Where to Park, Surf & Explore the Heart of the Portuguese Coast
If you’re dreaming of a Portuguese road trip that blends beach mornings, surf sessions, and charming coastal towns, Central Portugal is your perfect match. Stretching between Aveiro and Sintra, this region captures the true rhythm of vanlife — relaxed, scenic, and full of hidden gems.
Unlike the crowded Algarve or the rugged northern coast, Central Portugal strikes a perfect balance: beautiful beaches, authentic villages, and easy, campervan-friendly stops. From watching giant waves in Nazaré, to exploring the canals of Aveiro, or sipping a sunset beer above Ericeira’s surf breaks, this stretch of coastline feels made for travelers on wheels.
With free parking, welcoming locals, and plenty of seaside spots to sleep under the stars, it’s no wonder this region is a favorite among vanlifers crossing Portugal.
In this guide, we’ll share five of the best campervan-friendly beaches and stops in Central Portugal — all safe, scenic, and featured in our VanCowork Google Maps “Campervan Spots Portugal”. Whether you’re surfing, sightseeing, or just chasing sunsets, this route gives you everything you need for a stress-free, unforgettable journey down Portugal’s Atlantic coast.
1️⃣ ALMA Cervejaria.Bar – Aveiro
While exploring Aveiro, the “Portuguese Venice,” and nearby Costa Nova Beach, stop at ALMA Cervejaria.Bar — a welcoming, dog-friendly spot offering free campervan parking. It’s safe, quiet, and designed with travelers in mind.
Why it’s great:
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Free, secure parking for campervans and motorhomes
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Water refill, waste disposal, and electricity points
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Dog-friendly area with good vibes and live music nights
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Walking distance to Aveiro’s canals and Costa Nova’s striped houses
Vanlife Tip: Enjoy a craft beer or dinner at ALMA before watching the sunset over the lagoon — one of the best views in central Portugal.
📍 Coordinates: 40.6405° N, 8.6538° W
👉 View ALMA Cervejaria Campervan Spot on Google Maps
2️⃣ Figueira da Foz – Free Campervan Spot
Known as one of Portugal’s oldest beach destinations, Figueira da Foz offers a long promenade, surf culture, and a spacious free campervan parking area close to the beach.
Why it’s great:
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Large, flat parking area with easy access to services
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Golden sandy beaches perfect for long walks
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Central location with cafés, supermarkets, and surf rentals nearby
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Ideal stop halfway between Aveiro and Nazaré
Vanlife Tip: The parking area is safe and quiet at night. Head to Praia da Claridade for a swim and enjoy seafood at a local tasca.
📍 Coordinates: 40.1450° N, 8.8615° W
👉 View Figueira da Foz Campervan Spot on Google Maps
3️⃣ Nazaré – Praia do Norte
Welcome to one of the most iconic surf spots in the world — Praia do Norte, Nazaré. This is where the big wave legends park their vans before riding walls of water up to 30 meters high.
Why it’s great:
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Watch pro surfers in action during winter swell season
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Free parking near the Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo viewpoint
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Vibrant surf culture with cafés and local shops
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A must-see stop for every vanlife road trip in Portugal
Vanlife Tip: Park early near the upper lighthouse road — it’s safe, scenic, and perfect for a sunset picnic.
📍 Coordinates: 39.6132° N, 9.0834° W
👉 View Nazaré Praia do Norte Campervan Spot on Google Maps
4️⃣ Miradouro Praia Sul – Ericeira
Ericeira isn’t just a surf town — it’s a way of life. The Miradouro (viewpoint) overlooking Praia Sul offers breathtaking views of the coastline and is a popular stop for van travelers.
Why it’s great:
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Free parking with panoramic ocean views
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Walking distance to the old town and surf beaches
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Close to restaurants, surf shops, and bakeries
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Great community of vanlifers passing through year-round
Vanlife Tip: Stay for sunset — the view over the Atlantic is spectacular. Overnight stays are tolerated out of high season, but be discreet and respectful.
📍 Coordinates: 38.9622° N, 9.4181° W
👉 View Ericeira Campervan Spot on Google Maps
🌸 5️⃣ Public Park – Sintra
After days by the beach, head inland to explore the magical town of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site full of palaces, gardens, and fairytale castles. The public parking area near the historic center is ideal for van travelers visiting during the day.
Why it’s great:
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Safe, clean, and easily accessible
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Short walk to Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Moorish Castle
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Surrounded by green hills and cool mountain air — perfect after beach days
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Great base to explore both Sintra and Cabo da Roca, Europe’s westernmost point
Vanlife Tip: Overnight stays inside the village aren’t allowed — park for the day and move to nearby Colares or Praia das Maçãs for the night.
📍 Coordinates: 38.8029° N, 9.3903° W
👉 View Sintra Campervan Spot on Google Maps
🧭 Vanlife Tips for Central Portugal
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Balance surf and culture: Combine beach days with inland visits to Sintra, Óbidos, or Alcobaça.
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Stay flexible: Central Portugal is full of small towns where campervans are welcome — always check Park4Night for local updates.
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Surf spots: Ericeira, Nazaré, and Figueira da Foz are among Europe’s best surf areas.
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Food stops: Try caldeirada (fish stew), ovos moles in Aveiro, and travesseiros pastries in Sintra.
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Eco tip: Use designated areas for waste disposal and water refills — like ALMA Cervejaria in Aveiro.
🚐 Explore Central Portugal with VanCowork
Traveling Central Portugal by campervan gives you the freedom to explore beaches, villages, and landmarks at your own pace — all while waking up to the sound of the Atlantic.
At VanCowork, we make your journey effortless and enjoyable with fully equipped vans designed for adventure and comfort.
Why Rent with VanCowork:
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Fully equipped campervans (bed, kitchen, and water system)
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Insurance + roadside assistance included
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Easy pickup near Porto
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Local advice from experienced vanlifers
📍 VanCowork – Campervan Rental & Van Build in Porto, Portugal
🌐 www.vancowork.com
👉 Explore our Google Maps “Campervan Spots Portugal” Guide for routes, overnight areas, and beach parking across the entire Portuguese coast.