Costa Nova used to be a fisherman village but now it is a coastal resort town that attracts both foreigners and locals. It is also the home to one of the best beaches in central Portugal, Costa Nova do Prado a very sandy beach with beautiful dunes and lovely views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Palheiros da Costa Nova (The Colourful Striped Houses) are situated on José Estêvão Avenue promenade, these are probably the most photographed houses in Costa Nova. They used to be traditional fishermen houses used for storing fishing equipment but now they are iconic landmarks.

Located to the north of Costa Nova near the mouth of the Vouga River you will find the Barra shoreline. It is not as big as Costa Nova Beach, but it is equally a charming blue flag beach with a serene environment.

Also, at Barra beach, you will see the tallest lighthouse in Portugal (Farol da Barra). The lighthouse stands at 62 metres high and was built over 100 years ago.

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