Here, you don't head to the sea: you head to the river. The rio Coura runs down from the hills in clear, cool water, and along its course forms river beaches where people swim all summer long. Nothing like the crowds of the coast — just the water, the rocks, the trees and the sound of the current.
This is the best known, and rightly so. The Praia do Taboão offers a large swimming area with crystal-clear water, lined with trees, with a developed beach, a bar in season and lifeguards in summer. Family-friendly and easy to reach, it's the perfect spot to spend the day. It's also here that the Paredes de Coura festival is held every August.
Beyond the Taboão, the rio Coura hides other, quieter spots — among rocks and small natural pools, perfect for a dip far from it all. Wander along the river and you'll easily find a corner of your own.
Stay at Casa Outeiro 99, in the quiet of the valley, and reach the beaches in just a few minutes.
Check availability →The Praia Fluvial do Taboão: clear water, wooded surroundings, developed and with lifeguards in summer. It's also the festival site.
Yes, open and free access. Some beaches have a bar, lifeguards and picnic areas in season.
From late spring through September. July and August are the busiest.