Category: Nature > Beach
District: Coimbra > Mira > Praia de Mira > Zona da Praia
Praia de Mira is located on the coastline of the municipality of Mira, in the Central region of Portugal. It is a developed seaside resort that stretches along a vast sandy beach, flanked by dunes and a dense pine forest. Near the sea, the urban environment of the locality embraces the Barrinha Lagoon, a calm body of water that complements the maritime landscape.
Praia de Mira's extensive sandy beach invites long seaside walks, stretching for kilometres. The fine, light-coloured sand is bordered by a carefully preserved natural dune system. Beyond the dunes, the Mata Nacional das Dunas Litorais (National Coastal Dunes Forest) offers a fresh environment and the characteristic scent of pine trees, providing an ideal setting for tranquil walks.
The history of Praia de Mira is intrinsically linked to artisanal fishing, a practice still observed today, with nets being cast into the sea and the colourful boats of the arte da xávega resting on the sand. The locality is also notable for its wooden constructions, the palheiros, which once characterised almost the entire settlement. A striking example of this architecture is the small chapel by the beach, painted blue and white, a distinctive symbol of the village.
The Atlantic Ocean offers Praia de Mira sometimes vigorous waves, appreciated by those who practice water sports such as surfing. In contrast, the Barrinha Lagoon, located just behind the sandy beach, features serene waters, ideal for calmer water activities like canoeing or windsurfing. The proximity of these two aquatic realities, the sea and the lagoon, provides a diversity of unique natural environments.
Praia de Mira has achieved a remarkable status in the environmental landscape, being the first beach in the world to receive the Blue Flag in all its editions since the award's inception. This recognition highlights the quality of its waters, environmental management, and safety of the location, making it an example of coastal sustainability and a trustworthy destination for visitors.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.4556603,-8.804573
Coordinates DMS: 40°27'20.4"N 08°48'16.5"W
Weather Praia de Mira
On-duty Pharmacy Praia de Mira
