Cordoama is a big beach backed by tall cliffs. It’s mainly frequented by surfers, as it’s right to the north of the very popular Castelejo surfing beach. The two are connected at low tide. If you keep walking north (to the right, when you arrive), it becomes nearly deserted except for a few naturists. Since it’s in a protected area, it remains wild, and has been certified by the Blue Flag, indicating that it’s clean and safe.
A microclimate often causes it to be misty or foggy, even when it’s sunny and clear in the closest town, Vila do Bispo, just 5 kilometers (3 miles) away. That’s usually the case in the morning, but it tends to clear up by noon. Sometimes you do have to wait until late in the afternoon to see the sun, but the sunset is always beautiful.
The unpredictable weather doesn’t make it a very reliable beach for sunbathing. The waves and currents don’t make it a great swimming destination either. This means that the real reason to come here is to enjoy a wild landscape or to surf. It’s great for long walks by the sea. Do watch out for rocks in the water. There are lifeguards on duty in the bathing season (usually from late june to September).
If you come here to surf, you should know that it’s good for beginners and pros, depending on the swell. In the summer, the Free Ride Surf School, which is based in Sagres, has a hut at this beach to rent equipment and offer lessons. There’s also a bar-restaurant, which serves grilled fish and light meals. These are the only facilities at the beach.
Another popular activity here is paragliding, as the cliffs are over 100 meters (328 feet) tall.
In the summer, there are usually a few parasols and loungers for rent, but if you really want shade, it might be a good idea to bring your own, just in case.
Above the beach is a viewpoint called Miradouro do Castelejo (you’ll see a sign pointing to it). From here you have a breathtaking view over the two neighboring beaches and the big rock formation that separates them, which is known as Pedra da Laje.
Location: Vila do Bispo (Costa Vicentina)
Beach for: Surfing, Naturism
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia da Cordoama
There is no public transportation to Praia da Cordoama. It’s 15 minutes by car from Sagres, heading in the direction of Vila do Bispo, then turning west on road M1265. Follow the sign to “Praias” (beaches). There’s free parking right behind the beach, and it’s always easy to find a spot, even on weekends in August.
Beaches by Praia da Cordoama
As mentioned above, you can walk to Praia do Castelejo at low tide (turn left when facing the sea). By car it’s about six minutes. To the north is Praia da Barriga, which is also accessible at low tide or in about seven minutes by car. You might also want to visit Praia do Beliche, about 20 minutes to the south.
Hotels by Praia da Cordoama
Hotel Mira Sagres
It has Sagres in the name but it’s actually in the very center of Vila do Bispo. Cordoama is about 10 minutes away by car. It offers rooms with a terrace or balcony, an indoor pool and a spa. There’s a room where breakfast is served, but no restaurant.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Hotel Mira Sagres
Pure Flor de Esteva
This bed and breakfast is in Vila do Bispo and is highly rated for its bright and tastefully-decorated rooms, its good breakfast and terrace to relax in the sun. It also has a shared kitchen where guests may prepare meals.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Pure Flor de Esteva
Pure Fonte Velha B&B
This good-value bed and breakfast is also in Vila do Bispo, and is divided into double and king rooms, a suite, a loft and a studio. Everything is decorated in a vintage-contemporary style. Guests can relax in the lounge or at the garden. It’s also possible to prepare meals in the shared kitchen.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Pure Fonte Velha B&B