Praia da Amoreira Beach Guide 2025
- Alex Cracknell

- Sep 20
- 5 min read
Praia da Amoreira, a wild and scenic beach near Aljezur, offers natural beauty with dramatic cliffs, soft golden sand, and a lagoon. Known for its surfers, nature lovers, and families, it's backed by dunes and the Aljezur River. The beach, spanning 580 meters, is peaceful and spacious, with large dunes and cliffs, and is believed to resemble a sleeping giant, according to local folklore.
Read on to discover all the details about how to get there, what to do, and where to stay for a memorable beach getaway.
Praia da Amoreira: Natural Beauty and Features
1. Breathtaking Location and Landscape.
The Praia da Amoreira is a stretch of 580 meters, which is also spacious even during the busiest seasons. High cliffs and big dunes surround it, giving it an isolated and quiet ambience. The folklore is so strong locally that even the cliffs up to the north can be said to look like a slumbering giant when seen at a certain angle, which incorporates a touch of fantasy into the already mystical environment.

The beach is subdivided into two different regions: the river mouth, which is located at the southern part, and the harsher ocean waves, which are located at the northern side. The Aljezur River cascades its cool waters into the Atlantic and is ideal for both swimming and wading, particularly when one has young children. Alternatively, the sea waters are very good in terms of waves, and hence it is a popular destination among surfers of all abilities.
2. Clean Waters Certification and Blue Flag Certification
It is a blue flag beach and has a high environmental and safety standard. The waters of this place are clear, and the river is warmer and less dangerous to swim in than the ocean. Nevertheless, swimming in the sea should be done carefully, as there are also the dangers of rocks and powerful currents, especially on the northern side. During the summer, it has lifeguards to protect people.
Activities in Praia da Amoreira
1. Relax and Have a Peaceful Environment
Praia da Amoreira is a very good location where one can relax, unwind, and appreciate the calming beauty of nature. The beach is extremely long and has a lot of sandy area where one can relax on the sand, play on the beach, and even have a peaceful stroll on the beach. It is the ideal place to get rid of the rush and the crowd in other Algarve beaches.
2. Surfing and Water Sports

The beach conditions are perfect in terms of surfing for people who desire adventure. The ocean waves at the beach suit all kinds of surfers, both novices and professionals. In case you are a beginner in the sport, on the beach, there is a surf school where you can rent the equipment and even get a lesson.
In addition to surfing, other water sport activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking are also common here, and the hotels are rented along the coastline. The slow flow of the river makes the river a wonderful location to have a relaxing water adventure, especially for first-time water adventure seekers.
3. Hiking and Scenic Views
In case you do not want to go on the sea, you can find a lot of hiking trails surrounding the area. To have an awesome sight of the beach and the landscape, go to the viewing point at the peak of the south cliff. Although there is a wooden staircase leading halfway down, the perspective is a very good panorama of all the beach, the river, and the deep green valleys around it.
The Fishermen Trail (Trilho dos Pescadores) is also a must-do hiking trail for hiking enthusiasts. The section of the Rota Vicentina trail system is one of the most picturesque coastal scenes in Portugal. It is a path that leads along cliffs and beaches, and the walk towards the distant and wild beach of Carriagem will be unforgettable.
4. Wildlife Watching
Praia Amoreira is a nature lover's paradise, and you should not be surprised to find a number of wildlife in this place. The dunes and the cliffs are home to a variety of birds, and the river offers a great chance to see the local wildlife, such as otters and other waterfowl. It is an excellent site to watch birds and take pictures of nature.

How to Get to Praia da Amoreira
By Car: The easiest way to reach Praia da Amoreira is by car. The beach is located about 15 minutes from the town of Aljezur, a charming town in the western Algarve. Although there is no public transportation that reaches the beach directly, you can rent a car and drive along well-maintained roads to the beach.
There are parking areas on both the eastern and northern sides of the beach, as well as at the southern viewpoint (though the viewpoint doesn’t have direct access to the beach). If you're coming from the southern viewpoint, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the beach.
Other Beaches Nearby:
Monte Clérigo Beach: A popular beach about 15 minutes south of Praia Amoreira by car. You can also walk there in about 15 minutes.
Praia da Arrifana: A favorite among surfers, located around 15 minutes south by car.
Praia do Vale dos Homens: Situated 25 minutes to the north by car, this beach is quieter and more secluded.
Where to Stay
Near Praia da Amoreira, Aljezur offers a variety of accommodation options, including cozy guesthouses, charming bed and breakfasts, and rental homes. For a rustic experience, nearby camping facilities are available, while luxury resorts and villas in coastal towns like Carrapateira and Vila do Bispo provide stunning views, access to beaches, pools, spas, and restaurants.
Where to Eat
While there are no large restaurants directly on the beach, you will find a few cafes and small restaurants in the vicinity, offering local delicacies. One restaurant is located at the northern end of the beach, offering traditional Portuguese dishes and fresh seafood.
If you're looking for a more panoramic view, head to the top of the southern cliff where you'll find another restaurant with views overlooking the beach and the surrounding countryside.
Praia da Amoreira is truly a hidden gem along the Algarve coastline. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful day on the sand, an exciting surfing session, or a scenic hike with breathtaking views, this beach offers everything you need for an unforgettable Algarve experience.
FAQs:
Is Praia da Amoreira suitable for families with children?
Yes, the calm waters of the river are perfect for families with young children, while the beach provides plenty of space for everyone to enjoy.
Are there any lifeguards at Praia da Amoreira?
Yes, there are lifeguards on duty during the summer months to ensure the safety of swimmers.
How can I rent water sports equipment?
You can rent equipment directly from the surf school located on the beach or from nearby rental services.
Is Praia da Amoreira accessible for people with disabilities?
Unfortunately, Praia da Amoreira is not fully accessible, as the paths to the beach involve walking or stairs. However, those who can manage the walk will be rewarded with stunning views and a peaceful environment
