Ready to discover the beach that made grown adults literally gasp when they first saw it? Welcome to Praia de Odeceixe, the jaw-dropping stretch of sand that sits right on the border between Algarve and Alentejo – and honestly, it might just ruin all other beaches for you.
Why Odeceixe Beach Will Blow Your Mind
Picture this: a horseshoe-shaped beach where a river meets the Atlantic Ocean, creating both wild surf on one side and a calm lagoon on the other. Yeah, it’s as magical as it sounds. In 2012, this beauty won the title of Portugal’s most wonderful beach in the “cliff beaches” category – basically, it’s officially gorgeous.
What makes this place special? The Seixe River wraps around the beach before flowing into the ocean, giving it that distinctive horseshoe shape. You literally get two beaches in one: perfect waves for surfers on the ocean side, and a natural calm lagoon appreciated by families with kids and those who love quiet swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
The Perfect Spot for Everyone (Yes, Even You)
For the Surf Addicts
Surf schools provide rentals and classes for all skill levels, including beginners, so don’t worry if you’ve never touched a board. December is considered the best month to surf at Odeceixe beach, though people surf here year-round. The waves are perfect for learning surfing and even during the peak season, the surfing area does not get too crowded.
For Families with Kids
The river side is your new best friend – you can swim in both the sea and the river, although the water in the river is warmer. Plus, there’s a volleyball net for those competitive family moments.
For Nature Lovers
This isn’t just any beach – it’s protected as part of a natural park (the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina). You can actually rent a canoe and paddle up the Ribeira de Seixa river. You can see otters and many birds here. Bring binoculars if you’re into birdwatching!
Getting There (It’s Easier Than You Think)
By Car: This is your best bet. From the village to the beach, you can only go by car. The 3km-journey takes about 10 minutes. There’s parking right above the beach. If you can’t find a spot there, you can park further up the hill.
By Bus: On weekdays, the very infrequent Vamus bus 79 goes from Lagos to the village of Odeceixe, taking about 1 hour and 25 minutes. But honestly, rent a car – you’ll want the freedom to explore the area.
Summer Hack: During the summer months a ‘road-train’ runs between them – cute but not much faster than walking.
When to Visit (Timing is Everything)
For Beach Lovers: June-August is perfect for beach time and getting a suntan. The hottest month, July, has an average high of 84 degrees F (29 C).
For Hikers: March-May and September-October is the best time if you are planning on trekking Rota Vicentina routes.
Sweet Spot: The months of April, May and October have the best weather and fewer tourists, with pleasant average temperatures between 68 – 77 degrees F (20 – 25 degrees Celsius).
Rainy Season: November-March are the rainiest months in the area, so maybe avoid these unless you love dramatic stormy coastlines.
Where to Eat (Your Taste Buds Will Thank You)
The local food scene is surprisingly awesome for such a small place. Foodies will find a variety of local specialties that retain Moorish influence. The commonly used local ingredients from the land in Aljezur cuisine are beans, cabbage, and sweet potatoes.
Must-Try Spots:
- Bar da Praia: This bar on the beach offers tasty food, homemade juices, cocktails and other drinks. From the bar, the view is also great
- Restaurante-Cafe Dorita: This restaurant offers fresh fish and seafood with spectacular sunset views
- A Tasca: A family-run friendly restaurant serving breakfast lunch and dinner, a variety of Portuguese fish and meat dishes, sandwiches, fantastic homemade desserts
Don’t miss the sweet potato pudding – it’s unusual but totally local and delicious.
Adventure Time: Things to Do Beyond the Beach
Hiking the Rota Vicentina
You can follow walking trails nearby that are part of the Rota Vicentina route. This is a world-famous hiking network, and Odeceixe village is perhaps the best known as a final destination on the breathtaking 4-day Fisherman trail.
Hidden Beach Alert: Praia das Adegas
At low tide, you can go around the cliffs to Praia das Adegas, to the south. This is an official nude beach. It’s separated from its better known neighbour, Praia de Odeceixe by high cliffs, although at low tide it is possible to walk around.
Water Adventures
You can rent surf boards bodyboards wet suits sup boards kayaks canoes from local shops. The river kayaking is especially magical – imagine paddling through calm waters while otters play nearby.
Where to Stay (From Budget to Bougie)
Beach Side: Stay at Praia de Odeceixe for maximum beach vibes Village Vibes: You can choose to stay in the village of Odeceixe which has many nice cottages and homestays in traditional Portuguese houses Farm Stay Experience: Monte Joao Roupeiro – a wonderful farm stay in a beautiful rural house based on Alentejo architecture, just 2.3 KM from Odeceixe
Pro Tips That’ll Make You Look Like a Local
- Sunset Magic: You should stay for the beautiful sunset – the views from the cliffs are absolutely epic
- Beach Facilities: It’s possible to rent wicker parasols and sunbeds
- Explore the Village: Stop at the picturesque village nearby (it’s just 3km or less than 2 miles away)
- Water Temperature: Fair warning – the ocean in Portugal is really cold even in summer. But hey, that’s what makes it refreshing, right?
The Bottom Line
Its unspoiled beauty regularly places it on lists of Algarve’s most recommended beaches and even among Europe’s best-kept secrets. This isn’t some overhyped Instagram spot – it’s the real deal. One travel blogger discovered it by accident and called it “the best part of our entire Portugal vacay”.
Whether you’re a surfer chasing perfect waves, a family wanting both adventure and relaxation, or someone who just wants to witness one of Portugal’s most stunning natural wonders, Odeceixe Beach delivers. Just don’t blame us when you start planning your permanent move to Portugal.
Ready to experience Portugal’s most incredible beach? Pack your sense of adventure (and a good camera) – Odeceixe is waiting to completely blow your mind.
