You’re on a Jet2Villa holiday, you’re enjoying the freedom to splash around in your own private pool whenever you like, but you want to hit the beach... Sounds about right? Pick the Costa Verde as your destination and you’ll be greeted with golden-grain swathes as far as the eye can see, whenever you fancy flopping down by the water. Bliss.

Not sure where to begin? Let the sunbathing commence on one of these stretches or make good use of your hire car and drive to them all.

Praia de Caminha

Between the Atlantic Ocean and the Minho River, the soft-sand Praia de Caminha is a pretty pick for beach bums. You can flake out in the Portuguese warmth, but if you’d prefer to up the ante, it just so happens to be a hotspot for windsurfers as well. Whether you watch the locals in action or try the sport out for yourself, you’ll be in the right place for it. That’s a mix of peace and the active life sorted.

Moledo Beach

Another option in Caminha resort, here you have one of the chill-out champions on the list. It’s all glistening waves and honey-coloured sand to plonk down on, and you’ll quickly notice the go-slow vibe. So if you’ve got a holiday read on the go, find some space, ditch the bookmark and kick back – holiday mode is on. And you’re in for some dreamy views too, as the Serra de Arga hills will stand proudly behind you.

Praia de Esposende

Bronze-hued and with clear sea to boot, Esposende’s main beach is quite the looker. It’s primed for postcards, yet it appeals most to the surfers out there. On hand to help you carve up like the pros, it’s got a dedicated surf school that you can book into if you’re keen to brush up on your skills. Wetsuit crew, assemble! The sand dunes might also lure you in, if you’re up for snapping some holiday pics of cool local sights too.

Praia do Cabedelo

In Viana do Costelo, Praia do Cabedelo is so laidback it could be sideways. And it sort of is, because the horizon offers you views of honey-coloured sand from first glance. It’s one of the most relaxed of the Costa Verde’s best beaches, so pull up a pew on a sunlounger and bed in for the day. Can’t sit still for long? Plunge into the water for a refreshing dip or give some of the local sports a whirl instead.

Praia de Suave Mar

Suave by name, suave by nature... On the coast of Esposende, this beach is a total winner. Expect a vast patch of sand with some dunes in the background, plus great water quality for swilling your feet. There’s a convenient eatery and coffee shop, plus an area with parasols to rent. No wonder it’s got a Blue Flag! And did we mention the facilities for surfers, windsurfers and fishers? There are even some walking trails to trace, if you’re up for a little time on dry land too.

Afife Beach

Known for its snow-white sand, Afife Beach could be mistaken for somewhere snazzy in the Caribbean. But that’s not all – it just so happens to be famed for its surfing (much like many of these parts of the Costa Verde) and even body-boarding competitions. How’s that for fun? It’ll certainly offer a nice alternative to picnics in the sun, when you’ve had your fill of them in your villa’s garden.

So, grab your hat, towels and sun cream, and make for the best beaches on the Costa Verde!