Category: Nature > Beach
District: Setúbal > Almada > Cova do Vapor
Cova do Vapor Beach is located on the South bank, precisely where the Tagus River meets the Atlantic Ocean. This position gives it a unique landscape, with views of the river mouth and the open sea. The beach is integrated into the small fishing village of Cova do Vapor, often considered the beginning of the extensive sandy stretch of Costa da Caparica.
Its proximity to the village's urban fabric, characterized by houses by the sand, creates a specific environment, a mix between fishing life and the proximity of the bathing area. Access to the water is via a north-facing area, at the river mouth.
The beach is marked by a very wide and extensive sandy area that stretches along the coast. This sandy area is divided in half by a long pier, almost 450 meters long, which plays a role in the structure of the river bar. To the South, the area also known as Albatroz Beach, features a natural dune system and is delimited by a smaller pier.
The sand is fine. When the tide is low, it is common for small temporary islands to form along the coastal area, changing the landscape of the sand and creating distinct nooks to explore.
Cova do Vapor Beach is intrinsically linked to the village of the same name, which maintains a strong fishing identity, despite also having become a beach resort. This proximity translates into a unique environment where the life of the local community intertwines with the presence of visitors.
The village's history tells a story of resilience, with its houses and cottages appearing to be stacked one on top of the other. Over the years, its inhabitants had to retreat before the advance of the waters, constantly adapting to the dynamics of the river mouth and the sea.
Due to its location at the estuary, Cova do Vapor Beach is a place traditionally frequented by fishermen, who find here a point of access to the sea. Its waters, sometimes more sheltered compared to beaches directly facing the Atlantic, can be calmer, attracting those looking for a less agitated sea.
Its geographical position, at the meeting point of the river and the ocean, provides conditions for water sports such as windsurfing, being a well-known spot for this activity. However, it is important to pay attention to the dynamics of the currents, which can be significant offshore.
Over the years, Cova do Vapor Beach has been distinguished with several awards that attest to its quality and the conditions it offers. These include distinctions such as the Blue Flag and the Gold Flag, which recognize environmental quality and safety conditions.
The beach has also been recognized as an Accessible Beach, indicating the existence of conditions for visitors with reduced mobility. In certain periods, it received the 'Zero Pollution' classification, highlighting the good state of its aquatic environment.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.6630437,-9.2582836
Coordinates DMS: 38°39'47.0"N 09°15'29.8"W
Weather Cova do Vapor
On-duty Pharmacy Cova do Vapor
