Costa da Caparica is thirty kilometres of Atlantic beach stretching south from the town of Caparica — the long, open coastline that Lisboetas treat as their own private seaside. Unlike the more sheltered beaches of the Tagus estuary, this faces the full Atlantic, which means real waves and reliable surf. The town itself is a modest beach resort with restaurants, cafes, and the low-rise bustle of a place built almost entirely around summer visitors. The further south you travel along the coast, the quieter and wilder the beach becomes.
In summer, a small narrow-gauge train called the Comboio de Praia runs along the coastal road from the town centre to the southern beaches, stopping at numbered praias. Praia 17, 18, and beyond are noticeably less crowded than the northern end and favoured by surfers. The beach is excellent for swimming when conditions are calm, but the undertow can be strong — follow the flags and swim between the lifeguard posts. Out of season, the beach is nearly empty and the light on the dunes in late afternoon can be beautiful.