This Stunning Stretch Of Beaches In Portugal Is Ideal For Surfing & Enjoying Amazing Views

Known for its vibrant culture, sunny days, delicious food, and soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal is a small country that is making waves in the tourism industry. With approximately 27 million visitors per year, people are no longer sleeping on visiting this beautiful and exciting nation at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. Being one of the sunniest and warmest countries in Europe, Portugal draws sunseekers from all over the world, and with this stunning stretch of beaches in Portugal, it's ideal for surfing and amazing views.

To the sand between your toes crowd and wave chasers, listen up! The Tróia Peninsula, located along the Atlantic Coast, boasts an incredibly impressive 11 miles of white sandy beaches with spectacular views of the ocean. Just a short day trip from Lisbon, Tróia offers endless possibilities. Whether you're lounging on the beach as waves roll in, or wandering through the pine forests framing the coastline, there's so much to take in, so you may find yourself wanting to stay more than just a day.

For those looking to avoid the busy beaches of the famous Algarve, taking a trip to Tróia is the perfect way to get into relaxation mode. The best way to reach the Tróia Peninsula from Lisbon, is to take a bus from the Estação Oriente bus stop, to the coastal town of Setúbal, which is approximately 33 miles away. From Setúbal, Tróia is just a short three-mile ferry ride, takes about 25 minutes, and has departures all throughout the day.

Catching a glimpse of Tróia Peninsula's beautiful coastline will confirm why this is one of Europe's best beaches. This well-kept secret of Portugal is a surfer's paradise, offering less crowds than other busy surf spots such as Costa da Caparica or Ericeira. Its turquoise waters and pristine white sand make it an ideal destination for a relaxing family day trip from Lisbon. For those looking to stay longer, Tróia also boasts a wide range of hotels and resorts, perfect for an extended beach getaway.

Thanks to Tróia Peninsula's unique micro-climate, it's a fantastic year-round destination. Spend your day on the water spotting dolphins, or make your visit unforgettable with a sunset boat cruise. For around $35, the Sunset On-Board tour from Get Your Guide offers a relaxed, scenic experience complete with delicious appetizers, laid-back atmosphere, and multilingual guides in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. The waters around Tróia are perfect for trying your hand at windsurfing or sailing. Prefer to stay on shore? Sit back, relax, and enjoy the view from the beach.

Tróia Peninsula is also home to one of Europe's top golf courses, making it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts. Sharpen your swing at the acclaimed Tróia Golf Club, where world-class links meet breathtaking coastal views. Prefer a slower pace? Head to the stunning Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. Don't forget your camera: you might catch a glimpse of pink flamingos, or the distinctive Eurasian spoonbill in their natural habitat. Cycling enthusiasts will enjoy discovering Tróia Peninsula on two wheels, with scenic trails through pine forests. The flat, easy terrain makes for a relaxing ride from the heart of Tróia to the quiet coastal community of Sol Tróia.

For travelers feeling lucky, a night at the modern Tróia Casino, within the stylish Tróia Design Hotel, offers plenty of excitement, with 226 slot machines and 16 gaming tables. The casino is part of a large and vibrant tourist complex, one of the most developed and lively areas on the peninsula. Throughout the year, this entertainment hub also hosts a variety of shows and events, making it a great spot for an evening beyond the beach.

After a sun-soaked day at Praia de Tróia, you'll want to dive right into some delicious cuisine. Tróia Peninsula is a European foodie destination filled with restaurants to try, ranging from fresh seafood to street food. Restaurante B&G offers guests elevated Portuguese dishes that are made according to traditional ways, but with a fun and unique flair. As a bonus, the restaurant boasts stunning views of the marina, perfect for watching ferries drift in and out as you savor your meal.

If you're into Roman history, Tróia Peninsula has some pretty incredible ruins to check out. Dating back to the 1st century, this ancient site was once a busy spot for making garum (a popular Roman fish sauce) and salted fish that was shipped all over the empire. It's been a National Monument since 1910, and when archaeologists dug deeper in 1956, they uncovered massive Roman baths covering around 5,000 square meters. Definitely worth a visit if you want to walk through a bit of beachside ancient history.