Montijo Beaches

Overview

Montijo offers a unique waterside experience, situated on the expansive Tagus River estuary near Lisbon. It's important to know that the beaches directly in Montijo are river beaches, offering calm waters and local charm, rather than the Atlantic ocean waves. While you can swim in the river, especially at the main local spot Praia dos Moinhos, Montijo is best seen as a convenient base rather than a traditional ocean beach holiday destination.

For classic ocean beaches, you'll need a short drive. The famous Costa da Caparica coast, known for its long sandy stretches and lively atmosphere, is about 30-45 minutes away by car. Here you'll find popular spots like Praia da Morena. Alternatively, the stunning Arrábida Natural Park coastline, famed for its beautiful coves nestled against green hills, is slightly further. This area boasts family-friendly options like Praia da Figueirinha and the internationally recognized gem, Praia dos Galapinhos.

Our editor's picks also highlight the diverse options within reach. For water sports enthusiasts, Praia da Lagoa de Albufeira offers both a calm lagoon and the open sea. If you're looking for the closest riverside relaxation spot near Montijo, Samouco Beach provides a convenient escape. These nearby ocean and river destinations offer varied experiences, from bustling sands to tranquil coves.

So, while Montijo provides pleasant riverfront access, exploring the nearby Atlantic coast is essential for a full beach experience. Whether you prefer the vast sands of Caparica or the scenic bays of Arrábida, beautiful beaches are within easy reach. Discover more details about these and other beaches in our full guide.

Top Beaches

People Also Ask

Is Montijo a good destination for a beach holiday?

Montijo is located on the Tagus River estuary, not the Atlantic coast, so it offers river beaches rather than traditional ocean beaches. While pleasant, it's not typically considered a primary beach holiday destination like the Algarve or Costa da Caparica. It's better suited for those wanting a base near Lisbon with access to riverfront areas, or who plan day trips to the ocean beaches.

Can you actually swim at the beaches in Montijo?

Yes, you can swim at Montijo's main river beach, Praia dos Moinhos, especially during the summer bathing season when water quality is monitored. However, it's swimming in the Tagus River estuary, not the open ocean. Water quality can vary, and some people prefer the clearer waters of the nearby Atlantic beaches.

Are the beaches in Montijo river beaches or ocean beaches?

The beaches directly in Montijo, like Praia dos Moinhos, are river beaches situated on the banks of the Tagus River estuary. They offer sandy areas and river access. For ocean beaches, you need to travel to the Costa da Caparica or the Setúbal peninsula coast (like Arrábida).

How far are the proper ocean beaches from Montijo?

The popular Atlantic ocean beaches on the Costa da Caparica are roughly 30-40 km away from Montijo by car, typically taking 30-45 minutes depending on traffic, often involving crossing the Vasco da Gama or 25 de Abril bridge. Beaches near Setúbal, like those in the Arrábida Natural Park, are further, around 40-50 km away.

Are there any hotels right on the beach in Montijo?

While Montijo has hotels, they aren't typically located directly 'on the beach' in the same way as coastal resorts. Accommodations are more often situated in the town center or along the main roads. However, some are within walking distance or a short drive from the riverfront area and Praia dos Moinhos.

What is Praia dos Moinhos in Montijo like?

Praia dos Moinhos is Montijo's main river beach. It features a sandy area, calm river waters suitable for families, pathways for walking and cycling, support facilities like cafes/restaurants nearby, and views across the Tagus estuary towards Lisbon. It has a relaxed, local atmosphere.

Is the water in the Tagus River at Montijo clean?

During the official bathing season (typically summer), the water quality at designated river beaches like Praia dos Moinhos is monitored by authorities. While generally considered acceptable for swimming during this period, it's an estuary environment, so water clarity might not be the same as the open ocean, and quality can fluctuate.

What's the best way to get to Costa da Caparica beaches from Montijo?

The most convenient way is usually by car, crossing either the Vasco da Gama Bridge (longer but sometimes faster) or the 25 de Abril Bridge (more direct to Caparica but prone to traffic). Public transport options exist but are less direct, typically involving taking a bus or ferry from Montijo to Lisbon and then another bus to Costa da Caparica.

How do Montijo's river beaches compare to the ocean beaches at Costa da Caparica?

Montijo's river beaches offer calmer waters, are generally smaller, and have views of the estuary and Lisbon. Costa da Caparica features long stretches of sandy Atlantic beaches with waves suitable for surfing, a livelier atmosphere, numerous beach bars, and open ocean views. The choice depends on whether you prefer calm river swimming or a classic ocean beach experience.

Are the river beaches in Montijo good for families with children?

Yes, Praia dos Moinhos in Montijo can be good for families. The river water is generally calm compared to the Atlantic, making it potentially safer for younger children. The area often has adjacent parks or walkways. However, parents should always supervise children closely near the water.

Besides Praia dos Moinhos, are there other places to swim or relax by the river near Montijo?

While Praia dos Moinhos is the main designated river beach, the Montijo waterfront offers extensive walkways and green spaces along the Tagus estuary for relaxing and enjoying the river views. Nearby municipalities like Alcochete also have similar riverfront areas and small river beaches.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Montijo: Weather Today

📅 Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Summary
Full Forecast

It's an average day for the beach in Montijo. The maximum air temperature will be 24.3°C. Expect mostly cloudy skies. There's a slight chance of rain, so it might be worth packing an umbrella. The wind will be moderate, but be aware of occasional strong gusts. The UV index will be high at 8.25, so be sure to apply sunscreen. The sea is calm with minimal waves. The sea temperature is not available, so it may be too cold for swimming.

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Air

Low / High	18°C/24.3°C
Feels Like (High)	26°C

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Sea

Sea Temperature
Wave Height	0.0 m

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Rain

Rain Chance	13%
Rainfall	0 mm
Rain Duration	0 h

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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset	06:10/21:00
Sunshine Hours	10.1 hrs
UV Index	8.25
Cloud Cover	67%

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Wind

Speed	18.7 km/h
Gusts	49 km/h
Direction	SW