São Jacinto Dunes Beach

Category: Nature > Beach

District: Aveiro > Aveiro > São Jacinto

Location

Praia das Dunas de São Jacinto is located in the town of São Jacinto, in the municipality of Aveiro. Its geographical setting is unique, situated at the southern tip of a narrow strip of land that acts as a natural barrier, separating the mighty Atlantic Ocean from the calm Ria de Aveiro. This strategic position, next to the Barra Channel, gives it a unique landscape and a distinctive natural environment.

A Natural Landscape of Dunes and Sandy Beach

The extensive sandy beach of Praia das Dunas de São Jacinto, approximately 3.8 kilometers long, is in an almost wild state, inviting long walks along the coastline. It is characterized by the presence of a remarkable dune system, whose fragility and beauty shape the landscape and demand its preservation. These dunes are a striking scenic element, contributing to the serene and vast atmosphere of the place.

Protected Nature and Biodiversity

The beach is an integral part of the São Jacinto Dunes Nature Reserve, a protected area created in 1979. This status aims to safeguard the local ecosystem, a treasure of unique flora and fauna in the region. Afforestation and sand stabilization efforts, initiated in the late 19th century, were crucial for the formation of the current landscape. The reserve is an important point for the protection of seabirds, and the dunes play a vital role in biodiversity conservation and in protecting the coastline against sea encroachment.

Experiences on the Sea and the Ria

Given its particular location, Praia das Dunas de São Jacinto offers distinct environments for different activities. On the Atlantic Ocean side, the strength of the waves provides ideal conditions for water sports such as surfing and bodyboarding. In contrast, the Ria de Aveiro side, more sheltered and calm, is suitable for activities such as sailing and recreational fishing. The water quality is recognized, with the beach being distinguished with the Blue Flag award and classified as a Golden Beach, attesting to its purity and environmental excellence.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt