Praia da Assenta

Torres Vedras, Portugal

Praia das Amoeiras in Santa Cruz became Torres Vedras municipality's first officially designated dog beach in 2020, and it stands out as one of Central Portugal's best-equipped pet-friendly beaches. Located on the seafront of the village of Casais das Amoreiras, this beautiful beach features an extensive strip of golden sand backed by tall ochre cliffs that catch the afternoon light. What truly sets it apart is the municipality's thoughtful investment in dog-specific amenities: charming dog shelters decorated to resemble traditional palheiros — the distinctive wooden fishermen's huts found along the Portuguese coast — provide shade and wind protection. Dedicated drinking water fountains for dogs and waste bag dispensers complete the infrastructure. The beach is rarely crowded with bathers, offering a peaceful experience that feels worlds away from the busier resort beaches further south. The southern section, known as Praia da Varandinha, extends the walking options. The surf at Amoeiras picks up good Atlantic swell, so caution is advised with dogs near the water on bigger wave days. The dramatic cliff backdrop and rock formations make this one of the most scenic dog beaches in Portugal. Access is easy with a parking area nearby, and the Miradouro de Santa Helena viewpoint just above offers panoramic views over the beach and coastline.

Ericeira, Portugal

Tiny unmonitored beach below a chapel-topped cliff in Ericeira, accessed by stairs. Sand disappears at high tide — check tides before visiting.

Torres Vedras, Portugal

Wide 1.2km sandy beach in Maceira parish. Relatively uncrowded.