earlier in the day, it will be less crowded.
The best time to visit Costa da Caparica is during late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) when the weather is warm and pleasant, but the beaches are less crowded compared to the peak summer months. During this time, you can enjoy the long stretch of sandy beaches and beach bars in a more relaxed atmosphere, with mild temperatures perfect for outdoor activities like surfing or hiking in the nearby Mata dos Medos. The low season also offers a quieter experience while still providing plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for a peaceful beach escape.
More Places Near Costa da Caparica to Visit
Lagoa de Albufeira
Located just south of Costa da Caparica in Portugal, is a beautiful lagoon surrounded by dunes and pine forests, offering a tranquil escape for nature lovers and beachgoers alike. Known for its calm waters, it’s a popular spot for families, windsurfing, and other water sports. The lagoon’s blend of freshwater and saltwater creates a unique ecosystem, making it a favorite destination for birdwatchers as well. Its peaceful setting and scenic beauty make Lagoa de Albufeira a perfect destination for a relaxing day trip.
Cabo Espichel
Located on the western edge of the Setúbal Peninsula in Portugal, is a dramatic headland offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged cliffs. This remote and windswept cape is home to the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Cabo, a historic pilgrimage site with a beautiful church and ancient buildings. Cabo Espichel is also known for its dinosaur fossil footprints, visible in the cliffs, adding a fascinating prehistoric element to the area’s natural beauty. The striking landscape, combined with its cultural and historical significance, makes Cabo Espichel a must-visit destination for those exploring the region.
Serra da Arrabida
This is a stunning mountain range located along the Setúbal Peninsula in Portugal, renowned for its lush Mediterranean vegetation and dramatic cliffs that overlook the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The Arrábida Natural Park, which protects this unique landscape, offers scenic hiking trails, secluded beaches, and panoramic views of the coastline. Its rich biodiversity and peaceful surroundings make it a haven for nature lovers, while its hidden coves, like Praia da Figueirinha and Praia dos Coelhos, are perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat. The combination of natural beauty and serenity makes Serra da Arrábida an unforgettable destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts About Costa da Caparica
Costa da Caparica, Portugal, is the ultimate beach escape for those looking to enjoy a long coastline of sandy beaches just a short distance from Lisbon. The long stretch of the Costa da Caparica coastline offers visitors a variety of experiences, with different beach areas catering to everyone from surfers to families. Whether you’re spending time at the lively São João da Caparica or venturing further south to the more secluded Praia da Fonte da Telha, the best spots along this coast promise sun, sea, and relaxation. The vast Costa da Caparica coastline is ideal for those who want to experience the best of what Portugal’s Atlantic shores have to offer.
Beyond the beaches, Costa da Caparica’s charm extends inland. The historical Capuchos Convent, perched on the cliffs overlooking the town, offers a serene escape with sweeping views of the western side of the Setúbal Peninsula and the southern side of the Tejo River. With its main focus on beach life, the town of Costa da Caparica is well-balanced by cultural and natural landmarks. The proximity to Lisbon makes it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway, combining the allure of the city with the tranquility of the beach. Whether you’re exploring the rustic beauty of Fonte da Telha Beach or simply enjoying the diverse beach areas, Costa da Caparica is a must-visit along Portugal’s stunning coastline.
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THE 5 ITEMS WE WERE SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOR ALL OF OUR TRIPS:
- Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing because they are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful! I also have this pair that I always get compliments on: Merrell Rainbow shoes. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking on cobblestone streets.
- Thermoflask water bottle – like a Hydroflask, but more affordable! We don’t go anywhere without these water bottles full of purified water.
- North Face Aphrodite 2.0 capris – Seriously, I wear these pants every.single.day! I couldn’t live without these ultra-comfy, lightweight pants that dry so quickly. They are 100% worth the money!
- Osprey Day Pack – this is an awesome lightweight backpack! We easily put the belongings we need at hand for traveling around the city and on public transportation.
- Travel-friendly chewable toothpaste tablets – these are so fantastic for keeping your teeth clean on the go!
OUR FAVORITE EUROPEAN SERVICES:
- DISCOVER CARS – If you want to rent a car while you’re in Portugal, then check out Discover Cars. We frequently rent cars and they always have the best prices and great quality vehicles.
- iTalki – do you want to learn some Portuguese before traveling to Portugal? Then, we recommend iTalki. We highly recommend their language services.
- NORD VPN – perfect to use your technology in other countries!
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