The Blue Coast - Portugal’s best-kept secret for authentic MICE experiences

Just 30 minutes south of Lisbon, there’s a stretch of coastline that many international planners haven’t yet discovered — but locals have loved for generations. Portugal’s Blue Coast, or Costa Azul, is where Lisbonites go to slow down, enjoy long seafood lunches by the sea, and reconnect with nature. At ECMeetings, we’re excited to bring this special region into the spotlight for MICE programs. As a local DMC, we know the backroads, the family-run estates, and the beach clubs where locals gather. We open doors that typical itineraries miss — and create experiences that feel authentic, relaxed, and completely unique to Portugal.

A hidden gem just outside Lisbon

The Blue Coast combines the best of both worlds: proximity and privacy. Just a short drive from Lisbon — or even better, a scenic boat ride — the region offers turquoise waters, lush natural parks, and a rhythm that invites you to slow down. Coastal towns like Setúbal and Azeitão have maintained their local character, offering planners an alternative to Portugal’s better-known hotspots.

Distinctive hotels and unforgettable settings

The Blue Coast is home to hotels and hideaways that feel anything but ordinary — many still flying under the radar for international planners. From historic castles turned boutique hotels to elegant wine estates and laid-back beach clubs, there’s a distinct sense of place in every option. Some of our favorites for groups include: Pousada Castelo de Palmela – a historic stay inside a former fortress with panoramic views; Hotel Casa Palmela – a tranquil countryside retreat surrounded by nature and vineyards; Private dining at Portinho da Arrábida – arrive by boat to this hidden cove and enjoy a seafood feast with the sea at your feet; and Praia Princesa, Costa da Caparica – a stylish beach club with a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for welcome cocktails, dinners, or daytime lounging just steps from the Atlantic.

A region where food tells a story

Food and wine are central to any experience here. We regularly work with family-owned wineries like José Maria da Fonseca to host private tastings and dinners. At Bacalhôa Wine & Art, groups can explore a one-of-a-kind mix of contemporary art and historic wine cellars. Local specialties bring authenticity to every table — from Azeitão’s creamy cheese to the region’s famed choco frito (lightly fried squid, a Portuguese twist on fish and chips), and of course the delicate Tortas de Azeitão, a must-try dessert.

Activities that connect people to place

The activities we curate are designed to connect people to the place and to each other. From dolphin watching aboard a private catamaran, to jeep tours through the Arrábida mountains, to traditional tile painting workshops using local techniques, we create moments that are hands-on, meaningful, and memorable. We’ve even hosted open-air dinners in 17th-century fortresses and wine-paired picnics in family vineyards. Every program is custom-built — no templates, just creative, well-executed ideas grounded in local flavor.

Stay your way: boutique, beach, or countryside

In terms of accommodation, the Blue Coast offers a versatile mix. From the elegant Hotel Casa Palmela to the modern Aroeira Lisbon Hotel and the conveniently located Crowne Plaza in Caparica, there’s something for every group profile. Guesthouses, converted farm estates, and boutique hotels are perfect for more intimate incentives or executive retreats. And with a new luxury hotel opening in Comporta in 2026, the high-end offering in the region is only getting stronger.

Why work with ECMeetings

What truly sets this destination apart is the local expertise behind it. At ECMeetings, we don’t just manage logistics — we bring the region to life. Our local team knows the hidden spots, the people behind the scenes, and how to create moments that feel personal and unforgettable. Whether it’s arranging a private event in a historic wine cellar, planning a seafood feast by boat, or designing a creative team-building experience off the beaten path, we make the Blue Coast feel like yours.

The Blue Coast is ready to be discovered

If you’re looking for a fresh destination in Portugal that’s accessible, surprising, and deeply local, the Blue Coast is ready to be discovered. Get in touch — we’d love to help you craft something original, rooted in place, and truly memorable.