Category: Nature > Beach
District: Setúbal > Almada > Costa da Caparica
This beach is located on the Atlantic coast, in the municipality of Almada, integrated into the urban area of Costa da Caparica. The sandy beach stretches along the coast, with the Atlantic Ocean to the west and, to the east, the verdant presence of Mata dos Franceses (French Woods), which lends a natural environment to the surroundings.
At the northern and southern limits of the beach are two jetties, structural elements that project into the sea. On days of good visibility, it is possible to glimpse in the distance the silhouette of the Tower of São Lourenço, also known as Bugio Tower.
Praia de São João is distinguished by its very extensive sandy beach, inviting long walks along the seashore or simply finding a quiet space to relax. It extends for approximately 1.4 kilometers, offering ample space for visitors, even during peak periods.
Behind the extensive sandy beach, there is an important dune system. These dunes are crucial not only for the natural protection of the coast against erosion and sea encroachment, but also as a habitat for various local flora and fauna species, representing a sensitive ecosystem of high ecological value.
To safeguard and strengthen this ecosystem, a restoration project has been implemented involving the placement of palisades to help stabilize wind-blown sand and the planting of native plant species, such as European marram grass, sea holly, sea pink, and Portuguese crowberry. There are defined paths and signage to guide visitors and protect these recovering areas.
The landscape at Praia de São João offers an interesting set of visual elements. The vastness of the ocean and the sandy beach contrasts with the structures of the jetties at each end, which venture into the water. To the east, the view is dominated by the vegetation of Mata dos Franceses. This combination of sea, sand, natural elements, and coastal structures gives the beach a particular ambiance.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.6548637,-9.249404
Coordinates DMS: 38°39'17.5"N 09°14'57.9"W