São Pedro do Estoril

The beach of São Pedro do Estoril is a small stretch of sand backed by cliffs and rocks at either end. There is a raised concrete esplanade running along the western end of the beach which runs past a couple of beach shops and cafes. The cafe nearest the car park has plenty of outside seating and has always been one of my favourite spots for a morning galão and tosta mista.

Whilst the beach itself is sandy once you step into the sea you will discover the bottom is rocky. Whilst this makes it a great spot for snorkelling and isn't an issue at higher tides, it can be a little hard on the feet - and watch out for the urchins! This also means there are plenty of rock pools for the kids at low tide.

Easy access to São Pedro is one of the features that make it so popular. There is ample car parking above the beach and there is a train stop a few minutes away. The slipway down to the beach also means São Pedro is a popular spot for launching jet skis and small boats.

Praia de São Pedro is also a good surf spot on its day. Benefiting from the shelter of the cliffs that form the point São Pedro is often an option when Carcavelos is blown out. There is a sort of point break here, with a right hander breaking towards the middle of the beach. The wave tends to suit longboarders though as it is a little "fat".