What to do · Costa Vicentina
Praia de Odeceixe, between the River Seixe and the sea
Information
- Price
- Free
- Duration
- 4 h
- Season
- June – September for swimming
- Who it's for
- Families with small children
What it is
Praia de Odeceixe, which appears on maps as Odeceixe Mar, is the northernmost beach of the Algarve. It is in the municipality of Aljezur, right where the Seixe stream forms the boundary with the Alentejo and flows into the Atlantic. The river wraps round the sand to the east and north, between high cliffs on both sides, so on the same beach you have calm fresh water and the open sea with its waves. In 2012 it was chosen as one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal in the cliff beach category.
How it changes with the tide
The shape of the beach depends on the tide and the river. At high tide, the water rises through the mouth and the sand shrinks; at low tide, lagoons appear and a shallow tongue of river beside the sea. Depending on the moment, you will see one beach, two or even three. Winter rains also move the sand from one year to the next. Before going, check the tide table: low tide is the moment for children.
How to get there and park
From the village of Odeceixe, on the N120 road, a narrow road goes down following the river valley to the beach. Above, on the south cliff, a viewpoint overlooks the bay and the headland opposite. In summer the car park next to the beach fills up early: arrive first thing or park higher up and walk down. From the beach a road of about 500 metres leads to the neighbouring Praia das Adegas, with its own car park.
If you are walking the Rota Vicentina, the Fishermen's Trail passes through here: Odeceixe is a stage stop between the Alentejo and Aljezur.
Facilities and supervision
In bathing season the beach has lifeguards and support services, and has held a Blue Flag. Outside summer there is no supervision: swim only if you know the sea.
Swimming and safety
Small children bathe on the river side, which is shallow and without waves. But when the tide goes out the river runs towards the sea strongly at the mouth and can sweep you away: do not leave them alone at the edge of the channel. On the sea side the waves and currents are those of the west coast, stronger than in the south of the Algarve. Respect the flags.
When to go
For swimming, from June to September, when the river water is warm and there are lifeguards. In July and August it is full from mid-morning; in June and September it is much nicer. Out of season it is a pretty walk: go down to the viewpoint and the mouth and follow the coast along the trail.
Tips
- Check the tide table At low tide the lagoons and the shallow river area that families look for appear.
- Arrive early in summer The car park next to the sand fills up early; first thing there is room.
- Go up to the viewpoint From the south cliff you see how the river hugs the beach and you understand where to swim.
Frequently asked questions
Is Praia de Odeceixe good for small children?
Yes, on the river side, with calm, shallow water. Keep an eye on them near the mouth, where the current drags at low tide.
Does it have lifeguards?
In the bathing season, yes. Outside it there is no supervision.
Where do you park?
Next to the beach, at the end of the road that goes down from the village of Odeceixe. In summer it fills up early.
With young childrenAs a family
