Praia da Bordeira: a complete guide to Carrapateira’s wild beach
Praia da Bordeira is one of the widest and wildest beaches on the Costa Vicentina, next to the village of Carrapateira in the municipality of Aljezur. With a long stretch of sand, dunes and a stream that runs to the sea, it is popular with nature lovers and surfers. This guide covers how to get there, when to go and what to see nearby.
Where is Praia da Bordeira
Praia da Bordeira is on the Algarve’s west coast, next to Carrapateira, inside the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park. It is about 20 to 30 minutes by car from Aljezur and Sagres and around 45 minutes from Lagos, making it a good choice for anyone exploring the west coast.
Location: View on map (approximate coordinates: 37.2003, -8.9003).
What makes it special
This is a broad beach facing the Atlantic, with a long stretch of sand and dunes behind it. The Bordeira stream meets the sea beside the sand and, depending on the time of year and the tide, forms a small lagoon that contrasts with the open ocean. The feel is wilder and less built-up than on the south coast, with plenty of space even in high season. There are good waves for surfing, so the beach is popular with surfers of all levels.
Getting there and parking
The beach is reached by road from Carrapateira, with a car park next to the beach. From the car park, paths and boardwalks lead over the dunes to the sand. In July and August the car park can fill up, so it is worth arriving early. Wear comfortable shoes for the walk to the sea.
Best time to visit
Summer is the most popular season, with milder water, but the north wind can blow strongly, so a windbreak is useful. June and September tend to have more space and pleasant temperatures. In spring and autumn the beach keeps its waves for surfing, although the water is colder. As an Atlantic beach, the water is cool all year round.
What to do nearby
- Praia do Amado: another well-known beach in the area, with good waves and surf schools, a few minutes away by car.
- Carrapateira: a village next to the beach, with restaurants and cafés, and viewpoints over the coast.
- Rota Vicentina: the area is crossed by walking trails, such as the Fishermen’s Trail, with views over the cliffs and the sea.
- Surf lessons and outdoor experiences: the region offers lessons, walks and activities in nature.
Quick tips before you go
- Bring water, sunscreen and a hat.
- The sea is open ocean and can have strong waves and currents: enter the water carefully and follow the flag and the lifeguards’ instructions.
- The wind can be a nuisance on the sand, so a windbreak helps you enjoy the day.
- Take your rubbish with you and respect the dunes and the vegetation.
More beaches nearby
Where to stay and what to book near Praia da Bordeira
Carrapateira, Aljezur and Vila do Bispo are the most practical bases, with apartments, villas and holiday rentals close to the beach. To find accommodation and experiences in the region, such as boat trips, activities and guided visits, visit Algarve Férias, and to see the ratings of homes and experiences, Algarve Reviews.
Frequently asked questions
Is Praia da Bordeira good for surfing? Yes, it has waves that attract surfers of different levels, and there are surf schools around Carrapateira and Amado. Check the sea conditions before you go.
Is Praia da Bordeira good for children? There is plenty of space on the sand, but the sea is open ocean with waves and currents. The stream lagoon can be calmer when it forms, but always check conditions and lifeguard cover.
Are there restaurants or bars nearby? In the village of Carrapateira, a few minutes away, there are restaurants and cafés. Bring water and something to eat if you plan to spend the day on the sand.
