The most central beach in Sagres is also the town’s largest, stretching for over 700 meters (2300 feet). It’s the Algarve’s southwesternmost beach, and worth a stop after visiting Sagres Fortress, which you can see on the western side.
It’s flanked by cliffs, so compared to other beaches around Sagres, the water is relatively calm. Still, it’s a fine destination for those wishing to learn to surf, especially in autumn and winter, when the waves are bigger. The water can be cold, but it’s shallow by the shore, so good for swimming (just watch out for some underwater rocks). This and the central location attract families with children, but it’s never crowded. It’s the most popular beach in Sagres, but outside the summer it’s usually deserted. The east is the quieter end.
The cliffs also shelter it from the wind, which can be strong in this part of Algarve. This makes it a good beach for sunbathing as well. At low tide, you might be able to swim around the cliff on the western end to a thin stretch of sand known as Prainha das Poças. However, this “little beach” disappears at high tide.
On days when the water is calm, you can dive and explore underwater caves. Kayaking and windsurfing are also popular. There are lifeguards on duty in the bathing season, and a couple of restaurants that remain open outside the summer (you’ll find plenty of other places to eat within walking distance). If you don’t bring a parasol, you may rent one.
This is a Blue Flag beach, meaning it’s clean and safe. However, it’s not accessible to those with mobility issues.
Location: Sagres
Beach for: Families
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia da Mareta
Praia da Mareta is within walking distance of just about anywhere in the center of Sagres. By car, it’s 10 minutes from Vila do Bispo, 20 minutes from Salema and about 35 minutes from Lagos. There’s parking on the road above the beach. An infrequent bus (number 47, operated by Vamus) goes from Lagos to Sagres.
Beaches by Praia da Mareta
On the other side of the cliff and fortress to the west is Praia do Tonel, which is known as a surfing beach. It’s about a 15-minute walk or 5-minute drive away. To the east (a half-hour walk or less than 10 minutes by car) is Praia do Martinhal, a family-friendly beach and a popular windsurfing destination.
Hotels by Praia da Mareta
Mareta Beach House
This villa is divided into double and family rooms, and many of them have a view over Praia da Mareta. Even better is the view from the infinity pool on the terrace.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Mareta Beach House
Mareta Beach Boutique Bed & Breakfast
Perfectly located above the beach, this bed-and-breakfast offers bright minimalist rooms, many of them with sea views. It serves breakfast but there’s also a café with similar options and light meals throughout the day.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Mareta Beach Boutique Bed & Breakfast
Mareta View Boutique Bed & Breakfast
You can admire a view over Praia da Mareta from the tropical palm garden of this boutique bed-and-breakfast. The garden features a hot tub and loungers for sunbathing. A few of the rooms have a balcony overlooking the ocean.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Mareta View Boutique Bed & Breakfast
Pousada de Sagres
This historic hotel overlooks Praia da Mareta from a clifftop. You have a wonderful view from the terrace with a swimming pool, and from many of the rooms with balconies. Other facilities include a restaurant and tennis courts.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Pousada de Sagres
Pontalaia Apartamentos Turísticos
These apartments are a short walk from the beach. They have one or two bedrooms and are fully equipped for the preparation of meals. All guests have access to an outdoor swimming pool, a gym and a sauna.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Pontalaia Apartamentos Turísticos