secret beaches
Shh, don't tell anyone else...
Up and down the coast there are many well-known beaches. But there are also plenty of lesser-known sandy expanses that attract little attention from the crowds. These beaches can be a haven even in the height of the season. In many of the more remote locations there are rough parking spaces where it is possible to camp. Watch the sunset or catch an empty morning wave. Many of these beaches are right next to much more popular spots. Seek and you shall find.
The whole of the Alentejo coast is a great place to escape the crowds. There are some facilities at Arrifana with a couple of great nearby surf schools. You’ll also find impressive waves on the beach and a rocky righthand point. Going north reduces the crowds even further.
North of Ericeira near Ribamar lies Coxos. This break is certainly not a secret, but on its day is a world-class spectacle. The less experienced should come to watch but don't try to paddle out unless you are prepared to pay your respects to the locals or the rocks that this fierce wave breaks on.
Foz de Lizandro is a less crowded alternatives to some of the Ericeira beaches. There's a large car park up the hill that becomes a free temporary surf village in the summer. There are also facilities and cafes aplenty, and it’s great for a low tide lefthander.
Just over the hill from the hustle and bustle of Ribeira D'Illas lies its much less celebrated (but equally pleasant) brother, boasting excellent waves, especially towards low tide, and almost no crowds.
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It has a van friendly car park and some facilities in the summer.