Costa Nova Beach

Costa Nova Beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand on the Atlantic coast of Portugal, famous for its iconic striped beach huts (palheiros) that line the shore. Originally used by fishermen to store their gear, these candy-striped wooden houses—painted in vibrant reds, blues, and greens—have become the symbol of this charming seaside town. The beach itself is wide and wild, with powerful waves that attract surfers and bodyboarders, while the calm, shallow lagoon on the other side of the peninsula offers safe swimming for families. A lively promenade is dotted with seafood restaurants serving fresh grilled fish and the local specialty, ovos moles (sweet egg yolks). Just a short drive from Aveiro, Costa Nova feels like a quintessential Portuguese coastal escape.

Highlights & What to See

• Striped Beach Huts: Stroll along the seafront to photograph the iconic palheiros—each painted in bright, alternating stripes that create a kaleidoscope of colour.
• Surfing & Watersports: The Atlantic swells make this a popular spot for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing; lessons and board rentals are available on the main beach.
• Seafood Dining: Enjoy a meal at one of the beachfront restaurants, where the catch of the day is grilled over charcoal and served with a glass of Vinho Verde.
• Costa Nova Lighthouse: Walk to the northern end of the beach to see the red-and-white striped lighthouse, a photogenic landmark with views along the coast.
• Aveiro Lagoon: On the inland side, the calm waters of the Ria de Aveiro are perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a boat trip to spot flamingos and other birdlife.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day at Costa Nova Beach, arriving in the morning to claim a spot on the sand, enjoy a leisurely lunch, and watch the sunset over the Atlantic. If you're combining it with a visit to Aveiro, a half-day is enough to see the huts, take a dip, and have a seafood meal. For surfers, staying two to three days allows you to catch the best waves and explore nearby beaches like Barra or São Jacinto.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Aveiro: Just 10 minutes away, this charming city is known as the 'Venice of Portugal' for its canals and colourful moliceiro boats; explore the Art Nouveau architecture and try the local ovos moles.
• Praia da Barra: A lively beach with a long pier and the tallest lighthouse in Portugal (Farol da Barra), ideal for a longer stroll and more dining options.
• São Jacinto: A quiet, wild beach on a nature reserve, accessible by ferry from Aveiro—perfect for a peaceful day away from crowds.
• Ílhavo: A historic town known for its maritime museum and the Vista Alegre porcelain factory, offering a cultural side trip.
• Coimbra: About an hour south, this university city boasts a stunning medieval library (Biblioteca Joanina) and a lively fado scene.

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