Ilheu.
1 / 10

Praia do Martinhal

4.5
·1k reviews·, Portugal

A family-friendly beach in Sagres known for its consistent winds, ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with shallow, clear waters.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoon winds

Ideal for watersports

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Ilheu.

Praia do Martinhal

Best Time

Afternoon winds

Ideal for watersports

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A family-friendly beach in Sagres known for its consistent winds, ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with shallow, clear waters. InstagramReddit

4.5
(1k reviews)

"Nice beach, especially for families. Good spot for windsurf and the water is really shallow and clear. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Your Own Shade

Beach concessions offer shade for a fee, but bringing your own umbrella is a cost-effective option. :umbrella:

Watersport Rentals Available

Several centers offer gear rental and lessons for windsurfing and kitesurfing. :surfboard:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Windsurfing Haven

Windsurfing Haven

Praia do Martinhal

Experience the thrill of windsurfing or kitesurfing in consistent, breezy conditions. Ideal for both beginners and experienced riders.

Instagram+1
Shallow, Clear Waters

Shallow, Clear Waters

Praia do Martinhal

Enjoy the calm, transparent, and shallow waters, perfect for swimming and wading, especially for families.

Reddit
Sunrise Views

Sunrise Views

Praia do Martinhal

Witness breathtaking sunrises over the ocean, with the sun appearing right next to the cliff formations.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Wind: Best for Watersports

Praia do Martinhal is renowned for its consistent winds, making it a prime spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. If you're looking for an active beach day with plenty of watersport opportunities, this is your go-to. Instagram+1

Family-Friendly Shores

This beach offers shallow, clear waters and ample sand, making it a comfortable choice for families. Lifeguards are present, but the sharp shelving into the sea means close supervision of young children is advised. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Afternoon winds
Why
Ideal for watersports
Crowd
Medium
When
Early morning
Why
Serene sunrise views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Unreal 😯 (via @Sebastian Steudtner) #surf #portugal #surfer
@espn
2M likes • 23.7M views

Bring Your Own Shade

Beach concessions offer shade for a fee, but bringing your own umbrella is a cost-effective option. Reddit :umbrella:

Watersport Rentals Available

Several centers offer gear rental and lessons for windsurfing and kitesurfing. InstagramReddit :surfboard:

saved the best till last!! Algarve region in Portugal is now one of my favorite spots in the world (and thats saying something!) 🇵🇹🌊 #portugal #algarve #lagos #portugaltravel #paradise
@oliviajanemcdonald
92.3K likes • 2.6M views
Praia do Martinhal Portugal 🇵🇹 . . .
w4hdat
22 likes • 729 views

Family Supervision Needed

While shallow, the beach shelves sharply. Always supervise young children closely. Reddit :child:

Seagrass Can Be Present

Some visitors note seagrass in the water; other nearby beaches might offer clearer swimming. Reddit :seaweed:

Barbies Vera e Tera first windsurf experience 😃🤠😎 #praiadomartinhal #sagres #sagreswindsurf #wind4all
wind4allsagres
23 likes • 781 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Your Own Shade

Beach concessions offer shade for a fee, but bringing your own umbrella is a cost-effective option. Reddit :umbrella:

Watersport Rentals Available

Several centers offer gear rental and lessons for windsurfing and kitesurfing. InstagramReddit :surfboard:

Family Supervision Needed

While shallow, the beach shelves sharply. Always supervise young children closely. Reddit :child:

Seagrass Can Be Present

Some visitors note seagrass in the water; other nearby beaches might offer clearer swimming. Reddit :seaweed:

Restaurant on Site

A beach cafe/restaurant provides amenities and food options. InstagramReddit :coffee:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Praia do Martinhal is appreciated for its family-friendly shallow waters and excellent wind conditions for watersports. While not always considered the most visually stunning beach in the Algarve, its comfort, accessibility, and amenities like the on-site restaurant make it a practical and enjoyable destination. Some visitors note the presence of seagrass, suggesting nearby alternatives for clearer swimming. InstagramReddit

"Nice beach, especially for families.
Good spot for windsurf and the water is really shallow and clear.
Not the most beautiful scenario around but comfortable."

Alice Mannucci

"decent beach in sagres, very close to the large hotel. we came here to watch the sunrise, which was perfect (sun came up right next to the cliff).

i also went for a swim, but there was loads of seagrass. so other beaches nearby would definitely be the better option imo"

Laxe

"Love this beach. Never busy and beautiful location"

Trevor McCarthy

What People Like

Family-friendly shallow waters
Great for windsurfing
Ample parking and access

What People Dislike

Seagrass in water
Sharp sea shelving

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Praia do Martinhal is conveniently located just outside Sagres town. You can drive there, and there is ample parking available, including ramp and stair access. Reddit

Yes, there is plenty of parking available at Praia do Martinhal, making it easily accessible by car. Reddit

While specific public transport routes might vary, Sagres is served by buses, and Praia do Martinhal is a short distance from the town center, potentially accessible by a local bus or a pleasant walk. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Most visitors arrive in Sagres by car, either from Faro Airport (about a 1.5-hour drive) or other major cities in Portugal. Rental cars are widely available. TikTok

Yes, Sagres itself offers attractions like the Sagres Fortress and Cape St. Vincent, the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe, making it a great base for exploring the region. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Praia do Martinhal is a public beach, so there is no entrance fee to access it. You only pay for services like sunbed rentals or food at the restaurant. Reddit

As a natural beach, Praia do Martinhal is accessible at all hours. However, amenities like the restaurant and lifeguard services operate during specific daytime hours, typically from spring to autumn. Instagram

No booking is required to visit the beach itself. If you plan to rent sunbeds or dine at the restaurant, it's advisable to check their availability, especially during peak season. Reddit

Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting Praia do Martinhal, other than standard beach safety guidelines and respecting the natural environment. Lifeguards are present during the summer months. Reddit

The beach has ramp and stair access, and the presence of a large resort nearby suggests some level of accessibility. However, specific accessibility details for all areas of the beach might require direct inquiry.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Praia do Martinhal is excellent for windsurfing, kitesurfing, swimming, and sunbathing. Its shallow waters are also great for families. InstagramReddit+1

It's generally not as crowded as some other Algarve beaches, offering a more relaxed atmosphere, especially outside of peak hours. Reddit

Yes, lifeguards are typically present at Praia do Martinhal during the summer season, ensuring a safer swimming experience. Reddit

Facilities include a restaurant/cafe, sunbed rentals, and parking. There are also ramp and stair access points. InstagramReddit

The beach offers beautiful sunrise views and a scenic coastline, making it a good spot for photography, especially for capturing watersports action. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a beach lounge and restaurant, Bahari, located directly on Praia do Martinhal, offering a unique dining experience by the sea. InstagramReddit

The restaurant offers a gastronomic experience where sea flavors meet. It's a great spot for lunch or drinks with a view. InstagramReddit

Sagres town, a short drive away, offers a variety of restaurants and cafes serving fresh seafood and local Portuguese cuisine. TikTok

While there are no explicit restrictions mentioned, it's generally good practice to be mindful of waste and consume your own food in designated areas or away from the main concession. Reddit

Prices can vary, but beachside restaurants in popular tourist areas often have slightly higher prices. It's advisable to check menus or reviews for current pricing. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning sunrise shots, the vibrant watersports action, and the unique coastal landscape. The shallow, clear water also makes for great shots. TikTokReddit

Early mornings offer beautiful sunrise light, while afternoons are ideal for capturing the dynamic windsurfing and kitesurfing activities. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary by location and time. It's essential to check current Portuguese drone laws and any local restrictions before flying. TikTok

The cliffs surrounding the beach offer elevated perspectives, and the beach itself provides a wide canvas for capturing the sea and sky. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture action shots of windsurfers. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the sea and sky. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Praia do Martinhal is a fantastic choice for families thanks to its shallow, clear waters that are perfect for little ones to splash around in. Reddit While the beach does shelve quickly, lifeguards are on duty during peak season, offering peace of mind. Reddit The nearby Martinhal Sagres Beach Resort is known for its family-friendly amenities, including specialized menus, making dining with children a breeze. Instagram

Consider bringing your own beach toys and snacks, though a convenient restaurant is available on-site for meals and refreshments. InstagramReddit The ample sandy space ensures there's plenty of room for everyone to play and relax. TikTok

🏄‍♀️ Watersports Enthusiasts

If you're passionate about windsurfing or kitesurfing, Praia do Martinhal is a must-visit. The consistent afternoon winds create ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced riders. Instagram+1 You'll find watersports centers offering rentals and lessons, so you can easily get out on the water. Reddit

Even if you're not participating, watching the skilled athletes perform is a spectacle in itself. TikTok The shallow, clear water is also a plus for those learning new tricks or simply enjoying the ride. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Nature Lovers & Hikers

Praia do Martinhal is situated within the stunning Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park. TikTok This means you're surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, perfect for exploration. TikTok Consider extending your visit to explore the coastal trails that offer dramatic cliff views and opportunities to discover secluded coves. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Appeal of Praia do Martinhal for Watersports Enthusiasts

Praia do Martinhal is a magnet for windsurfers and kitesurfers, thanks to its consistent and reliable winds, particularly in the afternoons. The beach's orientation and the surrounding geography create ideal conditions for these sports. Instagram+1 The shallow, clear waters also provide a relatively safe environment for learning and practicing, making it a popular spot for both beginners and experienced riders. Reddit

Several watersports centers operate at Praia do Martinhal, offering gear rental, lessons, and equipment storage. InstagramReddit This accessibility means you don't need to bring your own equipment to enjoy the fantastic conditions. Whether you're looking to try windsurfing for the first time or master advanced maneuvers, the facilities and natural environment here are top-notch. TikTok

Beyond wind-powered sports, the beach's expansive sandy area and gentle waves (when the wind is calmer) also make it pleasant for swimming and relaxing. However, the primary draw remains the wind, which transforms this beautiful stretch of coast into a dynamic playground for watersports enthusiasts. Reddit

A Family-Friendly Beach Experience

Praia do Martinhal is often highlighted as a great choice for families visiting the Algarve. Its shallow, clear waters are a significant advantage, allowing children to play safely near the shore. Reddit The expansive sandy area provides plenty of space for building sandcastles and enjoying beach games. TikTok

While the beach shelves sharply into the sea, which requires vigilant supervision of young children, the presence of lifeguards during the summer months adds an extra layer of security. Reddit The nearby Martinhal Sagres Beach Resort also caters to families, offering amenities that enhance the overall experience, such as family-friendly dining options. Instagram

Although some visitors have noted the presence of seagrass, which can sometimes affect water clarity, the overall environment is conducive to a relaxed and enjoyable family beach day. For those seeking a comfortable and accessible beach experience in the Sagres area, Praia do Martinhal is a strong contender. Reddit

Exploring the Sagres Region from Praia do Martinhal

Praia do Martinhal serves as an excellent base for exploring the rugged beauty and historical significance of the Sagres region. Just a short drive away is the iconic Cape St. Vincent (Cabo de São Vicente), the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe, offering dramatic cliff views and a historic lighthouse. TikTok

The Sagres Fortress (Fortaleza de Sagres), a historical landmark associated with Prince Henry the Navigator, is also nearby and provides a glimpse into Portugal's Age of Discoveries. TikTok The town of Sagres itself offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to other Algarve resorts, with a good selection of restaurants and shops. Reddit

For those who enjoy hiking and exploring natural landscapes, the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park surrounds this area, offering stunning coastal trails and opportunities to discover hidden coves and diverse flora and fauna. TikTok Praia do Martinhal's location makes it easy to venture out and experience the unique charm of this less-developed, wilder part of the Algarve. TikTok

You may also like