Once a wild and somewhat of a secret beach, Praia do Castelejo is now one of the most popular surfing beaches in Algarve. It’s quite big, measuring half a kilometer (about a third of a mile), and is also known for its natural beauty. It’s backed by dark schist cliffs, which at a certain point are the tallest in the entire Algarve coast, reaching 156 meters (512 feet) in height. At the top is a viewpoint where you can admire the beach and the coastline. This viewpoint is called Torre da Aspa, and refers to a 16th-century tower that once stood here. It’s on the southern side of the beach, but there’s another one on the northern end, called Miradouro do Castelejo, which overlooks both Praia do Castelejo and the neighboring Praia da Cordoama.
To reach the beach, you have to drive down a winding road on a valley. Once you make it to the sand, you see a big rock formation on the right side. That rock is known as Pedra da Laje, and some say it resembles a castle. It’s the origin of the beach’s name. If you continue walking to the right, past the rock at low tide, you’ll arrive at Praia da Cordoama.
Most of the people you see in Praia do Castelejo are surfers, and many of them were brought here by surfing schools of the region. There’s also a school at the beach, which rents equipment. You’ll find big waves throughout the year, but on some days the ocean is just too rough and the currents are often strong. You should always check the sea conditions and the warning flags (red means you can’t go in the water), and follow the advice of lifeguards, which are on duty in the summer months. Your surfing instructor or a lifeguard can also tell you which areas to avoid, since there are rocks in the water and some are not visible. The rocks along the shore, especially around Pedra da Laje, sometimes trap water, forming small pools. This is a Blue Flag beach, so you can be sure that the water quality is good.
Due to a microclimate in the region, it’s often foggy or misty here, even if in the neighboring towns it’s clear and sunny. It gives it a rather magical atmosphere, but you won’t be able to surf or sunbathe. Fortunately, the fog usually disappears by lunch time, but there are also days when you have to wait until late in the afternoon. The reward is a beautiful sunset.
End your day with a drink or meal at the restaurant, which is the only facility at the beach. It specializes in fresh fish and has outdoor seating. There are people who come to this beach just to dine here with sea views. If you prefer shade and don’t bring an umbrella, you’ll see wicker parasols for rent close to the restaurant.
Location: Vila do Bispo (Costa Vicentina)
Beach for: Surfing
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia do Castelejo
Praia do Castelejo is 15 minutes from Sagres, following the road to Vila do Bispo, then turning west on road M1265. Follow the sign to “Praias” (beaches). At the end of the winding and narrow road down to the beach is a parking lot with plenty of space. There is no public transportation to this beach.
Beaches by Praia do Castelejo
As mentioned above, at low tide you can walk to the beach of Cordoama to the north. By road, you’re there in 6 minutes. Further north (about 15 minutes) is Praia da Barriga. To the south (about 20 minutes) is Praia do Beliche.
Hotels by Praia do Castelejo
Hotel Mira Sagres
Perfectly located in the center of Vila do Bispo, this hotel has double and twin rooms, some of them with a terrace or balcony. It’s rated three stars, but offers a spa and an indoor pool. There’s no restaurant, but it serves a buffet breakfast (it can also be enjoyed in the room).
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Hotel Mira Sagres
Pure Flor de Esteva
This highly-rated bed and breakfast is in Vila do Bispo. It serves a good breakfast and there’s a shared kitchen where guests may prepare meals. The rooms are bright, with a simple but tasteful décor. There’s also a shared lounge and a terrace to relax outside.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Pure Flor de Esteva
Pure Fonte Velha B&B
Also located in Vila do Bispo, this bed and breakfast is a great value. It has double and king rooms, as well as a suite, a studio, and a loft. They’re all elegantly decorated in a vintage-inspired contemporary style. After a day at the beach, guests can relax in the garden or in the shared lounge, and prepare meals in the fully-equipped kitchen.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Pure Fonte Velha B&B