Some people wait for summer to run along the coast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Others take advantage of the longer days to spend more time on the bike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And then there are the growing numbers of athletes swapping the pool for the ocean, rivers and reservoirs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Open water swimming has been steadily growing in Portugal, and for many athletes, summer is no longer just holiday season. It’s race season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With events taking place all over the country, distances suitable for different experience levels, and some of Portugal’s most beautiful locations as race venues, there has never been a better time to give it a try.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Anyone who is used to swimming in a pool quickly realizes that open water swimming is a completely different experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are no lane lines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There is no wall every 25 or 50 meters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And there is very little predictability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In return, you gain something that no swimming pool can offer: freedom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Swimming in the ocean, a river or a reservoir forces you to constantly adapt your pace, navigation and technique. It’s a different challenge, but also one that feels much closer to nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not at all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In fact, many open water events in Portugal offer beginner-friendly distances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re already comfortable swimming regularly in a pool, a short open water race can be the perfect next goal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The key is to start gradually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Spend some time training in open water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Get comfortable with sighting and navigation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And choose an event that matches your current level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udcc5 June 28, 2026 | Ericeira<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A great option for athletes looking to experience open water swimming in one of Portugal’s most iconic coastal destinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udcc5 July 4, 2026 | Cascais<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An excellent opportunity to swim in one of the country’s most popular open water locations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udcc5 July 5, 2026 | Oeiras<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the best-known swimming crossings in the Lisbon region and a great choice for swimmers of different experience levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udcc5 July 12, 2026 | Mora, \u00c9vora<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A perfect alternative for athletes who prefer inland waters and a different environment from traditional ocean races.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udcc5 July 18\u201319, 2026 | Cascais<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the largest open water swimming events in the Iberian Peninsula, attracting both national and international athletes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udcc5 July 26, 2026 | Figueira da Foz<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A race that combines competition, beach vibes and the perfect summer atmosphere for athletes and spectators alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udcc5 August 1, 2026 | P\u00f3voa de Lanhoso, Braga<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A fantastic opportunity to experience open water swimming in a setting that differs from the traditional coastal races.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the biggest advantages of living in Portugal is the variety of locations available for open water training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some of the most popular spots include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During the summer months, it’s increasingly common to find organized training groups and athletes preparing for the season’s events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Open water swimming offers something that very few sports can.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It’s challenging without being intimidating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It’s competitive while still maintaining a relaxed atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And it allows you to experience some of Portugal’s most beautiful places from a completely different perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re looking for a new challenge this summer, it might be time to swap the pool for the ocean.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Who knows? Your first open water race could be the start of a new passion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udc49 Discover these and many other open water swimming events on RaceFinder.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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