Category: Nature > Beach
District: Leiria > Alcobaça > São Martinho do Porto > Casal das Hortas
São Martinho do Porto Bay is located in the town of the same name, part of the municipality of Alcobaça, in Western Portugal. Characterized by its almost circular shape, resembling a shell, this bay opens to the Atlantic Ocean through a bar. It is flanked by two hills, Santa Ana to the south and Farol (Lighthouse) to the north, which shape its entrance and give it a striking geographical uniqueness.
The bay's peculiar shape, known as "The Shell", grants it a unique natural protection. The surrounding hills act as barriers against the Atlantic breeze, resulting in generally calm waters with little swell. This characteristic makes the sandy beach, which stretches for approximately three kilometers, a recognized spot for water activities and a serene environment to enjoy the maritime landscape, even when the open sea is more agitated.
The history of São Martinho do Porto Bay is deeply linked to its maritime vocation. Once part of a more extensive lagoon, progressive silting led to its current shape. Since the 19th century, various projects have been undertaken to manage silting and optimize access to the bay, reflecting its importance as a natural port for the region. This past, which includes fishing and, at one time, underwater seaweed harvesting, shaped the identity of the locality and its relationship with the sea.
For a complete appreciation of São Martinho do Porto Bay, visitors can walk along the boardwalk lining the waterfront, which follows the entire contour of the beach, offering views of the tranquil waters and the town. Another interesting perspective is provided by passing through a tunnel excavated in Monte de São Martinho. This tunnel directly connects the tranquility of the bay to the more agitated environment of the ocean, allowing one to observe, in a short journey, the contrast between its protected waters and the force of the Atlantic waves on the outside.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.5102894,-9.1355149
Coordinates DMS: 39°30'37.0"N 09°08'7.9"W