Bay beaches: Califórnia and Ouro

Sesimbra bay faces south and the Arrábida range shelters it from the north wind, so the water is usually calm: in the town they call it "the children's beach" for a reason. The sand is split on either side of the Fortaleza de Santiago: to the west Praia do Ouro, in front of the Hotel do Mar, and to the east Praia da Califórnia, the longest, in front of the seafront promenade.

Praia do Ouro was in 2017 the most inclusive beach in Portugal, with access and services for people with reduced mobility. In summer there are lifeguards and on the promenade you find fish restaurants. In August it fills up: arrive early or come midweek. If you want waves and long sand, the west coast of the municipality (Meco, Bicas) is about 15 minutes by car.