August is usually the month of choice for the Portuguese to enjoy a well-deserved vacation. For those staying in Porto, there’s no shortage of plans and outdoor activities. However, if your intention is to make a getaway familiar, then here’s a tip: São Martinho do Porto Beach.
Located just over 200 km from Porto, a journey of around 2 hours, this is one of the most popular summer destinations in the central region of Portugal. Famous for its shell shape, São Martinho do Porto beach also stands out for its calm waters.
However, ‘toasting in the sun’ is not the only reason to visit this Portuguese town. After all, there are other attractions nearby, such as Salir do Porto (the highest dune in Portugal), or even the Monastery of Alcobaça (classified as a UNESCO Heritage). Shall we continue our journey together?
The beauty of São Martinho do Porto beach
Porto is a city blessed with river and sea, but if you’re looking for some ‘fresh air’, this is the destination to consider, and is especially recommended for families. With a length of around 3 km, this beach has become known for its unique characteristics.
More specifically, we’re talking about its shell-shaped appearance , which attracts so many tourists and, of course, photographers. The current bay is the last evidence of a gulf that existed until the 19th century. XVI, which stretched as far as Alfeizerão.
Today, the beach is protected by a group of rocky cliffs, and communicates with the Atlantic through an opening just a few meters long. All of this makes it ideal for water sports such as stand up paddle and kayaking.
What to do in and around?
For those who like to ‘toast in the sun’, but want to do other things, the truth is that there are also other alternatives, from attractions natural and cultural.
So, as well as the opportunity to relax on São Martinho do Porto beach, we’d like to share with you a short list of other interesting tourist attractions:
- São Martinho do Porto Lighthouse
- Santana Chapel
- Dune of Salir do Porto – considered the largest in Portugal, about 50 meters high
- Alcobaça Monastery – just a 20-minute drive from São Martinho do Porto, you can see a real historical gem.
With many attractions and calm waters, here is a suggestion to escape the hustle and bustle of Porto and enjoy a well-deserved rest!