Praia de Sao Sebastiao

Torres Vedras, Portugal

Small cliff-sheltered beach historically used as a harbour for artisanal fishing boats.

Sintra, Portugal

Praia do Magoito is a spectacular wild beach set beneath towering cliffs in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, about 30 minutes from Ericeira and an hour north of Lisbon. The beach features a long stretch of golden sand backed by dramatic sandstone cliffs that glow warm orange in the afternoon sun. The non-concessioned sections of the beach welcome dogs year-round, making it a favourite destination for dog owners in the Sintra and Lisbon area who want a wilder, less crowded alternative to the beaches closer to the capital. The beach has some infrastructure at the main access point: a car park on the cliff top, toilets, showers, and two restaurants near the parking area (including the popular Esplanada Duna Mar). Lifeguards patrol during the bathing season on the main concessioned section. For dog owners, the key is to head away from the lifeguarded zone to the non-concessioned stretches where dogs can explore the rocks, dunes, and sand in peace. At low tide, interesting rock formations and tidal pools appear, providing natural entertainment for curious dogs. The waves here can be powerful — this is Atlantic surfing territory — so supervise dogs carefully in the water. The surrounding Natural Park offers additional cliff-top walking trails with stunning views of the coast.

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.