Ericeira: Portugal's Cozy Beach Town

I recently had a friend, who happened to be five months pregnant, come to visit me in Lisbon, Portugal. I knew that after a few days of Lisbon’s intense incline, a few beach days were a must. We decided to stay in Ericeira for three nights, and if you are planning on visiting Lisbon during the summer months, I highly recommend adding Ericeira to your itinerary!

Hotel Vila Gale next to Praia da Baleia

Beaches

There are three main beaches that are walkable from the main “city center”—Praia do Norte, Praia dos Pescadores, and Praia da Baleia. Our favorite of the three was Paia de Baleia, here’s why:

This beach was the largest of the three, making it a great place to lounge in the sand and watch the many surf lessons that took place every day. Thanks to the rock formations, there was also a calm “cove” that made for a great place to swim, blocking the tide from rushing in.

People of all ages can be found swimming, including your occasional nakey-toddler. Speaking of toddlers—Ericeira was very family-friendly. While there is still your expected cobblestone sidewalk, Ericeria doesn’t have the serious incline or busy traffic that other main cities in Portugal have, making Ericiera much more kid and stroller friendly.

Located directly next to Praia da Baleia is Hotel Vila Galé Ericeira, offering stunning views of the ocean, whether you’re in your room or poolside. This hotel is definitely worth considering for your stay.

If you want to venture outside Ericeria’s main hub for more beaches, look into Praia Foz do Lizandro and Praia de Sao Juliao.

Restaurants & cafes

Costa Fria: A restaurant that celebrates fresh ingredients coming from the neighboring sea. We got several dishes for the table and shared—fresh focaccia, ahi tuna & calamari, to name a few. The service here was stellar, making you feel like you’re eating dinner at a friend’s house. Reservations are accepted here, so I suggest booking ahead of time.

Outdoor seating at Costa Fria

Sunset Bamboo Bar: A lovely brunch spot that offers a variety of treats, such as fresh juice, sandwiches, pancakes, etc. The restaurant is small, but has indoor and outdoor seating.

Nalu Bowls: Açai bowls or smoothies, located near Praia da Baleia. Grab your bowl and enjoy it on the beach!

Blue Ice: What’s a beach trip without gelato?

Balagan Ericeira: Another great lunch or dinner spot located next to Praia da Baleia (can you tell where I spent most of my time?). Balagan serves Eastern Mediterranean cuisine, also offering dishes that are vegan and gluten-free. Reservations are accepted here, so I suggest booking ahead of time.

Mar das Latas: A wine bar, dinner restaurant, with an occasional outdoor DJ set—Mar das Latas does it all. The restaurant side takes reservations, but the wine bar and outdoor seating is first-come first-served.

Pepe Verde Pizzeria: For delicious pizza, eat in the restaurant or pick up a pie and take it to eat on the beach for sunset.

Nightlife

For my readers who like to be out after 10 pm, although I cannot relate, I can assure you that there were a few bars open late. So although the majority of Ericeira is a “sleepy beach town”, you’ll be able to find a place to grab a Superbock and mingle, if that’s what you’re seeking.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Ericeira page.