Porto de Mos Beach is a vast stretch of sand with spectacular views of the blue-green ocean. Surrounded by tall cliffs, the beach is among the largest and most scenic in the region. Swim with your family in the calm waves of the clean water here.
Rent a deck chair and an umbrella for shelter from the scorching afternoon sun. Go for a stroll in the shadows of the rugged cliffs that enclose the strand. Walk east along the beach to eventually reach the stunning Ponta da Piedade viewpoint, where you will find a historic lighthouse. Spot the difference in the rock formations at low tide, when the water withdraws to reveal fissures, crevasses and hidden paths in the surfaces.
Appreciate the range of facilities and amenities available on and around the beach. Bathroom facilities and showers are available at this site, which is patrolled by lifeguards. Dine on seafood at the restaurant and get snacks and refreshments from the beach bar and the shops in the area.
Try some of the watersports options available on the beach. Join the stand-up paddleboarders in the Atlantic Ocean. Banana boats, pedal boats and canoes are available to rent here. From out on the water, look back on the scenic beach and the white cliffs that protect the bay from fierce winds.
Note that the beach is popular with both local residents and vacationers and can get fairly crowded on summer weekends. August is the most popular month to visit this strand, which has free access and is open at all times.
Porto de Mos Beach is in the southwestern outskirts of Lagos. Walk the 2-mile (3-kilometer) journey from the town center to the beach in just under 40 minutes. Alternatively drive and leave your car in the beach’s parking lot. See nearby highlights, such as Canavial Beach, Martin Barranco Beach and Balança Beach.