14 Seaside Towns in Portugal Perfect for Fresh Seafood and Ocean Views
Portugal’s coastline is a feast for the senses. Stretching along the Atlantic Ocean, it’s dotted with charming seaside towns, each offering a unique blend of delicious seafood and stunning ocean views.
From the Algarve’s golden beaches to the rugged beauty of the northern shores, these towns invite travelers to indulge in fresh catches while soaking in the coastal beauty. Whether you’re a foodie or a nature lover, these 14 seaside towns are perfect for both your palate and your eyes.
Cascais: A Blend of Luxury and Local Seafood
Cascais, just a short drive from Lisbon, is a glamorous seaside town that combines beautiful beaches with a vibrant seafood scene. Its coastal restaurants serve fresh fish caught daily from the Atlantic, and you can enjoy dishes like grilled sardines or bacalhau (salt cod).
With its scenic waterfront, vibrant marina, and chic vibe, Cascais is an excellent spot for seafood lovers who want a bit of luxury with their ocean views.
Nazaré: Famous for Seafood and Giant Waves
Known for its massive waves and vibrant fishing culture, Nazaré is a must-visit for anyone looking to savor fresh seafood with an awe-inspiring view. The town’s seafood restaurants specialize in dishes like grilled squid and octopus, often enjoyed while watching the waves crash against the cliffs.
Nazaré is the perfect blend of adventure and indulgence, where you can enjoy both ocean views and a taste of Portugal’s maritime bounty.
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Lagos: A Perfect Seaside Escape with a Rich Seafood Tradition
Lagos, located in the Algarve region, offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and fresh seafood. The cobbled streets are lined with traditional fish markets, and the town’s seafood restaurants offer fresh fish, shellfish, and unique Algarvean dishes.
The stunning coastline, complete with dramatic cliffs and golden beaches, serves as the perfect backdrop for your seafood feast, making Lagos an unforgettable seaside escape.
Aveiro: Portugal’s Venice with a Seafood Twist
Aveiro, often referred to as the “Venice of Portugal,” features picturesque canals and colorful boats, but it’s also a haven for seafood lovers. The town is particularly famous for its caldeirada (fish stew) and fresh eel dishes, thanks to its location near the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria de Aveiro lagoon.
The charming canals and vibrant architecture provide a beautiful setting to enjoy your seafood meal, offering both visual and culinary delight.
Setúbal: A Seafood Lover’s Dream
Setúbal, located just south of Lisbon, is renowned for its seafood, particularly its fresh cuttlefish, sardines, and choco frito (fried cuttlefish). This working port town has a long tradition of fishing, and its fish markets and waterfront restaurants are filled with the day’s freshest catches.
Enjoying seafood by the water with stunning views of the Arrábida mountains makes Setúbal a top destination for anyone seeking authentic Portuguese flavors.
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Ericeira: A Surfing Paradise with Flavorful Seafood
Ericeira, known for its world-class surf breaks, is also a seafood paradise. This charming fishing village has an abundance of seafood restaurants offering the freshest catches of the day.
You can sample everything from grilled mackerel to rich seafood rice dishes while gazing at the ocean and watching surfers ride the waves. With a laid-back vibe and stunning cliffs, Ericeira is ideal for both adventure seekers and seafood enthusiasts.
Albufeira: Beach, Seafood, and Sunsets
Albufeira, one of the most popular towns in the Algarve, offers a lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and a thriving seafood scene. Here, you can enjoy seafood platters filled with prawns, clams, and crab while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
The sunsets in Albufeira are spectacular, and there’s no better way to enjoy them than with a seafood meal by the sea.
Peniche: Where Fresh Seafood Meets Rugged Beauty
Peniche, a traditional fishing town, is famous for its fishing port and seafood. Known for its fresh tuna, squid, and shellfish, Peniche has a rich maritime heritage that is reflected in its excellent restaurants.
The town is also home to some dramatic coastal views, including the nearby Berlengas Islands, which offer stunning scenery to complement your seafood feast.
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Tavira: Timeless Charm and Fresh Fish Dishes
Tavira, located in the eastern Algarve, is a charming town with a mix of Moorish architecture and beautiful coastal views. Tavira is known for its relaxed atmosphere and fresh seafood offerings.
Many of the town’s restaurants serve specialties like cataplana (a seafood stew) and grilled fish, all paired with views of the serene Ria Formosa lagoon and the nearby islands.
Figueira da Foz: Ocean Views and Seafood Traditions
Figueira da Foz is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant seafood culture. This coastal town offers a wide variety of seafood, from simple grilled fish to more elaborate dishes like seafood rice.
With its long beaches and sea breeze, Figueira da Foz provides the perfect setting to enjoy fresh seafood while watching the waves roll in.
Vila do Conde: Historic Charm and Coastal Cuisine
Vila do Conde, in northern Portugal, is a quaint town with a rich history and a thriving seafood scene. This town’s restaurants are famous for their dishes made from local fish and shellfish, including the popular arroz de marisco (seafood rice).
Its historical charm, with cobbled streets and beautiful old buildings, combined with delicious seafood, makes Vila do Conde a hidden gem along Portugal’s coast.
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Cascais: Fresh Seafood with a Touch of Class
Cascais is not just known for its sophisticated ambiance but also for its outstanding seafood. Located near Lisbon, it offers a mix of fine dining and relaxed beachside eateries.
Whether you’re enjoying grilled sardines by the beach or savoring lobster in a chic restaurant, the fresh seafood paired with ocean views makes Cascais a top choice for seafood lovers.
Lagos: A Seaside Town Steeped in Tradition
Lagos, with its historical old town and stunning coastal cliffs, offers an excellent variety of seafood. From grilled fish to fresh octopus and seafood rice, the town’s culinary offerings are tied to its long fishing tradition.
Dining at a restaurant overlooking the sea while enjoying fresh seafood is a must when visiting this Algarve gem.
Portimão: A Town Steeped in Maritime Heritage
Portimão, located in the Algarve, is known for its maritime culture and delectable seafood dishes. The town’s harbor is lined with seafood restaurants, and visitors can enjoy fresh catches like sardines and calamari.
Portimão’s wide, sandy beaches and rich fishing history create a perfect setting for seafood lovers looking for an authentic coastal experience.
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