Praia da Cordoama

Cordoama is a surf beach first and a swimming beach a distant second. It runs for more than a kilometre under black cliffs, just north of Castelejo, and most of the people on it are surfers [4]. APA describes it as good for surfing and bodyboarding [3].

Surf. Summer is usually small and mellow — the best time for beginners and longboarders — while autumn brings regular north-west swells and punchier peaks; mornings are often offshore [5]. There are rocks under the water across large parts of the beach and the current can be strong, so going with a school the first time makes sense; there is one on the beach that also rents boards [4].

With kids. Hard for swimming: rough waves, rocks and cold water, which is why AlgarveTips calls it more a surf beach than a swimming one [4]. For a walk it is excellent — at low tide you can continue along the sand to Praia da Barriga or Castelejo, though the beach gets narrow at high tide [4]. Lifeguards are on duty 1 June–30 September 2026 [1]; Blue Flag 2026 [2].

Getting there. From Vila do Bispo, follow the M1265 and the signs to the beaches. The small car park behind the beach fills quickly; otherwise people park along the road [4]. The Miradouro do Castelejo viewpoint, reachable by car, looks down over both beaches [4].

For a workday. A west-facing beach with nothing between you and the horizon — a natural sunset stop after work, by one guide’s account [4].

Check before you go: the beach bar’s off-season hours; tide times before walking to Barriga.