The golden sands, the pure Atlantic waters and the coastline with magnificent cliffs turn the Sintra beaches into real pleasure spots. Besides bathing and the radiant summer sun, the Sintra beaches also afford superb conditions for water sports, while the cliffs provide paragliding lovers with excellent jumping ramps. Fishing, surfing and body-board are among the sports most commonly practiced along the Sintra coastline.

Most Sintra beaches are of a high quality, both regarding water tests and infrastructures. Besides the best-known beaches - Grande, Magoito, Maçãs and Adraga - there are others which are true paradises that should not be missed.

The Atlantic coast is rich in marine species, both animal and vegetable. Among the molluscs, for example, are octopus, cuttlefish and squid, mussels, limpets, clams and barnacles, among others. The crustaceans found here include various kinds of crab, including spider and rock crabs, lobster and rock lobster, the last two in zones further from the coast.

The location of international windsurf competitions, with excellent conditions for all kinds of radical sports such as Surfing, Body Board, Para-gliding and Hand-gliding. With good access and facilities Guincho beach lies in an exceptionally beautiful zone of sand, dunes and pine forests.

Windsurf
Internationally known as one of the best windsurfing spots in the world and visited annually by hundreds of windsurfers from all over the world. Guincho beach offers such exceptional conditions that the PWA annually holds one of its heats there. Come and check out one of the most radical spots in Europe, a medium to good level of skill is advised. Aerial Surf School also offers equipment for hire with or without instruction.

Body Board
A sport that has attracted millions of people world wide due to the relative ease with it can be learnt and the fun it gives in a variety of sea conditions. Come and try this too at Aerial Surf School where you can also have lessons or hire all the equipment you need.

Surfing
For the surfer who wants to experience one of the best surf spots in Portugal. The sandy bottom, clean water and fast and powerful waves, make this an unforgettable beach break.
Come and learn how to surf on a file day course at Aerial Surf School with qualified and experienced instructors and all equipment provided.

Adraga Beach - The access to the Praia da Adraga is made by a winding road and can only be done by car, descending mountains which make you doubt there is a beach below. However, some minutes away from Colares, the fascinated visitor discovers, between two enormous hills, the deep blue of the Adraga sea. Despite all this, it is extremely popular, and it is always difficult to find a place to park your car: so please be patient. The site is extremely beautiful, with both mountain and beach sceneries. Besides the stretch of sand there is a homely restaurant which satisfies all visitors´ gastronomical needs.
Azenhas do Mar - Has a seawater swimming pool.

Adraga Beach

Praia Grande is justifiably known as a Portuguese capital for water sports, like bodyboard. European and world championships are held each year on this beach, as well as stages in the best known circuits of the sport. For weeks on end Praia Grande sees the world's best, who take advantage of the unique waves on that beach. Next to Praia Grande is the smaller beach of Praia Pequeno.
Ursa is a little beach many consider to be "the most beautiful beach in Portugal". Unpolluted and clean, nudists and textiles share its sand stretches among rocks in a quite and friendly way. The sea is cold and there is no drinking water, but you can spend hours exploring the shores and cliffs around. Allow a good half hour for the climb back up to your car. No facilities.

Praia do Magoito

Praia das Maçãs - If you’re in a romantic mood as you travel to the beach, you can catch a hundred-year-old tram in Sintra that will take you to Praia das Maçãs through some fascinating countryside. The golden sand, clear sea and restaurants on the small cliff all combine to ensure a pleasant day out.
Praia da Aguda - small and peaceful with large parking area though access to beach is by steep set of stairs which are quite nerve racking for those who suffer from vertigo. No facilities.
Praia do Magoito - A small seaside resort at the mouth of the river Magoito. Plenty of facilities, restaurants and cafés.