Malhão Beach, located in Vila Nova de Milfontes within the Odemira municipality of Portugal, is a tranquil haven known for its natural beauty. As part of the Costa Vicentina, the beach is recognized for its stunning landscape, which includes majestic cliffs of colored stones, diverse dune vegetation, and a vast white sandy area that merges with the dunes. Its unique identity is further accentuated by small water springs and a "sea of stones" in the northern area.
In 2019, Malhão Beach was officially designated as a naturist beach, making it the ninth legalized naturist beach in Portugal, and the second within the Odemira municipality. The naturist area can be found by walking towards the north side of the beach, with a sign indicating its location.
The beach is accessible via a wooden walkway from the parking lot, as well as a dirt road near the town of Brunheiras. Two parking options are available near the entrance, with the second lot being the recommended choice due to its proximity to the larger beach area.
Malhão Beach is a favorite among surfers, offering suitable waves for water sports such as surfing and bodyboarding. However, due to the presence of waves, strong current, and rocks, it may not be suitable for young children.
Despite its popularity, the beach offers ample private space, even during the peak summer season, making it an ideal retreat from the busier areas of Portugal. However, the beach is not supervised outside the textile area, and lifeguards are only present during the summer season.
There are no amenities such as shops, bars, or restaurants on the beach, so visitors are advised to bring their own food and drink. Additionally, there is a campsite and toilet facilities available for beachgoers. Despite its lack of commercial amenities, Malhão Beach is recognized for its cleanliness and environmental quality.
