Praia de Monte Clerigo

Praia de Monte Clérigo is where the wild beauty of the Costa Vicentina meets the laid-back charm of a tiny fishing village. Just a 10-minute drive from Aljezur, this wide sandy bay is backed by dunes and colorful cliffside houses, creating a postcard-perfect setting that feels authentically Portuguese despite growing popularity with surfers and families. What makes Monte Clérigo special for families is the shallow lagoon that forms when the tide goes out. This natural paddling pool provides a safe haven for children to splash and play without worrying about waves - though parents should be aware that weever fish can occasionally be found in these waters, so water shoes are recommended. The lagoon has made this one of the most popular beaches for local Portuguese families. At the southern end of the beach, unusual and extensive rock formations create a natural aquarium at low tide. Explore the pools and gullies to discover an abundance of starfish, crabs, shrimps, and barnacles. In the rock crevices at the tide line, octopus can be spotted, while deeper pools hold shoals of juvenile fish like sea bream. It's a wonderful educational experience for children and fascinating for adults. The beach has good surfing conditions for all levels, with surf schools like Boa Onde Surf School offering lessons during high season. When waves are bigger, conditions suit more experienced surfers. A small village overlooks the beach, offering traditional Portuguese restaurants - O Zé and A Rede serve fresh seafood including the famous percebes (gooseneck barnacles) harvested from local cliffs.