From the perfect marriage of mountains and sea, some of the country’s most incredible beaches were born , many of which are world-renowned, others practically wild and secret: the beaches of Arrábida.
The beaches of Arrábida, located just under an hour from Lisbon, between Setúbal and Sesimbra, are one of the main tourist attractions in this region of the country, between the capital and the Alentejo.
For the most part, access to these beaches isn’t exactly easy, but that’s also what makes them so special. And you, do you know them all? Take a look at our guide!
Table Of Contents
Creiro Beach
© Diogoworld
Next to Portinho da Arrábida, this beach at the foot of the mountains has clear, cold waters, as is typical of the area.
It’s near an ancient Roman fish-salting complex and has a parking lot— a rarity in these parts.
Anicha Beach
@lucas-neves
Praia da Anicha is a small, secluded beach located next to the bay of Portinho da Arrábida, known for its crystal-clear, calm waters, offering a protected natural environment, ideal for those who value biodiversity and seek tranquility.
It takes its name from the famous Pedra da Anicha (also known as Pedra da Anixa), a small rocky islet designated as a zoological reserve.
Also noteworthy is its access, which is dependent on the tides, and its limited stretch of sand, ensuring a secluded and almost exclusive experience.
Ribeira do Cavalo Beach
@visit.sesimbra
Near Cabo Espichel, it was for years an almost wild beach, but today it is becoming more popular with swimmers and curious visitors who don’t mind making the difficult trek there (or taking a boat).
It is one of the few beaches in Arrábida that is untouched by human hands, with no shops or ice cream stands.
Nature lovers and those who prefer quieter beaches will appreciate it.
Praia dos Penedos
@2aidafelicidade
It belongs to the municipality of Sesimbra and is a beach that is very difficult to access, which is why it is sought out mainly by fishermen, nudists, and those seeking absolute tranquility.
It has little sand, but many pebbles and rocks. At times, the waters are rough.
Alpertucho Beach
@paulo.maxim
Surrounded by the green mountains, it is a small beach with many rocks and pebbles and very little sand.
The waters are clear and transparent, while temperatures rarely exceed 18°C.
Access is via a discreet dirt path just before the Hydrographic Museum. Another secret known to few.
Portinho da Arrábida Beach
Photo by @mylo-kaye
It’s one of Arrábida’s picture-perfect spots, and it’s easy to see why: surrounded by the mountains, with a long stretch of sand and clear waters, it offers a beautiful setting, complete with a handful of houses and a couple of restaurants.
In 2010, it was named one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.
Coelhos Beach
@rgcbatista
Another (almost) wild beach that’s hard to reach, but well worth the trip.
When you arrive at Praia dos Coelhos, you’ll find a shell-shaped paradise with fine white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Surrounding it is the Arrábida Mountain Range, which adds even more to the scenery. At low tide, it’s accessible via the nearby Praia do Creiro.
Galapinhos Beach
Photo by @Pemanuelp
Although it has been named one of the best beaches in Europe by several foreign publications, it remains a “secret” to many Portuguese.
Access isn’t exactly easy, but once you’re down there,it offers an incredible setting, with the green of the mountains and the vivid hues of the sea taking center stage.
The scenery couldn’t be more “Instagram-worthy,” and the calm waters invite you to take a dip.
Galapos Beach
© Setúbal City Council
If you see a photo, the less observant might say it’s a distant beach, perhaps in the Indian Ocean.
But no, it’s right on the edge of the Arrábida Mountains and, like its neighbors, offers clear, crystal-clear waters and a relatively long stretch of sand ( for this area).
Anyone who goes there easily forgets the steps they have to climb, because the scenery is incredible and the sea invites you to take a dip.
Figueirinha Beach
© Municipality of Setúbal
It is one of the most popular beaches in Arrábida, primarily because it is close to Setúbal, but also because it offers the longest stretch of sand in the region.
The clear waters, fine sand, and excellent beach facilities are other attractions of Figueirinha.
Albarquel Beach
© Municipality of Setúbal
This beach has the great advantage of being located on the outskirts of Setúbal ( you can walk there from downtown), right at the foot of the Arrábida Mountains.
In addition, it also features a relatively large stretch of sand and is close to the pleasant Albarquel Park.
Map of the best beaches in Arrábida, and a list for your phone!
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