Praia de Meco

Praia de Meco is a long, open Atlantic beach near the village of Aldeia do Meco in Sesimbra municipality, about 50 km south of Lisbon. Unlike the sheltered coves of the nearby Arrabida coast, Meco faces the open ocean directly, giving it a wilder character with dunes, low cliffs and a wide sandy strand that runs for a considerable distance. Surf is often stronger here than at the town beaches, which draws surfers, while the beach is also home to one of the region's best-known naturist sections at its north end, with the main southern stretch remaining clothed. The atmosphere is relaxed and alternative rather than resort-like, with a beach bar near the car park providing food and drink through the afternoon into sunset, when the open west-facing coast offers dramatic views over the Atlantic. There is no practical public bus connection from Lisbon, so a car is effectively required, with the drive taking about 50 minutes via the A2 and IC1 towards Sesimbra. Facilities are limited to the car park and beach bar; the sand itself is largely undeveloped, and sun protection or a beach shade is worth bringing given the exposure. Meco's combination of surf, dunes and a countercultural, free-spirited crowd sets it apart from the more manicured beaches closer to Lisbon.