Portugal is famous for its Atlantic coastline, but when the heat rises inland, nothing beats discovering the country’s incredible river beaches. They offer calm, refreshing waters, stunning landscapes, and often much more tranquility. From north to south, from hidden little lagoons to massive dams, river beaches have become real summer hideaways — perfect for anyone wanting to avoid the crowds on the coast.
Over the last few years, we’ve visited dozens of river beaches and absolutely love the variety and quality of these swimming spots. Some are deeply set in nature, while others are situated right next to charming little towns or villages. Some have icy waters from mountain streams, while others warm up nicely in large reservoirs. But they all have one thing in common: they’re perfect for a swim, a picnic, and some quality chill time.
Let’s explore the best river beaches in Portugal — with useful tips, map locations, and our personal experience.
River Beaches Portugal – Map
River Beaches – Northern Portugal
Praia Fluvial de Adaúfe, Braga
Only 10 km (6 miles) from the center of Braga, Adaúfe River Beach is a classic in northern Portugal — and for good reason! Set on the banks of the Cávado River, it’s known for its clear waters, wide grassy area, and old watermills that give it a truly picturesque vibe.
It’s a large, well-equipped beach, perfect for spending the whole day, whether you want to relax or stay active. There’s plenty of space for sunbathing (with both shade and sun), picnic areas with tables and grills, a playground, restrooms, a snack bar, and even lifeguards during the summer season.
If you’re looking to do more than swim, you can rent paddle boards, pedal boats, or enjoy the inflatable water park. It’s one of those places that appeals to everyone — families, groups of friends… You name it! Just be aware that it can get pretty crowded during peak summer weekends.
- ???? Location: Adaúfe, Braga – Google Maps
- ???? Blue Flag: No
- ???? Shade: Yes, but not always enough for everyone
- ???? Beach type: Large grassy area next to the river, great for swimming and relaxing
- ???? Lifeguard: Yes
- ???? Bar/restaurant: Yes
- ???? Water activities: Yes
- ???? Restrooms: Yes
- ????️ Water temperature: Pleasant
- ♿ Accessibility: Good for reduced mobility
- ????️ Parking: Large, free parking lot
Praia Fluvial da Lomba, Porto
Lomba River Beach is one of the hidden gems of the Douro River, where the water flows calmer and invites you to take long, relaxing swims. The sandy stretch is vast (a rare find for river beaches!) and there’s plenty of room to lay your towel, have a picnic, or chill in the shade — if you arrive early. The water is surprisingly warm and perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and other activities.
But it’s not all perfect: access is a bit tricky, and on summer weekends, traffic and limited parking can take away some of the charm. Also, the beach could be better maintained in terms of cleanliness. Still, it remains one of our favorites — and during weekdays, with fewer people, it’s a total delight.
If you manage to avoid the peak hours, it’s easy to spend a great day here by the river, soaking up the sun, relaxing in the shade, and enjoying the silence.
- ???? Location: Lomba, Valongo – Google Maps
- ???? Blue Flag: No
- ???? Shade: Some (mostly in picnic areas)
- ????️ Beach type: Wide, flat sandy area
- ???? Lifeguard: Yes
- ???? Bar/restaurant: Yes, small snack bar with outdoor seating (under renovation during our last visit)
- ???? Water activities: Yes, with rentals available
- ???? Restrooms: Yes
- ????️ Water temperature: Warm in summer
- ♿ Accessibility: Fair
- ????️ Parking: Paid (3€), limited on busy days. A few free spots are available, but they are very scarce due to the beach’s popularity.
Praia Fluvial da Ribeira, Macedo de Cavaleiros
Ribeira River Beach, located on the Azibo Reservoir in Macedo de Cavaleiros, is one of those river beaches that hits the spot in summer. It’s big, with grassy and sandy areas for every taste. There’s plenty of natural shade, which is a lifesaver on hot days, and for added comfort, you can rent lounge chairs or beach cabanas.
The water isn’t that typical icy river water — it’s actually super pleasant, reaching around 25–26°C (77–79°F) on hotter days. If you’d like to stay active, pedal boats, kayaks, and paddleboards are available for rent to make the most of your day.
There’s a snack bar, restrooms, and little shops, and everything is clean, organized, and safe, with lifeguards on duty during the swimming season. Parking is conveniently located right next door and costs just € 1. It’s a popular beach, but rightfully so — it has everything you need for a chill day in nature, whether you’re with family, friends, or on a romantic outing.
- ???? Location: Ribeira Beach, Azibo Reservoir, Macedo de Cavaleiros – Google Maps
- ???? Blue Flag: Yes
- ???? Shade: Lots of natural shade + rentals for lounge chairs and cabanas
- ???? Beach type: Sand and grass, on a reservoir
- ???? Lifeguard: Yes (summer season)
- ???? Bar/restaurant: Yes
- ???? Water activities: Yes — pedal boats, kayaks, paddleboards
- ???? Restrooms: Yes
- ????️ Water temperature: Pleasant, up to 25–26°C (77–79°F) in summer
- ♿ Accessibility: Good
- ????️ Parking: Paid (1€), right next to the beach
Praia Fluvial da Valeta, Arcos de Valdevez
It’s rare to find a river beach right in the heart of a town — and even rarer that it’s this beautiful. Valeta River Beach is situated adjacent to the historic center of Arcos de Valdevez, offering views of the old bridge, traditional houses, and the lush greenery of the Vez River. It’s one of those places where nature and town comfort blend perfectly.
Although the water is quite chilly, it’s crystal clear — ideal for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day. There’s a grassy area, plus some spots with sand and stone, lots of shade from trees, and several places nearby where you can grab a snack or even a full meal. The Ecovia do Vez trail passes right here, making it an excellent stop for hikers as well.
There are lifeguards in summer, public restrooms, and good accessibility. If you’re coming by car, you’ll find free parking on both sides of the river. A true natural luxury — right inside the village!
- ???? Location: Arcos de Valdevez – Google Maps
- ???? Blue Flag: No
- ???? Shade: Yes, lots
- ????️ Beach type: Grassy with sand and stone areas
- ???? Lifeguard: Yes (in designated area during summer)
- ???? Bar/restaurant: Yes, several nearby
- ???? Water activities: Yes — SUP and kayak possible, but other beaches on this list have more space for it
- ???? Restrooms: Yes, public toilets nearby
- ????️ Water temperature: Cool
- ♿ Accessibility: Yes
- ????️ Parking: Yes, free on both riverbanks
Praia do Alqueirão, Terras de Bouro – Peneda-Gerês National Park
Alqueirão River Beach is one of the best-known spots in the Peneda-Gerês National Park — and not by accident. Located on the Caniçada Dam reservoir, it offers breathtaking views, easy access, and numerous leisure options. For anyone visiting Gerês for the first time, this is often a must-stop.
It’s ideal if you love water activities: you can rent SUP boards, kayaks, pedal boats, and even motorboats here. Swimming is also great, but be cautious — the water can be deep, and access points can be slippery. If you’re more into sunbathing, there’s space to lay your towel, even without a sandy beach.
There are cafés and restaurants nearby, public restrooms, and some parking spots along the N308 road — though they fill up fast on busy days. It doesn’t have a Blue Flag or lifeguards, but it’s still one of the best river beaches in Gerês for a complete summer day.
- ???? Location: Vilar da Veiga, Terras de Bouro (Peneda-Gerês National Park) – Google Maps
- ???? Blue Flag: No
- ???? Shade: Few spots, depends on the time of day
- ????️ Beach type: Dirt and gravel shore, good for laying down a towel
- ???? Lifeguard: No
- ???? Bar/restaurant: Yes, several nearby
- ???? Water activities: Yes — rentals for SUP, kayaks, boats
- ???? Restrooms: Yes, some shared with nearby cafés
- ????️ Water temperature: Warm in summer
- ♿ Accessibility: Limited
- ????️ Parking: Yes, but very limited and fills up quickly on hot days
Inland Beaches in Central Portugal
Ilha do Picoto River Beach (Avô), Oliveira do Hospital
Also known as Avô River Beach, this is one of the most beautiful and complete river beaches in central Portugal — and arguably the entire country. It’s located in the charming village of Avô, in the municipality of Oliveira do Hospital, and spans the small Picoto Island, situated right in the middle of the Alva River. Footbridges connect the island to both banks, giving this spot a unique charm and a layout unlike any other.
You’ll find a bit of everything here: grassy areas, sand, stone, and even packed earth; calm waters perfect for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, or kayaking; shaded zones and a picturesque setting with views of an old stone bridge. It’s a popular summer destination, but the large area helps spread out the hundreds of daily visitors.
There are two bars (one located on the island and one on the riverbank), a lifeguard, toilets, and access for people with reduced mobility. The main downside is parking — especially on weekends, it gets extremely tight and chaotic.
- ???? Location: Avô, Oliveira do Hospital — See on Google Maps
- ???? Blue Flag: No
- ???? Shade: Yes, in several parts
- ????️ Beach Type: Grass, sand, stone, and compact earth
- ???? Lifeguard: Yes
- ???? Bar/Restaurant: Yes, two
- ???? Water Activities: Yes — great for SUP and kayaking
- ???? Toilets: Yes
- ????️ Water Temperature: Pleasant, great for longer swims (around 68–75ºF / 20–24ºC)
- ♿ Accessibility: Yes
- ????️ Parking: Limited, especially in high season
Foz d’Égua River Beach, Arganil
If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful river beaches in Portugal, Foz d’Égua is a must. Located where two mountain streams (Piódão and Chãs d’Égua) meet, this natural pool is framed by ancient stone bridges and schist houses that look straight out of a postcard. The setting is absolutely stunning — even more so because it lies in the heart of the Açor mountains.
The beach itself is small, with rocky areas where you can lie your towel and enjoy the sun. There are no support facilities (no bar, no toilets), but what it lacks in convenience, it makes up for in natural beauty. The water is icy cold — typical of mountain streams — perfect for a quick dip on hot summer days.
Because it’s so close to Piódão, one of the most picturesque villages in Portugal, it attracts plenty of visitors. On weekends or during high season, it can get crowded, so consider arriving early or visiting midweek for a more tranquil experience.
- ???? Location: Foz d’Égua, Arganil — See on Google Maps
- ???? Blue Flag: No
- ???? Shade: Not much
- ????️ Beach Type: Rocky, limited space to lay out
- ???? Lifeguard: No
- ???? Bar/Restaurant: No
- ???? Water Activities: No
- ???? Toilets: No
- ????️ Water Temperature: Cold, mountain stream (around 59ºF / 15ºC or less)
- ♿ Accessibility: Not adapted
Loriga River Beach, Seia
Loriga River Beach is one of the most popular and scenic beaches in Portugal, located in the heart of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. Unlike typical river beaches, Loriga is composed of natural pools and weirs formed along the Loriga stream, which is fed directly by the surrounding mountains. At nearly 800 meters (2,600 ft) elevation, the water is crystal clear — and very cold — but the stunning mountain backdrop makes it totally worth it.
It’s easily accessible via roads N231 and N338, which helps explain its summer popularity. However, space is limited, and it fills up quickly. Despite that, the facilities are solid: a bar, toilets, and a lifeguard on duty.
The terrain is uneven, making it unsuitable for those with reduced mobility. Parking is scarce, especially during peak season, so arriving early is highly recommended.
- ???? Location: Loriga, Seia – Check exact location in Google Maps.
- ???? Blue Flag: Yes
- ???? Shade: Very limited
- ????️ Beach Type: Natural pools with grassy and rocky areas
- ???? Lifeguard: Yes
- ???? Bar/Restaurant: Yes
- ???? Water Activities: No
- ???? Toilets: Yes
- ????️ Water Temperature: Cold (about 59ºF / 15ºC)
- ♿ Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchairs
- ????️ Parking: Very limited
Penedo Furado River Beach, Vila de Rei
This is one of our absolute favorites among the best river beaches in Portugal. Penedo Furado, fed by the Codes stream, is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery — the perfect setting for a refreshing dip in shallow, cool water.
More than just a river beach, this spot is a nature lover’s paradise. You can walk the wooden trails, explore waterfalls and viewpoints, and see the “Painted Snake” fossil, estimated to be over 480 million years old.
The beach itself is well-equipped, featuring a large grassy lawn, shaded areas, a bar, bathrooms, and a lifeguard during the summer. Though it’s not suitable for paddleboarding or kayaking due to the limited water space, it’s perfect for relaxing and swimming.
- ???? Location: Vila de Rei — See on Google Maps
- ???? Blue Flag: No
- ???? Shade: Some
- ????️ Beach Type: Mostly sand and dirt
- ???? Lifeguard: Yes (during summer)
- ???? Bar/Restaurant: Yes
- ???? Water Activities: No
- ???? Toilets: Yes
- ????️ Water Temperature: Cold (around 61–66ºF / 16–19ºC)
- ♿ Accessibility: Yes
- ????️ Parking: Available and easy
Meimão River Beach, Penamacor
Located on a peaceful reservoir in Penamacor, Meimão River Beach is ideal for families and anyone seeking a blend of relaxation and water activities. The water warms up throughout the summer, making it very inviting.
There are numerous activities available here, including renting a paddleboard, kayak, or pedal boat, or letting the kids enjoy the floating inflatables. Facilities are excellent, including a bar, restrooms, grassy areas, and even bungalows for overnight stays.
It’s also a great base to explore the nearby Malcata Nature Reserve. Parking is easy and free.
- ???? Location: Meimão, Penamacor — See on Google Maps
- ???? Blue Flag: No
- ???? Shade: Some
- ????️ Beach Type: Reservoir beach with grass and sand
- ???? Lifeguard: Yes
- ???? Bar/Restaurant: Yes
- ???? Water Activities: Yes — paddleboards, pedal boats, kayaks
- ???? Toilets: Yes
- ????️ Water Temperature: Pleasant (70–77ºF / 21–25ºC)
- ♿ Accessibility: Not specified
- ????️ Parking: Yes, free
Poço Corga River Beach, Castanheira de Pêra (Serra da Lousã)
Hidden in the Serra da Lousã, Poço Corga is a peaceful river beach with crystal-clear, fresh water that flows down from the mountains. Two small dams create natural pools with different depths, making it a safe and calm place for swimming — especially for families.
There’s a large, grassy area with plenty of shade, perfect for a picnic or simply relaxing. Facilities include a bar, restaurant, showers, toilets, and lifeguards during the bathing season. It’s not geared toward water sports, but that’s part of its charm — it’s quiet, clean, and super scenic.
The beach is small, so parking is limited, but accessibility for those with reduced mobility is excellent.
- ???? Location: Castanheira de Pêra — See on Google Maps
- ???? Blue Flag: No
- ???? Shade: Plenty
- ????️ Beach Type: Grassy
- ???? Lifeguard: Yes
- ???? Bar/Restaurant: Yes
- ???? Water Activities: No
- ???? Toilets: Yes
- ????️ Water Temperature: Cold (from the mountains, around 60–64ºF / 16–18ºC)
- ♿ Accessibility: Very good
- ????️ Parking: Small but available
Freshwater Beaches in Southern Portugal
Alamal River Beach, Gavião
Alamal River Beach, located on the banks of the majestic Tagus River, is one of the most popular and well-loved summer spots in the region. With calm, crystal-clear waters, it offers the perfect setting to relax, swim, and enjoy various water sports in a peaceful natural environment.
Besides the beach, the area is famous for the Alamal Boardwalks, a walking trail along the river that provides stunning panoramic views, making it a great combo of nature and leisure.
The beach offers essential facilities, including a bar, toilets, and lifeguards, during the bathing season. The wide river space is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and more. It’s perfect for families and groups looking for fun and nature. Parking is available, but it can get limited on busy days.
- ???? Location: Alamal, Gavião — See on Map
- ???? Blue Flag: No
- ???? Shade: Yes, good natural shade on the grassy area behind the beach
- ????️ Beach Type: Sandy riverbank with grassy area behind
- ???? Lifeguard: Yes, in season
- ???? Bar/Restaurant: Yes, seasonal bar
- ???? Water Activities: Kayak, paddleboarding, and more
- ???? Toilets: Yes
- ????️ Water Temperature: Pleasant in summer (around 72–77ºF / 22–25ºC)
- ♿ Accessibility: Easy access but no special adaptations
- ????️ Parking: Limited on busy days
Monsaraz River Beach, Reguengos de Monsaraz (Alqueva)
Monsaraz River Beach is one of the jewels of Alentejo, and the Alqueva Lake is the largest artificial lake in Western Europe. Situated at the Monsaraz Nautical Center, it offers calm, clean waters, large grassy and sandy areas, and modern infrastructure for comfort and fun. It’s a perfect getaway for those looking for a quality river beach with stunning views.
The beach is excellent for water sports like stand-up paddleboarding, pedal boats, wakeboarding, and more. Facilities include lifeguards, a bar, a restaurant, a playground, accessible toilets, and ample parking, including designated spaces for individuals with reduced mobility. In 2025, Monsaraz proudly holds the Blue Flag, a mark of environmental quality and safety.
The bathing season runs from June through September, with cultural and leisure events animating the beach. The Nautical Center is also a starting point for exploring Alqueva by boat, stargazing in one of Europe’s best dark skies, and hiking. Monsaraz is a must-visit destination for anyone touring Alentejo and seeking to experience Portugal’s largest lake.
- ???? Location: Monsaraz Nautical Center, Reguengos de Monsaraz – Google Maps Location.
- ???? Blue Flag: Yes
- ???? Shade: Grassy areas with some natural shade and umbrellas
- ????️ Beach Type: Grass and sand
- ???? Lifeguard: Yes
- ???? Bar/Restaurant: Yes
- ???? Water Activities: SUP, pedal boats, wakeboard, water skiing, boat tours
- ???? Toilets: Accessible
- ????️ Water Temperature: Warm in summer (around 75–80ºF / 24–27ºC)
- ♿ Accessibility: Ramps and amphibious chairs available
- ????️ Parking: Ample, with reserved spots
Mourão River Beach, Alentejo (Alqueva)
Mourão River Beach on the Alqueva reservoir is one of the largest and most popular beaches in Alentejo. With about 320 meters (1,050 ft) of sandy shore and a large grassy area with umbrellas, it feels like a small island connected to the shore by wooden walkways. The landscape is vast and peaceful, typical of Alqueva, with the calm waters of the Guadiana River dominating the scene.
Facilities are excellent, featuring two lifeguard zones, a floating pool for kids, a diving tower with a slide, a bar with a terrace, picnic areas with grills, accessible restrooms, and ample parking.
Water warms up significantly in the summer and is perfect for long swims. The beach hosts cultural and family events that bring life to the area. Combining nature, comfort, and tranquility, Mourão is one of Portugal’s best river beaches — a must-stop for Alqueva visitors.
- ???? Location: Mourão, Évora district – Check Google Maps Location.
- ???? Blue Flag: Yes (2025), with Accessible Beach certification
- ???? Shade: Grass with umbrellas, little natural shade
- ????️ Beach Type: Sand and grass
- ???? Lifeguard: Yes (two zones)
- ???? Bar/Restaurant: Yes, with terrace
- ???? Water Activities: Floating pool, diving tower, slide
- ???? Toilets: Yes, with showers
- ????️ Water Temperature: Pleasant in summer (up to ~79°F / 26ºC)
- ♿ Accessibility: Yes, with ramps and amphibious chairs
- ????️ Parking: Ample, with reserved spots
Mina de São Domingos River Beach, Tapada Grande, Mértola
Hidden among the old São Domingos mines, this river beach is a true oasis in the heart of Alentejo. It features approximately 100 meters (330 ft) of sandy and grassy shoreline, calm waters that can reach 86°F (30 °C) in summer, and a stunning setting with lush vegetation and the striking old Tapada Grande dam.
Facilities include lifeguards, a bar with a terrace, an open-air amphitheater, a playground, showers, toilets, free Wi-Fi, and picnic tables with grills. Since 2012, it has proudly flown the Blue Flag and participates in the Accessible Beach program, offering ramps, amphibious chairs, and reserved parking for individuals with reduced mobility.
Voted several times as the best inland river beach in Europe, it also offers canoe and pedal boat rentals to explore the reservoir. Parking is ample, and there’s a motorhome area near the beach.
- ???? Location: Tapada Grande, Mina de São Domingos, Mértola – Location in Google Maps.
- ???? Blue Flag: Yes (since 2012)
- ???? Shade: Yes, good spots and umbrellas available
- ????️ Beach Type: Sand and grass
- ???? Lifeguard: Yes (bathing season)
- ???? Bar/Restaurant: Yes, with terrace
- ???? Water Activities: Canoes and pedal boats for rent
- ???? Toilets: Yes, with showers
- ????️ Water Temperature: Around 86°F (30ºC) in summer
- ♿ Accessibility: Good access, amphibious chairs, adapted parking
- ????️ Parking: Ample, with motorhome area
These 15 river beaches perfectly showcase the diversity and richness of Portugal’s rivers, streams, and reservoirs. There’s so much more beyond the ocean here — and often, just stepping off the usual tourist paths leads to hidden paradises.
This summer, swap your usual beach for one of these suggestions and enjoy the best of nature — river style. Tell us in the comments which one’s your favorite — or if we missed your secret spot!
Pin it for later
