There’s nothing like a beach day to have fun and relax! To make your next vacation in Porto, Portugal, a dream by the water, we’ve put together a list of beach day hacks to let you enjoy your time stress-free.
Just remember, using the helpful bag storage Porto has to offer will keep you from feeling weighed down from toting your luggage when you’re meant to relax in the sun. Check out our 11 beach day tips to help you have more fun in the sun.
1. Pick Your Beach Before You Go
There are many beautiful beaches in and around Porto. Do your research before you go and visit the ones that offer the environment and activities you enjoy. Among your options, you might consider these:
Praia de Salgueiros
Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, this beach is known for its underwater fishing and popularity with surfers.
Praia de Espinho
Found in Espinho, enjoy this beach’s long stretch of sand and clear waters.
Praia dos Ingleses
Travel to Porto to experience this beach’s quiet and clean environment.
Praia de Matosinhos
This Matosinhos beach is the largest within easy reach of the city and has a wide expanse of fine golden sand.
Praia de Molhe
If you find yourself in the Foz district, this beach is beloved, thanks to its iconic rocky landscape and reputation as an excellent spot for sundowners.
Praia do Homem do Leme
Visitors to Porto can enjoy Praia do Homem do Leme’s stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and lighthouse.
Praia de Lavadores
Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, enjoy this beach’s nearby sweet treats. For revelry of all kinds, the area is also a hub of the wine industry.
Praia do Castelo do Queijo
Another Foz district beach, Praia do Castelo do Quejio, is known for its beautiful castle and is a great spot for surfing.
2. Sunscreen and Shade
Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, preventing sunburns, and avoiding long-term damage are crucial for boosting your fun in the sun. Apply sunscreen generously and regularly to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Seeking shade also helps you stay cool, reduces the risk of overheating, and provides a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy the beach without excessive sun exposure.
3. Hydration Helpers
Staying hydrated helps regulate body temperature, prevents heat exhaustion, and maintains overall well-being. Proper hydration ensures you have the energy to participate in activities, stay focused, and enjoy your time under the sun comfortably and safely.
Start by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Pack a reusable water bottle to the beach and refill it as needed.
4. A Beach Mat or Towel
You need a comfortable and clean seating area when you go to the beach. It keeps you sand-free, offers a designated space for you to relax or sunbathe, and works as a barrier between you and the hot sand. Never underestimate how this simple but essential accessory can increase your comfort at the beach.
5. Snacks and a Cooler
Having nourishing refreshments readily available, keeping you energized and satisfied, is a simple way to ensure you have fun at the beach. Cold beverages and chilled snacks provide a refreshing break, allowing you to relax and indulge in beachside treats at your convenience.
Pack a cooler with refreshing snacks like fruits, sandwiches, and cold beverages. Freezing water bottles overnight lets you use them as ice packs and enjoy chilled drinks as they melt.
6. A Waterproof Phone Case
Capture memorable moments without worrying about damage to your phone with a waterproof phone case or pouch. Protecting your phone from sand, water, and other beach hazards will allow you to listen to music, capture memorable moments, and stay connected without worrying about water-related accidents or the elements making an expensive last-minute replacement necessary.
7. Beach Games and Activities
Don’t get tied to your electronic devices while on the beach. Bring supplies for beach-friendly games like volleyball, frisbee, or paddleball to entertain yourself. You may also want to bring a book to enjoy while you work on your tan.
8. Extra Clothes and Bags
Pack extra clothes and plastic bags to store wet swimsuits, towels, and other items after your beach day. This helps keep your car or bag clean and prevents dampness.
9. Baby Powder for Sand Removal
Dusting baby powder on your skin makes sand easily brush off, making cleanup a breeze.
10. A Portable Speaker
Bring a portable speaker and create a beach playlist on your phone to enhance the ambiance. Enjoy your favorite music while soaking up the sun, but be reasonable with the volume to avoid interfering with others’ beach fun.
11. Wet Wipes and Hand Sanitizer
Keep wet wipes and hand sanitizer handy for quick cleanups and hygiene purposes, especially before eating.
Enjoy Your Fun in the Sun
Going to the beach when you travel is a great way to have fun in the sun. It offers a natural and beautiful setting where you can relax, swim, build sandcastles, play beach games, bask in the warmth, enjoy water activities, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Enjoy your beach day with these hacks, and have a fantastic time in the sun!
