Nazaré: Beyond the big waves.
Discovering the Charm of Nazaré, Portugal
Nazaré: It’s not just about big waves and surfing. It has the best fish, friendly people, beautiful walks and a fantastic hike up the hill.
Adventures for One: A Solo Traveler’s Guide to Nazaré
Nazaré is known for its surfing scene, and it attracts thrill-seekers from all over to see the legendary giant waves crashing on its shores.
But there is more to Nazaré and it’s surrounding.
The Seven Skirts
Did you know the fishermen’s wives women wear seven skirts? There are several ideas about why they wear all these skirts.
One theory is that the skirts are a homage to the rainbow. They are all very colourful.
The other theory is that the underskirts are to keep the women warm.
Another theory from the village ladies is that they represent the days of the week.
I don’t know which theory or story is the real one but I can say that they are fun and pretty.
In the “old” days these skirts were much longer and down to the ankle. Now the skirts are short and the ladies where knee-high socks.
Some skirts have beautiful hand embroidered designs and other are simple or have strips of different fabrics sewn on to them.
How to get to Nazaré from Lisbon
Car Rental
Public Transportation from Lisbon
There are no direct trains to Nazaré.
When is the best time to visit Nazaré?
Summer in Nazaré
July and August are the peak months for Nazaré, attracting crowds of visitors seeking warm weather, the beach and good food.
Nazaré is a popular summer vacation destination, book your accommodations and restaurants in advance.
Autumn
Do you want to see the big waves? Visit in October through November and, you may still see them through March.
Big Waves with McNamara:
Winter
However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and a quieter ambiance, the winter months from February to April are perfect months to visit.
Swimming is a bit chilly, unless you wear a wet suit.
I like visiting the coast in winter. Nazaré can be sunny and breezy during the winter months and perfect for walkiing or hiking. The city is less hectic.
How can I find out about the Big Waves?
Nazare Big Waves forecast
Is Nazaré a safe place for an over 50 solo traveler?
Yes!
Nazaré is a safe beach town for solo travelers over 50.
I’ve visited multiple times and walked around town at various hours without worries.
People from Nazaré are friendly and always willing to help if you lose your way.
You’ll feel completely at ease exploring on your own.
Is it safe to swim in Nazaré?
Absolutely! Just be sure to look for the flags on the beach indicating any safety warnings. This is one instance where it’s crucial not to take any risks with your safety.
If the waters are calm, the right flag is up, dive right in and enjoy yourself!
How long should I stay in Nazaré?
Stay for a minimum of two nights.
You will want to explore the town’s hidden spots and beaches nearby and add a half-day excursion to the delightful town of Alcobaça.
Where to stay in Nazaré
Rent a charming beach apartment
Nautico apartment is rented by a Super Host on Airbnb. It is located just steps from the beach on picturesque narrow streets and welcomes pets!
Hotels in the Town Centre
I had a fantastic experience at this hotel! The staff were incredibly friendly and always went the extra mile to help me.
My room had a lovely view of the rooftops and was very peaceful! Additionally, they offer parking facilities, but it’s you must notify them in advance as parking is a challenge!
Please note that pets are not allowed in this hotel.
Hotels in Nazaré
I did not stay in any of these hotels, but some of my pickiest acquaintances and friends recommended them! 🙂
- Hotel e Restaurante Mar Bravo (pet friendly)
- Hotel Praia
- Hotel Maré
Where to eat in Nazaré
- Tosca Gastrobar. I loved this family-run restaurant. Reserve your table because it’s quite popular!
- The Restaurant Alelulia faces the beach, where I went for a gorgeous sunset and tapas!
- Restaurante a Tasquinha serves lots of fresh fish and it’s a busy place. Reserve early, and it may be a good idea to plan an earlyish dinner so you can eat peacefully!
Phone +351 262 551 945 R. Adrião Batalha 54, 2450-162 Nazaré
They do not have a web site
- Restaurante O Veleiro. Arrive early! No reservations.Address: R. António Carvalho Laranjo 30, 2450-169 NazaréI did not go to the Veleiro, but it was highly recommended
- O Tonico is in Vale de Paredes, about 15 minutes from Nazaré. This is a fantastic restaurant and is considered more high-end. I have been there twice and plan to go there more times! Yes, it’s that good.
Reservations: +351 965 542 533 O Tonico on Facebook
Always check the Michelin guide for restaurant options.
Things to do in Nazaré
Walk, swim, surf, bike, and have fun!
- Let’s divide up Nazaré! The town center is called the Praia, and that is where the Praia da Nazaré is, along with many hotels, cafes, and restaurants.
- Sítio is just up the hill. You can walk (hike) up the short but steep hill, take the funicular if it is working, drive up or take the bus.
- Perdeneira is more of a residential area and doesn’t have a cafe life, it’s more relaxed.
Walk around the fishing village, wander through the lovely narrow streets, perhaps stopping by a café to enjoy a coffee or treat yourself to an ice cream.
Go to the town market. Check out the shops before walking along the beachfront.
How about a few hours at the spa? A quick visit to the museum? Maybe the Atlantic Ocean is calm, and you feel like a boat ride! There are many things to do.
Spa: Thalasso Nazaré
The Outdoor dry fish museum is along the Praia de Nazaré.
Sítio
Go on a gorgeous walk up the steep hill in the late afternoon to catch the sunset from a stunning vantage point.
Take your time going up to fully appreciate the breathtaking views, and don’t forget to make a pit stop at the swing along the way! It offers a welcome rest from the steep incline, plus there’s nothing quite like swinging with such a view.
Visit the beautiful church, Igreja Nossa Senhora da Nazare.
Walk around the main square and enjoy all the different views. There are few stores and don’t miss out on the nut stalls! (Providing you are not allergic to nuts.)
Walk to the Forte São Miguel Arcanjo and the lighthouse (and museum) right on the tip of the hill. This is one of the best spots to see the big waves.
On the way to the Forte, stop by the surfer statue. It has a deer’s head and a human body and he/she is holding a surfboard.
Praia do Norte is on the other side of Sitio, which is known for surfing competitions.
Look at this cool video about surfing in this fishing village.
Surf and more activities
Check out Viator to see if there are things to do in and around town; something new is constantly popping up!
Visit Alcobaça, Portugal!
Alcobaça is about fifteen to twenty minutes (by car) from Nazaré.
I spent the day there and I loved this town.
Directions: Nazaré to Alcobaça
Alcobaça Monastery
The town is famous for it’s beautiful monastery, romance and royal drama that seem like a plot straight out of a medieval soap opera!
Future King D. Pedro had an arranged marriage with D. Constança but fell in love with Inês de Castro. D. Pedro and D. Constança married. She died during child birth and D. Pedro announced that he was going to marry Ines de Castro with whom he was having an affair.
D. Pedro’s father would not hear of it and the lovers moved to Coimbra and had four kids.
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. King Afonso IV, D. Pedro’s dad, decides he’s had enough of this scandalous affair orders his men to kill Ines de Castro.
D. Pedro declares Inês the Queen of Portugal posthumously.
Talk about a love that defies even death!
Fast-forward to today, and you can visit the star-crossed lovers as they rest near each other in the halls of the Alcobaça monastery.
Who needs Netflix when history serves up drama like this?
The Alcobaça monastery is a Unesco Heritage site! You can take a proper paid tour or a short free visit.
Things to do in Alcobaça
Walk around the old town, visit the Garden of Love, and check out the ceramic exhibit about D. Pedro and Inês de Castro’s love story by the Alcoa River.
Try the Convent Sweets by the Pastelaria Alcoa
In Portugal, convent sweets are not just delectable treats; they’re a part of the nation’s cultural and culinary heritage.
These pastries have been made in the convents since the 15th century.
Did you know Portugal was known as one of the largest egg producers in Europe?
The nuns used the egg whites for ironing and found themselves with tons of egg yolks so they started baking with them.
These sweets helped fund the upkeep of the convents and monasteries.
Where to eat in Alcobaça
- Antonio Padeiro: Facebook
R. Dom Maur Cocheril 27, 2460-032 Alcobaça, Portugal - Pratu:Facebook
R. Dom Maur Cocheril 6, 2460-032 Alcobaça, Portugal
Traveling around Portugal? Visit the coastal village Ericeira. It’s a gorgeous fishing village, great for surfing and lovely restaurants.
Visit the Alentejo coast. Known for surfing, great food and fantastic views.
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Updated June 2025
Marguerite Beaty, Blogger, Photographer & Artist
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