Visiting the Setúbal region between the Atlantic Ocean and the Serra da Arrábida Natural Park? Discover our selection of the best hotels in Sesimbra! This charming Portuguese seaside resort offers a varied choice of accommodation, from spa hotels to quality waterfront aparthotels. A popular destination all year round, we particularly appreciated the authenticity of this fishing village and its unspoilt beaches. Find out more in this article:
- our tips on the best areas to stay in Sesimbra,
- our list of the 4 best hotels in the city, plus a few extras.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
The best hotels in Sesimbra: our 2 favorites
Before discovering our detailed reviews of each of the establishments we have selected, take a look at our favorite addresses.
Best hotel in the hills: Four Points By Sheraton Sesimbra Hotel
The Four Points by Sheraton Hotel is definitely our favorite of the resort. Nestled on the hillside above Sesimbra, it overlooks the bay and the heart of the village. We were won over by its large swimming pool, friendly staff and varied breakfast with local flavors. Just a 15-minute walk from the beach, we also had the option of climbing aboard its shuttle bus to find ourselves with our feet in the sand. Families will particularly appreciate the children’s play areas and the pool dedicated to the little ones. The icing on the cake: the sublime view of the horizon and rolling green hills from our private terrace!
See photos, prices and availability.
Best beachfront hotel: Sesimbra Oceanfront Hotel
On the shore at the eastern end of the bay, the Sesimbra Oceanfront Hotel attracted us not only for its location, but also for the breathtaking panoramic views it offers of the Atlantic Ocean and the hills of the natural park. Just 2 steps from the famous Praia da California, you’ll have direct access to the beach and to Restaurant La Villa, a very good restaurant that we discovered in a charming alleyway. A haven of peace lulled by the sound of the waves and close to all amenities, ideal for a successful stay.
See photos, prices and availability.
Where to sleep in Sesimbra: best districts
Why sleep in Sesimbra?
Sesimbra is a jewel on the Portuguese coast, nestled between the cliffs and green hills of the Arrábida Natural Park. This small fishing town, which particularly charmed us during our stay in Portugal, lives year-round to the rhythm of the tides and its renowned gastronomy. You may know it for its sandy beaches and sublimely blue waters, but there’s more to it than that! Take the time to explore the hilltop castle, with its Roman and Moorish influences. Or take a stroll around its small marina, discover its citadel and beautiful churches.
All the more reason to stay at least one night to enjoy its relaxed atmosphere and spectacular sunsets. It’s also one of the Lisbon region’s best-kept secrets and one of our favorite places to stay in Portugal!
Sleeping in the heights of Sesimbra
Situated high above the town of Sesimbra, this district offers breathtaking views of the coast and the green hills of the region. Like us, you’re sure to appreciate its tranquility and natural setting, dominated by the majestic Sesimbra Fortress.
Benefits:
- Close to amenities and beaches with shuttle bus or maximum 15-minute walk
- Panoramic views overlooking Sesimbra and the Atlantic Ocean
- Close to Sesimbra Castle andSainte-Marie Church
- Quieter neighborhood with fewer crowds
Disadvantages:
- Parking is difficult (especially in high season) and often on a slope if there is no underground parking nearby.
- Mosquitoes in the region
- Less hustle and bustle than the beachfront
Our favourite hotel: Four Points By Sheraton Sesimbra Hotel – Check photos and availability
Sleeping on the beach in Sesimbra
Would you like to have your feet in the sand? The city of Sesimbra offers immediate access to the beach, including the famous Praia da California and Praia do Ouro. We were impressed by the authentic atmosphere of this neighborhood, which has retained its typical character. You’ll also notice the proximity of restaurants, museums, the Fort of Santiago and the historic center along the promenade. A practical dimension not to be overlooked, even on vacation!
Benefits:
- Immediate access to the main beaches with numerous facilities
- Water sports facilities available
- Departure for dolphin and whale-watching excursions by boat
- Lively neighborhood with many dining options and places of interest
Disadvantages:
- Beach water often cold, even in summer
- High prices and possible noise pollution
- Parking can be difficult in high season and in narrow, steep streets
Our favorite hotel: Hotel Sesimbra Oceanfront – Check photos and availability
Other useful tips to keep in mind
- Sesimbra is a popular destination in Portugal. We love this intimate seaside resort for its authentic fishing village charm, with few large hotel complexes. Although the peak season is from June to September, you’ll find that people flock here all year round, as the temperate Atlantic climate is ideal. When it comes to sunny destinations and beautiful beaches all year round, it’s all about the crowds and anticipation! So book your accommodation as early as possible.
- This is particularly true during Carnival in January and February (see details here), when the town is decked out in a thousand colors, and during the feast of Notre-Dame du Cap Espichel in August and September (see details here). During these festivities, which are deeply rooted in local tradition, you should be aware that prices rise and crowds are very large.
- Please note that the criteria for awarding stars to hotels may vary from country to country. In Sesimbra, the hotels are quite spacious, with large swimming pools depending on the accommodation, and quite close to the beaches.
- Inside the city, we advise you to park your vehicle in a parking lot and get around on foot. Some establishments, such as the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel where we stayed, offer a convenient shuttle service (all day and evening) so you don’t have to drive. If you want to explore Arrábida Park, Sesimbra Castle and the surrounding area on your own, we strongly recommend renting a car.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Portugal
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
1. Four Points By Sheraton Sesimbra Hotel (4 stars)
Why stay there?
We headed for the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Sesimbra, our favorite, where we enjoyed a unique stay. We were impressed by the modern, elegant layout of the common areas. The decor of the rooms also combines comfort and timeless style, with a good balance of colors and materials. You’ll also enjoy incredible views of the surrounding area when you wake up and before going to bed: what a pleasure to be able to sit on our private terrace surrounded by plants! As far as breakfast is concerned, we appreciated the variety of local products on the buffet, with continuous replenishment until the end of the service.
The pools and activities available for young and old are sure to delight families alike! Last but not least, we found the free shuttle to the beach and village available from morning to night a very practical service, saving us the hassle of parking our cars. Are you ready for a wonderful experience in this 4-star establishment?
Swimming pool and beach
- 2 outdoor pools, including 1 for children
- Large main pool
- Pool for the little ones
- The 2 pools are seasonal
- 15min walk from the beach (free shuttle available)
Practical information
- Neighborhood: in the heights of Sesimbra
- Restaurant with Portuguese and Italian cuisine
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: fitness center, kids club, bar, beach and village shuttle, cot, airport shuttle, snorkeling, diving, children’s activities.
- Parking: private underground, free on site
- PRM access: yes, fully accessible
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
2. Sesimbra Oceanfront Hotel (5 stars)
Why stay there?
The Sesimbra Oceanfront Hotel lives up to its name! We liked it for its privileged seafront location, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. We were won over by the sophisticated decor, which elegantly blends natural wood with touches of ocean blue. The compact but well-designed rooms offer every comfort for a rejuvenating stay. Enjoy an ocean-inspired culinary experience at Restaurant MarLuso, while its Poké Bar reinvents Hawaiian cuisine with Portuguese influences. Enough to delight your taste buds, even on vacation!
Swimming pool and beach
- 3 pools in total
- An indoor swimming pool
- An infinity pool for adults
- A children’s pool
- Direct access to Praia da California at the foot of the hotel
Practical information
- Neighborhood: waterfront, east side of the bay
- Bistronomic restaurant and cocktail bar
- Équipements: spa avec sauna, hammam et massages, centre de fitness, aire de jeux intérieure pour enfants, lit bébé
- Parking: indoor pay car park, electric vehicle charging station
- PRM access: elevator and adapted parking
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
3. SANA Sesimbra Hotel (4 stars)
Why stay there?
Directly on the seafront promenade, past the village’s main square and Santiago Fort, the SANA Sesimbra Hotel opens its doors to you. What do we think is its greatest asset? The indoor heated rooftop pool with panoramic views over the bay is a must. The hotel boasts a sleek, modern decor, with contemporary furnishings and quality amenities in every room. Most suites offer breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding hills, with private balconies. You’re sure to enjoy the sunsets from the rooftop bar, a magical moment that we highly recommend!
Swimming pool and beach
- Indoor heated rooftop pool
- Panoramic ocean view
- Open all year round to all ages
- Direct access to the promenade and beach
Practical information
- Neighborhood: beachfront, near Fort de Santiago
- Portuguese cuisine restaurant and rooftop bar overlooking the beach
- Facilities: spa with ocean-view Jacuzzi and sauna, fitness center, cot, babysitting, airport shuttle
- Parking: indoor public pay parking lot, recharging point for electric vehicles
- PRM access: adapted rooms and special facilities
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
4. Hotel Do Mar Sesimbra (4 stars)
Why stay there?
Built into a hillside with spectacular views over the ocean and Sesimbra marina, Hotel Do Mar overlooks the Praia do Ouro. We liked the clean lines of the decor, where the whiteness of the spaces is enhanced by touches of color and noble materials such as wood. The hotel’s restaurant invites you to enjoy delicious Portuguese and international cuisine, paired with a rich selection of regional wines. In the distance, you can make out the colorful lights of the Sesimbra lighthouse at sunset, an invitation to contemplation and even meditation. Looking for a moment of relaxation? Relax in one of the hotel’s pools, including a heated indoor pool, or immerse yourself in the sauna and steam bath!
Swimming pool and beach
- 3 pools in total
- Heated indoor pool
- 2 outdoor pools, including 1 for children
- Sauna and steam bath
- Close access to Praia do Ouro
Practical information
- Neighborhood: heart of Sesimbra, near Praia do Ouro
- Miramar Restaurant, Panoramic Bar overlooking the bay and Garden Grill (open from June to October)
- Facilities: steam bath, sauna, cot, airport shuttle, hiking, biking, snorkeling, diving, tennis.
- Parking: free and private (not reservable), recharging point for electric vehicles
- PRM access: elevator and adapted parking
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in Portugal a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
If you would like to be informed when our guide to Portugal is published, please register:
Other options and hotels in Sesimbra
In this section you’ll find some hotels and apartments that we’d also like to mention.
Other spa and wellness hotels in Sesimbra
- Hotel dos Zimbros – See prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Eco-lodge Villa Epicurea – See prices, photos and availability
Aparthotels in Sesimbra
- Apparthotel Casa Vista Azul – See prices, photos and availability
- Apparthotel Casa Do Mar – See prices, photos and availability
