Things To Do
in Costa de Caparica
Costa de Caparica is a picturesque coastal town in Portugal known for its stunning sandy beaches and vibrant beachfront promenade. The town offers a laid-back atmosphere ideal for relaxing beach holidays, with a variety of water sports available for adrenaline junkies. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese cuisine at the many waterfront restaurants and cafes.
With its beautiful sunsets and charming atmosphere, Costa de Caparica is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
- "olá" - hello
- "obrigado" - thank you
- "por favor" - please
- "desculpe" - excuse me/sorry
- "até logo" - see you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim in the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at a beachside café with views of the sea.
Spend the afternoon sunbathing on the golden sands and enjoying water sports like paddleboarding. Treat yourself to a delicious seafood lunch at a nearby restaurant.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the beach. Dine at a local tavern and sample traditional Portuguese dishes.
Join a surf lesson in the morning to catch some waves at Costa de Caparica's popular surf spots. Enjoy a light breakfast before hitting the beach.
After your lesson, practice your skills and ride the waves. Take a break for a hearty lunch at a beachfront bar.
Wind down with a sunset view from the beach while sipping cocktails. Explore local nightlife at beachfront clubs for some evening entertainment.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches with golden sands and great surf conditions.
- Vibrant beach bars and restaurants offering local cuisine.
- Close proximity to Lisbon (only about 15 km), making it easily accessible for day trips.
- A laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation and leisure activities.
- Natural beauty with scenic coastal landscapes and nearby nature parks.
- Can be crowded during the peak summer season, making it less appealing for those seeking solitude.
- Public transport options can be limited compared to other tourist areas.
- Some beach facilities may vary in quality and cleanliness.
- Limited nightlife compared to Lisbon, which might not satisfy those looking for vibrant night scenes.
- Strong winds can sometimes impact the beach experience and surfing conditions.
Best Activities in Costa de Caparica
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Join locals and tourists for a game of beach volleyball on the sandy shores of Costa de Caparica, where numerous courts are available.
Costa de Caparica is known for its excellent surfing conditions. Take a lesson or rent a board to enjoy the waves.
Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the extensive beachfront promenade, which offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Pack a picnic and relax on the beach, enjoying the sun, sand, and sea with family and friends.
Experience the thrill of windsurfing or kitesurfing, taking advantage of the coastal winds and waves.
Explore the unique sand dunes along the coast, providing a great opportunity for photography and nature walks.
Discover the natural beauty of the area by hiking on trails that wind through coastal vegetation and offer scenic views.
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Atlantic by finding a cozy spot on the beach or at a nearby cafe.
Explore the historic Caparica Monastery for a blend of culture and tranquility amidst beautiful gardens.
Engage in bird watching along the wetlands and dunes, where diverse bird species can be observed throughout the year.
Places to Visit in Costa de Caparica
Visit one of these nice places.
A long stretch of golden sand beach that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, especially at sunset. Ideal for beach photography and capturing surf action.
These rolling hills provide panoramic views of the coast and Lisbon. Perfect for landscape photography and capturing the natural beauty of the area.
A small chapel located on a cliff with breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline, making it a great spot for unique photographs.
Along the train line from Caparica to Cascais, there are numerous scenic overlooks where you can capture stunning coastal views.
This beach is known for its beautiful sunset views. It is a perfect location to photograph the sky changing colors as the sun sets over the horizon.
A beautiful estate with gardens and open fields that provide a picturesque backdrop for nature photography, and views of the nearby coastline.
A wooden boardwalk that stretches along the beach, offering unique perspectives for beach photography and casual strolls with great photo opportunities.
Food in Costa de Caparica
Costa de Caparica Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful seafood stew made with garlic, coriander, and bread, enriched with prawns, clams, and other seafood delicacies. It's a must-try for seafood lovers. Enjoy it at Restaurante O Barbas.
Must-Try!
Grilled sardines, a staple of Portuguese cuisine, seasoned with sea salt and served with a side of salad or potatoes. Savour these at the beachfront restaurants like Marisqueira Charneco.
Portugal's famous custard tarts with flaky pastry and creamy custard filling, best enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Taste the authentic ones at Manteigaria Lisboa in the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers a range of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Sample the grilled fish and traditional snacks from the market stalls for an authentic street food experience.
Discover various food stalls along the beach offering grilled seafood, bifanas (pork sandwiches), and refreshing drinks, creating a relaxed and festive atmosphere by the sea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Costa de Caparica, it is common to greet people with a handshake, and among friends and family, a kiss on both cheeks is typical. Maintain a respectful distance while conversing; personal space is valued.
When dining, wait for the host to invite you to start eating. It's polite to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) and to finish everything on your plate as a sign of appreciation for the meal.
While Costa de Caparica is a beach town and casual attire is acceptable, dressing modestly when visiting local shops, restaurants, or formal settings is advised. Beachwear should be reserved for the beach area.
Safety
Tipping in Costa de Caparica
Ensure a smooth experience
In Costa de Caparica, tipping is generally appreciated but not obligatory. It is common to leave a small tip (around 5-10%) in restaurants, especially if the service was satisfactory. In cafes and bars, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is a typical practice. Tipping taxi drivers is also common but not mandatory, and locals often round up the fare.
Most establishments in Costa de Caparica accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops and markets. The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Many places also offer contactless payment options. It's worth checking if smaller cafes or beach bars prefer cash, as they may have lower card processing capabilities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Costa de Caparica. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C. The beaches are less crowded, and wildflowers bloom, making the scenery vibrant. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season. Expect warm to hot weather, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C. The beaches are bustling with tourists, and various festivals and events take place. This is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports, but be prepared for larger crowds.
Autumn (September to November) offers pleasant weather similar to spring, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 25°C. The summer crowds begin to thin out, making it a peaceful time to visit. September is still warm enough for beach activities, while later months provide great opportunities for exploring local culture and cuisine.
Winter (December to February) sees cooler temperatures averaging between 10°C to 15°C. While it's not beach weather, winter in Costa de Caparica is quieter, allowing for a more relaxed experience. You can explore the coastal trails, enjoy local restaurants, and experience Portuguese culture without the rush of tourists.
Costa de Caparica at Night
Hiking in Costa de Caparica
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque beach with stunning cliffs, located near Cabo da Roca, offering hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
A protected area with unique geological formations, featuring several trails along the cliffs that provide scenic vistas and access to various beach coves.
A natural park with diverse ecosystems, offering numerous hiking paths, ranging from coastal views to lush forested areas, ideal for both seasoned hikers and casual walkers.
A dramatic coastal area featuring a stunning lighthouse and panoramic views, with several hiking routes that lead to the cliffs and beaches below.
A vast natural park that includes a variety of hiking trails through mountains, forests, and along the coastline, showcasing the incredible natural beauty of the region.
Aiports
How to reach Costa de Caparica by plane.
The main international airport serving Lisbon and the surrounding area, located approximately 19 km from Costa de Caparica.
An international airport located in Faro, around 260 km south of Costa de Caparica, serving the Algarve region.
An international airport located in Porto, about 310 km north of Costa de Caparica, serving as a major international gateway to northern Portugal.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Costa de Caparica, representing the native citizens of Portugal.
A significant community primarily from countries like Poland and Romania, contributing to the local workforce.
Contains a considerable number of Brazilian nationals, often due to historical connections and migration patterns.
Includes individuals from various African countries, particularly from Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde.
A smaller group of residents who have moved to Costa de Caparica from Spain.
This group consists of residents from other EU countries, including France, Italy, and the UK.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Costa de Caparica is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, attracting surfers from all over the world due to its consistent waves and beautiful beaches.
This area is popular for beach volleyball tournaments and casual games, taking advantage of the sandy beaches and vibrant beach culture.
Windsurfing is a favored sport here, benefiting from the coastal winds and making the beach a hotspot for enthusiasts.
Football is immensely popular among locals, with numerous amateur clubs and informal games taking place in parks and beaches.
Cycling along the coastal paths is a popular activity, with many trails offering scenic views of the beach and ocean.
The beachfront promenade is ideal for running and jogging, providing a scenic route for fitness enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Costa de Caparica.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Costa de Caparica cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences. Look for dishes like vegetable casseroles, grilled vegetables, and vegan pastries at places such as Casa da Sereia and A Merendeira.
While traditional Portuguese cuisine heavily features bread and pastries, some establishments like Restaurante Ponte Pedra and Marisqueira Charneco offer gluten-free alternatives and are accommodating to gluten-free diets upon request.