WhereInRio & Beyond

Holidays in Costa Vicentina: What To Do and Places To Visit

Holidays in Costa Vicentina: What To Do and Places To Visit

With its wild beaches, dramatic cliffs, and raw Atlantic energy, the Costa Vicentina is a dream for nature lovers, surfers, and slow travelers. Stretching along the southwest coast of Portugal, this protected area — part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park — is one of Europe’s last truly untamed coastlines.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do and the must-visit places in Costa Vicentina, from surf hotspots to secret beaches, sleepy fishing towns, and rugged trails. Whether you’re chasing waves or just want to unplug, this coastline offers something rare: space, silence, and soul.


1. Surf and Swim at Iconic Beaches

Costa Vicentina is home to some of the best beaches in Portugal, many untouched by mass tourism. Expect towering cliffs, golden sands, and powerful waves.

Top Beaches to Visit:

  • Arrifana: A surfer’s paradise with dramatic cliffs and consistent waves. Great beach bar too.
  • Amado: Known for surf schools and spectacular views from the cliffs above.
  • Odeceixe: A family-friendly river-meets-sea beach perfect for sunbathing and paddleboarding.
  • Castelejo: Wild, remote, and postcard-worthy — perfect for sunset chasers.

Tip: Pack layers. The Atlantic breeze is no joke, even in summer.


2. Explore Charming Villages

Take a break from the beach and explore the inland charm of Costa Vicentina’s whitewashed towns and fishing villages.

Highlights:

  • Aljezur: Cobblestone streets, a 10th-century Moorish castle, and a weekly farmer’s market.
  • Carrapateira: A sleepy surf village surrounded by dune landscapes and boardwalk trails.
  • Zambujeira do Mar: Famous for its coastal beauty and the August music festival (Festival Sudoeste).

Don’t miss: Local bakeries — try a “pastel de batata doce” in Aljezur.


3. Hike the Rota Vicentina

The Rota Vicentina is a network of well-marked hiking trails that showcase the best of the region’s nature and coastline.

  • Fishermen’s Trail: Hugging the cliffs from village to village, it offers jaw-dropping views.
  • Historical Way: A more rural path through forests, fields, and traditional hamlets.

Good to know: Trails are self-guided and accessible, with plenty of short day hikes if you're not up for long distances.


4. Disconnect in Nature

Costa Vicentina is where you come to slow down. There are no massive resorts here — just open landscapes, starry skies, and the sound of the ocean.

Best experiences:

  • Birdwatching in the Mira River estuary
  • Horseback riding through pine forests and dunes
  • Stargazing in São Teotónio or Vale da Telha, far from city lights


5. Eat Fresh, Eat Local

This region is all about simple food, done right — grilled fish, seafood rice, and ingredients straight from the land or sea.

Try:

  • Azenha do Mar: Legendary for its seafood platters
  • O Paulo (Arrifana): Clifftop views and fresh fish grilled to perfection
  • Sitio do Forno (Monte Clérigo): Stunning ocean setting with a bohemian vibe

Pair it all with local Alentejo wines or a chilled Portuguese beer.


Discover the Costa Vicentina with WhereInRio & Beyond

Planning a coastal escape? At WhereInRio & Beyond, we offer a curated collection of luxury villas and holiday homes in Costa Vicentina and Alentejo that let you fully embrace the region’s wild charm — whether you're after a remote hideaway, a surfer’s lodge, or a romantic cliffside retreat.

From hiking the cliffs to falling asleep to the sound of waves, Costa Vicentina is an invitation to reconnect with nature and with yourself. It’s the kind of place that stays with you — long after the sand is gone from your shoes.


FAQ


1. What is the best time of year to visit Costa Vicentina?

The best time to visit is between May and October, when the weather is warm and dry — ideal for beach days, surfing, and hiking. July and August are busier, while June and September offer fewer crowds and equally great conditions.


2. Is Costa Vicentina good for surfing?

Absolutely. This region is a surf mecca, with beaches like Arrifana, Amado, and Carrapateira offering great waves year-round. There are surf schools for beginners and consistent swells for seasoned riders.


3. Are the beaches suitable for families?

Yes — some beaches like Odeceixe and Praia do Amado have calmer areas and basic amenities. That said, many beaches here are wild and can have strong waves, so always check local conditions before swimming with children.


4. How do I get to Costa Vicentina?

Costa Vicentina is best reached by car, giving you the freedom to explore the coastline at your own pace. From Lisbon, it's about a 2.5–3 hour drive south. From Faro, around 1.5–2 hours west.


5. Where should I stay in Costa Vicentina?

You’ll find everything from boutique guesthouses to secluded villas near beaches or tucked in the hills. At WhereInRio & Beyond, we offer handpicked homes in the region — perfect for those who want to unplug in style.