Peniche Beaches

Overview

Peniche, a rugged peninsula jutting into the Atlantic, is one of Portugal's most famous coastal destinations. It's renowned worldwide as a surfer's paradise, but its appeal extends far beyond the waves. The unique geography offers a diverse coastline, attracting families seeking sandy shores alongside wave riders chasing the perfect break. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or looking for a relaxing beach holiday, Peniche offers a variety of experiences.

Among the highlights is the ever-popular Praia do Baleal, loved for its scenic setting and suitability for both families and surfers of all levels. For those seeking adrenaline, Praia dos Supertubos lives up to its name with powerful, world-class tube waves, making it a stage for international surf competitions. Closer to the town centre and its historic fortress lies the convenient Praia da Gambôa. For a truly unique escape, a boat trip to the Berlengas archipelago reveals the stunning cove of Praia do Carreiro do Mosteiro, a gem within a protected nature reserve.

Visitors should know that the Atlantic waters here are refreshingly cold, even in summer, making wetsuits common for water sports. The coast can also be windy, but the peninsula's shape often means you can find a more sheltered spot depending on the day's conditions. South of Peniche, Praia da Consolação offers a different experience, known for its long sandy stretch on one side and therapeutic rocky pools on the other. Our full guide explores these and many other beaches dotted along this dynamic coastline.

From the legendary surf breaks to calmer family-friendly sands and the dramatic beauty of the Berlengas islands, Peniche provides a memorable seaside escape. Its blend of raw nature, vibrant surf culture, and traditional fishing town charm makes it a standout destination on Portugal's Silver Coast.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is Peniche a good destination for a beach holiday?

Yes, Peniche is an excellent destination for a beach holiday, particularly renowned for its world-class surfing conditions. However, it also offers a variety of beaches, including calmer stretches suitable for families and relaxation, making it versatile. The coastline features wide sandy beaches, sheltered coves, and dramatic cliffs.

Is Peniche better for families or surfers?

Peniche successfully caters to both. It's globally famous as a surf haven with consistent waves for all levels, especially around Baleal and Supertubos. Simultaneously, beaches like Baleal Sul (Campismo side), Praia da Gamboa, and Praia da Cova da Alfarroba offer gentler waves and conditions often preferred by families, particularly during the summer months.

Praia do Baleal

Praia dos Supertubos

Praia da Gambôa

Praia da Cova da Alfarroba

Can you swim in the sea in Peniche? Is the water cold?

Yes, swimming is possible, but be prepared for cold water. As part of the Atlantic coast, sea temperatures in Peniche typically range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), even in peak summer. Many find it invigorating, but it's significantly colder than Mediterranean waters. Wetsuits are common for extended time in the water.

Are the beaches in Peniche windy?

Yes, Peniche can be quite windy, as it's a peninsula exposed to the Atlantic. The prevailing wind, especially in the afternoon during summer, is often the 'Nortada' (northerly wind). However, the peninsula's geography means you can usually find a beach with more shelter depending on the specific wind direction for the day.

Where is the best area to stay for easy beach access in Peniche?

Staying in Baleal offers the most direct access to popular surf spots (especially beginner-friendly ones) and surf schools. Staying in Peniche town provides proximity to restaurants, shops, and beaches like Gamboa. The coastal road between Peniche and Baleal also has many accommodation options with good beach access.

Praia do Baleal

Praia da Gambôa

Which beach is best for beginner surfers in Peniche?

Cantinho da Baía, the southern part of Baleal beach (often called Baleal South), is widely regarded as the best and safest spot for beginners. It features a sandy bottom, generally smaller and more manageable waves, and numerous surf schools operating directly on the beach.

Praia do Baleal

Do I need a wetsuit to surf or swim in Peniche?

A wetsuit is highly recommended for surfing year-round due to the cold water. For summer surfing (June-August), a 3/2mm thickness is usually adequate. For other seasons, or for longer swimming sessions, a 4/3mm or even 5/4mm (in winter) is advisable for comfort and warmth.

What's the difference between Peniche beaches and Baleal beaches?

Baleal is a small island/peninsula connected by a causeway, located just north of Peniche town. While technically part of the Peniche municipality, 'Baleal beaches' (like Baleal North and South/Cantinho da Baía) refer to the shores around this peninsula, known for their surf schools and vibrant surf scene. 'Peniche beaches' might refer to those closer to the town center (like Gamboa) or south of it (like Supertubos).

Praia do Baleal

Praia da Gambôa

Praia dos Supertubos

Is Supertubos beach only for expert surfers?

The specific wave called 'Supertubos' is world-famous for its powerful, barreling nature and is suitable only for very experienced surfers. However, the beach itself (Praia de Medão - Supertubos) is a long, sandy public beach where anyone can sunbathe, walk, or watch the surfers. Swimming there can be dangerous due to strong waves and currents.

Praia dos Supertubos

How do you get to the beaches from Peniche town?

Praia da Gamboa is within walking distance from the northern part of Peniche town. To reach Baleal (approx. 3-4 km) or Supertubos (approx. 2-3 km south), options include driving (parking can be challenging in summer), local buses (check seasonal timetables), cycling (some dedicated paths exist), taxis, or ride-sharing services.

Praia da Gambôa

Are there beaches near Peniche with calmer water for families?

Yes, for calmer conditions, try Praia da Gamboa (near town), Praia da Cova da Alfarroba (sheltered bay between Peniche and Baleal), or the southern side of Baleal beach (Cantinho da Baía/Campismo), especially on smaller swell days. For guaranteed calm water, the Óbidos Lagoon is a short drive south and offers very sheltered conditions.

Praia da Gambôa

Praia da Cova da Alfarroba

Are Peniche beaches crowded?

Popular spots like Baleal (Cantinho da Baía) and Supertubos (especially during surf events or good swells) can get crowded, particularly in July and August. However, Peniche has a long coastline with extensive sandy stretches. Walking a bit further along beaches like Baleal North or Consolação can often lead you to quieter areas.

Praia do Baleal

Praia dos Supertubos

Praia de Consolação

Are there facilities like toilets and cafes on Peniche beaches?

Yes, the main beaches such as Baleal (North and South), Supertubos, Consolação, and Gamboa generally have facilities available during the main tourist season (approx. Easter to October). This typically includes beach bars/cafes, restaurants, toilets, and lifeguard services. Smaller coves might lack these amenities.

Praia dos Supertubos

Praia de Consolação

Praia da Gambôa

What is the beach like on Berlengas island?

The main beach on Berlengas island (Praia do Carreiro do Mosteiro) is small but exceptionally beautiful, set in a sheltered cove with very clear, turquoise (and very cold) water. It's part of a protected nature reserve accessible by ferry from Peniche (typically May-September). Ideal for snorkeling, but it can get busy with day visitors.

Praia do Carreiro do Mosteiro

Is Peniche or Nazaré better for beaches?

Both have great beaches but offer different experiences. Peniche is best known for its variety and consistency of surf breaks suitable for all levels, with a strong surf culture, especially around Baleal. Nazaré is famous for its massive winter waves (for experts/viewing) at Praia do Norte, while its main town beach is large, sheltered, and more traditional. For learning to surf or finding reliable waves year-round, Peniche often has more options.

Praia do Baleal