Praia da Amoreira Aljezur
Praia da Amoreira: Where the Aljezur River meets the Atlantic, offering a dual beach experience with calm lagoons and surf-ready waves.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
River is shallow for kids
Praia da Amoreira Aljezur
Best Time
River is shallow for kids
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Praia da Amoreira: Where the Aljezur River meets the Atlantic, offering a dual beach experience with calm lagoons and surf-ready waves.
"Magical place, our favorite beach. We returned again and again. Every time excited."
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be challenging during peak times. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk.
🌊 River vs. Sea
The river is warmer and safer for kids, while the sea offers surf. Choose your adventure!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
River Mouth Playground
Aljezur River meets the Atlantic
Bathe in both the sea and the warmer river. At low tide, the river is a safe, shallow haven for kids to play.
Vast Sandy Expanse
Main beach area
A wide, sandy beach offering plenty of space to relax, set up camp, and enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery.
Surfer's Paradise
Ocean side
Known for impressive rollers and good surfing conditions, it's a favorite for both experienced surfers and beginners.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
River Meets Sea Magic
Aljezur Area Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be challenging during peak times. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk.
🌊 River vs. Sea
The river is warmer and safer for kids, while the sea offers surf. Choose your adventure!
☀️ Pack Essentials
There's only one restaurant. Bring snacks, water, and sun protection for a full day out.
🚶♀️ Explore the Dunes
Walk along the ocean or cross the river at low tide to discover different perspectives.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be challenging during peak times. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk.
🌊 River vs. Sea
The river is warmer and safer for kids, while the sea offers surf. Choose your adventure!
☀️ Pack Essentials
There's only one restaurant. Bring snacks, water, and sun protection for a full day out.
🚶♀️ Explore the Dunes
Walk along the ocean or cross the river at low tide to discover different perspectives.
🏄♀️ Surf's Up!
Great spot for surfing lessons or catching waves. The bay offers good conditions for various skill levels.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Praia da Amoreira is a beloved beach, praised for its unique river-meets-sea setting, vast sandy shores, and excellent surfing conditions. Visitors appreciate the safe river area for children and the stunning natural beauty, though parking can be a challenge during peak times.
"Beautiful beach, lots of sand, good for a bit of surf but the sea is a bit dangerous. There is a sort of river that connects to the ocean and usually the children love it the most. Has a lifeguard. Very good for walking near the ocean."
Filipa Peleja
"Beautiful beach, the bay is wide giving plenty of space to setup and enjoy.
Surfing conditions are very good and the sea remains shallow enough to walkout if you're getting started.
Be sure to bring some supplies or else there is one restaurant to get food and drink with a range of local dishes"
Oliver McCombe
"Seems like I keep giving lots of 5 Star reviews lately but that’s just the nature of Southern Portugal and the effect that it has on my Wife and I. Drove up to the small town of Aljezur this weekend. Have been wanting to go there for a while. Nice little town. I initially thought that the town was on the water (west coast of Portugal) but it turns out to be a few kms inland. However, the remote area heading out to the Sea from the town is also considered to be Aljesur so it really refers to the area in general. Being a Beach oriented guy I just had to see what was out there. So I followed a riverbed on the map to where it meets the Ocean and found the beach of Praia da Amoreira. Cutting to the chase, if you’re a Surfer this beach should be high up in your “Bucket List”. The beach is surrounded by massive hills that form a Bay. The rollers coming in are impressive indeed. Made me want to be in my teens again, Surf Board under my arm (but I’m not). Coupled with this scenery is a really deep beach, lots and lots of sand running right up into the river bed. When we visited the river was landlocked (not actually reaching the Sea). I’m assuming it may have something to do with the severe drought that Portugal has been affected by over the past several years. Anyway, nice simple Bar/Restaurant right on the cliff above overlooking the entire beach and surf action. I’ll also note that this is a great destination for Adventure Bike tourers. I “shall be back”!😁"
David Stanigar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Praia da Amoreira is located a few kilometers west of Aljezur town. You can drive there via the N101 and then follow signs for the beach. Parking is available but can fill up quickly during peak season. 
While direct public transport to the beach might be limited, local buses often connect Aljezur town to nearby coastal areas. It's advisable to check current schedules with local transport providers.
Yes, there is parking available at Praia da Amoreira, but it is known to get very busy, especially during summer. Arriving early in the day is recommended.
Yes, Praia da Amoreira is situated within the beautiful Costa Vicentina Natural Park, known for its stunning coastal landscapes.
The roads leading to Praia da Amoreira are generally well-maintained, though they can be narrow and winding as you approach the coast.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Praia da Amoreira is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. Access is free for all visitors.
As a natural beach, Praia da Amoreira is open 24/7. However, overnight parking and camping are prohibited between 8 AM and 8 PM.
No booking is required for beach access. It's a natural beach, so you can visit anytime.
The main restriction is regarding overnight stays and camping, which are not permitted. Enjoy the beach during the day!
Yes, Praia da Amoreira typically has a lifeguard service during the peak summer season, ensuring safety for swimmers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim in the sea or the river, surf, sunbathe, walk along the extensive sands, and enjoy the scenic views. It's also great for photography.
Absolutely! The river mouth provides a safe, shallow, and warmer alternative to the ocean, perfect for young children to play in.
Yes, Praia da Amoreira is a popular surf spot with good waves, suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.
There is a restaurant/bar located on the cliff overlooking the beach. Basic facilities like restrooms might be available seasonally.
The sea can be powerful with strong waves, making it great for surfing but potentially dangerous for inexperienced swimmers. The river is a safer option.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is one main restaurant, O'Capitão, located on the cliff overlooking the beach, offering local dishes and drinks.
The restaurant typically serves local Portuguese cuisine, with fresh seafood being a popular choice.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. It's a good idea to pack supplies as dining options are limited.
The primary dining option is the restaurant on the cliff. It's advisable to check its operating hours, especially outside the peak season.
Prices are generally considered reasonable for a beachside restaurant in the Algarve, offering good value for local dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic cliffs, the meeting point of river and sea, the vast sandy shores, and the stunning sunsets. The viewpoints from the cliffs are excellent.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers magical light. Midday can be harsh, but the unique landscape still provides great photo opportunities.
The contrast between the river and the ocean, the unique rock formations, and the expansive beach create diverse photographic subjects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the beach and cliffs. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant coastal views.
Drone usage may be restricted within natural parks. Always check local regulations before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Parents can relax knowing their little ones are entertained in the river while older kids or adults can try their hand at surfing in the gentler ocean waves. The expansive sandy beach also offers plenty of space for building sandcastles and enjoying family time. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as the single restaurant can get busy.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
+1Beyond surfing, the beach's size and the presence of the river mouth provide opportunities for other water activities. The dynamic environment, shaped by the tides, ensures that the surf and swimming conditions are always interesting.
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
+1The changing tides and the interplay of light throughout the day offer dynamic subjects. Don't miss the breathtaking sunsets, which are a highlight for many visitors and provide incredible opportunities for landscape photography.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique River and Sea Confluence
+1This natural phenomenon means visitors can choose their preferred water experience. While the ocean side is a draw for surfers and those seeking a more dynamic swim, the river offers a tranquil and warmer alternative. The ever-changing tides also alter the beach's appearance, making each visit a unique experience.
Exploring the riverbanks offers a different perspective, with opportunities for gentle walks and observing the local flora and fauna. The interplay of fresh and saltwater creates a unique ecosystem that adds to the beach's charm and appeal.
Surfing and Coastal Adventures
+1Beyond surfing, the beach is ideal for long walks along its extensive sandy shores. The dramatic cliffs and natural park surroundings offer a breathtaking backdrop for exploration. Adventurous visitors can even cross the river at low tide to reach the restaurant on the other side, enjoying panoramic views.
For those interested in a broader exploration of the region, Praia da Amoreira serves as a gateway to other stunning beaches like Arrifana and Monte Clérigo, all part of the protected Vicentine Coast Natural Park.
Photography and Sunset Views
+2Visitors often capture the unique tidal patterns, the surfers riding the waves, and the serene moments by the river. The elevated viewpoint from the cliffside restaurant offers a spectacular panorama of the entire beach and coastline, perfect for capturing sweeping vistas.
Sunset lovers will find Praia da Amoreira particularly enchanting. The way the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors, is a memorable sight that draws many to the beach in the late afternoon.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit