There’s just something about the thought of a beach that makes everyone yearn to go on a vacation. To stroll through the fine sand while the waves lap over your feet and the sun sets in the distance is a magical experience. Add a drink to the mix and you have a recipe for a fabulous getaway! Martinhal Beach in Portugal is the perfect place to forget your troubles and relax.

Located east of Sagres in the Algarve, Martinhal Beach is a hidden gem just waiting for you to ascend upon it with your finest beach gear. Grab a towel, snorkel gear or even a bodyboard and get ready for a fun-filled beach trip. Over 2,000 feet of glittering, turquoise Atlantic Ocean waters await your arrival in southern Portugal. The beach is lined with fine, white sand and couldn’t be more perfect for constructing epic sandcastles. The mostly calm waters are irritated only by the wind, which creates enough gentle waves for water sports like windsurfing or bodyboarding.

The backdrops to this little slice of heaven are varied and beautiful. The middle of the beach is backed by rolling dunes, whereas the east holds picturesque cliffs. The photography opportunities here are amazing! Just off of the beach you’ll find limestone islets. Take a boat to one of these islets and go diving or snorkeling in the caves and underwater grottos where you’ll see a colorful variety of marine life. If you’d prefer to stay dry, take a leisurely stroll along the beach or sunbathe. There’s certainly plenty of sand for you to find a spot for your towel.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, there are two restaurants close to the beach where you can satisfy your hunger. Nortada is a quick walk down the boardwalk to a vibrant blue building with a seriously beachy vibe. Here you’ll find fresh seafood and a perfect view. Grab an ice-cold drink or a piece of cake and enjoy watching the boats and windsurfers as they pass by. Restaurante Martinhal is a beach bar on the eastern part of the beach. Fish are served up fresh here in a friendly atmosphere. If you’re feeling daring, try a squid salad or arroz con marisco, a signature Portuguese seafood and rice dish. Regardless of where you choose, you’re sure to be pleasantly surprised by the catch of the day specials and incredible freshness of the seafood.

Why Visit

Though beach fans will flock to almost any sand and sea combination they can locate, at Martinhal Beach, you’ll find it never gets overly crowded. Even the summer months don’t draw a huge crowd and you can certainly find room for the whole family to relax. If you visit outside of the summer months, you will be pleasantly surprised to find you have almost the entire area to yourself. Talk about paradise!

If you’ve been looking for a low-key, less touristy beach location, you’ve hit the jackpot. Bring the family to Portugal for as much activity or relaxation as you require. Hop on a plane to Faro and enjoy the Algarve region as you make your way to the beach. From lazy days in the sun to windsurfing the hours away, all family members can enjoy Martinhal Beach. The glittering ocean water is calling your name.