‘Perfect for a caipirinha and sunset’: readers’ favourite beaches of Portugal | Portugal holidays

Winning tip: Lazy river, roaring waves, western Algarve

Every time I emerge from the dunes and see the endless expanse of sand along the winding river my heart sings. Praia da Amoreira sits on the Algarve’s wilder, western coastline, near the town of Aljezur but, unlike the region’s many glorious beaches, this is a beach with a split personality. Set up camp along the broad sandy banks of the Ribeira de Aljezur as it makes its sweeping escape into the Atlantic. An idyllic stroll westward takes you from tranquil cliffside curves out into the roaring force of the Atlantic – a surfer’s dream. But the greatest pleasure is the river itself – hop in and let the water gently carry you on a lazy river like no other.
Robin Dear

White sand alcove, south of Lisbon

My favourite beach in the world is Portinho da Arrábida near Setúbal. This is a small alcove-like beach, south of Lisbon in Arrábida national park. Its relative inaccessibility has protected it so far from overcrowding. To reach it you pass through some truly beautiful hilly green scenery. The beach is of fine white sand and there’s a desert island about 200 metres offshore to swim to. It’s best in May and June, out of the holiday season.
Pedro Santos

Dramatic cliffs, near Sintra

We love Praia da Adraga on the Atlantic coast, 19km north of Cascais, and easily accessible (by car) from historic Sintra. It’s a wonderful place to escape the summer crowds. Somewhat more sheltered than nearby Guincho, yet still great for surfers, it combines dramatic cliff scenery and golden sands studded with black volcanic rock formations reminiscent of semi-submerged dragons. Though it feels off the beaten tourist track, there’s a spacious car park, toilets and showers, a little shop and a delightful restaurant (dine in and takeaway).
RJA

Books and octopus, south of Lisbon

Praia do Carvalhal, near Comporta, is just over an hour’s drive from Lisbon. A family I was staying with drove me there to show me the benefits of not heading for beaches too near the capital. It’s not usually crowded and has a lovely stretch of white sand curving round a sheltered turquoise sea where you can swim easily. There is even a small library on a rustic terrace where visitors of all nationalities can leave or take beach books, often novels that have been read while sunbathing. Try the seafood at the casual restaurant Dinis: it’s…