Marina De Cascais
Lisbon, Portugal — Good water quality
Cascais Marina is a working harbor designed around major international sailing events. It has hosted the America's Cup World Series (2011), the ISAF World Sailing Championship (2007), the 49er European Championship, the QuebraMar Regatta, Cowes-Cascais, the Round Portugal Sailing Tour, Portugal Match Cup, and the…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Marina De Cascais
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Marina De Cascais?
Cascais Marina is a working harbor designed around major international sailing events. It has hosted the America's Cup World Series (2011), the ISAF World Sailing Championship (2007), the 49er European Championship, the QuebraMar Regatta, Cowes-Cascais, the Round Portugal Sailing Tour, Portugal Match Cup, and the King Juan Carlos I Trophy, among others. These competitions have drawn sailors and European royalty—including King Juan Carlos I of Spain, Constantine of Greece, and Harold of Norway—who are themselves sailing enthusiasts.
The connection runs deep. King Carlos I, Portugal's last king, chose Cascais as his summer residence and founded one of the world's important oceanographic laboratories here, reflecting his passion for maritime study. Today, the marina blends that nautical heritage with modern facilities.
Located just outside Lisbon, Cascais Bay has a relaxed, cosmopolitan feel despite its proximity to the capital. The bay offers reliable wind direction and moderate breezes—ideal conditions for competitive sailing. Spectators can watch races from numerous vantage points along the shore. The marina accommodates 650 vessels and continues to upgrade its facilities, services, and safety standards. It was the first venue to host the America's Cup World Series in its new format, cementing its reputation as a world-class sailing destination.
It sits alongside certified beaches along Lisbon, part of a broader network of certified beaches throughout Portugal certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Visitor Feedback
What Visitors Say About Marina De Cascais
What visitors appreciate
- cold water|no waves|calm sea|calm beach|soft sand|paddle|central location|proximity to train station|weed smoking|seagulls
Points to consider
- Can be busy during July and August peak season
- Limited parking near the beach
- No lifeguards outside the official season
- Facilities may be reduced outside peak months
Based on aggregated public visitor feedback. Themes are synthesised from multiple sources — not individual quotes. Zeach does not reproduce individual reviews.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Marina De Cascais faces S toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in May, June, September. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 12°C | 9°C | High |
| Feb | 13°C | 10°C | High |
| Mar | 14°C | 11°C | Med |
| Apr | 15°C | 12°C | Med |
| May | 17°C | 14°C | Med |
| Jun | 18°C | 15°C | Med |
| Jul | 20°C | 17°C | Med |
| Aug | 20°C | 17°C | Med |
| Sep | 20°C | 17°C | High |
| Oct | 18°C | 15°C | High |
| Nov | 15°C | 12°C | High |
| Dec | 14°C | 11°C | High |
The best time to visit Marina De Cascais is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 19.9°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 16.9°C in July.
How crowded does Marina De Cascais get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Portugal, Marina De Cascais sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Marina De Cascais open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-06 – 31-05). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Marina De Cascais
Is Marina De Cascais safe to swim?Marina De Cascais is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Good</span>. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach — swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at Marina De Cascais?Peak water temperature at Marina De Cascais reaches around <span class="inline-stat">16.9°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 12.4°C.
What is the beach like at Marina De Cascais?Marina De Cascais on the Lisbon coast of Portugal. The connection runs deep. King Carlos I, Portugal's last king, chose Cascais as his summer residence and founded one of the world's important oceanographic laboratories here, reflecting his passion for maritime study. Today, the marina blends that nautical heritage with modern facilities.
Does Marina De Cascais have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Marina De Cascais meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services.
Marina De Cascais sits on the Atlantic Ocean — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Atlantic.
Planning a trip to Portugal? Blue Flag Beaches Portugal — our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to Marina De Cascais
How do I get to Marina De Cascais by car?Marina De Cascais is approximately 0.56 km from Cascais. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Marina De Cascais?The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), approximately 225.6 km away.
Can I get to Marina De Cascais by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Cascais.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Official Season | 01-06 – 31-05 |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 38.6933°N, 9.4159°W |
| Water Quality | Good (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Portugal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Marina De Cascais FAQ
Is Marina De Cascais suitable for children?
Marina De Cascais is a Blue Flag certified beach in Lisbon, Portugal. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is Marina De Cascais free to access?
Yes, access to Marina De Cascais is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Facilities including beach amenities are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit Marina De Cascais?
The best time to visit Marina De Cascais is May, June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 16.9°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 19.9°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at Marina De Cascais?
Marina De Cascais is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is currently rated Good. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to Marina De Cascais?
Marina De Cascais is located in Lisbon, Portugal. It is approximately 0.56 km from Cascais. The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), 225.6 km away. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
Explore More
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