Seaside real estate in Portugal is attracting a lot of interest, and prices have already started to rise. In this context, real estate on the seaside in Portugal is a market apart. It is a safe bet for those who want to invest and the offer is important.
Portugal has more than 940 kilometers of coastline and a large number of beaches as far as the eye can see. Enough to delight the ocean lovers. But beware of the traps and pretenses. With real knowledge of the area, we take stock of the situation to avoid wasting time and disappointment.
Some seaside prices have become very expensive
First of all, there are 2 coastlines, the Algarve and the coast facing the Atlantic. The Algarve faces a warmer, calmer sea because the coast is oriented east-west and therefore faces south. The Atlantic coast which is north-south faces the west wind and a powerful and cold ocean, let’s say fresh.
In the Algarve the seaside has become very, very expensive, very crowded, with cliffs that overhang the sea in some places. We simply don’t recommend settling there.
The west towards Sagres is uninhabitable because it is so windy, the center Portimao, Lagos, Faro is expensive and too crowded in summer.
In our opinion, the best opportunities are to the east with Tavira and Olhao.
The best offers on board are on the Atlantic coast
On the Atlantic coast, above Lisbon and up to Spain, even if it is windy, it is quite habitable and there are many opportunities. Much cheaper than in the Algarve.
In our opinion, it is better to live a little inland so as not to be right in front of the sea spray and the gales.
On the other hand, it will be difficult to find houses with a large plot of land, as a garden is hard to find in these conditions.
There are also cities that are much more expensive such as Cascais, Estoril and of course there is Lisbon and Porto which are by the sea.
Beware: there are other cities that are seaside resorts that can have the advantage of offering very beautiful beaches but can also be too crowded in the summer and not crowded enough in the winter.
Our advice is to visit in winter and summer to get a real idea of the lifestyle you could lead in a seaside house in Portugal.
Generally speaking, the seaside, whether in the Algarve or on the Atlantic coast, is more in demand and therefore more expensive.
The assets of the Portuguese coast
The Portuguese coast offers breathtaking landscapes with long white sandy beaches and high cliffs offering a breathtaking view.
The Portuguese climate varies from one region to another and can be adapted to your needs. It is cooler in the northern coastal regions and warmer in the south. In winter, the climate is generally milder than in France.
It is possible to take advantage of its coastal assets by buying a little more inland. There you can find better deals, with garden and pool, beautiful quality house and sheltered from the wind.
👉 Read our complete guide to buying real estate in Portugal
Which region for a seaside property purchase in Portugal?
The West region and the Ericeira region attract many real estate investors. There are beautiful beaches, surf spots, typical villages, fishermen’s houses… The disadvantage is that the sea is powerful and agitated there and the water is colder. On average the region is less than 50 KM from Lisbon airport.
Average price per m2 in Ericeira: 2.400 €.
Cascais and Estoril are very popular areas for investors. These cities offer an exceptional quality of life with modern comforts, great security, a great leisure offer and all this at less than 50 km from Lisbon airport.
Average price per square meter in Cascais: 4.600 €.
The region of Comporta, south of Lisbon, is becoming very popular with foreigners looking for tranquility and picturesque postcard landscapes. The distance from Lisbon airport is about 120 km
Price per m2 in Comporta: 3.500 €.
The Algarve is in a category of its own, which has become unaffordable. Its climate and its landscapes explain this success. The prices per m2 have increased due to a strong demand from expatriates and retirees such as the English, French and Brazilians. There are luxury properties and sumptuous villas.
👉 Read more about waterfront homes in Portugal
