From Tourist to Local: My Journey from Leiria City to the Secret Beaches of Portugal’s Silver Coast

The Silver Coast of Portugal, or Costa da Prata, is full of picturesque towns, historic castles, and stunning beaches. For many, it’s a place to explore well-known tourist attractions, but for me, it’s been a journey of discovering hidden gems, charming locales, and tranquil spots far removed from the usual crowds.

The Tourist Trap Tango: Where It All Began

Ah, the thrill of travel! Like most first-timers in Leiria City, I arrived with a carefully curated itinerary and a shiny guidebook in my bag. The Castle of Leiria was at the top of my list, promising panoramic views and a hefty dose of history. As I posed for my obligatory selfie, caption ideas raced through my mind: “Leiria Castle: Where history meets my selfie game!” But little did I know, this touristy start would soon lead me off the beaten path to uncover the true charm of the region.

Leiria’s castle and its cobbled streets were breath taking, but something kept tugging at me to explore more. I wanted to move beyond the picture-perfect  shots and venture into places that felt authentically Portuguese—places that locals cherish and where life moves at a relaxed pace.

The Comedic Misadventures of a Wandering Traveller

Navigating the Silver Coast is an adventure in itself, especially when armed with a satnav that occasionally has a mind of its own. My sense of direction is famously unreliable (a friend once compared it to a chocolate teapot—useful for a laugh but not much else).

One memorable trip took me to Óbidos, a charming medieval town just a 30-minute drive from Leiria City. Óbidos is everything you’d hope for in a postcard-perfect destination: whitewashed houses draped in bougainvillea, narrow cobbled streets, and, of course, the iconic Óbidos Castle.

Beyond the sights, the town’s culinary delights were irresistible. The famous ginja de Óbidos (a cherry liqueur served in a chocolate cup) was a highlight. It was a sweet, boozy treat that perfectly encapsulated Óbidos’ blend of history and indulgence.

But as picturesque as Óbidos was, my most memorable moments weren’t in bustling tourist hotspots—they were in the quiet, unexpected places I stumbled upon.

From Crowds to Quiet: Finding Secret Beaches on Portugal’s Silver Coast

The Atlantic coastline of central Portugal is dotted with stunning beaches, each with its unique charm. While Nazaré might grab the headlines for its record-breaking waves, the region boasts plenty of lesser-known spots perfect for those seeking serenity and natural beauty.

Here are a few of the hidden gems I discovered during my travels:

 

Leiria Castle. 

View of Leiria Castle. photos by author.




Photos by author.



Praia de Pedrógão

Nestled close to the Lagoon of Ervideira, Praia de Pedrógão is a favourite among locals. Its golden sands and vibrant blue waters make it a perfect spot for relaxation. Seafood lovers will rejoice at the fresh, locally caught offerings served at beachside restaurants.

As I strolled along the shore, the Atlantic breeze carried with it the tantalizing aroma of grilled sardines—a staple of Portuguese cuisine. This beach may not have the fame of Nazaré, but it certainly has its charm and tranquillity.


Praia de Pedrogão is very close to the Ervideira Lagoon as mentioned above. Be sure to enjoy seafood when visiting. 

Fotografia da Praia do Pedrógão

Lagoa da Ervideira  

This lagoon, located within the Mata Nacional de Leiria (Leiria National Forest), is a hidden paradise. It stretches 600 meters long with a 2-kilometer shoreline, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Whether you’re picnicking with family, canoeing across the calm waters, or simply soaking in the surrounding flora and fauna, Lagoa da Ervideira offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. On one visit, I spotted a heron gracefully gliding across the water—a moment that felt like a scene from a nature documentary.

 
Praia da Vieira

If you’re traveling north from Leiria to Figueira da Foz, make a stop at Praia da Vieira. This expansive sandy beach is perfect for long walks, especially in the cooler months when the crowds thin out.

During the summer, the waters are warm enough for a refreshing dip, though don’t expect the bath-like temperatures of the Algarve. Evenings can get chilly due to the Atlantic breeze, so pack a cozy sweater if you plan to linger for sunset views.

 

This beach is on your way up from Leira to Figueira Da Foz, it’s so stunning! It’s a long, sandy beach but depending on when you visit, the water can be pretty cold. I have visited in the summer and the water is warm but not as warm as down south in the Algarve. But even in the cooler months, it’s a wonderful place for a stroll. Be sure to wear warmer clothing if you go late in the evening as it can get chilly due to the Atlantic breeze.


Praia de São Pedro de Moel


Tucked between a lush pine forest and the Atlantic Ocean, Praia de São Pedro de Moel feels like a well-kept secret. Its rugged beauty makes it a favourite among those who enjoy open-air sports like volleyball and windsurfing.

This beach is less commercialized than others, which only adds to its charm. Whether you’re sunbathing, exploring the forest trails nearby, or simply listening to the rhythmic crash of waves, São Pedro de Moel offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Although not as famous as Nazaré beach, this beach is located between a pine forest and the Atlantic sea. A bit tucked away,  this beach is great for open-air sports such as volleyball, and windsurfing and of course, those who love to just sunbathe.


Sao Pedro De Moel


  1. Ask the Locals: Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with locals—they’re often eager to share their favourite spots and hidden gems.
  1. Embrace the Slow Pace: Life on the Silver Coast moves at its own rhythm. Take your time to soak in the sights, sounds, and flavours of the region.
  1. Pack Smart: Comfortable shoes, a good map (yes, even in the age of GPS), and layered clothing are essentials for exploring this region.

The Unexpected Joys of Getting Lost

One of the quirks of exploring the Silver Coast is the network of narrow, winding roads that connect its villages and beaches. On one occasion, I found myself stuck behind a flock of sheep for several minutes. While initially frustrating, the sight of the sheep frolicking in the sun soon had me laughing at the absurdity of the situation.

These unplanned detours often lead to the most memorable experiences. Whether it’s discovering a beautiful café in a remote village or stumbling upon a stunning viewpoint, there’s a certain magic in letting go of the map and embracing the journey.

Tips for Exploring Portugal’s Silver Coast

Share Your Hidden Treasures!

So, fellow adventurers, what hidden gems have you discovered during your travels? Have you ever taken a wrong turn that led to something extraordinary? I’d love to hear your stories of exploration and misadventure in the comments below.

Let’s keep the spirit of discovery alive! Remember, sometimes the best experiences are the ones that don’t make it into the guidebooks.

Happy travels!