'Europe's Best Beach' Offers Crystal-Clear Water Surrounded By Mountains In Portugal

If you're looking for the perfect beach getaway in Europe, it's time to plan a trip to Praia dos Galapinhos. Europe is home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches, so Europeans have plenty of options when they're in search of a great destination for a beach vacation. The secluded beaches of Portugal are comparable to popular coastal destinations like the French Riviera and the islands of Greece when it comes to natural beauty and gorgeous weather. Praia dos Galapinhos, located just 45 minutes outside of Lisbon, is considered by many to be the country's best beach destination. 

Over the past decade, Portugal's popularity as a beach destination has skyrocketed. It is the westernmost country in continental Europe and has more than 500 miles of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. It used to be somewhat of a hidden gem favored by backpackers and has a lower cost of living than most European nations. The country's gorgeous beaches only add to its popularity. Praia dos Galapinhos is often listed among the top beaches on the continent and was dubbed "Europe's Best Beach" in 2017 by European Best Destinations. Dive into Portugal's breathtaking coastal landscape at Praia dos Galapinhos. 

Lisbon is one of Europe's best cities for a short getaway, and the city attracts hordes of tourists hoping to experience its iconic nightlife, historic sites, delicious food, and vibrant culture. It's affordable and is home to a handful of the world's best hostels, but you'd be remiss if you skipped venturing outside of the city limits to experience some of Portugal's gorgeous beaches and natural scenery. You can easily visit Praia dos Galapinhos on a day trip from Lisbon by renting a car, hiring a taxi, or taking a bus.

Praia dos Galapinhos is nestled within Parque Natural da Arrábida, which is one of the country's most incredible nature preserves. Within the park, you'll feel worlds away from Lisbon's hustle and bustle. The preserve encompasses miles of gorgeous unspoiled coastline and was first established in 1976. Over the years, the secluded beaches within the park have been favored by celebrities, politicians, and royals. Queen Maria II of Portugal and Jacqueline Kennedy are amongst the list of famous travelers. 

The park is located on the Atlantic Ocean and encompasses part of the Serra da Arrábida mountain range. Diverse species of Mediterranean flora and fauna thrive in the region, making this an ideal destination for nature lovers. You'll be able to see the unique Mediterranean shrubs, cork oaks, and pines growing alongside wild herbs like rosemary and thyme. If you're lucky you might even spot animals like the Iberian lynx, the Bonelli's eagle, and the peregrine falcon while hiking or lounging on the golden sands of Praia dos Galapinhos beach.

Praia dos Galapinhos is one of the most beautiful of the hidden coves and beaches within Parque Natural da Arrábida, but getting there requires a little effort. The beach can be accessed from an unmarked trail near a public bus stop, but it's easier to start at Praia dos Galapos. Praia dos Galapos is the larger and more popular beach, and Praia dos Galapinhos is located just over the rocks from there. If you're starting at Praia dos Galapos, the walk to the beach does include stairs. If you're renting a car, you'll have an easier time parking near Creiro Beach, and walking 15 minutes. If you're taking public transportation, you can get off the bus from Lisbon in the town of Setúbal and then hop on another bus to the beaches.

Despite its secluded location, Praia dos Galapinhos has an impressive amount of amenities for beachgoers. During the summer high season, there are lifeguards on duty, and you can rent beach chairs and thatch umbrellas for shade. The waters are usually quite calm so don't expect huge waves favored by extreme surfers like in Nazaré, Portugal's winter surf hot spot. The tranquil ocean is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

If you'd like to stick around for a few extra days of beach time and embark on some of the incredible hikes within the preserve, you'll find plenty of accommodation options in Setúbal which is only a few miles away. There's also a luxury five-star hotel overlooking Parque Natural da Arrábida called Hotel Casa Pamela. This renovated 17th-century estate has rooms, suites, and private country houses. It's perfect for a romantic beach getaway where you won't have to sacrifice your comfort to enjoy the natural beauty.