Sesimbra Portugal Travel Guide: Beaches, Castles & Coastal Beauty

Welcome to Sesimbra, a coastal treasure tucked into the Setúbal District just 40 kilometers south of Lisbon. As your travel guide, I can assure you – this charming town offers everything from stunning Atlantic beaches to fresh seafood, a hilltop medieval castle, and spectacular natural parks.
 

Sesimbra is a favorite weekend getaway for locals and an underrated destination for international travelers. Whether you’re after a relaxing beach holiday, a hiking adventure, or a gastronomic experience, this town delivers.

📍 Where Is Sesimbra?

Region: Setúbal District, Central Portugal

Distance from Lisbon: ~40 km (45 minutes by car)

Population: Approx. 5,500 (town), more in summer

Best known for: Beaches, seafood, castle, hiking, diving

🌟 Why Visit Sesimbra?

🏖️ Beautiful beaches with calm waters and dramatic cliffs

🍤 Unmatched seafood cuisine, especially cuttlefish and fresh fish

🏰 A 12th-century Moorish castle overlooking the coast

🌲 Close proximity to Arrábida Natural Park

🤿 Great for diving, kayaking, and coastal hikes

⛵ Less crowded than Algarve or Lisbon’s more touristy spots

🌅 Top Attractions and Things to Do in Sesimbra

🏰 1. Explore the Castle of Sesimbra (Castelo de Sesimbra)

Towering over the town on a hilltop, this medieval fortress dates back to the Moors and was retaken in 1165 by the first king of Portugal.

🏞️ Offers panoramic views of the town, beaches, and sea

🧱 Features preserved walls, a chapel, and walking paths

🌄 Great spot for sunset photography

You can either drive or hike up to the castle from the town center.

🏖️ 2. Relax on Praia do Ouro and Praia da Califórnia

These are the town's main beaches:

Praia do Ouro: Ideal for families, calm waters, near shops

Praia da Califórnia: A bit quieter, perfect for sunbathing and beach walks

🚿 Facilities include restrooms, cafés, and shaded areas. During summer, lifeguards ensure safe swimming.

🍽️ 3. Enjoy Fresh Seafood by the Sea

Sesimbra is one of the best places in Portugal for seafood. Try:

Choco frito – fried cuttlefish (the local specialty)

Caldeirada – fish stew

Grilled swordfish – caught fresh daily

Arroz de marisco – rich seafood rice

📍 Head to the waterfront for restaurants like O Zagaia, Casa Mateus, or Portofino.

🌿 4. Explore Arrábida Natural Park (Parque Natural da Arrábida)

Just a short drive from Sesimbra, this protected area is ideal for:

🥾 Hiking and trekking through lush landscapes

🏞️ Visiting secret coves and quiet beaches like Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo

🧘 Yoga retreats and nature getaways

For panoramic views, head to Cabo Espichel, a windswept cliff with a lighthouse and dinosaur footprints!

🚣 5. Adventure Activities: Kayaking, Diving & Hiking

Sesimbra is a hotspot for eco-adventure:

Diving: One of Portugal’s top diving sites with sunken ships and coral reefs

Sea Kayaking: Paddle along sea cliffs and explore marine caves

Boat tours: Dolphin watching and fishing excursions

🏞️ Join a guided hike from the castle down into the park, or take a sunset boat cruise around the bay.

🛍️ 6. Stroll the Historic Town Center

Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and local shops. Look for:

Church of Santa Maria do Castelo

Traditional ceramics and crafts

Local wine stores offering Moscatel de Setúbal

It’s also the perfect place to enjoy an evening drink at a small bar with ocean views.

📅 Best Time to Visit Sesimbra

☀️ July and August are busy but full of local life. May and September are ideal for fewer crowds and warm weather.

🧭 Day Trips from Sesimbra

🚗 1. Cabo Espichel

Famous cliffside chapel (Santuário de Nossa Senhora do Cabo)

Dinosaur footprints on fossilized stone

Incredible sea views and wild scenery

🚗 2. Setúbal

Port city with markets and ferry access to Troia Peninsula

Great for shopping and local dining

🚗 3. Azeitão

Wine region famous for Moscatel and cheese

Visit José Maria da Fonseca winery for tastings

🛏️ Where to Stay in Sesimbra

Whether you’re here for romance, family fun, or solo exploration, here are top options:

SANA Sesimbra Hotel: Beachfront, rooftop pool, amazing views

Four Points by Sheraton Sesimbra: Great for modern comforts

Cerca House: Boutique guesthouse in the old town

Campigir Camping Sesimbra: Budget-friendly and outdoorsy

🛌 Summer fills up fast – book in advance if visiting between June and September.

🚗 How to Get to Sesimbra

From Lisbon:

🚗 By Car: Fastest route via A2 highway (~45 minutes)

🚌 By Bus: Direct buses from Praça de Espanha (1 hour)

🚕 By Taxi or Uber: €35–€50 from Lisbon

🚘 Car rental is ideal for exploring the surrounding natural parks.

🎉 Events & Festivals in Sesimbra

Festa do Senhor das Chagas (April) – Religious procession with decorated boats

Sesimbra Carnival (February/March) – Among Portugal’s liveliest street parades

Seafood Festival (August) – Food stalls and live music

These festivals offer a deep dive into local culture and community pride.

📸 Most Instagrammable Spots in Sesimbra

📷 Castle walls with sea view

📷 Cliffs at Cabo Espichel

📷 Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo

📷 Colorful fishing boats on the beach

📷 Sunset over the Atlantic Ocean

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is Sesimbra Family-Friendly?

Absolutely. Calm beaches, safe walking zones, and local ice cream shops make it ideal for children. The nearby natural park also offers gentle hiking for all ages.

🧃 Pro tip: Many restaurants provide child-sized meals and seaside promenades are stroller-accessible.

🧠 Brief History of Sesimbra

Once a Moorish stronghold, captured by Christians in 1165

Became an important fishing village and maritime hub

During the 20th century, it grew into a beloved holiday destination

Still retains its authentic Portuguese charm without the crowds

Its fortress, religious sites, and fishing traditions give it a rich historical narrative worth exploring.

📋 Summary – Why You Should Visit Sesimbra

🌊 Perfect mix of beach, culture, and adventure

🍴 Home to some of Portugal’s best seafood

🏞️ Gateway to Arrábida Natural Park and scenic trails

🏰 Historical interest with a real castle on a hill

🚗 Easy to reach from Lisbon for a day trip or weekend stay

Whether you're an adventure traveler, a foodie, a beach lover, or a family explorer, Sesimbra offers a well-rounded coastal experience with heart and heritage.