For a luxury experience, head to the beach town of Comporta.

Comporta
Best for a chic beach destination

Located just southeast of Lisbon, in recent years Comporta has emerged as the “Hamptons of Portugal.” And with its designer hotels, restaurant openings and famous clientele, justifiably so. It’s also simply an excellent beach destination, with one of Portugal’s premier sandy areas just next door.

Activities: Comporta is located at the base of the Tróia Peninsula, a stick of land with a chain of beaches on its west side. The main access road along the peninsula is located a short walk over hills and dunes to most of the beaches, lending them an appealingly isolated feeling. Comporta itself is located in a marshy area known for rice agriculture; it’s a fun place to explore by bicycle or car.

Where to eat: Just down the road, Canalha Comporta is the recently-opened branch of a lauded Lisbon restaurant helmed by one of Portugal’s most respected chefs.

Where to stay: Given the area’s chi-chi vibe, this is the place to splurge on a design hotel such as Sublime Comporta.