Praia Grande lives up to its name, boasting the largest stretch of pristine golden sands in the area. Easily accessible by both private and public transport, this beach is a favourite among families seeking sun-soaked relaxation. Its impressive swell and consistent beach break make it a magnet for surfers and body-boarders throughout the year, with national and international surfing championships occasionally gracing its shores. The stunning slate cliffs that adorn the southern end of Praia Grande provide a majestic backdrop and offer natural windbreaks for beachgoers. Venture to the top of the cliffs via steps and you'll be rewarded not only with breathtaking views but also with a fascinating sight: nearly vertical dinosaur footprints at the Pegadas de Dinossauro da Praia Grande. These footprints, dating back 170 million years to the Middle Jurassic age, tell the tale of Megalosaurus and Iguanodons that once roamed this coastal terrain, now preserved in time due to tectonic forces shaping the landscape.
Praia Grande is well-equipped to cater to families, offering an array of amenities including cafes, bars, toilets, showers, and ample parking. During low tide, Praia Grande connects with its counterpart, Praia Pequena (Little Beach). Nestled between the two beaches lies one of Europe's largest oceanic swimming pools, part of the Hotel das Arribas complex. Featuring a 100-metre pool and a children's pool, these facilities are open to the public in the spring and provide access to the hotel's amenities. The swimming pools offer a safer option for young family members compared to the Atlantic waves, with constant lifeguard patrols ensuring safety. Pricing for access to the pools varies depending on the season, making it an accessible and family-friendly option for enjoying the water.
Weekdays: 10h00 - 19h30, Weekends: 09h30 - 19h30.
See Hotel's website
Contact Details
28 Av. Alfredo Coelho, 2705-329, Colares, Portugal.
38° 48' 57.6" N | 09° 28' 34.8" W | +351 939 289 050 | Website
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Apart from the amenities found at the hotel there are a couple of cafés and bars along back of the beach. | |
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There are toilets and changing facilities half way along the beach. | |
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At the Hotel das Arribas. | |
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The are plenty of parking spaces running along the length of the beach and a car park higher up on the aproach to the beach. | |
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The beach is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer season (May to mid-October). | |
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There are disabled parking spaces next to the ramp to the beach and Hotel das Arribas. |
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From Sintra take the Estrada Nacional 247 west through Colares turn right onto Rua da Mesquita after 10km. | |
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• 1250 – Sintra – Praia Grande via Colares | |
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Old Tram Sintra - Praia das Maças Timetable |
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