Does Portugal or Spain have better beaches?

The verdict Deciding which country has the best beaches for you really depends on what you're looking for. Whereas Spain is graced by the warmer waters of the Mediterranean and the chilled-out beach life that comes with it, Portugal benefits from the lively waters of the Atlantic and some truly epic scenery.



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Both Portugal and Spain have long, storied histories and robust cultures that'll charm you when you visit. If you're interested in seeing more famous artworks and experiencing the more influential culture, Spain probably edges Portugal out by virtue of its size. But remember that Portugal is no second fiddle.

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While there are definitely far more beautiful places to see in Portugal, from Óbidos to the Berlengas Islands to Monsanto and beyond, there's no doubt that you can cover a bigger percentage of Portugal's top destinations in one trip than you can Spain's.

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From the famed beaches of the Algarve to the sun-soaked islands of the Azores, Portugal is home to an array of breathtaking shorelines just waiting to be explored. But with so many stunning beaches to choose from, it can be difficult to find the stretch of sand that is right for you.

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While the cost of living can vary depending on location and personal preferences, Portugal tends to be slightly cheaper than Spain for accommodation, food, and transportation. Both countries offer beautiful scenery, rich culture, and delicious food, making them great destinations for travelers on a budget.

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Spain with five beaches, Italy with four, and Portugal and Greece with two apiece are the top awarded countries on the list. “We have seen some wild beaches top ranked this year, showing an interest in nature less-crowded destinations and less-known places for summer holidays in Europe,” the EBD notes.

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Both countries are safe to reside in without high levels of crime or violence. Both countries have a good reputation for their safety and security, although Portugal stands as one of the best. The Global Peace Index rates Portugal as the fourth safest country in the world, and Spain is ranked 31st.

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Advantages of Portugal Picturesque beaches. Sporting opportunities include the best surfing spots in Europe, top golf courses, hiking, and paraplanning. High English language standards. Tax benefits for residents with Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime.

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But though Nazaré's surfing reputation precedes it, there are plenty of calmer beaches suitable for swimming, including Praia da Nazaré and São Martinho do Porto.

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Best Beaches in Portugal
  • Albufeira.
  • Lagoa.
  • Portimão.
  • Sagres.
  • Aveiro.
  • The Azores.
  • Madeira.
  • Tróia Peninsula.


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In fact, the waters of Portugal's coasts are rather cold compared to those of the Mediterranean Sea. A period of mental and physical preparation is necessary to enjoy a swim in the waters of the beaches of Portugal. However, there are some places where the temperature of the water is warmer and warmer.

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Portugal has a mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. If you enjoy hot perfect sunny days the best time to visit Portugal is between June and August. The hottest month of the year is July with an average daily maximum of 30 C and an average low of 22 C.

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Baia do Sancho, Brazil. About 220 miles off the coast of Brazil, Baia do Sancho is regularly deemed the world's best beach. UNESCO designation and careful government protections keep it and the entire Fernando de Noronha archipelago pristine.

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Elafonisi Beach, Crete, Greece Elafonisi Beach is a beautiful beach located on the southwestern coast of the Greek island of Crete. The beach is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, fine white sand, and pinkish-hued sand dunes that create a stunning contrast against the blue sea.

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Australia is widely regarded as the country with the world's best beaches, with four beaches listed in the top 50 for 2023. Australia is the sixth-largest country in the world and boasts more than 34,000km of coastline.

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