Outskirts of the Old World, Portugal is located in the west of the Iberian Peninsula, and its shores are washed by the Atlantic Ocean. In other words, when asked which sea washes Portugal, one can answer that its western and southern borders look at
Atlantic Ocean
In earlier times, the concept of "the sea of Portugal" included a much larger number of water basins, because this country was considered one of the largest colonial empires in the world. In the fifteenth century, Portugal reached its greatest prosperity, and the consequences of its expansion to the west were many colonies and dependent territories. Today, for example, Brazil, which was once a colony, speaks Portuguese.
Beach vacation
The main areas of recreation for those who are looking for an answer to the question of which seas in Portugal are surfing and beach relaxation. It is best to sunbathe and swim on the beaches of Portugal in the southern part of the country. Summers are warmer and longer here, and the ocean water temperature reaches +23 degrees in July-August. The climate in the north of Portugal determines the Gulf Stream, which forms cool weather in summer and rainy and warm in winter.
The beaches in the country can have a variety of coverings - from sand to medium-sized pebbles. On the island of Madeira, the places for swimming and sunbathing are made artificially, as the banks here are too steep and rocky. Admission to all Portuguese beaches is free, and renting umbrellas or sun loungers is quite expensive. The swimming season starts on the Lisbon Riviera in late spring and lasts until September. On the islands, the warm Gulf Stream allows you to perform water procedures from March to the beginning of winter.
Surfing as a lifestyle
The Portuguese sea is great surfing, considered ideal on the waves here. There are several popular places for this sport in the country:
- Peniche is one of the most famous beaches for athletes of all skill levels. The nearest airport is located in Lisbon at a distance of just under 100 km.
- Sagres - the waves here are so impressive that the small village is considered one of the coolest on the surfer's podium.
- Carcavelos is ideal for beginners thanks to the safe waves and excellent beach infrastructure.
- Ericeira - unlike the previous ones, an uncrowded beach with ideal waves for advanced and chic fish restaurants in the neighboring town of Mafra.
