Alentejo beaches between Comporta and Cabo Sardao
Which beaches in Alentejo Portugal are suitable for you? The Alentejo beaches south of Lisbon is very varied. The Alentejo Praias on the west coast in the Alentejo alternate between miles of sandy beaches. South of Sines and in the region of Comporta there are beaches that never seem to end. In some regions they are also very wide. In between, however, there are always rugged coastal landscapes with cliffs. These fall off steeply. Either directly into the sea, or to small sandy bays where you can secluded Swimming opportunities find. Because many of these sheltered bays can be reached via stairs. They remind you a little of the Algarve coast. Only that they are lonelier than them. If you want to go to the beach alone , these tips will help.
The Alentejo is still a region where tourism is not as significant as in other parts of Portugal. Here day by day the fishermen go out to catch fish. With their small boats, they do not venture too far from the coast. Nevertheless, their work is not safe. In some places, they have to overcome the wild surf to get back to their home port. At others, their boats are at the mercy of the waves of the Atlantic. These take a long way to the west and build up to considerable wave mountains. Of the beaches you can often see the Portuguese fishermen working off the coast.
Sunsets
On some beaches there are restaurants or simple beach cafes, where you can watch the beach walkers. These are often barely recognizable, because the sandy areas at the seashore are often so wide that the eye sees the people only with difficulty. It is nice there especially in the evening, when the sun sinks into the sea. This often happens with spectacular color spectacle. Then the sky turns a reddish purple, red or gold. The sun seems to get bigger and bigger, before finally disappearing behind the horizon in a breathtaking show. Every night, the spectacle is different.
Which beach from Comporta to Porto Covo
Those who like pristine beaches will definitely love the beaches in the Alentejo. We were there in January. We start our journey in Evora. The Alentejo beaches actually begin at the city of Tróia in the north of the peninsula, which separates the Setubal lagoon from the Atlantic. However, we saved the drive to Tróia, as the place has no special sights apart from a few hotels and Roman ruins. The beaches that stretch south from Tróia to Porto Covo are worth a visit.
Excursions Alentejo
Comporta beaches in Alentejo Portugal
We used the time we had saved instead of visiting Tróia to stay at the beach of Comporta. This place consists of only a few houses and is located about fifteen kilometers south of Tróia. Even in winter, Comporta beach is worth a visit. Boardwalks lead from the parking lot over the dunes to the kilometer-long wide sandy beach. There is also a beach café above the beach, which is sure to be popular in summer. However, it is closed in January. However, it offers beautiful photo opportunities with its blue-painted wooden walls. In any case, from this beach you can see the infinity of the Atlantic. An uplifting feeling!
Lodging Comporta *
Carvalhal - Beaches in the Alentejo
Only a few kilometers further south, more beaches join. We make a detour to Praia do Pego in Carvalhal. Here, the Sal restaurant awaits its guests in summer. In winter, it is closed. No wonder, we have the beach at this time of the year almost for us alone. There we experienced on our Drive along the Alentejo coast one of the most beautiful sunsets of our trip. In the summer, it may be fun to watch the setting sun from the terrace of the restaurant as it sinks into the sea.
Lodging Carvalhal *
Do you like to travel by motorhome?
- Do you want to rent a mobile home? Then you will find information and a selection of booking options. Or do you like traveling with it instead? roof tent on the car? In addition, the overnight stay in camping tents is possible.
- Be sure to check our packing list for campers to see whether you have packed everything for your motorhome tour.
- There are many campsites in the Alentejo. One Selection of campsites in the Alentejo* you can find here. There are also campsites right by the sea.
- Do you want to know where you can stay with a motorhome in Portugal? That's what there is Yes we camp! The most beautiful camping destinations for wintering*
- Why is a folding e-bike useful when camping?
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The next day we drive south to Porto Covo. The beaches look different there. While we previously only saw long sandy beaches, here we come across small, sandy bays protected by steep cliffs. The waves that roll over the Atlantic break at their foothills in the sea. Porto Covo is also easy to reach from Lisbon. From there, private day tours to the southwest coast are offered. In this region you can also do well hiking on the fishing path Portugal along the coast.
Porto Covo - Beaches in the Alentejo on the rocky coast
At the port of Porto Covo, a steep staircase leads up the cliffs to a viewing platform. This can also be reached by car, if you follow the signs to the beach in town. From there you also have a good view of the Praia dos Buizinhos. It is one of those beaches that lie in sheltered coves surrounded by steep cliffs. Most of them are accessible by stairs. Therefore, you can find in these coastal regions of the Alentejo sandy coves, where you can swim in the summer. In January, we also meet tourists at the caravan parking lot, who spend the cold season here enjoying the view.
Following the coastline from Porto Covo to Sines changes the look of the beaches. While Praia do Banho and some of the other bays to the north offer sheltered bathing spots, the beaches in the Alentejo from Praia de Morgavel to Sines are instead flat, wide, miles long and sandy.
Lodging Sines *
Morgavel - one of the most beautiful beaches in the Alentejo
On our visit in January, we share the beach with just a few lonely joggers and seagulls frolicking on the sand. Above the beach there are some fish restaurants, which are also open in winter. At the Dom Luis restaurant, we just drink a short espresso to enjoy the view from the terrace. In the nearby restaurant Arte y Sal On the other hand, a delicious fresh fish menu awaits us from the market in Sines.
Beaches in and around Vila Nova de Milfontes
This fishing village on Portugal's coast is a real insider tip. Here you will find Beaches that seem straight out of a picture book. From hidden coves surrounded by impressive cliffs to extensive sandy beaches ideal for sunbathing. Each of them promises unique moments. Whether you want to surf, swim or just relax, in Vila Nova de Milfontes you will find the perfect spot.
The wintry beaches in the Alentejo impress us. Each of them is different. Therefore, everyone will find the right beach on this short stretch of coast.
Questions and answers about a holiday on the Alentejo beaches
What security measures should I take when visiting the Alentejo beaches?
It is always important to follow local safety instructions. Pay attention to warning signs that indicate possible dangers such as strong currents or high waves. Avoid swimming alone, especially in remote areas.
Which beaches in the Alentejo are particularly child-friendly?
Many beaches in the Alentejo are suitable for families as they slope gently and are supervised. An example is Comporta beach, which is wide and shallow, making it ideal for children.
When is the best time to visit the Alentejo beaches?
The best time to visit the Alentejo beaches is in summer, from June to September. During these months the weather is warm and the water temperatures are comfortable.
Which water sports activities are particularly popular on the beaches in the Alentejo?
On the beaches of the Alentejo you can try a variety of water sports. These include surfing, stand up paddling and kite surfing. Some beaches also offer equipment rentals and courses for beginners.
Are there any particular dining experiences or restaurants I should try near the Alentejo beaches?
Yes, the Alentejo region is known for its excellent cuisine. Be sure to try the fresh seafood and local wine. Many restaurants offer stunning sea views, enhancing the dining experience.
Which accommodation near the beaches in Alentejo would you recommend for a longer stay?
There is a variety of accommodation near the beaches in the Alentejo, from luxury resorts to cozy apartments. Some recommendations are the Hotel Vila Park in Santo André and a holiday apartment in Monte do Zambujeiro.
Are there any guided tours or excursions I can do from the Alentejo beaches?
Yes, there are many guided tours and excursions that you can do from the Alentejo beaches. These include wine tasting, coastal walks and boat tours. You can also book private day tours to Lisbon offered from Porto Covo.
That has to be in your suitcase for a beach holiday in the Alentejo
- Comfortable walking boots, because the beaches of the Alentejo offer good opportunities for hiking
- A backpack, in which you paraphernalia.
- If you are planning a hike, you can go to our hiking checklist check what things are in the suitcase must.
- A Binoculars*that you can use to keep an eye out for ships
- For the beach you need a swimsuit or swimming trunks. Use ours packing list for a beach vacation. Then you don't forget anything for your beach holiday. A sun hat also protects against the sun.
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Travel Arrangements:
Parking at the airport
Here you can reserve your parking space at the airport.
Getting to the beaches in the Alentejo:
Compare and book flights here*. The nearest airport is Lisbon. You can also rent a car from there.
Car Rentals:
Cheap Car Hire - Book Fast and Easy! *
Trips:
Accomodation
Use our selection of the best hotels in Alentejo for your own travel planning.
Hotels and accommodations near the coast of the Alentejo * You can also book through our partner booking.com. We styed in the Hotel Vila Park in Santo André * and in a holiday apartment in Monte do Zambujeiro * .
Guide to the beaches in the Alentejo
Order your travel guide for the Alentejo here*.
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Do you know anything else?
- Alentejo Winery: The top 10 wineries you must visit
- The best hotels in Evora Portugal
- Best Hotels in Comporta, Portugal - Your Guide
- Discover your perfect accommodation in Porto Covo Portugal
- Golf in Tenerife
- Find more Slow Travel Destinations here.
- Discover travel tips here.
- Other tips for Portugal and the Alentejo have been published here.
- Are you interested in Portugal's discoveries? Then you will find here extensive information.
- Or do you want to know more about what the Portuguese seafaring history looked like? In this article, we introduce life aboard the overseas vessels, as it was at the time of the discovery story.
- Discover more Beach vacation destinations here.
- packing list for campers
- Beach vacation Canada
- Beach vacation USA
- Checklist beach vacation
- Combine camping and sightseeing in Porto Covo
- Campsites in Portugal
- Easter holidays
Source Alentejo beaches: own research on site. We were invited on this trip by Aptece, Visit Alentejo and the Rota do Peixe. However, our opinion remains our own.
Text Alentejo Beaches: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Photos Alentejo Beaches: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Video Portugal Alentejo beach: © Copyright Petar Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline