Yes, you can swim in the sea in Lisbon. The best beaches for swimming near Lisbon are on the sheltered south-facing coast towards Cascais and also south of Lisbon on the Costa da Caparica. The stretch of coastline on the west coast is subject to stronger currents from the Atlantic Ocean.

The Town of Scituate operates six oceanfront beach areas with seven designated swimming areas. These include Egypt Beach, Humarock Beach, Minot Beach (two areas), Museum Beach, Peggotty Beach, and Sand Hills Beach. These areas are greatly affected by the changing tides of the Atlantic Ocean.

To the north of the capital, Sintra is renowned for its beaches – and the best Lisbon food. Forest-cloaked hills conceal ancient castles before dropping down to craggy cliffs and sandy coves. Our top pick is Praia da Adraga, a surprisingly undeveloped cove with fewer crowds than neighbouring Praia das Maçãs.

The Central Akumal beach features a clean white, sandy beach with beachside shops, restaurants, dive shops and homey beachfront accommodations.