Praia de Odeceixe is the first beach in Algarve if you’re coming from the north and the last one if you’re coming from the south. It’s right below the Seixe River, which is the natural border between the provinces of Algarve and Alentejo. The river meets the Atlantic at the beach, which has a horseshoe shape. Its unspoiled beauty, protected as part of a natural park (the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina), regularly places it on lists of Algarve’s most recommended beaches and even among Europe’s best-kept secrets.
A marble monument above it reminds you that this is “officially” a “wonderful beach.” In 2012, there was a national survey to select Portugal’s “seven wonders” in different categories, and Praia de Odeceixe won the title of most wonderful beach in the “cliff beaches” category. The cliffs aren’t as tall and dramatic as many others on this coast, but still offer great panoramic views over the golden sand and the green-blue waters of the river and the sea.
The river sides (north and east) are quiet, often used for kayaking, and offer safe swimming for children. The waters of the ocean aren’t as safe for swimming, but are great for surfing and bodyboarding. Sometimes the tides form small lagoons and rock pools on the northern side. Lifeguards supervise it during the bathing season. This is a Blue Flag beach, meaning it’s clean and safe.
It stretches for 330 meters (close to 1100 feet), but can be crowded in the summer. Also look for space on the small cove on the southwestern side - it’s hidden around the cliff and only accessible when the tide is low, so few people discover it.
Once frequented by just a few hippies, it’s now very popular with surfers and families from around the country. Surf schools (the Odeceixe Surf School and Surf Seixe Academy) provide rentals and classes for all skill levels, including beginners. For those who prefer sports on the sand, there’s a volleyball net. It’s also possible to rent wicker parasols and sunbeds.
If you like hiking, you can follow walking trails nearby that are part of the Rota Vicentina route. You’ll spot many species of birds and even otters around the river.
There are a few houses and a couple of restaurants above the beach. You should stay for the beautiful sunset and also stop at the picturesque village nearby (it’s just 3km or less than 2 miles away).
Location: Aljezur (Costa Vicentina)
Beach for: Surfers, Families
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia de Odeceixe
On weekdays, the very infrequent Vamus bus 79 goes from Lagos to the village of Odeceixe, taking about 1 hour and 25 minutes. However, from the village to the beach, you can only go by car. The 3km-journey takes about 10 minutes. Walking would take about 40 minutes, and you’d have to go down a road with little room for pedestrians, so that’s not recommended. There’s parking right above the beach. If you can’t find a spot there, you can park further up the hill.
Beaches by Praia de Odeceixe
At low tide, you can go around the cliffs to Praia das Adegas, to the south. This is an official nude beach, and can also be reached from the top of the cliff, following a trail and then a staircase. About 20 minutes by car further south, is the beach of Vale dos Homens.
Hotels by Praia de Odeceixe
Casas do Moinho
Whether you’re traveling as a couple or as a family, you’ll love your stay at one of these traditional houses in the center of Odeceixe. They’re right by the village’s landmark windmill and have been completely renovated, respecting the original architecture. The interiors, however, are contemporary. They’re nine houses in total, and there’s a swimming pool in the back.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Casas do Moinho
Sol Mar
Very well located in Odeceixe, by the road to the beaches and with plenty of space for parking outside, this is a good-value guesthouse. Its rooms with balconies are clean, and the staff very welcoming. The entire town is within walking distance.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Sol Mar
Casa Dorita
To wake up to views of the beach, stay at this guesthouse located above it. It has double, twin, and triple rooms, as well as a suite, and about half of them offer a sea view. Its restaurant is a great sunset spot.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Casa Dorita
Carlo's Beach Hostel
Surfers or anyone on a budget will want to stay at this welcoming hostel located up the road from the beach. There are double and quadruple rooms, as well as a dorm with four beds. Guests can use the shared kitchen and the barbecue equipment to prepare meals.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Carlo's Beach Hostel