Hi everyone, how are you? One of the most frequently asked questions I receive is beach wedding destinations. Portugal is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting destinations in Europe—and when it comes to beachside weddings, it’s even more surprising. With an extensive Atlantic coastline, the country offers idyllic scenery, a mild climate, impeccable cuisine, and a welcoming infrastructure that combines European charm with Portuguese hospitality. Among so many beautiful destinations, today I want to highlight four regions I’ve been following closely—and which are established as favorites for couples dreaming of a wedding with their feet in the sand (or almost!): Algarve, Cascais, Estoril, and Comporta. All combine natural beauty, incredible hotels, and unique experiences for the big day and pre-wedding moments.
Algarve : the sophisticated classic of the south coast
Among the ideal hotels to hold the ceremony or welcome guests with charm and comfort, I highlight:
- Tivoli Carvoeiro : Located on a clifftop with panoramic sea views, the hotel offers dramatic and elegant settings for your celebration.
- W Algarve : With a modern, vibrant, and relaxed feel, it’s ideal for couples looking for something contemporary and exclusive—also perfect for pre- and post-wedding parties with plenty of personality.
- Pine Cliffs, a Luxury Collection Resort : With a privileged location, extensive gardens and direct beach access, it offers complete facilities for large celebrations and mini weddings.
- Vila Vita Parc (Porches): a classic five-star hotel with sea views and impeccable cuisine.
- Palmares Ocean Living & Golf (Lagos): modern architecture integrated with nature.
- Bela Vista Hotel & Spa (Praia da Rocha): a historic mansion with an unforgettable view.
- VidaMar Resort Algarve : an elegant resort with direct beach access, high-end cuisine, and complete infrastructure to host both the ceremony and pre- and post-wedding events.
Special tip: boat parties around the arches and caves along the coast, like Benagil, are a great way to entertain guests the day before (or after!) the ceremony.
Hotel Tivoli Carvoeiro
Cascais: the balance between the sea and urban style
Located just 30 minutes from Lisbon, Cascais is charming, elegant, and full of energy. With its lively downtown, award-winning restaurants, white sand beaches, and stunning Atlantic views, it’s perfect for couples looking to combine nature, sophistication, and convenience.
Among the hotels I recommend for getting married (or creating a complete pre-wedding plan):
- Hotel Albatroz : beachfront boutique hotel, ideal for mini weddings with ocean views and impeccable service.
- Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa: a five-star hotel that was once the residence of the last king of Italy. It combines grandeur and comfort in a prime location.
Pre-wedding tip: rooftop dinners overlooking Cascais Marina, private beach clubs, and even a tour of Paula Rego’s Casa das Histórias for the more artistic bride and groom.
Estoril: seaside glamour with a royal feel
Estoril is Cascais’ neighbor, but with its own identity—more classical and aristocratic, with palaces, casinos, and historic hotels. It’s one of the most iconic destinations on the Portuguese coast and was once a retreat for European nobles during the 20th century.
Among the highlights for weddings:
- Estoril Vintage Hotel: recently opened, this hotel combines timeless elegance, ocean views, and an exclusive feel—perfect for discerning couples.
- Palácio Estoril Hotel, Golf & Wellness : an icon of Portuguese hospitality, with well-kept gardens, elegant lounges, and plenty of historic charm.
- InterContinental Cascais-Estoril: despite its name, it is strategically located between Cascais and Estoril, with a modern design and cinematic views.
Pre-wedding tip: How about a chic brunch at Palácio Estoril or a sunset drink on the terrace of Estoril Vintage? For the more daring, the evening can end at Cassino Estoril, with live music and plenty of glamour.
Comporta: Portugal’s boho-chic paradise
If Cascais and Estoril exude urban sophistication, Comporta is the charming opposite: simple, rustic, and utterly chic. Located about an hour and 15 minutes from Lisbon, the region combines pristine beaches, rice fields, sustainable architecture, and an unpretentiously elegant lifestyle.
Among the spaces I love to recommend for weddings and elopements:
- Sublime Comporta: a sophisticated boutique hotel surrounded by nature, ideal for mini weddings with an exclusive retreat feel.
- Quinta da Comporta: a perfect blend of contemporary design, Portuguese roots, and a relaxing vibe.
- Casas na Areia: for couples who want a minimalist wedding, with their feet literally in the sand — the experience here is as intimate as it is unforgettable.
Fun fact: Celebrities like Christian Louboutin, Philippe Starck, and George Clooney have homes in the area. Comporta has hosted secret weddings for designers, models, and international celebrities seeking discretion and style.
Pre-wedding tip: A beach luau with a bonfire, a sand party with a DJ, or an organic lunch under pine trees with a local menu. The vibe here is: less production, more essence.
Portugal has already won the hearts of newlyweds around the world, and the country’s beach destinations are among the most sought-after for weddings. Whether it’s the refinement of Estoril, the charm of Cascais, the natural grandeur of the Algarve, or the unique lifestyle of Comporta, there’s a perfect setting waiting for every couple. And if you’re thinking of getting married by the sea—with a good glass of wine, views of the Atlantic, and moments that will last forever—Portugal is undoubtedly one of the best places in the world for it.
If you’d like help planning your wedding in one of these regions, let me know! I’d be delighted to join you on this dream journey.
See you next week!
Kisses,
Simone.
