Top beaches in Alentejo – discover Portugal’s hidden coastal treasures

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 important as in other places in Portugal. Here, every day, the fishermen go out to fish. They don't venture too far from the coast in their small boats. Nevertheless, their work is not without danger. In some places, they have to overcome the wild surf to get back to their home port. In others, their boats are at the mercy of the waves of the Atlantic. These start far to the west and build up into impressive waves. From the beaches, you can often watch the Portuguese fishermen at work off the coast.

 

Our road trip along the Alentejo coast

 

 

Sunsets on the Alentejo coast

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.

Map of the beaches on the Alentejo coast

 

Portugal beach holiday from Comporta to Porto Covo

If you like remote beaches in Portugal, you will definitely love the beaches in Alentejo. There you can go on beach walks in Alentejo. We were there in January. We start our trip in EvoraThe Alentejo beaches actually begin at the town of Tróia in the north of the peninsula, which separates the Setubal Lagoon from the Atlantic. We saved ourselves the trip to Tróia, however, as the town has no special attractions other than a few hotels and Roman ruins. However, the beaches that stretch south from Tróia to Porto Covo are worth a visit. Use our beach tips for the Alentejo to plan your trip.

 

 

 

Beach holiday in Comporta – Perfect for nature lovers

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!

 

 

 

Carvalhal - Beaches in the Alentejo

Just a few kilometres further south there are more beaches. We make a detour to Praia do Pego in Carvalhal. Here the Restaurant Sal in summer. In winter, however, it is closed. No wonder, we have the beach almost to ourselves at this time of year. 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.

 

 

 

The next day we drive south to Porto Covo. The beaches there look different. While we have only seen long sandy beaches so far, here we come across small, sandy bays protected by steep cliffs. The waves that roll in from the Atlantic break on their outcrops in the sea. Porto Covo is also easy to reach from Lisbon. Private day trips to the southwest coast are offered from there. In this region you can also hiking on the fishing path Portugal along the coast.

 

 

Porto Covo – Remote beaches for those seeking peace and quiet

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.

 

 

 

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 bookFrom hidden coves surrounded by impressive cliffs to expansive sandy beaches that invite you to sunbathe. 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 place for it.

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.

 

 

Beach activities

Various activities are possible on these beaches in Alentejo:

1. Swimming in quiet bays.
2. Surf on wave-rich coastal areas.
3. Walks and hikes along the coast.
4. Sunbathing on the wide, often deserted beaches.
5. Dolphin watching near Comporta.
6. Fishing in the fishing villages.
7. bird watching in the nature reserves.
8. Camping and Picnics in the dunes.

We went hiking on the Rota Vicentina there in January.

Hiking on the Alentejo coast – discovering hidden beaches

Hiking along the Alentejo coast is a journey of discovery to hidden beaches that can only be reached on foot. Imagine walking along steep cliffs, the sea roaring beneath you, and suddenly the view opens up to a small, deserted bay. It is precisely these moments that make the coast so special. The paths are well marked, but often deserted and lead through untouched nature.

We particularly liked the section near Vila Nova de Milfontes, where you keep coming across unexpected beaches. This is a great place to spend the day, whether you relax on the sand or move on. A hike on the Rota Vicentina offers you not only the coast, but also insights into rural life.

 

 

Geological and ecological features of the beaches in Alentejo

The beaches of the Alentejo are characterised by a diverse geology. In many places they consist of towering cliffs made of limestone and shale dating from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. These cliffs have been shaped by erosion and tides, creating a dramatic landscape.

Ecologically, the beaches provide a habitat for threatened species such as the Iberian lynx and various bird species that nest in the dunes. The region is also home to marine ecosystems ranging from seagrass meadows to biodiverse intertidal zones, making the coastline an ecologically valuable area.

Geological formations:

• Slate and limestone: Cliffs are often made of these types of rocks, which have been formed by erosion.
• dune landscapes: Natural sand dunes shaped by wind and tides.

Ecological diversity:

• Marine biodiversity: The seagrass meadows near the coast provide habitat for fish and crustaceans.
• Protected animal species: Rare bird species and other endangered species find a refuge here.

The preservation of these beaches requires protective measures to preserve biodiversity and fragile ecosystems. Initiatives such as the Natura 2000 network play an important role in this.

 

Further information

• If you want to learn more about the geology and tectonics along the coast of Portugal, then take a look at the Professor João C. Duarte's website, which deals with this topic.
• On Alentejo you will find great videos about different regions in the Alentejo.
• Is your journey taking you further to the Algarve? Then you will find at gooutbecrazy the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve.

 

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. Look for warning signs indicating possible dangers such as strong currents or high waves. Avoid swimming alone, especially in remote areas. Since 2023, there has been a free shuttle service to beaches in the region, including Comporta and Porto Covo. There are increasingly strict rules on waste disposal on the beaches in order to preserve the unspoilt nature.

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.

 

 

 

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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. This will take you to every beach in Alentejo Portugal.

Car Rentals:

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Trips:

 

Accommodation in Alentejo Portugal

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 * .

 

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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 Portugal Alentejo Beaches: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Photos Alentejo Beaches: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Video Portugal Alentejo beach: © Copyright Petar Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline