Carcavelos in June
During the month of June, Portugal is a dream destination. Cities like Lisbon and Cascais can get insanely busy during this sunny, warm month; which is why your destinations spot of choice should be Carcavelos! This beach town in only 15 minutes from Cascais and 20 from Lisbon, making day trips an easy feat; and best of all its home to one of the best beaches in Portugal! Praia di Carcavelos is a sprawling beach with clean warm summer waters and lots of lively activities always going on. Whether you want to try surfing, play sand soccer, or just relax on the soft sand soaking up some sun you’re covered!
Golden sand and a young girl carrying a ball back into action
Photo by Zoe | CC BY-2.0 SA
Things to do in Carcavelos
The beach is the main attraction in Carcavelos, but you won’t be lacking on non-sea related activities! Carcavelos is home to beautiful parks, some museums, and a popular aquarium. Downtown is located only a kilometer away from the beach. Making it easy to spend some time in the sun and go for a city stroll as a break. I
f you don’t feel like going all the way downtown, a great option that will keep you near the beach is the walk to see the Sao Juliao de Barra Fortress. The fort was building the 1600’s to defend the southern side of Portugal. It is still maintained today by the country. Although the fort is closed to the public, strolling around the outside is a great way to see some of Portugal’s history and take some great photos!
View of the Fort from the beach
Best Beach Activities
When you first touch foot on the golden sand of Carcavelos beach, you’ll be amazed at the liveliness all around you. Jump right in and take part! If you’d like to start your vacation in a more relaxing way, you’ll be able to find a spot to lay down a towel, or rent a chair and umbrella from one of the many vendors right on the beach. If relaxation isn’t your immediate desire, go for a stroll along the boardwalk and check out the cafés and vendors. You might even find some great souvenirs or gifts!
There are also quite often areas where locals and tourists alike are bonding together to play games of beach volleyball or sand soccer (make sure you say ‘football’ when you’re there!). Don’t be afraid to walk up and ask if you can join a game, “posso jogar” in Portuguese, and sooner rather than later you’ll be working up a sweat before you jump into the waves to cool down!
Pillowy sand and beautiful clear waves await!
Another great beach activity involves spending a lot of time in the waves. Because Carcavelos is known for its constant good swells, surfing is loved and taught by many businesses along the beach! If you’re an expert surfer, you’ll have no problem renting a wetsuit and board. For beginners there are day classes and camps available. You’ll be able to just dip your toes in if desired, but also have the option of spending a whole week learning to surf like a local!
Surfer and Dog on the beach
Exploring Portugal
Because you’ll be staying in such close proximity to the famous cities of Lisbon and Cascais, taking a day trip to explore is a great option to add some city life to your beach vacation! Lisbon, a 20-minute train ride, is often called one of the best cities in all of Europe. It’s beautiful art, architecture, lively culture, and long engaging history shine brightly as you spend time wandering around the cobblestone streets. You’ll be able to plan a day of museums, monuments, art and great food! If so inclined, you could even spend time shopping and sampling the loved Portuguese style.
Picturesque Lisbon surrounding the Se Cathedral
Cascais, a 15-minute train ride away, is a great day trip for luxury and more beaches! Known for its beautiful coast line, this fishing village has become a top-notch resort location. Between spending time by the ocean, you’ll be able to stroll through the quaint town center with great shopping markets, and sit down at one of the delicious restaurant options and have a seafood feast.
Where to stay
A small part of Portugal’s popularity as a vacation spot, is related to the tendency for prices to be very affordable. This is reflected in the average cost of places to stay, especially in Carcavelos during the month of June! Considered one of the best months for sunshine and warmth, June prices are impressively low and you can have a completely affordable vacation staying in a very comfortable home like this beautiful Beach Apartment. Just a two-minute walk from Praia de Carcavelos, and with a host who provides a welcome snack and can find you surf lessons, this apartment is the perfect abode for a great beach getaway that will have you tanned, well fed, and feeling content!
With Cascais – pictured above, Carcavelos, and Lisbon at your fingertips. You’re all set for the best beach vacation of your life!
If Carcavelos, is not your perfect June vacation here are my other recommendations for you.
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