Vila do Bispo sits at the meeting point of two coastlines — the wild, wind-swept west coast and the calmer, more sheltered south — which means an unusual variety of beaches within a short drive.
Praia do Castelejo: dramatic cliffs, powerful Atlantic waves, a favourite with surfers; a small restaurant on the sand serves fresh fish.
Praia da Cordoama: right next door to Castelejo, wide and sandy, slightly more sheltered, with a long staircase down the cliff face.
Praia da Salema: a traditional fishing village beach on the south coast, calmer water, good for families and swimming.
Praia do Zavial: a sheltered cove near Salema, popular for snorkelling on calm days.
Praia da Ingrina: small, quiet, tucked between cliffs, one of the least crowded even in August.
West coast beaches face the open Atlantic and can have strong currents and cold water — always check the flag system before swimming. South coast beaches are generally calmer and warmer, better suited to families with young children. All five are within a 5-15 minute drive of our properties.
