Romantic Beaches Near Lisbon for Your Engagement Photoshoot


While the city center of Lisbon is not known for having sandy beaches, if you drive to the coastline, in less than an hour, you can find some of the most beautiful and expansive beaches in Portugal. Although the beaches of Sintra are well-known, with their unique beauty and rocky landscapes, the truth is that if you drive south of Lisbon, you'll discover breathtaking beaches that attract thousands of tourists every year. With stunning landscapes, golden sands, calm water lagoons and dramatic cliffs, these beaches offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable romantic photoshoot. Here are seven of the best beaches near Lisbon to capture the most special moments of your love story.

As a professional photographer originally from the southern bank of the Lisbon area, serving all the surrounding regions, here’s my list of the best beach locations around Lisbon for couples wondering, 'Where should I take engagement photos at a beach while in Portugal?'"

1. Praia da Fonte da Telha (Costa da Caparica)

Couple at a sandy beach trail through golden grass during sunset along the coastline during a photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon
A couple holding hands and joyfully splashing through ocean waves at sunset during a photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon
A couple embraces in a sunlit forest with tall trees creating a romantic woodland setting at Fonte da Telha beach
A couple embraces on a hilltop against a light blue sky with wispy clouds at golden hour during a photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon
Silhouetted legs with reflections walking on wet beach sand at golden sunset during photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon
A couple shares an intimate moment in sunlit woods during a romantic photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon
Two people holding hands and balancing on a sandy beach path with green shrubs and coastal vegetation nearby during a photoshoot in a beach

Located just south of Lisbon, Fonte da Telha boasts vast golden sands, cliffs, and rustic fishing boats that add charm to any photoshoot. The photoshoot can begin atop the cliffs, surrounded by a Mediterranean typical pine forest, creating a magical contrast between nature and ocean views. From there, couples can descend to the beach, where the golden sand and the sound of the waves provide a perfect setting for capturing unforgettable moments. The beach is especially magical during sunset, with golden hues reflecting off the Atlantic waves. Is a good option for a Pre-Wedding photoshoot anytime of the year!


If you’re looking for an example of an engagement photoshoot in Fonte da Telha, here is one of my favourite photoshoots Sara+Nuno

2. Praia dos Galapinhos (Setúbal)

Couple strolling hand in hand on a scenic beach with blue dress flowing in wind near rocky coastal formations in a beach near Lisbon
A couple stands together overlooking a scenic coastal bay with cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation in a beach near Lisbon
A couple in casual attire share an intimate moment on a coastal cliff overlooking the ocean during a photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon
Couple share a playful and joyful moment together on a scenic beach near Lisbon during a Pre-wedding photoshoot
Two people share a romantic moment on a scenic beach with mountains and rocky coastline at sunset during a photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon
A couple in romantic coastal setting stands on beach with waves and large rock formation during a photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon

Often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, Praia dos Galapinhos is a hidden treasure in the Arrábida Natural Park. To reach this secluded paradise, visitors must embark on a short yet mysterious walk through lush vegetation, which only adds to the sense of adventure. The effort is well worth it, as the crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and limestone cliffs create an exotic feel for a truly magical photoshoot.


Sara & Duarte photoshoot is a great example of a session in this beach near Lisbon

3. Praia das Bicas (Sesimbra)

Couple holding hands while running on a sunny beach near Lisbon with cliffs and a paraglider in the background.
A silhouetted couple embraces on rocky beach at sunset as waves crash against the shore during a photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon
Two people embracing and laughing together on a scenic coastal path overlooking a sandy beach during a photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon
A person stands on a coastal trail overlooking the ocean as two paragliders soar above, with succulents in the foreground.
People walking on a sandy beach with towering cliffs along Portugal's scenic coastline at sunset during a photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon
A couple walking hand in hand on a misty beach with rocky cliffs in the background at sunset during a photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon

Located in the Sesimbra region, Praia das Bicas offers rugged cliffs and a wild, magical atmosphere. The waves crashing against the rocks provide a stunning contrast to romantic moments captured on the sand. It is also a popular spot for paragliding training, and the sight of colorful paragliders soaring over the cliffs adds a unique and dynamic touch to the landscape, making for truly distinctive Pre-wedding photos.


One of my favourite couples photoshoots at this spot is definitely Debora+Filipe

4. Praia da Foz (Sesimbra)

Couple walking on sandy beach with towering sandstone cliffs and crashing waves at sunset during a photoshoot at a beach near Lisbon
A couple embraces in a golden wheat field at sunset with tall grass swaying in the breeze during a photoshoot at a beach near Lisbon
A couple shares an intimate moment on a coastal cliff overlooking the ocean at sunset during a photoshoot at a beach near Lisbon
A rocky beach near Lisbon at sunset with silhouettes of a person walking with a dog along the shore as golden light reflects off the water
A couple embraces on a beach with golden cliffs during sunset, creating a romantic coastal scene during a photoshoot at a beach near Lisbon
A silhouetted couple stands on a rocky shore during sunset over the ocean during a photoshoot at a beach near Lisbon

Praia da Foz (in Sesimbra) is a lesser-known yet picturesque beach, a hidden paradise with an intimate cove, sheltered by the rocky cliffs typical of the area. It offers a perfect escape from the wind, where the powerful waves of the Atlantic crash against the rocks. The rugged landscape surrounding the beach is truly one of a kind, offering a unique setting for intimate, candid photos that feel completely private.


I discovered this place thanks to this sweet couple Eloisa+Nuno, during their Pre-Wedding Photoshoot!

5. Praia da Lagoa de Albufeira (Sesimbra)

A couple and their black dog stand together on a sandy beach at sunset beside a calm lagoon in a beach near Lisbon
A couple walks along a serene beach shoreline where water meets sand in a beach near Lisbon
A silhouetted couple stands against a dramatic sunset sky with dark storm clouds and golden light on the horizon in a beach near Lisbon
Wooden stairway leads down to a scenic sandy beach at sunset with coastal cliffs and ocean waves in the distance in a beach near Lisbon
A couple stand on a vast sandy dune against a gray sky creating a minimalist desert landscape during a photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon
Couple stand sat the end of a wooden pier at sunset with a small boat moored nearby and low tide exposed beach during a photoshoot in Lisbon
Couple stands together on a peaceful beach at sunset with small boats in the calm water during a photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon

If you're looking for variety in your photos, this beach is perfect. Praia da Lagoa de Albufeira (Sesimbra) offers a mix of a calm lagoon and the open ocean, creating a stunning contrast between peaceful waters and dynamic waves. The lagoon itself has several different beach settings to choose from: some couples prefer to shoot near the picturesque fishing pier, while others opt for the peaceful sandy areas by the still waters of the lagoon. For those who love the ocean's energy, the side of the beach facing the open sea offers more dramatic waves and a rugged, picturesque backdrop.


One of my favourite photoshoots there is Patricia+João Pre-Wedding photoshoot

6. Praia da Península de Tróia

Two silhouettes walk together along a sandy beach leaving footprints at sunset with distant dunes during a photoshoot at a beach near Lisbon
Long shadows cast on wet beach sand with dark rocks scattered across the shoreline during a photoshoot at a beach near Lisbon
Two silhouettes dancing together on a scenic beach at sunset with rocky cliffs and trees during a photoshoot at a beach near Lisbon
Romantic couple embraces while standing on a boat against dark wall with emerald green water below during a photoshoot at beach near Lisbon
A couple embrace in a romantic kiss on an empty beach at sunset as footprints trail behind them in the sand during a photoshoot at a beach
Silhouette of two people standing on sand dunes at sunset with mountains in the background during a photoshoot at a beach near Lisbon
Boat wake trails in choppy water during golden sunset over distant mountains on the horizon during a photoshoot at a beach near Lisbon

For couples seeking an idyllic and paradisiacal setting, Praia de Tróia (Setúbal) is the perfect choice. With its beautiful white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a stunning backdrop of the Arrábida mountains, this peninsula provides a tranquil yet sophisticated environment for a romantic photoshoot. For a unique perspective, couples can opt for a scenic boat tour along the coast of the Tróia peninsula, passing by small sandbanks, as well as the breathtaking coastline of the Arrábida mountain range.


Tânia+Daniel's Photoshoot was during a boat trip, and it was a magical and romantic Pre-Wedding photoshoot!

7. Praia da Adraga (Sintra)

Couple hold hands while standing in a sea cave opening at sunset overlooking the beach near Lisbon
A couple walks together on a sandy beach with dramatic coastal cliffs and crashing waves in the background during a photoshoot in Sintra
Couple run joyfully along a scenic beach near Lisbon with rocky cliffs and blue sky in the background during a photoshoot
A couple embraces on a scenic beach with rocky cliffs and crashing waves in the background during a photoshoot in a beach near Lisbon
Two people share an intimate moment by rocky seaside cliffs at golden hour during a photoshoot at a beach near Lisbon
Couple embraces under dramatic rocky cave walls in moody natural lighting during an engagement photoshoot at a beach near Lisbon
Joyful couple laughing and embracing on a sunny beach with cliffs and ocean in the background during a photoshoot at a beach near Lisbon

Dramatic rock formations and powerful waves make Praia da Adraga (Sintra) a favorite for photographers. The natural archway on the beach offers a unique frame for couples looking for impressive, artistic shots. Although small, the beach is incredibly picturesque due to its rugged rock formations, and with easy parking access, making it a perfect spot for a couples photoshoot near Lisbon.


If you want to check more photos, you can see these two pre-wedding photoshoots: Patricia+Bruno , and Rita+André

Final Thoughts

No matter which beach you choose, these stunning locations south of Lisbon (or Sintra coast) offer unique and breathtaking settings for a romantic couples photoshoot. Whether you're seeking calm lagoons, dramatic cliffs, or golden dunes, the southern coastline of Portugal has the perfect spot to capture beautiful memories with your loved one. While the beaches of Sintra have their own special charm, the beaches to the south of the capital are truly unmatched in terms of their vast expanses and stunning landscapes. So, if you're looking for a photographer in Lisbon, to do an Engagement Photoshoot or a Pre-Wedding Photoshoot, just contact me HERE.

Lisbon Engagement Photographer


Hello, I'm Inês, a documentary-style photographer ! Born and raised in a country bathed in sun and surrounded by the sea, I fell in love with Portugal landscapes. It was while traveling that Photography found its way to me as a way of keeping those journeys alive, collecting memories that come rushing back every time I flip through my personal albums. To me, photography is the most beautiful way to remember, to relive, to hold onto the places that shaped us, the voices of those we love, even the scent of the moments that truly matter, and that is pure magic!

Click HERE to fill out my contact form and tell me what you have in mind for your session. I can’t wait to meet your love story!