Some people call it Praia de Almádena, but the official name is Praia de Cabanas Velhas. It was once a secret beach, frequented by just a few naturists, but has become a favorite of local families and campers. Naturism is now rare, but occasionally you’ll find a few nude sunbathers on the eastern end (to the left when facing the sea). Here you’ll also sometimes see fishermen. Their old shacks gave the beach its name, but they no longer exist.
It’s not a huge beach, stretching for about half a kilometer (1640 feet) and becomes quite narrow at high tide. It’s surrounded by limestone cliffs and hills with pine trees and Mediterranean vegetation, and it’s possible to hike over them to the west, to the ruins of a fort built in 1632 and destroyed in a major earthquake in 1755. There are some wonderful views along the way.
Outside the summer, the beach is usually deserted, but has gained popularity in the bathing season. There are now even parasols and loungers for rent, and lifeguards on duty. The water varies greatly from calm to rough, so it’s not the best for swimming. There are also many underwater rocks and it gets deep quickly, so children and those who can’t swim should stick to the shoreline.
It is very clean, as certified by the Blue Flag. It can be windy, but the eastern side is a little more sheltered, thanks to the cliffs. However, you’re advised to keep a safe distance from them, as rocks may fall.
Christopher Columbus nearly died at this beach in 1476, on his first voyage in Atlantic waters. His ship was attacked by French pirates and burned, and the explorer had to swim to the shore. From here he headed to Lisbon, where he ended up marrying his Portuguese wife three years later.
Location: Burgau (Sagres)
Beach for: Families, Naturists
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia de Cabanas Velhas
By car, Praia de Cabanas Velhas is about 20 minutes from Sagres, about 15 from Vila do Bispo, and 5 from Burgau. As you approach the beach, you have to turn to a dirt road which often has potholes, so drive carefully. There’s a small parking area behind the beach. No buses pass by this beach.
Beaches by Praia de Cabanas Velhas
Praia de Cabanas Velhas is just 5 minutes by car from the village of Burgau, which also has a popular beach. In about 10 minutes you can also be in Salema, a similar fishing village with a family-friendly beach. If you prefer a wilder beach, head to Praia das Furnas instead, less than 20 minutes to the east.
Hotels by Praia de Cabanas Velhas
Hotel Burgau Turismo de Natureza
Located less than 10 minutes from Praia de Cabanas Velhas, up on a hill in the center of Burgau, this hotel overlooks the village and its beach. Some rooms on the top floors offer a sea view, and outside is a swimming pool.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Hotel Burgau Turismo de Natureza
Casa Lua Guesthouse
Conveniently located on a road that takes you to Praia de Cabanas Velhas in just six minutes, this guesthouse is a good budget choice. It has spacious rooms and serves a good breakfast.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Casa Lua Guesthouse
AlmaVerde Village & Spa Resort
Families or groups of friends will want to stay at this village resort made up of villas accommodating six to eight people. They’re fully equipped and have swimming pools. Praia de Cabanas Velhas is just 10 minutes away.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: AlmaVerde Village & Spa Resort