Lisbon is full of beaches to enjoy, and each of them has their own unique flavor. Here are our recommendations for beaches around Lisbon, as well as what books to bring along with you. The ‘praias’ (a.k.a. beaches) range from a short train ride to a day trip from Lisbon, but no matter how long the journey takes, these authors will keep you good company.
Praia de Carcavelos
A 40-minute drive or an hour train ride away from the city center of Lisbon lies Praia de Carcavelos. A popular beach loved by locals and tourists alike, you won’t feel lonely in the water here. Since it’s near a pier, there is no need to pack any food or drinks for the day - you can just take a trip to the cafe to get out of the sun. We recommend finding a spot early in the day so you can enjoy some people-watching in between chapters of “The Age of Magical Overthinking.”
This non-fiction book is the perfect companion on a bustling beach. Author Amanda Montell explores the cognitive biases that plague the modern age, from the halo effect to the sunk cost fallacy, with a sharp wit and dark humor. At the end of the day, it’s a book that calls for hope in humanity and a forgiveness of ourselves. We find that witnessing the human joy ever present at a popular beach helps cut the edge of delving into the subconscious.
Praia de Figueirinha
Popular with locals due its vicinity to the nearby town of Setúbal, this beach is more remote and untouched than the first one. There are restaurants near this beach, but we recommend packing a picnic for yourself so you can stay long enough to take in its full splendor. Located in Arrabida Natural Park, there are opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna outside of the waves. This is a perfect day to wear our Viajera dress due to the fact that it’s water-resistant and has UPF protection. You won’t feel restricted or dowdy while experiencing the nature that Portugal has to offer. In between the relaxation and adventure, you can enjoy the gripping pages of “Sharp Objects.”
Enjoy may be the wrong word, as some have said the experience of reading “Sharp Objects” is more akin to an addiction. Gillian Flynn has a knack for writing thrillers with complicated female leads, and it’s a book that’s impossible to put down. There is something about a peaceful, natural place that goes so well with a murder mystery like this novel. It’s not an easy read. It’s a beach read that will keep you on the edge of your sun chair.
Praia da Ribeira de Cascais
Cascais is a seaside town that gets particularly popular in the summer months. Historically visited by Portuguese nobility, its streets are full of a historic charm. Located within Cascais, this beach’s water is dotted with fishing boats and has plenty of room to tan. Lay out on the beach after a stroll around the city square and enjoy “Euphoria.”
This slim tome is a perfect companion to the historic streets and beaches of this town. Inspired by the life of revolutionary anthropologist Margaret Mead, the novel tells the story of three gifted anthropologists in the 1930s who fall into a love triangle--which will end up consuming you as much as it does the characters.