Praia Azul (Vila do Conde)
At Vila do Conde you get the best of both worlds; the fascinating historic old town and a long stretch of beautiful sandy beach. While it is a good 20 minute walk from the town centre to the seafront it is more than worth it, and quite a contrast.
Praia da Senhora da Guia
Nossa Senhora da Guia Beach is located just north of the mouth of the river Ave in Vila do Conde. This little sandy beach is bordered by the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Guia and the Forte de São João.
Despite its size the beach here is quite popular, partly owing to the fact it is sheltered from the northerly winds.
As is common to this part of the coast, there are quite a few rocky outcrops. At low tide these form rock pools which are always popular with small children. For the grown ups there is also a beach bar with a terrace that is open all year.
Rio Alto
A few miles north of the seaside city of Póvoa de Varzim are the beaches of Rio Alto and Estela. A world away from the casino and high-rise beachfront hotels, the Praia do Rio Alto is backed by extensive dunes and farm land beyond. You won't find much in the way of facilities here, just the beach and the ocean. This open stretch of beach is usually quiet which makes it ideal as one of Northern Portugal's best known naturist beaches. Although it is not an official "nude beach" Rio Alto is certainly generally accepted as such.
