Aldeia do Meco Beaches

Overview

Discover the stunning coastline of Aldeia do Meco, a popular beach escape just south of Lisbon. Known for its vast sandy stretches backed by natural landscapes, Meco offers a relaxed, nature-focused atmosphere quite different from busier resort towns. It's a favoured spot for those seeking tranquility, space, and a connection with the wild Atlantic coast, attracting couples, nature lovers, and Lisbon locals alike.

The most famous beach is the expansive Praia do Meco. It's renowned for its size and distinct areas: a northern 'textile' section popular with families and sunbathers near the main access points, and a large, officially designated naturist zone further south. While swimming is possible, be aware that the Atlantic waters here are often refreshingly cool with strong waves, offering a truly natural sea experience.

Beyond the main beach, the coastline offers diverse options. Immediately south lies Praia das Bicas, admired for its dramatic cliff backdrop and wilder feel, often attracting surfers. For calmer waters, head north to Praia da Lagoa de Albufeira. Its sheltered lagoon is perfect for families with young children and a major hub for watersports like kitesurfing and windsurfing. The area also borders the beautiful Arrábida Natural Park, hinting at more secluded coves nearby.

Whether you're looking for the social vibe near the beach bars, the quiet solitude of the naturist area, the dramatic scenery of nearby cliffs, or calm lagoon waters, Aldeia do Meco provides a memorable coastal experience. Even during peak season, the sheer scale of the beaches means you can usually find a peaceful spot by walking a little further. Explore our full guide to discover even more beaches in this captivating region.

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FAQ

Is Aldeia do Meco a good destination for a beach holiday?

Yes, Aldeia do Meco is a well-regarded destination for beach holidays, particularly appealing to those who enjoy expansive sandy beaches, a natural setting, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's popular with couples, naturists (due to its official naturist beach), and also families who tend to use the non-naturist northern sections. It offers a quieter, more nature-oriented experience compared to busier resorts closer to Lisbon.

Is Aldeia do Meco suitable for families with children?

Aldeia do Meco can be suitable for families, especially the northern, non-naturist ('textile') part of Praia do Meco near the main restaurants and car park, which has lifeguard supervision in summer. However, the Atlantic Ocean here often has strong waves and currents, requiring close supervision of children. While relaxed, the area has fewer specific child-focused amenities than more developed family resorts. The southern part of the beach is designated for naturism.

Praia do Meco

Can you swim at Praia do Meco? What is the water like?

Swimming is possible at Praia do Meco, but caution is advised. As it's the Atlantic Ocean, the water is generally cold year-round, typically reaching only 17-20°C (63-68°F) in peak summer. Strong waves and currents are common, especially on windy days. Lifeguards supervise designated areas during the main summer season (usually June-September). It's important to check sea conditions and heed safety warnings.

Praia do Meco

Is Praia do Meco a nudist beach?

Praia do Meco is famous for having a large, officially designated naturist (nudist) section. This area is located towards the southern end of the beach, often referred to as Praia do Rio da Prata. The northern part of Praia do Meco, closer to the main access points and restaurants like Bar do Peixe, is 'textile' (non-nudist) and frequented by families and non-naturists. Signage usually indicates the different zones.

Praia do Meco

Are there places to stay right on the beach in Aldeia do Meco?

Directly on the sand at Praia do Meco, there are no hotels or accommodations due to the natural landscape and coastal protection. Most places to stay are located in the village of Aldeia do Meco itself, which is a short drive or a walk (can be 15-30 minutes depending on location) from the main beach accesses. Options include guesthouses, rental villas, apartments, and rural B&Bs ('Turismo Rural').

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Praia do Meco

How do you get to Praia do Meco from Lisbon?

The most convenient way to reach Praia do Meco from Lisbon is by car. The drive takes approximately 45-60 minutes, typically via the A2 or A33 motorway after crossing the 25 de Abril Bridge. Public transport options are limited and usually involve multiple connections (e.g., train/bus to Sesimbra or Setúbal, then another bus or taxi), making the journey significantly longer and less practical, especially with beach gear.

Praia do Meco

Is there parking available at Praia do Meco?

Yes, paid parking is available in several car parks located near the main entrances to Praia do Meco, particularly around the popular restaurants. During peak season (summer weekends), these car parks can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended. Parking fees typically apply during the main season. Some informal parking might exist further away, but access can be less convenient.

Praia do Meco

Are there restaurants and facilities at Praia do Meco?

Yes, the main access area to the northern (textile) part of Praia do Meco features well-known restaurants and beach bars, such as Bar do Peixe, famous for fresh seafood and sunset views. Basic facilities like toilets and sometimes paid showers are available near these establishments. Lifeguard services operate in this main section during the summer season. Facilities become minimal to non-existent as you move towards the southern, naturist part of the beach.

Praia do Meco

People Also Ask

What's the difference between Praia do Meco and Praia das Bicas?

Praia do Meco is the larger, more famous beach with distinct textile and naturist zones and well-known restaurants. Praia das Bicas is situated immediately south of Meco, characterized by its striking cliffs and often more powerful waves, making it a favourite spot for surfing and bodyboarding. Access can be a bit more challenging. While adjacent and sharing the coastline's character, they attract slightly different crowds and offer varied wave conditions.

Praia do Meco

Praia das Bicas

Is Aldeia do Meco or Sesimbra better for beaches?

Choosing between Aldeia do Meco and Sesimbra depends on your preferences. Meco offers vast, wild Atlantic beaches with a natural feel, strong waves, and a renowned naturist area. Sesimbra provides calmer, sheltered beaches within a bay, directly accessible from the town, offering more amenities and a traditional fishing village vibe. Meco suits those seeking space and nature; Sesimbra is better for calmer waters and town convenience.

What is the best time of year to visit the beaches in Aldeia do Meco?

For typical beach activities like swimming and sunbathing, the best time is during the summer months, from June to September. This period offers the warmest weather, sunniest days, and the presence of lifeguard services. Spring (April-May) and autumn (October) can also be very pleasant for walking and enjoying the coast with fewer people, although the sea will be colder and weather less predictable. Winter tends to be cool and potentially wet and windy.

Is Praia do Meco crowded?

Praia do Meco's perceived crowdedness varies. Near the main car parks and restaurants (northern/textile area), it can get quite busy, especially on sunny weekends in July and August. However, because the beach is very long and wide, walking just 10-15 minutes south or north usually allows you to find much more space and tranquility, particularly in the extensive naturist section. During weekdays and outside peak season, it's generally uncrowded.

Praia do Meco

Besides the main Praia do Meco, are there other quieter beaches nearby?

Yes, the coastline near Aldeia do Meco offers alternatives. Immediately south are Praia das Bicas (more rugged, popular with surfers) and Praia do Rio da Prata (the main naturist zone, often quieter further south). Heading further south into the Arrábida Natural Park reveals more secluded coves like Praia da Foz, though access often requires hiking. North of Meco, the beaches extending towards Lagoa de Albufeira are also vast and offer quieter stretches.

Praia do Meco

Praia das Bicas

Praia da Foz

Praia da Lagoa de Albufeira

What is the vibe like at Aldeia do Meco beaches?

The atmosphere at Aldeia do Meco's beaches is typically laid-back, natural, and somewhat bohemian or alternative, especially compared to more commercial resorts. It attracts a diverse crowd including Lisbon locals escaping the city, surfers, families (in the textile area), and a large, established naturist community. The beach bars add a social element, particularly at sunset, but the overall feeling remains relaxed and connected to the coastal environment.

Is it windy at Praia do Meco?

Yes, Praia do Meco frequently experiences wind, common for open Atlantic coastlines in Portugal. The prevailing wind, especially during summer afternoons, is often the 'Nortada' (northerly wind). While it can cool things down on hot days, it can also make sunbathing less comfortable due to blowing sand and can create choppy sea conditions. Bringing a windbreak is often recommended by regular visitors.

Praia do Meco