Matosinhos / Gaia / Piscina das Marés

To the North and South of the Douro river, Porto is blessed with a wealth of long, clean, sandy beaches. Whilst naturally busier in the summer months the beaches of Porto always offer plenty of space to sunbathe and relax in peace and quiet.

Piscinas das Marés is a swimming facility on the beach of Leça da Palmeira which is located North of the city of Matosinhos. The structures consisting of two natural pools filled with fresh sea water were designed and built from 1959 to 1973 by portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira.

Vila Nova de Gaia is also known for its extensive coastline, with large sandy beaches, some with famous coastal sand dunes. The beach landscape is particularly unspoiled and boasts 15 kms of coastline with the largest number of Blue Flag beaches in Portugal. There has also been considerable investment in creating a wooden walkway that runs the full stretch of Gaia’s coastline, providing a sea view along the entire route.
Madalena, Lavadores, Salgueiros and Miramar are all examples of excellent beaches in Gaia.


Not convinced yet?

In Porto we suggest you a fantastic walk, starting at Ribeira and following the river until Foz (the place where Douro river meets the sea). Here you will find many of the locals exercizing or enjoying the great esplanades over the sea.