When temperatures permit, Lisbonites flock to the beach for the day. For those wishing to cross the bridge and head south, Costa da Caparica is a popular destination. For those who don’t, the linha de Cascais (the beaches that separate Lisbon from Cascais), Praia do Guincho and Ericeira, are the obvious choices. There’s no bad option; it all depends on what you’re looking for. But there’s another, lesser known spot that I absolutely love and highly recommend: Lagoa de Albufeira.
The Lagoa de Albufeira (not to be confused with the city of Albufeira in the Algarve) can be found south of the river from Lisbon, between Costa da Caparica and the seaside town of Sesimbra. It is a unusual area because it’s a freshwater lagoon that meets a salt water beach on the Atlantic coast. Lagoa de Albufeira is popular with families with kids because the lagoon is shallow and doesn’t have rough waves. And if you go to the very end of the lagoon toward the ocean, the lagoon breaks up into intricate little streams that form islets, which are absolutely charming. The little streams of crystal clear water are fun for small children to explore; and they’re perfect to cool your feet if you don’t feel like swimming. Where the water is shallow, it is also warm – a nice change from the colder temperatures of the Atlantic! But just like the ocean, Lagoa de Albufeira is home to small fish and other marine life, like seagulls and herons.
Lagoa de Albufeira is a popular destination for sports enthuasiasts: you’ll usually find many people kite surfing, windsurfing, and paddle boarding (in Portugal, it’s called SUP or standup paddle) on the lagoon. However, during the summer high season, you’re only allowed to practice these in designated areas of the lagoon. The ocean is separated from the lagoon by a stretch of sand, except at certain times of year when they join up. Here, in the ocean, you’ll find kite surfers, surfers, skim boarders, and body boarders (all year round without restrictions, to this author’s knowledge). If you’re interested in trying any of these sports, there are kite surfing schools; kayak and SUP rentals; and other activities.
I personally love that Lagoa de Albufeira is dog-friendly, and many people take their dogs with them for the day (and is there anything better than seeing dogs at the beach?). There are a few restaurants and cafés along the lagoon, all the way down to the shore, so if you plan to eat while you’re there, research your options (including opening hours) and park close to your preferred location.
For the best experience, I recommend going during the week (but not on national holidays), when locals are working. It will mean less traffic for you on the way to and from the beach; easier parking; and fewer crowds on the beach. Alternatively, go outside of the peak summer months, but while the weather is still warm. I highly recommend spending some time exploring the lagoon area, and also taking a stroll along the coast: the grandeur of the ocean makes for a beautiful contrast to the serenity of the lagoon.
