Setúbal is a port city that tends to sit in the shadow of Lisbon and the Algarve when it comes to tourist headlines, but that’s precisely why you should take a closer look. Tucked between the Sado River estuary and the Arrábida mountain range, Setubal beaches (praias) offer some of Portugal’s most scenic coastal experiences (without the crowds or inflated prices of the more famous resorts).
The beaches in Setubal Portugal aren’t all the same. Some are great for families, others feel like secret hideaways. You can hop between several beaches in a day and feel like you’ve travelled across entirely different landscapes.
Whether you’re looking to swim, hike, paddleboard, snorkel, or simply park yourself in the sand with a good book and a pastel de nata (traditional Portuguese egg custard tart), there’s a stretch of coast here with your name on it.
Top Beaches in Setúbal
Praia de Galápos
Easily reached by road through the Arrábida Natural Park, Praia de Galápos is one of the better-known Setubal beaches, and for good reason. The water is clear, the backdrop is dramatic, and there’s just enough infrastructure to keep you comfortable without feeling overdeveloped. You’ll find a small beach bar (Restaurante Ondagalapos), lounger rentals, and a lifeguard during the summer months. It’s also a popular spot for snorkelling, with rocky outcrops just off the shore teeming with marine life.
Praia dos Coelhos
Often referred to as one of Setúbal’s “hidden gems” (but let’s not overdo it, it’s on Google Maps), Praia dos Coelhos is harder to reach than most. Bring proper walking shoes as you’ll need to park above and walk down a steep path through the vegetation. But once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with a small cove of pale sand, crystalline waters, and cliffs that block much of the wind. It’s quieter than neighbouring beaches and tends to attract couples and locals in the know. There’s no café here, so bring water and whatever you fancy for lunch.
Praia da Figueirinha
This is one of the more accessible Setubal Portugal beaches, with a wide, sandy stretch that makes it especially popular with families. The calm waters are ideal for children, and at low tide, a long sandbar emerges that feels like you’re walking into the sea. There’s a large car park, the Bar Mar restaurant, toilet facilities, and sun loungers, which make it a practical choice if you’re travelling with kids or just prefer a beach that doesn’t require a hike.
Praia de Creiro (Portinho da Arrábida)
Often confused with the nearby Praia dos Galapinhos, Praia de Creiro (also known as Portinho da Arrábida) has its own personality. It’s a bit more spacious than some of the other coves, with calm waters protected by the natural curve of the bay. There’s also the bonus of the Pedra da Anixa islet, just offshore, which is a designated marine reserve and a good spot for diving or wildlife watching. O Zeca, Golfinho Restaurante, and Anicha Bar are right above the beach and serve local seafood, pizza, burgers, and more. There’s even a Roman Archaeological Station nearby of a fish factory and adjacent buildings.
Praia de Albarquel
Praia de Albarquel is the closest Setubal beach to the city centre, which makes it ideal for a spontaneous dip. You can walk there from the centre in about 45 minutes, take the 4471 bus, or drive yourself and park in the large car park. While Praia de Albarquel isn’t as secluded as the beaches further west, it still boasts a lovely stretch of clean sand and views back toward the Troia Peninsula. There’s the A Vela Branca restaurant just a few minutes walk from the beach, the Albarquel Fortress, and even a grassy area if you fancy a picnic away from the sand.
Praia de Tróia
Just across the water from Setúbal is Praia de Tróia. This long, narrow spit of land that feels like its own world is part of the Troia Peninsula. The beach here is vast, with soft white sand that stretches for kilometres, backed by dunes and pine forest. It’s ideal if you want space and a bit of a resort feel, with more polished facilities, upmarket restaurants, and a marina nearby. Ferries from Setúbal to Troia run regularly, so it’s very doable as a day trip. You might also spot dolphins in the estuary if you’re lucky.
Praia dos Galapinhos
This beach has gained fame in recent years after being named one of Europe’s best beaches. And while that might have increased the foot traffic, it’s not full of travel influencers just yet. You’ll need to walk a little to reach it (parking is tricky), but the view as you descend toward the beach is worth the effort. The sand is soft, the water unusually clear, and the surrounding cliffs make you feel like you’re tucked away in a private alcove. Avoid high season weekends if you’re after a quieter experience.
Enjoy the Sun and Sea in Setúbal
Setúbal beaches speak for themselves. Quiet coves, wide open sands, and a steady Atlantic breeze, all with facilities never too far away. It’s a coastline that invites you to slow down without asking much in return. And when the day’s done and your skin smells of salt and suncream, there’s something grounding about heading back to a place that feels sorted. Somewhere you can relax, pour a drink, and already start thinking about which stretch of sand you’ll visit next.
That’s where Allure Villas comes in. With properties in and around Setúbal, you’ll have the kind of base that makes all the difference. Whether you’re staying close to the coast or nestled inland for more peace and privacy, there’s a villa that fits the pace of your trip.
So, if the idea of discovering Setubal Portugal beaches with a good night’s sleep and a morning coffee on your own terrace sounds appealing, start browsing Allure Villas today.