36 Best Beaches in Alentejo and Vicentine Coast

If the beaches along the Vicentine Coast and in Alentejo had warmer waters, they would be downright even more spectacular, possibly attracting even larger summer crowds. What we perceive as a downside of these beaches might actually be their greatest asset: their ability to maintain their authenticity while avoiding the masses that typically flood areas like the Central Algarve and Ria Formosa.

My journey through this region revealed not only an abundance of beaches primed for tourism but also many untouched, pristine locales frequented primarily by those veering off the beaten path.

I was captivated by the majestic cliffs of the Vicentine Coast beaches, which stand in stark contrast to the less dramatic ones in central Algarve. The sweeping expanses of the Alentejo Coast also held a particular allure for me. Consequently, I was inspired to compile a list of my top 36 beaches in Southwest Portugal. While it was necessary to omit some, I’m confident that the ones I’ve included represent the finest this region has to offer.

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Tours to Explore the Best Beaches in Alentejo and Vicentine Coast

If you’re considering guided tours or engaging in activities in Southwest Portugal, be sure to explore offerings on platforms like Get Your Guide, Viator, or Civitatis. I’ve consistently had positive experiences with them, largely due to their review system, which I consult prior to any reservation. Generally, a tour with high ratings and glowing reviews guarantees a rewarding experience.

Although I encourage your own research, here are a few intriguing suggestions:

1 - Consider a Horseback Ride through Carrapateira, in Melides region, or along the pristine beaches of Comporta.
2 - A 4x4 Tour along Sagres Coast at Sunset.
3 - Why not soar the skies with a Paragliding flight activity?
4 - Or opt for a serene dolphin watching excursion near Tróia?

Accommodation tips to visit the Best Beaches in Alentejo and Vicentine Coast?

Town	Accommodation tips
Vila do Bispo	Memmo Baleeira \| Pontalaia Apartamentos \| Casa Azul Sagres \| Sagres Time Apartamentos \| Sagres Sun Stay \| Salema Beach Village
Aljezur	Herdade Monte do Sol \| Casas do Moinho \| Monte do Cardal \| Carrapateiramar \| Bohemian Antique Guesthouse \| Monte João Roupeiro \| Casa da Estela
Odemira	Guarda Rios \| Sol da Vila \| Villa Eira \| Três Marias \| Raminhos Guest House \| Casa da Alagoinha \| Herdade do Touril \| AZUL \| Hostel Nature \| Herdade Amália Rodrigues
Sines	Pé na Areia \| MUTE \| O Lugar \| Casa do Médico de São Rafael \| Hotel Dom Vasco
Santiago do Cacém and Grândola	Ponte Pedra \| Montum Farm Living \| Quinta do Pinheiro \| Ying Yang Monte da Lua \| Spatia Comporta \| Monte das Faias \| Troia Design Hotel \| Pestana Troia \| Verde e Mar \| AlmaLusa Comporta \| Sublime Comporta

SEARCH FOR MORE ACCOMMODATIONS ON THE VICENTINE COAST

SEARCH FOR MORE ACCOMMODATIONS IN ALENTEJO COAST

Top 36 Beaches in Alentejo and Vicentine Coast

You will find a wealth of stunning beaches in Alentejo and Vicentine Coast. In this list, I’ll introduce you to a selection of my favorites, those I deem the most picturesque. All in all, I’ve singled out 36 beaches as the finest southwest of Portugal has to offer.

Map | Best Beaches in Alentejo and Vicentine Coast

For a closer overview, click on the top right corner to enlarge the following map. It provides a clear answer to your query: “What are the best beaches in Alentejo and Vicentine Coast?”. Areas marked in blue represent the Alentejo Coast, while those in orange denote the Vicentine Coast.

Best Beaches in Alentejo Coast

In total, I will present you 23 beaches in Alentejo, though there could easily be many more. 🙂 These beaches extend from Tróia Peninsula to the Algarve border, incorporating areas like Comporta, Melides, Sines, Porto Covo, Milfontes, and Zambujeira do Mar. I’m confident that several will exceed your expectations!

1. Tróia Beach – Grândola

Tróia Beach, the first I’m featuring in this article, essentially needs no introduction. You’ve likely heard of its tranquil waters safeguarded by the Arrábida Mountain Range and Espichel Cape. The view to the other side of Sado River is truly breathtaking.

Given its popular tourist appeal, it boasts ample amenities and facilities. A multitude of luxury resorts can be found in this area, for instance.

Tróia beach is accessible both by car or via regular boat services connecting it to the city of Setúbal. Although situated in Grândola, it’s a magnet for visitors from Setúbal. Don’t miss the chance to explore nearby Roman ruins or embark on a boat tour to watch Dolphins.

Tróia Peninsula | Best beaches in Alentejo

2. Atlantic Beach (Soltroia) – Grândola

Despite its beauty, I must admit that I wasn’t a big fan of Tróia beach, much preferring Atlantic Beach to its south. This beach has light blue waters, and the sandy area is extensive and spacious, with less bustle than the previous one. It’s located near the Soltroia Tourist Complex, and access is provided via wooden walkways from the paid parking lots.

3. Comporta Beach – Grândola

Comporta has been gaining popularity as a sought-after destination along the Alentejo Coast. It’s particularly renowned for offering horseback rides on the beach.

Situated at the extreme southern end of Tróia Peninsula and at the edge of Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, Comporta is an idyllic spot for those who appreciate a calm sea with very small waves. It’s an excellent location for kitesurfing.

It’s worth noting that the surrounding vicinity features vast rice fields, providing a habitat for a wide array of bird species easily observed with a pair of binoculars. 😉 Don’t forget to pack them!

4. Carvalhal Beach – Grândola

The fourth entry in this article could be split into two distinct beaches: Carvalhal Beach and Pego Beach, both situated near each other. Regrettably, I didn’t get the chance to visit Pego Beach, as all parking there required a fee (around €5 per day during my visit). Conversely, at Carvalhal Beach, I found a mix of paid and free parking options close to the beach.

Both of these beaches bear a close resemblance to Comporta Beach, featuring a relatively calm sea with very small waves. The accessibility is superb with well-paved roads leading almost to the sandy shoreline.

Note: I find the excessive parking prices at these Alentejo Coast beaches rather unreasonable, particularly for those aiming to discover several beaches in a single day, as I did. The asking price would be €5 at each beach – quite a sum if you visit many! It would certainly be fairer for all visitors to have a system where you pay for your actual duration of stay.

5. Galé Beach (Fontainhas) – Grândola

Galé Beach bears a striking resemblance to Falésia Beach in Algarve. If you’re unfamiliar with Falésia Beach, I recommend checking out my article on the best beaches in Albufeira. The main distinction between the two lies in the temperature of the water; Galé lacks the warmth characteristic of Falésia.

Galé Beach, a truly picturesque destination, is accessible via the Fontaínhas Camping Park. Although you’ll need to traverse the park on foot from the external parking area, access to the beach is completely free.

Note: Upon entering the camping park, you'll need to leave some form of identification, but any card displaying your name will suffice. Bear in mind, access to the beach remains free of charge! The fossil cliff features striking formations dating back around 5 million years.

6. Aberta Nova Beach – Grândola

Next up is Aberta Nova Beach, which stands out as one of the most authentic locales on this list. It offers basic amenities such as a snack bar and lifeguard supervision during the bathing season, but apart from that, it’s purely natural surroundings. Given its considerable distance from Espichel Cape, the sea here begins to showcase stronger wave activity.

7. Melides Beach – Grândola

Melides, much like Comporta, is another significant hub on the Alentejo Coast. Melides beach is vast, serving as a natural divide between the Melides lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean. Here, beach horseback rides and bird watching in the lagoon are popular activities. For other local attractions and an opportunity to appreciate traditional pottery, head to the center of Melides village, which hosts a small museum.

For those interested in camping, Melides offers a dedicated camping park.

8. Santo André Beach – Santiago do Cacém

Santo André Beach, the first entry from Santiago do Cacém on this list, offers two distinct experiences. On one side, you’ll encounter a beach with the vigorous ocean waves; on the other, a tranquil lagoon-facing area. Santo André Lagoon holds the status of a Special Protection Area, reflecting its remarkable biological diversity.

9. Monte Velho Beach – Santiago do Cacém

South of Santo André Lagoon lies Monte Velho Beach, also recognized as Porto das Carretas Beach. Noteworthy for its vast sandy stretch and walking paths, namely Poços dos Caniços and Barbarroxa, this area allows intimate exploration of the region’s wetlands and their small lagoons. It’s an ideal spot for birdwatchers who are particularly interested in marine bird species.

Monte Velho | Best Beaches in Alentejo Coast

10. Fonte do Cortiço Beach – Santiago do Cacém

Don’t overlook Fonte do Cortiço Beach! Nearby, consider visiting Badoca Safari Park, one of the standout attractions on the Alentejo Coast. At Badoca, you can experience a mini African adventure without ever leaving Portugal. The park offers a touristic train safari, facilitating close encounters with larger wild animals like giraffes. Moreover, you can watch performances featuring birds and reptiles and even engage in a rafting activity.

Fonte do Cortiço | Best Beaches in Alentejo

11. Vasco da Gama Beach – Sines

Before reaching Sines, be sure to visit the vast Areão Beach. As I haven’t done that yet, I’ve chosen not to feature it prominently on this list of the best beaches in Alentejo and Vicentine Coast.

Vasco da Gama Beach, the primary beach in Sines featured in this article, is named after the Portuguese explorer who pioneered the sea route to India. He was born in Sines, hence the tribute. This beach is among the most picturesque on the Alentejo Coast, especially when admired from the vantage point of Sines Castle. The sandy stretch runs alongside the bay near the marina. With its serene waters and central location in the city of Sines, the beach is well-supported by ample amenities.

12. São Torpes Beach – Sines

São Torpes Beach was unique in that its waters were heated by the nearby Sines power plant until recently, often reaching up to 30ºC. This characteristic transformed it into an Alentejo paradise, an experience I was fortunate enough to enjoy. I’m not certain of its current state, but as of now, I still regard it as one of the best beaches in Alentejo. São Torpes marks the official beginning of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, and consequently, the start of the Fishermen’s Trail. Here are all the stages of this trail:

Stage 1: São Torpes – Porto Covo
Stage 2: Porto Covo – Vila Nova de Milfontes
Stage 3: Vila Nova de Milfontes – Almograve
Stage 4: Almograve – Zambujeira do Mar
Stage 5: Zambujeira do Mar – Odeceixe
Stage 6: Odeceixe – Aljezur
Stage 7: Aljezur – Arrifana
Stage 8: Arrifana – Carrapateira
Stage 9: Carrapateira – Vila do Bispo
Stage 10: Vila do Bispo – Sagres
Stage 11: Sagres – Salema
Stage 12: Salema – Praia da Luz
Stage 13: Praia da Luz – Lagos

For more information, visit: Fishermen’s Trail.

São Torpes | Best Beaches in Alentejo Coast

13. Samoqueira Beach – Sines

I have a fondness for Samoqueira Beach due to the unique pools and coves created by various islets just a stone’s throw away from the shoreline. These natural structures shield the beach from the power of the sea and its waves! Located in the northern part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, this beach retains its wild, untouched character.

14. Pessegueiro Island Beach – Porto Covo

While Pessegueiro Island Beach might not top my list of favorites, it undoubtedly warrants a visit for the awe-inspiring view of the island and its historical forts: the Fort of Nossa Senhora da Queimada (situated adjacent to the beach), and the Fort of Santo Alberto, located on the island itself. Although I’ve yet to experience it personally, boat trips to Pessegueiro Island are available.

15. Malhão Beach – Vila Nova de Milfontes (Odemira)

I visited only the southern section of Malhão, where the boardwalks are. I believe it’s also the region boasting the most stunning and significant cliffs. Northward, the sandy stretch is expansive, reaching nearly to Pessegueiro Island. An officially designated area for naturism is also available.

16. Patacho Beach – Vila Nova de Milfontes (Odemira)

Patacho Beach is located slightly north of Vila Nova de Milfontes. The highlight is the shipwreck on the beach, and that’s why I include it in this list of the best beaches in Alentejo.

vila nova de milfontes navio naufragado — Shipwreck at Patacho Beach in Alentejo Coast

17. Farol Beach – Vila Nova de Milfontes (Odemira)

Farol Beach is among the incredible collection of beaches found in the heart of Vila Nova de Milfontes. Situated near the mouth of Mira River, close to the Archangel statue and the Milfontes lighthouse, it features remarkable rock formations that invite exploration along the seaside.

18. Furnas Beach – Vila Nova de Milfontes (Odemira)

Furnas Beach was classified before as a marvel of Portugal in the category of best river beaches, but it also has a sandy area facing the sea, with waves. So, it manages to please everyone! How about grabbing a kayak or a paddleboard and exploring the Mira River?

19. Franquia Beach – Vila Nova de Milfontes (Odemira)

Franquia Beach, adjacent to the prior two beaches, could easily claim the title of Vila Nova de Milfontes’ wonder in Portugal. It’s particularly known for the prominent Fort of São Clemente.

20. Almograve Beach – Odemira

Located at Almograve Beach is the “clean sea” memorial, erected following a crude oil spill in 1989 that affected the region. This event marked one of the most significant oil spills on Portugal’s coast, with this beach suffering the greatest impact—around 6,000 liters of crude oil were spilled!

Today, this beach is a sought-after destination on the Alentejo coast, offering excellent access and amenities. It ranks among the most tourist-popular beaches in Odemira, right behind Zambujeira do Mar and Vila Nova de Milfontes.

21. Tonel Beach – Odemira

Access to the sandy stretch of Tonel Beach is not easy and can even pose some danger. Also, there’s no supportive infrastructure in place. The beach is far more untamed and less crowded than its neighboring Zambujeira do Mar or the previously mentioned Furnas Beach. At high tide, the beach area is significantly reduced.

So, what earns it a mention here? What prompts me to feature Tonel Beach in this list of the best beaches in Alentejo and Vicentine Coast is its distinct bay shape and the absolutely unforgettable hues of orange at sunset. The beach is truly stunning!

22. Zambujeira do Mar Beach – Odemira

Zambujeira do Mar Beach has earned its fame primarily for two reasons:

It hosts the MEO Sudoeste festival every summer, an event that draws a substantial crowd year after year.
It’s recognized as one of Portugal’s wonders in the category of best urban beaches.

Zambujeira do Mar provides a serene setting, making it an ideal location for a relaxing Alentejo vacation. That being said, the tranquil ambiance might be slightly disrupted during the MEO Sudoeste festival – I can’t confirm, as I’ve never participated in the festival. Nonetheless, it undoubtedly merits a spot on this list.

Zambujeira do Mar | Best Beaches in Alentejo

23. Amália Beach – Odemira

What if I told you there exists a beach in Southwest Alentejo, just at the border with Algarve and the Vicentine Coast, that gained its fame as the favored spot of the most renowned Portuguese Fado singer, Amália Rodrigues? This is Amália Beach.

Indeed, the Fado singer had exquisite taste, a fact you’ll likely agree with. To reach the sandy stretch, you must traverse a small easy trail, which offers a delightful foretaste of what awaits you. I venture to say that out of all the beaches I’ve discussed so far, this one has touched my heart the most: that’s why I deem it one of the best beaches in Alentejo and among the most beautiful.

Before becoming known as Amália’s beach, it was Brejão Beach. Make sure to visit the village and admire the murals honoring the Fado singer, Amália. 😉

Best Beaches on the Vicentine Coast

The beaches that follow are arranged from Odeceixe to Salema, always following the coastline. There are, in total, 13 beaches on the Vicentine Coast that you should definitely explore.

24. Odeceixe Beach – Aljezur

Odeceixe Beach has been officially recognized as one of the 7 wonders of Portugal (cliff beaches). It’s only natural that it appears on this list of the best beaches on the Vicentine and Alentejo Coasts.

Situated in Aljezur, at the mouth of the Seixe stream, and near the border of Algarve with Alentejo, its dual appeal of sea and river makes it universally pleasing. It’s challenging to find a superior beach than this, but I’ll let you form your own opinions. 😉

Ocedeixe Beach in Vicentine Coast — Ocedeixe Beach on the Vicentine Coast

25. Amoreira Beach – Aljezur

Amoreira Beach boasts a vast sand stretch adjacent to the mouth of the Aljezur Stream. Like the prior one, it offers both sea and river possibilities, undoubtedly making it one of my favorites. If you choose to approach from the southern part of the beach, you’d need to cross the river by swimming, as evidenced in the photograph. However, you’d be in close proximity to Monte Clérigo Beach, which I’m going to touch upon next.

Amoreira Beach in Vicentine Coast — Amoreira Beach on the Vicentine Coast

26. Monte Clérigo Beach – Aljezur

Monte Clérigo Beach features striking rock formations by the sea where you can explore “wildlife” at low tide. While it may not possess the same charm and allure as the previous beach, in my opinion, it boasts a unique style compared to the others. That’s why it merits a mention in this list of the best beaches on the Vicentine Coast and Alentejo.

Monte Clérigo | Best beaches on the Vicentine Coast

27. Medo da Fonte Santa Beach – Aljezur

Medo da Fonte Santa Beach is among those expansive Vicentine Coast beaches that remain always deserted. There’s an almost eerie feeling walking on that sand. The vantage point you get from Ribat da Arrifana is simply phenomenal, offering an impressive view of its imposing cliffs.

Medo da Fonte Santa Beach on the Vicentine Coast

28. Arrifana Beach – Aljezur

Sheltered by shale cliffs that host various bird species, Arrifana Beach is a sight to behold. Be sure to spot the Needle Rock, a renowned rock formation on the Vicentine Coast, located at the southern end of the beach. This beach is known for its appeal to water sports enthusiasts, attracting many surfers.

Atop the cliff adjacent to Arrifana Beach lies one of the most exceptional viewpoints for this coast, a key reason why I emphasize it as one of the most stunning beaches in southwest Portugal.

29. Bordeira Beach – Aljezur

Part of Pontal da Carrapateira, Bordeira Beach is the region’s most expansive, boasting about 3km of sand stretch. Along the banks of Carrapateira stream, otters can often be spotted. Thanks to its strong winds, Bordeira Beach is considered a paradise for kitesurfing lovers.

30. Amado Beach – Aljezur

Also a part of Pontal da Carrapateira, Amado Beach is highly coveted for surfing. It’s considered one of the country’s top spots for the sport and often hosts competitions. Adjacent to the beach, there’s a surf school, and I’m aware that a surfers’ camp is also available.

31. Murração Beach – Vila do Bispo

Murração Beach is one of the wildest featured in this article. I encountered few people there, some of whom were nudists. Interestingly, there was no mobile network coverage there.

32. Cordoama and Castelejo Beaches – Vila do Bispo

The standout feature of these two beaches is the viewpoint nestled between them: the Castelejo or Cordoama Viewpoint. Both beaches are known for their waves and are supervised during the bathing season. They boast Blue Flag status and are supported by an on-site café-restaurant with restrooms. Here, barnacles are caught, a seafood delicacy in the region. Interestingly, Castelejo Beach owes its name to the rock formation to the east of the beach that resembles a “small castle,” or “castelejo” in Portuguese.

33. Tonel Beach – Sagres (Vila do Bispo)

Tonel Beach, one of Sagres’ finest, is conveniently located close to the village and the Fortress. Its strategic location ensures plenty of amenities. How about joining a surf class while you’re there?

34. Mareta Beach – Sagres (Vila do Bispo)

Situated on the other side of Sagres Cape compared to Tonel Beach, Mareta Beach offers a different experience. Its protected position ensures calmer waters, standing in contrast to the previous Vicentine Coast beaches.

35. Salema Beach – Vila do Bispo

Salema Beach in Vila do Bispo holds a special allure with its dinosaur footprints found nearby. Be sure not to miss these intriguing historical marks, and also make time to explore the charming village surrounding the beach.

36. Burgau Beach – Vila do Bispo

Burgau Beach, undoubtedly one of Vila do Bispo’s standout shores, is an unmissable destination. It’s situated at the outskirts of the municipality, and it’s where I encountered two of the most memorable episodes of my trip. I found myself navigating by car on the sandy beach, following a route suggested by Google Maps, only to stumble upon an unexpected sight on the beachfront.

To elaborate: I spotted a teddy bear reeling in cans of tuna (or perhaps sardines?). The peculiar display was not only intriguing but brilliantly amusing. The imaginative mind behind this unique setup surely possesses a remarkable sense of humor, wouldn’t you agree?

Nestled near a charming fishing village, the beach offers a picturesque landscape perfect for a leisurely stroll. This enchanting destination undoubtedly ranks among the top beaches on the Vicentine Coast.

Secure a Car Rental and Travel Insurance

A car is indispensable for exploring the best beaches in Alentejo and Vicentine Coasts. If you don’t own a vehicle, I suggest renting one via Discover Cars, a platform that enables you to compare prices easily.

Similarly, it’s prudent to obtain travel insurance for your trip. To be protected against several types of travel hazards, I also recommend that you take out travel insurance for your stay in Portugal, and I recommend you to do it with World Nomads.

More of South of Portugal and Alentejo

The Algarve is home to many more stunning beaches, so from Burgau, you can follow the coast into areas like Lagos, Portimão, Lagoa, or Albufeira. Check the links below for more gorgeous beaches and sights. Have a nice time in my country, and tell me everything about your travels in the comment section below. 😉

MORE ARTICLES FROM ALENTEJO AND ALGARVE:

- Best Costa da Caparica beaches
- Best beaches in Setúbal
- Best Beaches in Sesimbra
- Visit Ribeiro do Cavalo Beach
- Best beaches in Tróia, Comporta and Melides
- Things to do in Porto Covo and Sines
- Things to do in Odemira and Vila Nova de Milfontes

- Things to do in Marvão
- Things to do in Elvas
- Things to do in Estremoz
- Things to do in Vila Viçosa
- Things to do in Monsaraz & Alqueva Lake
- Things to do in Évora
- Things to do in Mértola and Guadiana Valley
- Things to do in Beja

- Algarve Road Trip Itinerary
- Best Beaches in Algarve
- Things to do in Sagres
- Things to do in Lagos
- Best Beaches in Lagos
- Things to do in Portimão
- Things to do in Armação de Pêra and Silves
- The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
- Best beaches in Carvoeiro and Lagoa
- Best Beaches in Albufeira
- Things to do in Vilamoura and Quarteira
- Things to do in Faro
- Things to do in Tavira
- Things to do in Olhão
- Things to do in Monte Gordo

36 Best Beaches in Alentejo and Vicentine Coast | Portugal

Further Reading on the Vicentine Coast, Alentejo, and Algarve