7 Best Beaches in Ericeira, Portugal for Every Traveller

When most people think of Portugal’s coastline, their minds go straight to the Algarve. But if you’re chasing wild Atlantic waves, pastel-sunset skies, and a town that oozes laid-back charm, Ericeira should be your next stop.

I’ve been lucky enough to spend a total of three weeks in this surf-centric town, and let me tell you, Ericeira lives up to the hype. Whether you’re here to surf your heart out, unwind with a poke bowl and a sea view, or just enjoy the best beach bars with a glass of sangria in hand, there’s a stretch of sand here that’s got your name on it.

In this post, I’m breaking down the best beaches in Ericeira, and not just generically. I’m sharing exactly what kind of traveller each one suits best, as someone who has visited every beach on this list.

Looking for the best beach in Ericeira for families? Got it. Need to know where to surf in Ericeira as a beginner? I’ve got that covered too.

This is not a list based on stock photos. These are beaches I’ve walked, surfed, lounged, and loved. So if you’re planning a trip and want honest, on-the-ground advice from a fellow over-30s solo female traveller, let’s dive in.

Ready to find your perfect patch of Portuguese sand? Let’s dive in.

The Best Beaches In Ericeira

Every beach in Ericeira has its own vibe. Some beaches are made for lazy swims, others for surf sessions or sunset beers. Here’s my take on the best ones, and who they’re best for.

✈️ Planning to surf, hike, or road trip in Portugal? Don’t forget travel insurance. I use SafetyWing for all my adventures. It’s designed for flexible travellers and covers the essentials without overcomplicating things.

Praia dos Pescadores – Best for Convenience & Quick Dips

If you’re staying right in the heart of Ericeira, Praia dos Pescadores is by far the most accessible beach. I found myself gravitating here on days when I didn’t want to fuss with long walks because sometimes you just want to feel the sand between your toes without a whole mission to get there.

It might not win awards for beauty compared to some of the more rugged Atlantic coast beaches in Portugal, but what it lacks in drama, it absolutely makes up for in ease.

This beach is just a 3-minute stroll from the centre of town, making it the perfect pit stop between co-working sessions, errands, or coffee breaks. I wouldn’t plan an entire beach day here as it’s compact and can get busy, but for a spontaneous sun session or a quick swim? It’s ideal.

And if you’re anything like me and can’t resist a beach bar with character, Kayak Bar is a dangerously good hangout. One sangria turned into three, and before I knew it, I was still there at sunset (zero regrets though).

While you’re in the area, don’t miss Casa da Fernanda just above the beach. Their Ouriços (Ericeira’s signature pastry) are pure vanilla-spongy heaven.

Best for:

• Short-term visitors needing an easy beach win
• Digital nomads craving a low-effort midday reset
• Anyone wanting a no-hassle swim spot in the centre of town

Praia do Sul (Baleia) – Best Beach in Ericeira for Families

If you’re after a beach that’s easy to reach and doesn’t feel overly busy, Praia do Sul (also known as Praia da Baleia) is a solid choice. It’s just a short walk south of Ericeira’s town centre, and there’s plenty of space to spread out, especially on weekdays.

The bay is naturally sheltered, which means the water tends to stay calm. It’s a good option if you’re not a confident swimmer or are visiting with kids. During peak season, you’ll also find lifeguards on duty, which adds a bit of reassurance.

And for those learning to surf, it’s one of the better beginner surf spots in Ericeira. You’ll get gentle waves without the intensity of the more famous breaks.

One of my favourite routines here was grabbing a coffee at Balagan (which is one of the best cafes/restaurants in Ericeira) in the mornings, and it became a bit of a ritual for me. The view overlooks the beach, and it’s a great spot to sit back and watch the day kick off. Surfers heading out, dog walkers along the cliffs, it’s a relaxed scene and a great way to ease into the day.

Make sure to stick around the area as the sun goes down. Praia do Sul is one of the best places in Ericeira to catch a proper sunset, especially in the shoulder seasons when the beach clears out a bit earlier.

Best for:

• Families wanting calmer water and a lifeguarded beach
• Beginner surfers who want to stay close to town
• Travellers looking for a scenic spot with good coffee and sunset views

Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas – Best Beach in Ericeira for Intermediate & Pro Surfers

If you’re into surfing, Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas is probably already on your radar. It’s one of the most well-known Ericeira surf beaches, and a regular stop on the World Surf League tour.

The setup here is solid, plenty of parking, a wide sandy stretch, and consistent waves that draw surfers from all over. While beginners do come here, it’s best suited to intermediate and advanced riders who are comfortable navigating a busier lineup.

It’s a short drive or cycle from the centre of town, and definitely worth the effort. I stayed in four different places during my time in Ericeira, and when I was based at Ocean House, I made a habit of heading here in the mornings.

There’s a quiet stretch if you walk a bit further along the sand, great for some space and, in my case, a bit of relaxing meditation.

Later in the day, Ribeira turns into one of my go-to sunset spots in Ericeira. There’s something about watching the sun dip behind the Atlantic while surfers catch the last waves of the day that just hits differently. And if you’re anything like me and love a bit of photography, this is a great place and time of day to do it.

Best for:

• Intermediate and advanced surfers are after a reliable break
• Travellers with a car or staying nearby
• Anyone after a scenic, slightly less touristy sunset spot

Praia de São Lourenço – Best for Family Surf Days

Just a little further north of Ribeira d’Ilhas, Praia de São Lourenço offers a quieter, more laid-back alternative. It’s one of the more spacious and relaxed Ericeira coastal beaches, which makes it a great choice if you’re looking to skip the crowds.

The beach slopes gently into the water, which helps soften the waves, which is ideal if you’re introducing kids to the ocean (I even saw a school class on this beach) or just prefer something less intense. It’s still a popular spot for surfers, but the atmosphere here is much more chilled.

I found it especially good for slower beach days when I wanted to stay out of the centre and take things a bit more chilled.

There’s a decent-sized car park close to the sand, which makes it an easy option if you’ve got a full beach set up with you. The beach bar on-site keeps things simple but convenient, and it’s got a solid view.

Best for:

• Surfing families looking for mellow waves and space to spread out
• Travellers with a car who want a slower pace
• Anyone after a low-key beach day with facilities nearby

Praia de Foz do Lizandro – Best Beach in Ericeira for Beginner Surfers

One of the best things to do in Ericeira is surf, and if you’re just starting out with surfing, Praia de Foz do Lizandro is one of the best beginner-friendly beaches in Ericeira.

The wide bay, soft sandy bottom, and consistent, gentle waves make it a go-to for first-time surfers. It’s no surprise this is where most of the local surf schools run their lessons.

When I was staying in Ericeira, I noticed how often surf camps like Salty Pelican brought their students here. Even if you’re not staying with them, you’ll find plenty of instructors offering drop-in lessons and gear rentals right on the beach.

If you’re keen to learn from experienced local coaches, this Ericeira surf lesson experience is a great way to get started on the same waves that make this town famous.

But Foz isn’t just for surfers. It’s also one of the more social and foodie-friendly beaches near Lisbon, with a long wooden boardwalk, great cafés, and solid spots for remote work. The vibe here is laid-back but lively. You’ll see digital nomads tapping away on laptops next to locals sipping coffee after a surf.

And if you’re hungry post-surf? Indigo Ericeira does an excellent poke bowl (probably one of the best ones I’ve had in a long time).

Best for:

• Beginner surfers learning the ropes
• Foodies and digital nomads (good Wi-Fi, great cafés)
• Anyone after a full-day beach with easy access and plenty of amenities

Praia de São Sebastião & Praia do Matadouro – Best for Local Vibes & Close Surf

Just north of Ericeira’s centre, Praia de São Sebastião and Praia do Matadouro sit next to each other on a rugged stretch of coast. They’re both within walking distance from town, which makes them ideal if you’re staying central and want to surf without needing a car.

These beaches tend to be quieter than the more famous spots, giving them a more local, lived-in feel. You’ll often find surfers here who are based in Ericeira for the season or long-term. The waves can be punchy and a bit unpredictable, so they’re best for confident beginners or intermediates who are comfortable navigating reefy sections and shifting peak; even so, the surf schools do still take students here. 

What I like about this area is how low-key it is. There aren’t any flashy beach clubs or big bars—just a simple, natural coastline where the surf scene does the talking. You’ll see a mix of locals, expats, and a few clued-in travellers who’ve strayed off the typical Lisbon day trip path.

Best for:

• Surfers after a low-key, central break with some challenge
• Travellers based in town who want to avoid beach crowds
• Anyone after a more local, authentic Ericeira beach experience

FAQs About The Best Beaches In Ericeira

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Beach for You

With so many beautiful beaches in Ericeira, choosing where to lay your towel or catch your next wave can feel like a (very pleasant) challenge. So here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you decide:

• Best for families: Praia do Sul (Baleia) and Praia dos Pescadores
• Best for beginner surfers: Praia de Foz do Lizandro
• Best for experienced surfers: Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas
• Best for sunsets: Praia do Sul and Ribeira d’Ilhas
• Best for foodies: Foz do Lizandro (hello, poke bowls at Indigo!)
• Best for walkability: Praia dos Pescadores and São Sebastião / Matadouro

But if you had to ask me what I would consider to be the best beaches in Ericeira? Praia do Sul (Baleia) stole the show for my coffee-filled mornings at Balagan, and Ribeira d’Ilhas was hands-down my go-to for peaceful, golden sunsets that felt like the perfect close to the day.

Want to experience the waves for yourself? Book a spot on this Ericeira surf lesson experience and surf in the heart of Portugal’s World Surf Reserve.

No matter your vibe (surf, sangria, or slow travel), there’s a beach in Ericeira waiting for you. And if you’re planning your trip, don’t miss my guides to the best things to do in Ericeira and top restaurants in town.