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The 10 most incredible beaches to know in Portugal
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Summer has room for all sorts of days. For days that urge you to be right in the middle of all the bustle and rustle, and the days of yearning for quietness. If you're on a day when you just feel like heading to a deserted beach, grab your towel, sunscreen, bag and your trekking shoes because Guerin will take you to the 10 most incredible deserted beaches to discover in Portugal. The trip starts at the nearest Guerin station and ends in the quietness of the purest sand. Now shhh! this article is to be read in silence.
1. São Jacinto Beach. Watch the dunes roll to the sound of waves.
It is difficult to say where the Dunas de São Jacinto Natural Reserve begins and where São Jacinto beach ends. Upon arrival, through the main entrance, where the wooden promenade gives way to the voracity of the dunes, the sand stretches as far as the eye can see. And so does the deep blue sea. Here, in this wild refuge tucked between the Atlantic and Aveiro’s estuary, there is room for everyone, including protected species. It is well worth visiting this deserted beach Paradise, right around the corner from Ovar and Aveiro.
2. Cacela Velha Beach. Keep this one to yourself.
At the far end of the island of Cabanas, separated by the estuary from the bar of Cacela, is Cacela Velha beach, also known as Fábrica Mar, one of the most beautiful deserted beaches in the country. A boat crosses over regularly, carrying those who seek the touch of fine sand and the blue tranquillity of an unhurried, relaxing day. On the other side, across the estuary, lurks the village of Cacela Velha, smiling in its delicate genuine grace, as "Formosa”, or beautiful, as the ria that bathes it.
3. Ribeiro do Cavalo Beach. It’s hard to get to but impossible to leave.
Cannes? No, no, it's actually Sesimbra. There are no cars nearby. To reach it you must sail or walk along a steep mountain trail, like so many scattered across Serra da Arrábida. In this deserted cove, the turquoise sea seems dormant, inviting constant bathing. Afterwards, it’s time to rest on the golden sand, contemplating the cliffs and the well-kept secrets of the mountain. Preparation is key for a memorable day at this deserted beach because there are no cafes, no restaurants and no shops nearby. Civilization visits and then turns back, following the same track, leaving no trace behind it.
4. Praia da Ursa, discover one of the best deserted beaches in Portugal
This breathtaking beach is usually deserted because it’s not easy to reach. After all, the prospect of an hour long walk, leading up to your beach day, is not something most people are willing to put up with. However, for those who like to walk as much as they like to relax, this destination combines the best of both worlds. Here, in this cove surrounded by cliffs, you can feel the powerful influence of Cabo da Roca. You’ll see, once you’re sitting on the fine sand that covers one of Europe's westernmost points, everything else is literally behind you.
5. Praia do Porto Santo, Top in quietness.
Before you roll your eyes and say: this beach is not deserted at all, hear us out. Yes, Porto Santo beach may not tick the boxes of a textbook deserted beach. However, was considered Best European Beach 2022. This means that Porto Santo beach was voted better than Greek paradises, Italian blue coves, the sandy French Riviera, the Balearic and Canary islands. Considering that Porto Santo beach is also infinitely less crowded than all these destinations, we could say this fits the requirements of a deserted beach. If you are looking for an internationally awarded beach, but a bit more on the quiet side, this is the right choice.
6. Praia da Barreta. Further down, keep going, keep going and stop.
Barreta beach couldn't be more deserted, because it is located on a desert island. If you’ve managed to arrive there, congratulations, you are at the southernmost point of the country. The beach is the main feature of one of the Barrier Islands of Ria Formosa Natural Park. You can only reach it by boat, and even then, only between June and September. Despite being equipped with basic facilities, the beach has not lost its wild, pure and seductive appeal. Those who are looking for the calm of a long beach day, just head down south, sit on the sand and look ahead, to what the sea will bring.
7. River Beach of Loriga, Seia. A beach up there, a lot up there.
In Serra da Estrela, the road less travelled can take you to amazing places. In summer, instead of following the crowds to the ski slopes or main glacial valley walks, take a small detour to Loriga. This charming and peaceful village has a fitting nickname: Portuguese Switzerland. Situated at 770 meters high, Loriga is surrounded by beautiful and imposing mountains. Here, there are paths to fit all sorts of people, but one of the best is definitely the path that leads to the river beach. Pools of crystal clear water stretch out in the sun, between cliffs and boulders, seducing everyone, even those who tremble in the face of adventure. Will this river beach be deserted in summer? Possibly not, but it is easily fixed. After your swim, pick up your boots and follow the river path. There is plenty of solitude in the mountain.
8. Praia Selvagem de Canto Marinho, Viana. Quietness with a northern accent.
In Portugal, northern beaches are a bit like its people. We have to be prepared for that north wind gust that blows unexpectedly, just as in the abrupt candid manner of a northern woman. Beachgoers can be seen, with windshields at the ready, heading towards the surf conformed with the cold certainty of the open Atlantic. Why do they do it? Because this is the only way to get to know the wild beauty of deserted beaches like Canto Marinho, in Viana do Castelo. Here, some paths take us on a journey that goes back thousands and thousands of years. Here, peace drifts with the breeze that floats between green hills and the silvery sea.
9. Almagreira beach, Ferrel. Nostalgia dripping cliffs.
The wild nature of Almagreira beach is shaped by the clay-dusted cliff that surrounds it. A favourite amongst surfers, hikers and those who enjoy the quietness, Almagreira is a tricky deserted beach to reach. The effort pays off though. Upon arrival, the nature of this beach is mind-blowing. From the shelters nestled at the bottom of the cliffs to the stubbornness of the vegetation that rises against the harshest winds. An orange pearl of a landscape, that awaits those who are ready to tame Peniche’s coast.
10. Melides Beach. Keeping a low profile in Alentejo.
Lie low please, this beach is the current go-to destination for those who don't want to be seen. The vastness of Melides beach, the silent shelter of the pine forests and the white charm of the quiet village have seduced Hollywood stars, royalty and VIPs from all over the world. Here and there, their stunning hideaways, peek out of their perfect camouflage, amongst the warm earth tones that brighten up this stretch of coast.
Guerin is the friend you want to take to deserted beaches
A quiet day is better appreciated in the company of a trusted partner. Someone you can rely on to reach the most challenging destinations, with enough experience to bring you back home, safely. Find your centre on one of the many deserted beaches in Portugal, and as you plan your escape, take a look at the best places to visit in the Algarve. Guerin follows with you, choose the car for your trip, whether travelling alone or with family, proceed to the reservation and embrace calmness.
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