Praia Grande (Sintra coast)

Praia Grande sits on the open Sintra coast in Colares, part of Sintra municipality, about 45 km from Lisbon and 12 km from Sintra town. As the name suggests, it is a large, wide beach directly exposed to the Atlantic, backed by the high cliffs typical of this stretch of coastline, giving it a more dramatic, open feel than the sheltered coves around Cascais. Consistent swell has made it a well-known surf destination, and the beach has periodically hosted surf and bodyboard competitions, drawing a mix of local and visiting surfers. The open exposure means currents and shore break can be stronger than at the calmer town beaches, so casual swimmers are advised to stay close to shore and pay attention to lifeguard flags, which operate during the summer season. Several beach bars and restaurants line the sand, and a sizeable car park sits behind the beach, useful given that public transport options in the area are more limited than along the Cascais rail line; bus 440 connects from Sintra train station but runs only every 30 to 60 minutes. The beach is a short walk or drive from Praia das Macas further up the coast, allowing visitors to combine two Sintra-coast beaches in a single trip. The scale, surf culture and cliff scenery make Praia Grande one of the more striking beaches within day-trip range of Lisbon.