Even though September is already here, the truth is that summer isn’t over yet, is it? If you’re someone who wants to enjoy the beach until the very last moment, it’s worth exploring yet another natural retreat just outside Lisbon: Praia dos Coelhos. Known for its wild sandy shore and imposing rocks, this natural hideaway is “hidden” in Arrábida—a region where access to some beaches may change as early as 2027.
A name that hardly makes sense anymore
The beach’s name comes from the wild rabbits that once roamed the hillside next to it—now practically extinct, but they’ve left the name firmly attached to the place.
No bars, no shade, no crowds
Reaching Praia dos Coelhos requires walking down a sloping dirt trail, a 10- to 15-minute walk from the nearest parking lot—with no beach facilities, bar, restrooms, or lifeguards. It is precisely this lack of infrastructure, combined with the area’s classification as part of the Arrábida Natural Park, that keeps visitor numbers so low and the white sand and crystal-clear water so well preserved.
A future by the sea for Arrábida?
Meanwhile, according to *Observador*, the region is considering a project that could change how people reach some of the beaches in the mountains.
The Setúbal City Council has confirmed that it is preparing ferry services between the city and the beaches of Arrábida, with service scheduled to begin in 2027. The idea is to offer an alternative to the severe traffic restrictions that already limit road access to this area of Arrábida—exacerbated this year by the damage caused by Storm Kristin.
According to the mayor, the intention is to charge rates equivalent to those of the Navegante pass, although the project depends on an agreement with Transportes Metropolitanos de Lisboa.
How to get to Praia dos Coelhos
Until that maritime connection becomes a reality, access continues to be via the Arrábida road. During the swimming season, between June 4 and September 15, private vehicle traffic is restricted in this area (Portinho da Arrábida, Creiro, Galapos, and Galapinhos) between 7: 00 a.m . and 8:00 p.m., with exceptions for public transportation, taxis, TVDE, and authorized vehicles—the section is only completely closed when local parking lots reach maximum capacity. As an alternative, the “Arrábida Sem Carros” program offers bus route 4477, which connects the Creiro parking lot to the beaches of Creiro, Galapos, and Galapinhos.
Editor’s Note: Article updated on September 11, 2026
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