Guincho Beach

Praia do Guincho lies on the Atlantic coast just west of Cascais, in a part of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, and it is one of the wildest and most exposed beaches near Lisbon. It is a long stretch of pale sand backed by high dunes, with the dark mass of the Serra de Sintra rising behind and the open ocean in front. The change from the sheltered bays of Cascais to this windswept shore is dramatic, and on a clear day the views along the coast toward Cabo da Roca are impressive.

The beach owes its character to the wind. A steady northerly, known as the nortada, blows across this part of the coast through much of the summer, and the shape of the land funnels it onto the beach. Together with a strong Atlantic swell, this makes Guincho one of the best places in Portugal for windsurfing and kitesurfing, and it has hosted international competitions. Surfers and bodyboarders use the waves, and a surf school on the beach offers lessons and rents equipment. For swimmers, the same conditions bring risks: the water is cold, waves are heavy, and currents can be strong, so it is important to swim only between the flags where lifeguards are on duty and to follow their advice.

On land the setting is pleasant. A cycle path runs from Cascais along the coast to the beach, a ride of around nine kilometres, and the dunes behind are protected. A path crosses them, and signs ask walkers to keep to the marked routes to protect the vegetation. Camping areas, villas, and a few hotels and restaurants lie nearby, including a fort converted into a hotel. Seafood restaurants along the coast road are known for fresh fish and shellfish, and sunsets over the Atlantic from the beach are among the best on this coast.

Guincho has also appeared on screen. The 1969 James Bond film On Her Majesty's Secret Service used the beach for a scene, which is a piece of local trivia that visitors enjoy.

The beach is free and open at all times, and parking is available but fills on summer weekends. Bring a windbreaker, since the wind can be cool even in hot weather, and sun protection. It suits surfers, kite sports fans, cyclists, and those who like dramatic landscapes.