Just ten minutes from Praia D’El Rey, Peniche is known for its long windswept beaches and wonderful fish and seafood restaurants near the port. Peniche is especially famous for the quality and freshness of its sardines, which are a Portuguese favourite during the summer months. For generations, the people of Peniche have lived off the sea and fishing continues to be a way of life, and an important part of the local economy.

[tabs] [tab title=”Culture and History” icon=”icon-key”]One of the largest fishing ports in Portugal, Peniche is home to important European canning factories for sardines and Atlantic mackerel. Peniche is also famous for its local craftwork, especially the hand-woven bobbin lace which originated in the region. On the weekends, many visitors flock to Peniche to picnic along the seawall. An important local landmark is the fortress of Peniche, which dates back to the 16th century. Occupied as a prison during the Salazar dictatorship, it is now used as a museum of local history.[/tab] [tab title=”Sports and Nature” icon=”icon-leaf”]Peniche is the surf capital of Portugal and annual host to the Rip Curl Pro Championships. A place of spectacular natural beauty and plenty of sunshine, there are great waves and excellent surf conditions all year round, fuelled by long, deep swells coming from the North Atlantic. There are more than ten excellent surf beaches in the area (including Baleal and Supertubos) and plenty of schools offer lessons for beginners to advanced surfers. Active holidaymakers can also go windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailing in this area. The Berlengas Islands lie 10 km off the coast of Peniche, and are part of the UNESCO protected Biosphere Reserve. Visitors can take a ferry from Peniche harbour to visit the islands during the summer. The abundant marine life and numerous shipwrecks also make the Berlengas a wonderful dive sight for amateur to experienced divers.[/tab] [tab title=”Gastronomy” icon=”icon-food”]One of the most popular traditional dishes is caldeirada (Portuguese fish stew), thanks to the wide variety of fresh fish available.[/tab] [/tabs]