Many consider this to be the most beautiful beach in Western Algarve (Costa Vicentina). It’s relatively popular, due to its location close to the town of Aljezur and because it also has the calm waters of the Aljezur River, which attracts families with children. The waters of the ocean, however, have good waves for surfers. Even on the more crowded days, it’s very peaceful and offers plenty of space. It’s a big beach, stretching for about 580 meters (close to 2000 feet). It’s backed by large dunes and flanked by cliffs. According to local folklore, the rocks and the cliff on the northern side form the shape of a sleeping giant (use your imagination).
It’s quite a long walk from the parking lot on the eastern end to the ocean. There’s more parking and another access down to the beach, via a wooden ramp, on the northern end. Here you’ll find a few wicker parasols and loungers for rent. The southern end (the left side when you arrive) is the mouth of the river, which runs for almost 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the town of Aljezur to the beach. Where it reaches the Atlantic, a shallow lagoon is sometimes formed by the fresh ocean water. The waters of both the river and the sea are clean (this is a Blue Flag beach), but the river is warmer and safer for swimming. There can be rocks and strong currents in the sea, especially on the northern end, so you should be careful. Lifeguards supervise it in the summer.
The swells are great for surfers of all levels. You can rent equipment or learn how to surf at the surf school right on the beach.
For a view over the beach, head to the top of the cliff on the southern side. A wooden staircase looks like it goes down to the sand, but it never quite reaches it and is essentially an observation deck. Some people do go over the railing and hike down the cliff. However, at the bottom they find the river, which should only be crossed at low tide. As mentioned above, the access to the beach is on the eastern or northern ends. The view from the viewpoint is quite beautiful. You can see the entire beach and the green valleys behind it. You’ll spot a variety of birds and may even see an otter or two.
Hikers can enjoy even more views by following the so-called “Fishermen’s Trail” (“Trilho dos Pescadores”) from here. It’s part of Rota Vicentina, a network of trails that goes through Algarve and Alentejo, and which Condé Nast Traveler magazine considers one of the most beautiful coastal trails in the world. It goes over cliffs and many of the beaches of Costa Vicentina. We suggest heading north, towards the wild and deserted beach of Carriagem, which is difficult to reach by car.
There’s a restaurant on Praia da Amoreira (on the northern side) and another at the top of the cliff on the southern side, by the viewpoint.
Location: Aljezur (Costa Vicentina)
Beach for: Families, Surfers
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia da Amoreira
Praia da Amoreira is less than 15 minutes by car from Aljezur. It’s not within walking distance from any town and there’s no public transportation. As mentioned above, there’s parking on the eastern and northern sides of the beach. You can also park on the southern side, by the viewpoint, but there’s no direct access down to the beach from there.
Beaches by Praia da Amoreira
You can walk to the beach of Monte Clérigo, which is about 15 minutes to the south, from the southern side/viewpoint of Praia da Amoreira. It’s just a couple of minutes by car. Praia da Arrifana, also very popular among surfers, is 15 minutes away by car, to the south. To the north (about 25 minutes by car) is Praia do Vale dos Homens.
Hotels by Praia da Amoreira
Vicentina Hotel
You can be at Praia da Amoreira in less than 15 minutes from this hotel. It’s the main hotel in Aljezur, so where many people stay to explore Costa Vicentina. It has an outdoor pool, a restaurant, double and twin rooms, plus studios and 1-bedroom apartments. Some of the units feature a balcony and a view of the town’s castle.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Vicentina Hotel
Hotel Alcatruz
Located in the village of Rogil, to the north of Aljezur, this hotel places you less than 20 minutes from Praia da Amoreira. Some of its bright, beach-themed rooms have a balcony or terrace. There’s no restaurant, but breakfast is served daily, in the rooms.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Hotel Alcatruz
Arrifana Destination Boutique
It’s closer to the beach of Arrifana, but just a 25-minute drive from Praia da Amoreira. It offers rooms with sea views and an outdoor swimming pool.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Arrifana Destination Boutique