Guincho Beach: Wild Coast Near Cascais

Guincho is the wild beach of the Lisbon coast: a long sweep of sand and dunes backed by the green Sintra hills, pounded by Atlantic waves and swept by strong winds. It’s a magnet for surfers, windsurfers and kitesurfers, and one of the most beautiful spots near Lisbon.

Quick answer: Guincho is about 10 minutes’ drive from Cascais, along the coast road. Come for the scenery, sunset, surf and kitesurfing, and seafood at the restaurants nearby. Swimming is risky because of strong currents and waves, so only swim if lifeguards are on duty and conditions are calm.

Things to do

• Walk the dunes and the long beach.
• Kitesurfing and windsurfing: the steady wind makes it a top spot for experienced riders.
• Surfing: for confident surfers. Beginners should learn at gentler beaches like Carcavelos. See surf lessons.
• Sunset: one of the best on the coast. See the best sunset spots.
• Seafood: restaurants along the coast road serve fresh fish and shellfish.
• Cycle: the coastal cycle path runs from Cascais to Guincho. See cycling in Portugal.

Getting there

• By car: the easiest way, with parking along the road.
• By bike: the coastal cycle path from Cascais.
• By bus: local buses run from Cascais.

Safety

• Currents: dangerous rip currents. Respect the flags.
• Wind: blowing sand can be unpleasant, so bring a windbreaker.

More: the best beaches near Cascais, Sintra and Cascais in one day and surfing in Portugal.

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