The salty wind hit me as soon as I stepped onto the sandy edge of Costa Nova. This little seaside village sits just a quick trip from Aveiro, Portugal.
Bright striped houses line the water in neat rows, their bold colors making this beach instantly unforgettable. Costa Nova’s cheerful facades—locals call them palheiros—almost glow even under gray clouds. Every moment here feels ready for a photo.
As I wandered down the promenade, I totally understood why travelers show up with cameras in hand. Each house pops with red, blue, green, or yellow stripes. They’re a nod to the area’s fishing roots and the creative streak of Portugal’s coast.
It’s tough not to pause and just soak in the happiness of this colorful beachscape. Even when the Atlantic breeze tries to steal your hat, the place keeps its charm.
Costa Nova brings together fresh seafood restaurants and a wide, open beach. If you’re exploring Aveiro or just craving something different on Portugal’s coast, this village is a solid pick.
Love snapping photos? Want to try local food, or just need a windy walk by the sea? You’ll find Costa Nova worth the easy trip.
Getting to Costa Nova: Planning a Coastal Adventure
Costa Nova sits just outside Aveiro, so adding it to your Portugal plans is a breeze. Whether you’re coming from Porto for a day or weaving it into a longer road trip, getting here is simple. Timing your visit can really shape the whole vibe.
How to Reach Costa Nova from Aveiro
Getting from Aveiro to Costa Nova is easy, even if it’s your first time. The local bus is the way most folks go. I hopped on the Transdev bus at Aveiro’s central station—no complicated transfers, thankfully.
Direct buses run about every hour, especially in spring and summer. The ride takes around 40 minutes.
A one-way ticket costs just a few euros. I liked watching the city fade into open land, then spotting the blue waters of Aveiro Lagoon.
If you’re driving, you’ll get there even faster—less than 20 minutes, and it’s scenic the whole way. There’s parking near the striped houses, though weekends and sunny days fill it fast.
Cycling works too. I saw plenty of travelers cruising along the cycle route, which looked like a fun way to arrive.
The Perfect Day Trip from Porto
Costa Nova makes a classic day trip from Porto, especially if you’re craving color, coast, and a break from city life.
I left Porto in the morning and caught a direct urban train to Aveiro. These run regularly and take about 70–90 minutes, depending on which one you get.
Check Comboios de Portugal for times. From Aveiro, I just grabbed the local bus mentioned above. The whole journey felt smooth and pretty low-stress.
Driving from Porto is another solid option. The A1 motorway links Porto and Aveiro, and from there, Costa Nova is a quick twenty-minute drive.
If you’re road-tripping down Portugal’s coast, Costa Nova fits perfectly as a stop between Porto and Coimbra. I paired it with Barra Beach and a stroll through Aveiro’s canals.
Timing Your Visit for Best Experiences
Costa Nova changes with the seasons. Summer brings crowds to the colorful “palheiros” and sandy beaches, but it gets busy, especially on weekends.
I visited in late spring and found the village lively but not overwhelming. There was plenty of space for photos among the striped houses.
The best times to visit are late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September). The weather stays mild, and mornings feel peaceful—perfect for a slow walk or a coffee by the water.
If you like windswept coastlines, even winter has its own appeal. I remember empty walkways and strong Atlantic breezes, which made for a dramatic, memorable afternoon.
Most restaurants and shops stay open all year, but some close or shorten hours in the off-season. For photos, plan for golden hour—the iconic houses look their best in the soft, late afternoon light.
Here’s a quick table for reference:
| Season | Crowd Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | High | Beach time |
| Late Spring | Low-Med | Relaxed strolling |
| Early Autumn | Low | Pleasant weather |
| Winter | Very Low | Quiet photos, wind |
The Allure of Costa Nova’s Striped Houses
Costa Nova’s waterfront, lined with those famous striped houses, stands out as one of Portugal’s most photogenic places. The mix of bright facades, sea breezes, and a lively fishing village vibe brings energy and endless photo ops.
A Brief History of the Colorful Palheiros
As I walked along Costa Nova’s main street, I kept thinking how wild it is that these vibrant houses—palheiros—weren’t always so bright. Fishermen originally built them as simple wooden huts to store nets and gear.
They started painting stripes so families could spot their homes from the sea or in the fog. Over time, the plain wood turned into bold vertical strips of red, blue, yellow, green, and even black and white.
Today, many of these houses are family homes, guesthouses, or cozy cafes. Some are protected buildings, so the traditional look sticks around even as Costa Nova gets more popular. The whole stretch feels equal parts historic and postcard-perfect.
Instagrammable Photo Spots and Angles
My camera got a real workout in Costa Nova. Honestly, it’s almost impossible not to take a good photo here.
The main promenade along Avenida José Estêvão is the best spot for wide shots. The most famous rows of striped houses face the Aveiro Lagoon, and sometimes you catch their reflections in the water when the light’s right.
For close-ups, I searched for cool doorways and shuttered windows. Some palheiros have painted flower pots or vintage tiles that add extra charm. One favorite angle: stand at the corner where two rows meet and capture a zigzag of color.
If you want less crowded shots, try arriving early or just before sunset. Here are a few photo tips:
- Use the canals as mirrors for reflection shots.
- Look for symmetry along the rows.
- Add a bit of the sea or a boat for local flavor.
Why the Stripes? Stories and Local Traditions
Locals say fishermen started painting stripes for practical reasons. The patterns helped families spot their homes, especially after long days at sea or in bad weather.
Some residents still repaint the homes every few years to keep the colors fresh. There’s a kind of friendly competition between neighbors. During festivals, decorations and little flags go up, making things even more festive.
The stripes have become Costa Nova’s signature—a playful nod to its fishing heritage and the village’s creative side. Walking along the waterfront, I could feel the local pride in sharing this tradition with visitors. The striped houses aren’t just pretty—they’re a living piece of this seaside village’s culture.
Things To Do Along the Colorful Coast
Costa Nova draws people in with its iconic striped houses, wide sandy beach, and that energetic Atlantic breeze. The area mixes natural beauty, active adventures, and charming village life—all just steps apart.
Exploring the Vibrant Beach and Dramatic Cliffs
Walking Costa Nova’s golden sands, I felt like the beach stretched forever. Waves rolled in nonstop, and there’s always a salty wind in your face.
At one end, dramatic cliffs frame the coastline, making a perfect photo backdrop—especially when the sky glows at sunset.
I loved stopping to snap the colorful striped houses along the promenade. Red, blue, green, and yellow shades make every corner feel playful and alive. Even the fishing boats add pops of color.
Here are a few tucked-away gems I found:
- Miradouro do Costa Nova: A scenic stop with panoramic views.
- Wooden boardwalks: Easy for strolling and they lead to hidden viewpoints.
- Charming cafés: Try the seafood, especially the fresh fish caught by local boats.
Windswept Walks and Water Activities
Some days, the wind gets so strong I almost feel like I could take off. Walking along the shore feels extra exciting.
I followed sandy trails past colorful shacks and watched locals prepping nets on the docks. The fishing village side of Costa Nova has its own charm.
The lagoon behind the village stays calm—perfect for stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking. Rental shops have gear, so you don’t need to bring your own.
If swimming’s more your thing, the main beach is safe and there are lifeguards in summer.
If you’d rather relax, just sit on the steps of a striped house, people-watch, and listen to seagulls. The vibe is super laid-back, and everyone seems to move at their own pace.
Sailing, Kiting, and Outdoor Fun
Costa Nova’s got plenty for outdoor sports lovers. The steady Atlantic winds attract sailors and windsurfers from all over Portugal.
I watched sailboats gliding by on the Aveiro lagoon, their sails bright against the sky. Kite surfers fill the air on windy days, spinning and soaring just offshore.
You can take lessons as a beginner, and local clubs rent out gear. Even if you’re not into thrills, watching from the sand with a coffee is a treat.
Green spaces along the coast work great for cycling or picnics. Local families and travelers hang out with bikes or kites, soaking up the open air. It’s the kind of place where outdoor fun just happens, with the colorful town and the Atlantic always in view.
Local Flavors, Culture, and Unique Souvenirs
Costa Nova swept me up with its relaxed rhythm, the smell of grilled fish, and the mix of old-world charm and bright seaside style.
Even a casual stroll introduced me to flavors, stories, and colorful souvenirs you really only find in this windswept fishing village.
Tasting Fresh Seafood and Regional Cuisine
Everywhere I went, the scent of the sea mixed with sizzling garlic and olive oil. Seafood rules in Costa Nova, and local restaurants serve the day’s catch straight from the Atlantic.
Ordering arroz de marisco (seafood rice) felt like a must—packed with clams, shrimp, and crab. Grilled sardines with a squeeze of lemon and fresh herbs showed up everywhere, from tiny taverns to stylish waterfront cafes.
For snacks, I found stalls selling tripas—thin crepes filled with chocolate or jam. A walk to the bakery led me to bolachas, simple homemade biscuits perfect with coffee.
Even behind those pretty striped facades, plenty of spots were buzzing with locals sharing octopus salad or digging into platters of steamed shellfish. I always left with the taste of salt on my lips and that happy, full feeling you only get from true regional food.
Souvenir Shops and Markets Not to Miss
Costa Nova’s little streets burst with tiny shops and market stalls tucked away in corners. I wandered into a few souvenir shops near the striped houses—most of them sold ceramic sardines, hand-painted tiles, and traditional Portuguese linens. One shop in particular had table runners and aprons stitched with nautical patterns, inspired by the local vibe.
Here are some local souvenir ideas:
| Item | Why It’s Special |
|---|---|
| Striped house magnets | Mini replicas of Costa Nova’s iconic homes |
| Azulejos (tiles) | Hand-painted, traditional Portuguese patterns |
| Ceramic seafood figurines | Playful nods to the village’s fishing heritage |
| Regional pastries | Bolachas and other sweets, perfect for gifts |
The village market pops up on certain mornings. I found stalls with local cheeses, jams made from forest berries, and little bottles of port. You can easily bring back a piece of Costa Nova’s spirit; most things are handmade and unique to this tiny stretch of coast.
Meeting the Locals: Stories from the Village
As I wandered through Costa Nova, I noticed the people here seem as warm as the Atlantic breezes. I stopped to chat with a fisherman fixing his nets by the harbor and learned a bit about daily life and the local fishing culture that still shapes the village.
He showed me how his family has passed down both fishing traditions and “palheiros,” those famous striped houses that once stored nets and gear. I ducked into a narrow, fragrant bakery, and the baker greeted me with a wide grin. She told me her biscuit recipes had been in the family for generations.
Locals relaxing at café terraces offered tips on the best spots for sunset or where to buy authentic souvenirs. Stories just kind of echoed through the narrow streets and little gardens, making it obvious that community isn’t just a word here—it’s how people live.
Those quick, genuine connections made Costa Nova feel like more than just another pretty stop by the sea.
Nearby Sights for an Unforgettable Portugal Itinerary
Costa Nova’s bold stripes always catch the eye, but the area around it has even more to offer. From lazy canal rides in Aveiro to secret beaches and old salt pans, this coast keeps plenty of surprises up its sleeve.
Exploring the Canals of Aveiro, the ‘Venice of Portugal’
Aveiro sits just a short drive from Costa Nova and charms with its famous canals and those colorful boats called moliceiros. I hopped on a canal cruise—it’s kind of a must here—and loved gliding past Art Nouveau houses while picking up stories about how the city earned its “Venice of Portugal” nickname.
The city feels lively, especially around Mercado do Peixe. I tried ovos moles, Aveiro’s sweet specialty, at a riverside café. If you’d rather explore on foot, just wander along the canals for street art, tiled facades, and quirky little shops.
Must-see in Aveiro:
- Art Nouveau Museum
- Moliceiro boat ride
- Fish market (Mercado do Peixe)
Salt Pans and Other Hidden Gems
I stumbled onto the Aveiro salt pans (salinas) and honestly, it became one of my favorite finds. They’re close to town, and you can join a guided tour to see traditional salt harvesting, which has been around for centuries.
Walking beside the shallow pools at sunset gave me some of my best photos of the trip. There’s more, too. The Barcos Moliceiros Museum lays out how these painted boats came together, and I even heard about salt spa treatments in the area—something I’d love to try next time.
It’s easy to rent a bike and pedal out to quiet lagoons or spot local birds flocking to the wetlands.
Hidden gems to look for:
- Salinas de Aveiro
- Ria de Aveiro lagoons
- Salt spa treatments
Other Charming Coastal Villages Worth Visiting
Costa Nova isn’t the only gem along Portugal’s Atlantic coast. Barra sits just to the north and shows off Portugal’s tallest lighthouse—the Farol da Barra.
I remember climbing its winding stairs. The ocean view at the top? Absolutely worth the effort.
Head further south and you’ll find Praia da Vagueira. It’s a quieter spot, with wild sand dunes and those classic fishing scenes you might picture.
Most people skip over São Jacinto, but that’s their loss. It’s a peaceful place with a wildlife reserve, perfect if you’re after a slow nature walk.
Honestly, each village brings its own vibe and stories. Spending a few days wandering this coast just makes sense.
Don’t miss:
- Farol da Barra lighthouse in Barra
- Praia da Vagueira for quieter sands
- São Jacinto’s nature reserve
