With the arrival of the summer and the sun is shining more, it’s only natural that the desire to enjoy the outdoors increases. At this point, making a picnic is always a good idea, but it’s also starting to feel like discovering some river beaches near Porto or in the north.
We’ve already presented best swimming pools in the surrounding area of the city, or even one dedicated to the funniest water parks in northern Portugal. So now it’s time to explore some freshwater nooks and crannies.
Table Of Contents
Lomba
Located about 40 minutes from Porto, in the municipality of Gondomar, this is a good destination to relax for a weekend stroll, or even for a short break getaway summer.
This spot is known for its long stretches of sand, where you can have picnics or even camping nearby. The river beach also has a number of useful facilities for bathers .
📍R. da Bouça, Lomba
Mamôa
About half an hour’s drive from Porto, Praia Fluvial da Mâmoa is one of the best-kept ‘treasures’ in Portugal municipality of Santa Maria da Feira.
Located in Milheirós de Poiares, in the catchment area of the River Úl, this river beach covers an area of around two hectares and is a pleasant place to relax on summer afternoons.
According to Santa Maria da Feira City Council website in 2023, this area was awarded the “Golden Quality Beach” label for the second time in a row.
📍R. Casa da Mâmoa, Milheirós de Poiares
Bitetos
A little further away than Lomba, but still not worth the trip, you can find Praia de Bitetos, in the Marco de Canaveses area.
About an hour’s drive from Porto, and bathed by the Douro river this spot is located next to the pier where river tourism boats dock.
Ideal for canoeing and water skiing, this is one of the river beaches that offers various facilities for bathers, such as:
- Support bar;
- Assistance;
- Parking;
- Showers;
- Beach posts;
- Access ramps, among others.
Castelo Beach and/or Ilha dos Amores
About an hour from Porto, in the municipality of Castelo de Paiva (Aveiro district), there is a river beach that stands out for the beauty of the surrounding scenery: Praia do Castelo or, as it is also known, Praia da Ilha dos Amores.
This freshwater spot has a special feature, since it is a river beach on two rivers, specifically the Douro and Paiva. The space has the necessary support infrastructures for the bathing season. You can also do water sports.
📍N222 416, Fornos
Editor’s note: before taking a bath, consult the portuguese Environment Agency website to find out which coastal and inland beaches are recommended.