Things To Do
in Peniche
Peniche is a windswept fishing town on Portugal's Atlantic coast, perched at coordinates around 39.35, -9.3667. It is famed for its rugged coastline, long sandy beaches, and a lively surfing scene anchored by world-class breakers like Supertubos. The town blends traditional fishing heritage with a laid-back, coastal vibe, fresh seafood, and colorful harbor life.
It's a convenient base for exploring the Berlengas archipelago and the surrounding rugged scenery, with a welcoming, small-town atmosphere year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the beautiful Praça da República, where you can enjoy a traditional Portuguese breakfast at a local café. Stroll through the cobbled streets, admiring the charming architecture and colorful buildings that reflect the town's rich maritime history. Don’t miss the Igreja de São Leonardo, a quaint church showcasing stunning tile work.
In the afternoon, visit the Peniche Fortress, a historic site that offers insights into Portugal's naval past and breathtaking views of the coastline. After exploring the fortress, grab lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant, indulging in fresh catches from the Atlantic. Spend some time wandering through local artisan shops, discovering handmade crafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, soaking in the serene atmosphere and perhaps spotting surfers catching the last waves of the day. Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, where you can savor local dishes while listening to the gentle sounds of the ocean. End your evening with a relaxed drink at a beach bar, enjoying the vibrant nightlife and local music.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to Praia de Supertubos, known for its stunning waves and beautiful sandy shores. Spend your morning taking a surfing lesson from professionals, or simply relax on the beach soaking up the sun. The lively atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
After a morning of adventure, grab lunch at a beachside café, enjoying fresh seafood and local specialties. Spend the afternoon trying out other water activities like paddleboarding or kayaking, exploring the scenic coastline from the water. The waves and marine life will keep you entertained as you discover the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.
As the day winds down, unwind with a sunset stroll along the beach, taking in the stunning views of the sun dipping below the horizon. Head back to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner at a cozy restaurant known for its grilled fish. End your day with a nightcap at a local bar, enjoying the vibrant beach ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $25-40 |
| 🧃Bottled water (1L) | $1-2 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine | $4-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class surfing and beautiful Atlantic beaches
- Rich fishing heritage with fresh seafood and harbor vibes
- Small-town amenities compared to major cities
- Seasonal crowds and variable weather offshore
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode falar inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "A conta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "Eu gostaria de..." - I would like to...
- "Como chegar lá?" - How do I get there?
Places to Visit in Peniche
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive coastal fortress with sea views, bastions, and historical rooms; great for dramatic sea-on-stone photography.
Cliff-top vantage point offering sweeping Atlantic horizons and sunset backdrops.
Iconic surfing beach with striking waves and sandy coves; ideal for action and landscape shots.
Colorful boats and calm early-morning light create vibrant harbor photography.
From the mainland nearby viewpoints or during a boat trip, capture rugged cliffs and turquoise waters.
Food in Peniche
Peniche Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled limpets with garlic and lemon, a regional coastal snack often enjoyed with a cold beer.
Must-Try!
A hearty fish stew with layers of fish, potatoes, onions, and peppers, typical of Algarve and central coast kitchens alike.
Savory seafood rice featuring a mix of shellfish and fish in a rich broth.
Grilled sardines, a summer staple often served with potatoes and a light salad.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional fish market and produce stalls where you can sample fresh catches and local snacks.
Casual spots near the marina offering fried fish, octopus, and other quick seafood bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite 'Olá' or 'Bom dia' goes a long way. Handshakes are common in formal settings; addressing people as Senhor/Senhora is appreciated in more formal contexts.
Dining is relaxed; wait to be seated in many places, and say please and thank you. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory.
The harbor and fish market are working spaces; be mindful of local workers and avoid blocking access or fishing areas.
Safety
Tipping in Peniche
Ensure a smooth experience
In Portugal, tips are appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% for good service is common if service is not included. In cafes and small eateries, rounding up or leaving loose change is typical.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Carry some cash for small shops or markets, but cards are generally fine for most dining and activities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with sea breezes; peak surf season at major beaches; enjoy long evenings by the harbor and frequent outdoor events. Expect crowds and higher prices; swimming is excellent, but watch for strong waves at some beaches.
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and great coastal hikes. Sea can still be lively for surfers; a good time for photography without the peak-season heat.
Milder than inland Portugal but cool and windy; some days are rainy. Surf remains strong at certain beaches; sea is dramatic for dramatic coastal photography.
Renewed greenery along the coast with moderate temperatures; ideal for hiking, cycling, and outdoor dining with sea views.
Peniche at Night
Hiking in Peniche
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic cliff-top hike along the coast with sweeping ocean views and dramatic rock formations.
On Berlenga Grande, nature trails wind through protected landscapes around the fort and monastic ruins, with birdwatching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Peniche by plane.
Approx. 90-100 km south of Peniche; major international hub with frequent connections and good road/train links to Peniche.
Further north; a longer drive but accessible for travelers continuing to northern Portugal.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Traditional fishing families and long-time Penicheños who know the coast well.
A growing share of visitors drawn by the waves and outdoor lifestyle.
Seasonal influx of visitors seeking sea, sun, and seafood.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Peniche is internationally known for its surf culture and waves, particularly at Supertubos.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Peniche.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Portuguese cuisine is seafood-rich, but you can find vegetable dishes, fresh salads, grilled vegetables, cheese plates, and legumes. When ordering, ask for 'sem carne' (no meat) or 'opção vegetariana' and seek vegetable-based stews or arroz com legumes as alternatives.