The abundant sunshine, mild temperatures and long stretches of sand make Lisbon one of Europe's most blessed cities. It's the only European capital facing the sea, just minutes from the sand, and with a varied and beautiful coastline nearby (most of it flying the Blue Flag, meaning cleanliness and water quality). You can head west to the resort towns of Cascais and Estoril, or go south to the Caparica coast, but you'll always find plenty of sand for yourself. Just remember that this is the Atlantic, not the Mediterranean, so water temperatures are often just around 15 to 20C degrees (60-68F), inviting long swims only on the hotter summer days. This is however, one of Europe's major surfing destinations. The most accessible beaches for tourists are those of Carcavelos, Cascais and Estoril, reached by train from Cais do Sodré in the center of Lisbon.
