Retire in Portugal in 2025: Why the Silver Coast is a Hidden Gem

Dreaming of Portugal but looking for something less touristy than the Algarve? Welcome to Portugal’s Silver Coast—one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. With its golden beaches, charming towns, and affordable cost of living, the Silver Coast offers an authentic Portuguese experience that’s capturing the attention of expats, retirees, and digital nomads alike.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Silver Coast of Portugal: where it is, why it’s called the Silver Coast, its top towns and beaches, climate, real estate, and how it compares to the Algarve.

What is Portugal’s Silver Coast? 

Portugal’s Silver Coast, or “Costa de Prata” in Portuguese, is a stunning stretch of Atlantic coastline running from just north of Lisbon to south of Porto. Less commercialized than the Algarve, the Silver Coast offers a more traditional and relaxed vibe, with authentic fishing villages, medieval towns, and dramatic coastal scenery.

This region includes popular destinations like Nazaré, Peniche, Óbidos, Caldas da Rainha, Figueira da Foz, and Aveiro. It’s known for its surfing spots, rich history, affordable property prices, and a growing international community seeking a quieter yet vibrant life by the sea.

Why is it Called the Silver Coast in Portugal? 

The name “Silver Coast” comes from the way the sunlight reflects off the Atlantic Ocean, creating a shimmering, silvery effect along the coastline—especially at sunrise and sunset. While it’s not an official administrative region, the nickname has become widely accepted due to the area’s natural beauty and magical seascapes.

Unlike the Algarve’s golden beaches and rugged cliffs, the Silver Coast is marked by wide, windswept beaches, pine forests, sand dunes, and rolling green hills. The silver-toned ocean and softer tourism make this area feel special and serene.

What Towns Are on the Silver Coast of Portugal? 

The Silver Coast covers a broad stretch of coastline, and the towns here range from historic inland gems to lively beachside communities. Here are some of the most notable towns along the Silver Coast:

📍 Nazaré – Famous for its record-breaking waves and traditional fishing culture, Nazaré is also a charming place to live or visit, with stunning cliffs, a funicular, and ocean-view cafes.

📍 Óbidos – A beautifully preserved medieval town with whitewashed houses, cobblestone streets, and a hilltop castle. It’s a favorite for tourists and history lovers.

📍 Peniche – A laid-back surf town on a peninsula known for its beaches, seafood, and the Berlengas Islands nature reserve.

📍 Caldas da Rainha – A mid-sized city with a mix of history, culture, and modern conveniences. Known for its thermal hospital—one of the oldest in Europe—where mineral-rich waters have been used for therapeutic treatments since the 15th century.

📍 Figueira da Foz – A lively beach resort town with long stretches of sand, casinos, and a bustling summer scene.

📍 Aveiro – Sometimes called the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro features canals, colorful boats, and Art Nouveau architecture.

📍 São Martinho do Porto – A favorite among families and retirees thanks to its calm, shell-shaped bay, walkable town, and scenic boardwalk.

Silver Coast Portugal Beaches 

The beaches of the Silver Coast are some of the most spectacular in Europe. Wild, windswept, and often uncrowded, they offer a refreshing contrast to the resort-packed shores of southern Portugal.

Some standout beaches include:

🌊 Praia do Norte (Nazaré) – Home to the biggest waves in the world, attracting surfers from across the globe.

🌊 Praia da Foz do Arelho – A beautiful beach at the lagoon-ocean junction, ideal for kite surfing, paddle boarding, or lounging.

🌊 São Martinho do Porto Beach – A calm, family-friendly beach with gentle waves and a scenic promenade.

🌊 Baleal Beach (Peniche) – A favorite with surfers and digital nomads, offering consistent waves and a lively beach town vibe.

🌊 Praia da Tocha – A lesser-known beach with a charming boardwalk and traditional fishing cottages.

Things to See and Do on the Silver Coast 

Beyond the beaches, there’s a lot to explore:

✔️ Visit the medieval village of Óbidos, especially during the chocolate or literary festivals.

✔️ Ride the funicular in Nazaré to the clifftop viewpoint at Sítio.

✔️ Tour the Berlengas Islands off the coast of Peniche for hiking and wildlife.

✔️ Soak in the thermal waters in Caldas da Rainha.

✔️ Explore the canals and Art Nouveau buildings in Aveiro.

✔️ Try fresh seafood, including grilled sardines and caldeirada (Portuguese fish stew).

✔️ Visit local markets and artisan shops, especially for ceramics and textiles.

✔️  Hike along the coastal trails.

✔️ Golf at West Cliffs golf course.

✔️ Bike along the coast on the Estrada Atlantico.

Whether you love history, nature, food, or culture, there’s something to enjoy year-round.

Silver Coast Portugal Weather 

The Silver Coast enjoys a mild Atlantic climate, with warm summers and cool, wet winters. Compared to the Algarve, it’s a bit cooler and windier, which many people find refreshing.

Average Temperatures:

☀️ Summer (June–August): Highs around 75–85°F (24–29°C)

🌦️ Winter (December–February): Highs around 55–60°F (13–16°C)

Rain is more common in the winter months, but the region still enjoys over 250 days of sunshine a year. The coastal breezes help moderate summer heat and provide ideal conditions for outdoor activities year-round.

Silver Coast Portugal Real Estate 

One of the biggest draws to the Silver Coast is the affordable real estate—especially when compared to Lisbon or the Algarve. You can find everything from renovated townhouses and modern apartments to countryside villas with ocean views.

→ Watch our 3-part video series:

• Rentals on the Silver Coast: Budget to Luxury
• What You Can Buy for $200K on the Silver Coast
• What You Can Buy for $400K on the Silver Coast

Where is the Best Place to Live on the Silver Coast? 

The “best” place depends on your lifestyle goals, but here are a few top picks:

📌 Nazaré: A vibrant mix of local life, surf culture, and dramatic views. Great for active living and community connection.

📌 São Martinho do Porto: Ideal for families and retirees seeking calm beaches and walkability.

📌 Baleal or Peniche: For surfers, digital nomads, and anyone who loves a casual coastal vibe.

📌 Óbidos: A fairy-tale village with festivals, charm, and creative inspiration.

📌 Caldas da Rainha: Year-round living with hospitals, schools, and city conveniences.

→ Want help deciding? Watch our video: Best Places to Live on the Silver Coast

Pros and Cons of the Silver Coast 

Every location has its tradeoffs. Here’s a quick overview:

Pros:

• Authentic Portuguese culture
• Affordable real estate
• Beautiful beaches and nature
• Less touristy than the Algarve
• Easy access to Lisbon and Porto

Cons:

1. Wetter winters
2. Many areas require a car
3. Windy, especially in coastal areas

→ Watch our video: Pros and Cons of Living on the Silver Coast

What is the Difference Between the Silver Coast and the Algarve? 

While both regions offer beautiful beaches and expat appeal, they feel quite different.

The Algarve is warmer and drier year-round and has a more established tourism industry. It’s also more expensive, especially in the main coastal towns. The Silver Coast, by contrast, is cooler and windier, less developed, and more affordable. It’s also more spread out and rural, with a stronger sense of traditional Portuguese life.

If you prefer golf resorts, sun-soaked winters, and an English-speaking environment, the Algarve may be your spot. If you value authenticity, affordability, and fewer crowds, the Silver Coast could be your dream come true.

Final Thoughts 

The Silver Coast is a gem worth discovering—especially if you’re seeking a scenic, authentic, and affordable lifestyle in Portugal. From historic villages and surf towns to ocean-view properties and vibrant local culture, this region offers something for everyone.

→ Ready to explore further? Sign up for our Free Moving to Portugal Mini-Guide: A 10-Day Email Course covering the most common questions about visas, healthcare, language, real estate, and more. Get the free guide →

Photo by Kampus Production: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-woman-in-black-wet-suit-holding-blue-and-white-surfboard-7938870/