Is the word praia the same in Brazilian and European Portuguese?

Yes

The word "praia" is identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese regarding its meaning, spelling, and grammatical classification (feminine noun). The only difference is in pronunciation. In Brazilian Portuguese, the vowels are generally more open and the diphthong "ai" is pronounced clearly and broadly. In Continental Portuguese, the pronunciation is more closed, and the vowels are often more compressed or reduced.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Vamos à praia amanhã? (Shall we go to the beach tomorrow?)
2. Eu adoro pegar sol na praia. (I love sunbathing at the beach.)
3. A praia está cheia de gente. (The beach is full of people.)
4. Você prefere praia ou piscina? (Do you prefer the beach or the pool?)
5. Eu esqueci meu protetor solar na praia. (I forgot my sunscreen at the beach.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Vamos à praia amanhã? (Shall we go to the beach tomorrow?)
2. Eu adoro apanhar sol na praia. (I love sunbathing at the beach.)
3. A praia está cheia de gente. (The beach is full of people.)
4. Preferes praia ou piscina? (Do you prefer the beach or the pool?)
5. Esqueci-me do protetor solar na praia. (I forgot my sunscreen at the beach.)