The Silver Coast is a breathtaking stretch of Portugal’s Atlantic coastline, known for its rugged beauty, world-class surf, and traditional Portuguese charm. Unlike the Algarve, which is a well-defined and widely recognized region, the term “Silver Coast” was coined by foreigners and doesn’t officially exist in Portugal. However, it generally refers to the coastline between Lisbon and Nazaré, encompassing a mix of lively beach towns, hidden coastal gems, and peaceful fishing villages.
If you’re considering relocating to Portugal but are unsure which area fits your lifestyle best, our team at Savvy Cat Realty can help you navigate the market, understand the local culture, and find the perfect home that meets your needs.
1. Ericeira
Ericeira is one of the most well-known destinations on the Silver Coast, particularly among surfers. Recognized as a World Surfing Reserve, this vibrant town attracts wave riders from around the globe. But Ericeira isn’t just about surfing—it’s a lively and well-developed coastal town with an international community, making it one of the most appealing places for expats looking to settle in Portugal.
Located just 40 minutes from Lisbon, Ericeira provides a balance between a relaxed seaside lifestyle and easy access to the capital. The town is full of life year-round, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, shops, and cultural events. It has a strong local economy, supported by tourism, and features a mix of traditional Portuguese architecture and modern housing developments.
Property prices here are higher than in many other Silver Coast towns, particularly for homes with ocean views. However, for those who value a dynamic coastal lifestyle with a well-established expat community, Ericeira is an excellent choice.
If you’re interested in living in Ericeira but don’t know where to start, we can help you find the best neighborhoods and properties that align with your budget and lifestyle. Contact us at contact@anasavvycat.webemy.ro to get started!
2. Lourinhã
For a more affordable option, Lourinhã offers a peaceful lifestyle just a short distance from the coast. This town is famous for its dinosaur fossil discoveries, which have shaped its identity. Visitors and locals alike enjoy the Dinosaur Museum and Park, and throughout the town, you’ll find dinosaur statues and themed attractions.
Although not directly on the coast, Lourinhã is just a five-minute drive from the nearest beaches, making it a great location for those who want to be near the ocean without paying premium prices. The town itself is a mix of old and new, with a variety of Villas, apartments, and newly built homes.
The cost of living and property prices are significantly lower than in Ericeira, making it a great option for families or retirees looking for a relaxed pace of life with access to nature and history. While it’s not a major tourist destination, it offers a genuine local experience with essential amenities and a growing international community.
3. Peniche
Sitting on a rocky peninsula, Peniche is another major surf destination on the Silver Coast. Known for Supertubos Beach, which hosts international surfing competitions, Peniche attracts surfers and ocean lovers year-round. However, this town is not just for surfers—it has a rich maritime history and was once an important fishing hub.
Peniche retains an authentic Portuguese feel, with whitewashed buildings, cobbled streets, and a working harbor where fishermen still bring in fresh catches daily. Despite its traditional character, the town has seen a lot of new development, with modern apartments and Villas popping up in recent years.
One thing to consider about Peniche is its strong winds, which can make the weather feel cooler than other coastal areas. For those who don’t mind a breezy climate, Peniche offers a charming and affordable coastal lifestyle with a laid-back atmosphere.
4. Foz do Arelho
For those looking for a peaceful retreat, Foz do Arelho offers some of the most breathtaking views on the Silver Coast. This small town sits at the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the Óbidos Lagoon, creating a stunning landscape of calm, shallow waters on one side and powerful ocean waves on the other.
The lagoon is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming, while the ocean beaches are ideal for surfers. The town itself is small and quiet, with a handful of cafes and restaurants. It has become a popular spot for vacation homes and retirees, offering a slower-paced lifestyle with incredible scenery.
Although Foz do Arelho is not as developed as Ericeira or Peniche, it has seen a rise in new housing developments, particularly in the form of modern Villas with panoramic ocean views. Property prices remain affordable, making it an attractive option for those who value tranquility and nature over city conveniences.
5. São Martinho do Porto
Located along a natural bay, these two neighboring towns offer one of the most scenic and wind-protected environments on the Silver Coast. São Martinho do Porto is the larger of the two and is known for its horseshoe-shaped bay, which creates calm, warm waters—ideal for swimming and family-friendly beach days.
The town has a charming mix of traditional Portuguese homes and newer developments, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and small shops. São Martinho do Porto is a popular summer destination for both Portuguese and foreign visitors, leading to a seasonal increase in activity.
Across the bay, Salir do Porto is a quieter residential area with primarily Villas and low-rise apartments. It is especially attractive to those looking for a peaceful, coastal home with stunning views. The town has grown significantly in recent years, with an increase in modern housing developments while still maintaining its laid-back atmosphere.
Looking to explore São Martinho with ease? Look no further than Savvy Cat Realty! We’re here to give you the full scoop on the area and help you make your relocation process easier!
6. Nazaré
Perhaps the most famous town on the Silver Coast, Nazaré gained international recognition for its massive waves, which attract elite surfers from around the world. The town exploded in popularity after the discovery of some of the largest surfable waves on the planet, drawing thousands of visitors annually.
Beyond surfing, Nazaré is a charming coastal town with a strong Portuguese identity. The town is divided into two parts: the lower beachside area, which is bustling with restaurants, shops, and a lively promenade, and the upper section (Sitio), which offers stunning clifftop views and a more peaceful atmosphere.
Over the past decade, Nazaré has seen significant development, with new housing and infrastructure improvements catering to its growing international community. Property prices have risen, but the town still offers a mix of affordable and high-end housing options. Nazaré provides a great balance of coastal beauty, local culture, and modern conveniences, making it one of the most attractive places to live on the Silver Coast.
Looking for Help with Your Move to Portugal?
At Savvy Cat Realty, we specialize in helping expats relocate and invest in Portugal. Whether you’re looking to buy, rent, or find the perfect location, we’re here to assist you.
📧 Contact us: contact@anasavvycat.webemy.ro
