Visit Duquesa Beach (Praia da Duquesa) and spend a day basking in the sunshine and splashing around in clear azure-colored waters. Duquesa Beach is one of the main town beaches of Cascais and a place loved by locals and visitors alike. It takes its name from the Palace of the Dukes of Palmela, which stands above the western end of the beach.
The soft sand invites you to throw down a towel and relax while sunbathing and enjoying the views. Pay to use a sun lounger and umbrella for extra comfort and shade from the sun. Families enjoy the beach because of its shallow water, which offers a safe swimming environment. For some active fun you can rent paddle boats and stand-up paddleboards and join a thrilling water sled ride.
Stretch your legs with a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. To the west, the beach connects with Conceição Beach, where kids can have fun playing on an inflatable water playground. Note the palatial summer residences that frame the beach. Among them are the yellow-hued Casa L. Perestrelo de Vasconcelos and the Palace of the Duke of Loulé.
A paved promenade runs parallel to the beach and is lined by laidback bars, ice cream shops and restaurants. Sit at a sea-facing table and order a meal accompanied by a cold drink. The promenade winds around the coastline to Tamariz Beach and Poça Beach. Stop for a swim at the Piscina Oceânica Alberto Romano sheltered ocean swimming pool.
Duquesa Beach is a 5-minute walk from Cascais railway station. Drivers can use metered car parks in the town center and then walk from there. It’s just an hour’s train ride to Cascais from Lisbon, making the beach and town a great daytrip destination. You can also choose to stay overnight at one of several nearby hotels and guesthouses.
