Almost all of the beaches on Costa Vicentina are remote and wild, but none like this one. You need to drive down a dirt road for several kilometers, and you’ll likely find it completely deserted. There aren’t even signs pointing to it.
It’s one of the last secret beaches in Algarve. Those who make it here are usually naturists. Some families looking for lots of space for children and dogs to run around sometimes do come here on summer weekends, but on most days there are only a few people, many of them sunbathing nude. It does have big waves like the beaches nearby, but you’ll rarely encounter surfers.
There are no lifeguards or any facilities. Due to the lack of supervision and the strong currents, swimming is not recommended. You should just get your feet wet on the central part of the shore. Don’t go in the water on the sides, as there are rocks and that’s where the dangerous currents are.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, and remember to not leave any trash behind. This is a very clean beach and you should keep it that way. If you want shade, bring an umbrella. Keep some distance from the cliffs, due to the risk of rockfall.
It has a magnificent natural landscape with different rock formations, rugged cliffs on the southern side and green cliffs on the north, small caves, rock pools at low tide, and a small stream that flows into the sand on the northern end. It’s beautiful at sunset. People on campervans often stay overnight, and the lack of pollution means that it’s a great place to gaze at the stars.
Location: Vila do Bispo (Costa Vicentina)
Beach for: Naturists
Lifeguards: No
Bathrooms: No
Rentals: No
Bar or Restaurant: No
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia da Murração
Praia da Murração can only be reached by car (there’s no public transportation). It’s 20 minutes from Vila do Bispo and 25 minutes from Sagres. You’ll need a map or GPS, since the turn on the paved road N268 to the dirt road is not signed. You just need to go straight ahead on that dirt road until you reach the beach (about 6km or close to 4 miles). It’s recommended that you go on a four-wheel drive vehicle and watch out for the potholes at the end. There’s a small parking area by the beach.
Beaches by Praia da Murração
Praia do Amado is right to the north of Praia da Murração, but you need to follow an almost circular route to reach it, so it takes about 25 minutes. To the south are Praia da Barriga (25 minutes), Praia da Cordoama (30 minutes) and Praia do Castelejo (35 minutes).
Hotels by Praia da Murração
Hotel Mira Sagres
Conveniently located in the heart of Vila do Bispo, this hotel is close to the road that takes you to Praia da Murração in 20 minutes. There are double and twin rooms, some of them with a terrace. It doesn’t have a restaurant but serves breakfast, and, surprisingly for a 3-star hotel, features a spa and an indoor pool.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Hotel Mira Sagres
Pure Flor de Esteva
Also 20 minutes from Praia da Murração, this highly-rated property offers bright and minimally-but-tastefully-decorated rooms. It serves a good breakfast and guests may prepare meals in the shared kitchen.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Pure Flor de Esteva
Pure Fonte Velha B&B
Another budget option in the center of Vila do Bispo, this bed and breakfast has double and king rooms, a suite, a studio, and a loft decorated in a vintage-contemporary style. It’s a great value and includes a fully-equipped kitchen and a lounge.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Pure Fonte Velha B&B