Aveiro, Portugal

Fátima Beaches

Overview

While Fátima is a renowned spiritual destination further inland, the Aveiro region of Portugal is where you'll discover a beautiful stretch of Atlantic coastline. Aveiro city, with its charming canals, sits on a lagoon but is just a short journey from superb ocean beaches. These coastal spots are celebrated for their wide golden sands and lively atmosphere.

Among the highlights are Praia da Costa Nova, instantly recognizable by its colorful striped houses, and Praia da Barra, featuring Portugal's tallest lighthouse and expansive sands ideal for various activities. For a quieter experience, São Jacinto Beach offers a natural retreat within a protected reserve. Visitors should note that the Atlantic waters here are refreshingly cool, and a gentle sea breeze is a common feature of the area.

The coastline also offers unique experiences such as the traditional fishing culture at Praia de Mira. Further afield, but famous worldwide, Praia do Norte (Nazaré) draws crowds with its gigantic waves. Beyond relaxing on the sand, there's much to do, from watersports to exploring picturesque villages. Our detailed guide explores even more beaches in the Aveiro district, catering to all tastes, from tranquil escapes to family fun.

FAQ

Is Aveiro a good destination for a beach holiday?

Aveiro city itself is about 7-11km inland on a lagoon, but it's very close to excellent Atlantic beaches like Praia da Barra and Costa Nova, which are easily reachable. While Aveiro offers city charm with its canals and culture, if your main focus is a beach-centric holiday, you might prefer staying directly in Costa Nova or Barra. Many visitors combine a stay in Aveiro with day trips to the coast. The beaches offer wide stretches of sand and are popular for various activities.
Praia da Barra
Praia da Barra
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Costa Nova

What are the main beaches in Aveiro and what are they like?

The most famous beaches near Aveiro are Costa Nova and Praia da Barra. Costa Nova is known for its iconic colorful striped houses ('palheiros'), a beautiful sandy beach, and a lagoon side ideal for calmer activities. Praia da Barra features Portugal's tallest lighthouse, a wide sandy expanse, and is popular for surfing and other water sports, with a pier that offers some shelter for calmer swimming. São Jacinto, accessible by ferry, is part of a nature reserve and offers a wilder, more secluded beach experience.
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Barra
Praia da Barra
São Jacinto Beach
São Jacinto Beach

Can you swim in the sea at Aveiro's beaches? What's the water temperature like?

Yes, you can swim at Aveiro's beaches, and they often have Blue Flag ratings indicating good water quality and lifeguard patrols in summer. However, the Atlantic water is notably cold, even in summer. Some areas, like a section of Praia da Barra sheltered by a pier, may offer calmer waters more suitable for swimming, while Costa Nova's ocean side can have strong waves. Many find the water more suitable for paddling than prolonged swimming due to the temperature.
Praia da Barra
Praia da Barra
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Costa Nova

Which is better for families: Costa Nova or Praia da Barra?

Both Costa Nova and Praia da Barra are considered family-friendly and often have Blue Flag status with lifeguard services in season. Praia da Barra has a large sandy area and a section near the pier with calmer waters, which can be good for children. Costa Nova also has a vast beach, and its lagoon side offers calm waters for activities. The choice might depend on whether you prefer the unique village atmosphere of Costa Nova or the slightly more expansive beach and lighthouse area of Barra.
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Barra
Praia da Barra

Is it usually windy on the beaches in Aveiro?

Yes, the beaches in the Aveiro region, being on the Atlantic coast, can be quite windy, especially in the afternoon. This is a characteristic of the Costa da Prata (Silver Coast). While the breeze can be refreshing, it's good to be prepared, perhaps with a windbreaker.

What's the best time of year to visit Aveiro for a beach trip?

The best time for a beach trip to Aveiro is generally during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is warmest and sunniest, making it ideal for beach activities. However, this is also peak season, so expect more crowds. Spring (May) and early Autumn (September to October) can also be pleasant, with fewer people, though the weather and water will be cooler.

How do you get to Costa Nova and Praia da Barra from Aveiro city centre?

Costa Nova and Praia da Barra are about 7-11 km west of Aveiro city centre. You can reach them by public bus (operated by Transdev/Busway, departing from near the train station or Rossio Square), which takes around 30-40 minutes. Driving by car is another option (follow the A25 west), and taxis or ride-sharing services are also available. Cycling is also possible via dedicated paths for some stretches.
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Barra
Praia da Barra

Are Aveiro's beaches good for surfing?

Yes, several beaches near Aveiro are good for surfing, particularly Praia da Barra and Costa Nova. They face the Atlantic and receive consistent waves suitable for surfing and bodyboarding. There are surf schools in the area offering lessons and equipment rental. A wetsuit is recommended year-round due to the cold water.
Praia da Barra
Praia da Barra
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Costa Nova

People Also Ask

What are the striped houses in Costa Nova all about?

The colorful striped houses in Costa Nova are called 'palheiros'. Originally, they were wooden shelters built by fishermen from Ílhavo in the 19th century to store their fishing gear and sometimes as temporary homes. Over time, they were painted in these vibrant stripes and have become iconic holiday homes and a major tourist attraction.

Are there quieter or less crowded beaches near Aveiro?

Yes, if you're looking for quieter options, Praia de São Jacinto, located on a peninsula north of Barra (accessible by ferry or a longer drive), is part of a nature reserve and is known for being wilder and more secluded. Beaches further south of Costa Nova, like Praia da Vagueira or Praia do Areão, also tend to be less crowded than the main spots, offering vast stretches of sand.
São Jacinto Beach
São Jacinto Beach
Praia da Vagueira (Norte)
Praia da Vagueira (Norte)
Praia do Areão
Praia do Areão

Can I easily combine a visit to the religious site of Fátima with a beach holiday in Aveiro?

Yes, it's feasible to combine a visit to Fátima with a beach trip to Aveiro, though they are not immediately adjacent. Fátima is inland, roughly 120-140 km south-east of Aveiro. Driving between them takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. You could visit Fátima and then travel to Aveiro for a coastal stay, or make a day trip to Fátima from the Aveiro region if you have a car. Public transport connections would require more planning.

What is there to do at Aveiro's beaches besides sunbathing?

Besides sunbathing, Aveiro's beaches offer many activities. You can enjoy long walks or cycling along the boardwalks (passadiços), especially between Costa Nova and Praia da Barra. Water sports are popular, including surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. Exploring the charming village of Costa Nova with its striped houses and enjoying fresh seafood at beachside restaurants are also highlights. Photography is also very popular, given the scenic landscapes.
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Barra
Praia da Barra

Is parking difficult at Costa Nova and Praia da Barra?

Parking can be challenging at Costa Nova and Praia da Barra, especially during peak summer months (July and August) and on weekends. While there is parking available, including some free street parking and designated areas, these can fill up quickly. Arriving early or considering public transport is advisable during busy periods.
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Barra
Praia da Barra

Are there facilities like toilets, showers, and cafes at Aveiro's main beaches?

Yes, the main beaches like Costa Nova and Praia da Barra are generally well-equipped with facilities, especially during the main bathing season. You can typically find public toilets, showers, and a variety of cafes, snack bars, and restaurants near the beach entrances and along the promenades.
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Barra
Praia da Barra

What's the general vibe of Aveiro's beaches? Are they party beaches or more relaxed?

The general vibe of Aveiro's beaches, like Costa Nova and Praia da Barra, is more relaxed and family-oriented rather than being known as party destinations. Costa Nova has a charming, picturesque village feel. Praia da Barra can have a bit more of a buzz due to surf schools and some beach bars, but it's not typically characterized by a heavy party scene like some other European beach resorts. They are great for enjoying the natural beauty and a more laid-back coastal experience.
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Costa Nova
Praia da Barra
Praia da Barra

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Fátima: Weather Today

📅 Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Today might not be ideal for the beach. Expect a cloudy day with a high chance of rain. The air temperature will reach a maximum of 21.7 °C. The wind will be moderate, with occasional stronger gusts. The sea temperature is 18.8 °C, so it will feel chilly if you go for a dip. The UV index will reach 4.4, so sun protection isn't a major concern today.
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Air

Low / High17.1°C/21.7°C
Feels Like (High)23.2°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature18.8 °C
Wave Height
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Rain

Rain Chance85%
Rainfall0.8 mm
Rain Duration5 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset07:10/19:51
Sunshine Hours3.9 hrs
UV Index4.4
Cloud Cover90%
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Wind

Speed14 km/h
Gusts29.2 km/h
DirectionW

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