Dreaming of a retirement where the beach is your backyard and the ocean breeze is your constant companion? Look no further.
We’ve curated a list of five incredible Portuguese beach towns perfect for retirement. Prepare to be amazed by the diversity of Portugal’s coastline! Perhaps the renowned Algarve with its radiant sands is calling your name, or maybe a more tranquil coastal haven is what you seek.
Beyond a glimpse into each charming locale, we’ve included details on the weather – maybe you’ll find yourself talking about it with more excitement than back in the UK – along with the closest airport and a snapshot of the local property market.
And, for those eager to delve deeper into the process of retiring to Portugal, you can download our free, comprehensive guide packed with invaluable information.
Let’s explore Portugal’s stunning beaches!
1. Vilamoura, western Algarve
Vilamoura.
If you envision a retirement steeped in luxury, Vilamoura, a jewel in the Algarve’s golden triangle, is an excellent choice.
Picture yourself on Praia de Vilamoura, a captivating expanse of golden sands and inviting waters. Perfect not only for sun-soaked relaxation, but also for leisurely strolls to numerous restaurants and shops when you crave a bite or a refreshing cocktail. The marina, at Vilamoura’s heart, is a vibrant spectacle of superyachts, five-star hotels, and notable figures.
For those whose idea of leisure involves a golf club as much as the sea, Vilamoura is ideal. Home to world-class 18-hole golf courses like Laguna, Millennium, and Old Course, your only decision will be whether to live closer to the green or the blue.
Nearest airport: Faro International Airport is conveniently located just twenty minutes away by car.
Weather: Savor up to twelve hours of sunshine between June and September, peaking in July with temperatures reaching 30 degrees. January brings the coolest temperatures, with highs around 16°C.
Property:
Three-bedroom, €575,000
This gorgeous townhouse with an open-plan design.
Explore more properties for sale in Vilamoura.
For those with the means, Vilamoura offers outstanding properties boasting of contemporary design, high-quality finishes, and desirable features such as jacuzzies, gyms, and golf course views. You can also discover older townhouses and renovation opportunities. Generally, the further from the marina, the more you can get for your money.
Ideal for: Those seeking a year-round resort atmosphere, a touch of luxury, & passionate golfers.
2. Setúbal, Costa Azul
Spectacular Setúbal.
Setúbal exudes a sense of discovery, ideal for those seeking a retirement spot away from the bustling tourist crowds. Both a city and a district, Setúbal’s waterfront overlooks the Sado Estuary, a fantastic place for dolphin watching.
Fresh fish can be found at the Mercado Do Livramento, trading since the 1930s and one of the best spots to buy fish in Portugal. Don’t miss the Choco Frito, deep-fried cuttlefish, a local specialty, alongside Moscatel, a regionally produced dessert wine.
Setúbal also offers stellar hiking and birdwatching opportunities in nearby Arrábida Natural Park, where you might catch sight of flamingos.
Spend your time exploring vibrant, artsy streets or a round of golf at the renowned Trio Peninsula.
Whenever you desire a change of scenery, Lisbon is easily accessible just forty-five minutes away.
Nearest airport: Lisbon International Airport is conveniently a half-hour drive.
Weather: Enjoy pleasant temperatures from April to October, with highs reaching the 20s in July and August. December and January can see highs around 15 degrees.
Property: Two-bedroom, €305,000
Fancy a new-build property?
Discover more properties for sale in Setúbal.
Setúbal provides great, budget-friendly property choices. One-bedroom apartments can be found from around €100,000 and family homes from €300,000.
Ideal for: Those wanting a more peaceful setting, a superb food and drink scene & effortless access to Lisbon.
Get information on visas, residency, healthcare & pensions.
3. Cascais, Lisbon
Cascais.
Since the 1870s, Cascais has been known as an exciting seaside destination. Enjoyed throughout the years by Portuguese, Spanish, and British royalty, its Casino Estroil even sparked the imagination of Ian Fleming, inspiring his famous spy novel.
Its glamour hasn’t faded and it is still home to Blue Flag beaches, like Praia da Rainha and Praia da Conceicao. Plus, you can wander the museum district and enjoy rounds of golf.
As if that wasn’t enough, Lisbon is only twenty minutes away. If you are looking for a more leisurely experience, you can enjoy the longer train ride.
Nearest airport: Lisbon International Airport is just twenty-five minutes away.
Weather: Make the most of the sun in July and August, with highs in the 20s, and a cooler January.
Property:
A renovated duplex close to the golf course.
See more homes for sale in Cascais.
Although costing more than homes in Lisbon, for a small apartment you’ll need a starting budget of around €200,000. If you’re looking for a larger house you’ll need triple that.
Ideal for: Those seeking to be close to Lisbon with plenty to see and do.
4. Nazaré, Silver Coast
Nazaré.
Portugal’s Silver Coast offers a traditional feel for a lower price than the Algarve. Although it might not boast the same hot summers, that could be more to your liking!
If you are interested in dramatic waves for surfing, then Nazaré could be perfect. You can experience the best of the Atlantic’s waves at Nazaré, around the midway point of the Silver Coast.
Although many fishing towns became oriented around tourism, Nazaré has remained the ideal place for a feast. Get the best catch straight from the boat onto your plate.
For those days you want the amenities of a larger town, the center town of Leira is only thirty minutes away.
Nearest airport: Lisbon International Airport is the closest, at two and a half hours away.
Weather: July and August enjoy temperature in the mid-twenties, while Spring and Autumn experiences temperatures in the late teens. You’ll feel the greatest chill in January, with a maximum average daily temperature of 15°C.
Property: Two-bedroom, €197,000
A lovely apartment with a south-facing terrace.
See properties for sale in Nazaré here.
When buying on the Silver Coast as opposed to the Algarve, you will get a lot more for your budget. You will be able to find a small cottage that needs a bit of work for around €100,000. For a similar price, you can get a small apartment.
Ideal for: Surfers and those looking for a quiet, more relaxed atmosphere.
5. Tavira, eastern Algarve
Tavira.
How would you like to retire to the Venice of the Algarve? Tavira, along the Gilão River, comprises narrow canals and white-washed buildings in a Moorish style. Eastern Algarve features a more authentic flair than the west, and Tavira is no exception.
As well as being picturesque, Tavira is great for those that want to spend their time reading local history, seeing the sights, and daytripping – even on daytrips to Spain, which is only an hour away! Tavira is famous for its Roman bridge, containing seven arches, the Moorish Tavira Castle, and the 13th century Santa Maria do Castelo Church. And when you want your morning coffee, you can head to their enjoyable main square with plenty of cafes, a water feature, and a small amphitheater.
You can also hop on a boat to Illha de Tavira, part of the Ria de Formosa Natural Reserve, where you might be able to spy pink flamingos.
When all you feel like doing is relaxing on the beach between hikes and local history, Tavira has got your back with all of its beaches being awarded a Blue Flag. To enjoy the most delicious octopus, head to the fishing village of Santa Luzia. For a unique photo opportunity, go to Praia de Barril, famous for its anchor cemetery.
Nearest airport: Faro International Airport is only a half an hour away for convenient travel. Great, for feeling confident that you can return home in a jiffy if you need, and for last-minute packers!
Weather: You’ll enjoy the best of the heat in July with twelve hours of sun and temperatures touching 30 degrees. January is the chilliest, with highs of 16°C.
Property: Five-bedroom, €980,000
This property includes a main and guest house, totaling five bedrooms.
Explore properties for sale in Tavira.
While you can find properties for less that need a bit of work, the starting price for a small apartment is typically around €170,000. If you’re after a country house with plenty of space for guests, you’ll need a budget upwards of €500,000.
Ideal for: Those looking for local history, beautiful nature, and unique spots for adventure.
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