Category: Nature > Beach
District: Faro > Lagos > Lagos > Maranhão
Meia Praia is located on the coast of Lagos, extending over a vast area. Its sandy beach begins near the city, developing eastwards along the bay, until it reaches the vicinity of the Alvor River estuary.
Behind the beach, a dune cordon separates the extensive sandy area from gently sloping terrain. Its position in the bay gives it a wide exposure to the ocean, contrasting with some of Lagos' beaches that are more sheltered by rock formations.
One of Meia Praia's most distinctive features is its considerable size. Several kilometers long, the sandy beach is composed of fine sand, golden or white in color, offering ample space.
The beach's length ensures that, even during peak times, it is possible to find quieter areas. Those who prefer a more peaceful environment can walk towards the eastern end, where the sandy area tends to be less crowded.
Meia Praia offers a natural environment suitable for various outdoor activities. The absence of cliffs, characteristic of other beaches in the region, makes it more exposed to the wind, which can result in a slightly choppier sea.
These conditions favor the practice of water sports that depend on wind and waves, such as kite-surfing or windsurfing. Depending on sea conditions, it is also possible to practice stand-up paddle or even surf. The sandy beach invites long walks along the shore. The waters are generally clean and, in some areas, shallow, suitable for swimming, although their temperature remains cool for most of the year. At low tide, in the pools that form along the waterline, children can play and it is possible to collect razor clams.
At the eastern end of the beach, the remains of Forte da Meia Praia can be observed. This old military structure played a role in the defense of Lagos Bay during the 17th and 18th centuries.
The westernmost part of Meia Praia was historically known as Praia de São Roque. This name originates from a hermitage founded at the end of the 15th century and was linked to the dynamics of the Bensafrim stream. Over time and due to natural coastal changes, including the effects of the 1755 earthquake, this area merged into what is now Meia Praia.
Further east, near the Alvor River estuary area, it is also possible to observe aquaculture practices, namely the cultivation of oysters in nurseries, an activity linked to the natural environment of Ria de Alvor.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 37.1175739,-8.6450452
Coordinates DMS: 37°07'3.3"N 08°38'42.2"W
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