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Unwind at Portugal’s Tranquil Beaches and Towns
As summer is on our minds, we’re thinking of the best places to unwind and have a trip to look forward to.
Our destination specialists have personally curated a collection of their favorite hidden beaches and exceptional hotel villas — the kind of places you won’t find on a map, but will never forget once you arrive.
They know exactly where to linger over a perfectly chilled glass of Vinho Verde on a sun-dappled terrace, and which cliffside restaurants feel blissfully undiscovered even in high season. For a leisurely afternoon inland, they might suggest a private tasting at Quinta do Crasto in the Douro Valley, or a relaxed vineyard lunch at Herdade da Malhadinha Nova in the Alentejo — each offering an authentic sense of place paired with Portugal’s most celebrated wines.
We’ve rounded up some of our favorite regions to consider for a summer escape.
Alentejo Coast- The Alentejo Coast offers a rarer kind of summer escape with protected quiet stretches of Atlantic shoreline. Most notably the sweeping Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina, where hiking trails trace dramatic clifftops and descend to secluded stretches of sand. For travelers that truly want to switch off, we recommend this for you.
Algarve - The Algarve is where warm turquoise waters meet golden cliffs and wide, sun-drenched beaches — a coastline that feels made for long, carefree summer days. With reliable surf for all levels and unforgettable boat trips through its iconic sea caves, there’s adventure here as easily as there is relaxation. Effortlessly family-friendly yet undeniably beautiful, the Algarve offers that rare balance of excitement and ease that makes everyone want to return.
Cascais - A premier, charming resort town located 30 minutes outside of the Lisbon Airport, making it a destination that is seamless to get to.  Entirely walkable and framed by golden beaches, it offers the ease of a classic resort with the intimacy and character of a place that has long drawn Lisbon’s most discerning summer residents.It is the perfect seaside village for families, couples and solo travelers alike.
When to book - Portugal is a destination that enjoyed year-round. In the winter, it is a destination for those seeking sunshine and an ultimate unplug. In Spring and Fall, Portugal's shoulder seasons, there are fewer crowds and the weather is still warm to relax beachside. Summer is popular for family vacations and for all attractions to be available and open to enjoy. Depending on the time of year you'd like to visit, you can plan a year in-advance or with many direct flights from the US, you can plan in as little as a month out. We're here to help plan the perfect tranquil vacation for you.