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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Ideal for watersports

Praia do Martinhal
Best Time
Ideal for watersports

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A family-friendly beach in Sagres known for its consistent winds, ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with shallow, clear waters.
"Nice beach, especially for families. Good spot for windsurf and the water is really shallow and clear.
"
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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Shallow, Clear Waters
Praia do Martinhal
Enjoy the calm, transparent, and shallow waters, perfect for swimming and wading, especially for families.

Sunrise Views
Praia do Martinhal
Witness breathtaking sunrises over the ocean, with the sun appearing right next to the cliff formations.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wind: Best for Watersports
Family-Friendly Shores
Best Times
Insider Tips
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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:Family Supervision Needed
While shallow, the beach shelves sharply. Always supervise young children closely.
:child:Seagrass Can Be Present
Some visitors note seagrass in the water; other nearby beaches might offer clearer swimming.
:seaweed: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.
:umbrella:Watersport Rentals Available
Several centers offer gear rental and lessons for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
:surfboard:Family Supervision Needed
While shallow, the beach shelves sharply. Always supervise young children closely.
:child:Seagrass Can Be Present
Some visitors note seagrass in the water; other nearby beaches might offer clearer swimming.
:seaweed:Restaurant on Site
A beach cafe/restaurant provides amenities and food options.
:coffee:What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at Praia do Martinhal, making it easily accessible by car.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
It's generally not as crowded as some other Algarve beaches, offering a more relaxed atmosphere, especially outside of peak hours.
Yes, lifeguards are typically present at Praia do Martinhal during the summer season, ensuring a safer swimming experience.
Facilities include a restaurant/cafe, sunbed rentals, and parking. There are also ramp and stair access points.
The beach offers beautiful sunrise views and a scenic coastline, making it a good spot for photography, especially for capturing watersports action.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
The restaurant offers a gastronomic experience where sea flavors meet. It's a great spot for lunch or drinks with a view.
Sagres town, a short drive away, offers a variety of restaurants and cafes serving fresh seafood and local Portuguese cuisine.
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.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunrise shots, the vibrant watersports action, and the unique coastal landscape. The shallow, clear water also makes for great shots.
Early mornings offer beautiful sunrise light, while afternoons are ideal for capturing the dynamic windsurfing and kitesurfing activities.
Drone usage regulations can vary by location and time. It's essential to check current Portuguese drone laws and any local restrictions before flying.
The cliffs surrounding the beach offer elevated perspectives, and the beach itself provides a wide canvas for capturing the sea and sky.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing your own beach toys and snacks, though a convenient restaurant is available on-site for meals and refreshments. The ample sandy space ensures there's plenty of room for everyone to play and relax.
🏄♀️ Watersports Enthusiasts
Even if you're not participating, watching the skilled athletes perform is a spectacle in itself. The shallow, clear water is also a plus for those learning new tricks or simply enjoying the ride.
🚶♂️ Nature Lovers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Appeal of Praia do Martinhal for Watersports Enthusiasts
Several watersports centers operate at Praia do Martinhal, offering gear rental, lessons, and equipment storage. 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.
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.
A Family-Friendly Beach Experience
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. The nearby Martinhal Sagres Beach Resort also caters to families, offering amenities that enhance the overall experience, such as family-friendly dining options.
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.
Exploring the Sagres Region from Praia do Martinhal
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. The town of Sagres itself offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to other Algarve resorts, with a good selection of restaurants and shops.
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. 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.
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