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Praia da Arrifana

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Praia da Arrifana

Aljezur

This beach, where there is a small fishing hamlet, nestles in a pretty shell-shaped bay, which shelters it from the cold wind and waves from the north.

Although narrow, the beach stretches for over 700 metres and is framed by imposing, craggy, black schist sea cliffs. If you look to the south, you will see a huge, dark, thin rock sticking up out of the sea. This is called the Pedra da Agulha (Needle Rock) and it has become an icon on the Costa Vicentina.

At the northernmost tip of the beach, next to the little fishing harbour, there are good conditions for diving, and this is also a great beach for surfing and bodyboarding. The panoramic view from the Arrifana Fortress (currently in ruins), standing atop the cliff to the north, is breathtaking.

At Ponta da Atalaia, famous for its barnacles, traces can still be seen of a Muslim Ribat, a convent-fortress of great archaeological value.

More information

Note: Given the risk of landslides and loose stones falling on to the beach, you are advised to keep a safe distance from the cliffs. Although beachgoers do use the beach, it is classed as a restricted use beach, since a large part of it lies within an area where there is a risk of landslides.

Road access is by a tarmacked road from the southern entrance to Aljezur (EN 120), heading towards the beach for approximately 8 km. There is plenty of organised parking on the cliff top before the descent to the beach. Vehicle traffic and parking are restricted next to the beach. Support infrastructures include a restaurant, WC and recreational facilities – a surfing school – and there are lifeguards on duty in the summer holiday season. Orientation: west / south-west.

GPS: 37°17'41.06"N 8°51'58.61"W

Facilities

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