Category: Nature > Beach
District: Setúbal > Grândola > Carvalhal > Praia do Pego
Carvalhal Beach is located in the municipality of Grândola, within the Praia do Pego area, near the town of Carvalhal. It is part of the extensive Portuguese Atlantic coastline in this Alentejo Litoral region.
The route to the beach passes through a characteristic rural landscape, where one can observe the transition from pine forest areas to extensive rice paddies, which now occupy the space of former lagoons. This environment provides a diverse setting that marks the approach to the coast.
This beach is notable for its remarkably large sandy area, which stretches for approximately 1.4 kilometers. It is a vast space, ideal for seaside walks or simply for enjoying the spaciousness the location offers.
The sand is framed by a significant dune system. These natural dunes are a fundamental element of the local landscape and play a crucial role in coastal protection. They extend continuously, connecting the beach to the pine forest vegetation that dominates the inland area. The scenic value of these dunes is well-recognized, with the beach having been a finalist in the "7 Wonders, Beaches of Portugal" contest.
A distinctive aspect of Carvalhal Beach is its relationship with the surrounding landscape beyond the dune system. The proximity of former lagoon areas, transformed over time into agricultural fields, particularly rice paddies, creates an interesting contrast.
This combination of the beach environment, the dune system, the pine forest, and cultivated areas provides the region with a diversity of habitats and views, enriching the experience for visitors and allowing for the observation of a unique variety of flora and fauna.
Carvalhal Beach is recognized for its environmental and service quality. It has been awarded the Blue Flag annually since 2003, a symbol that attests to its environmental quality, safety, and sustainability.
Additionally, the beach has held the "Gold Quality" classification since 2004, awarded based on the excellence of its bathing water quality. Its inclusive nature is also highlighted by its "Accessible Beach" status since 2007, indicating the availability of facilities for visitors with reduced mobility.
The sea conditions at Carvalhal Beach are often calm, making it suitable for gentle water activities such as swimming. Fishing, especially line fishing from the shore, is also a common practice.
At certain times of the year, and depending on wind and wave conditions, the beach presents features that attract board sports enthusiasts, making it possible to practice surfing, bodyboarding, and kitesurfing when conditions are favorable.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.3053196,-8.7803913
Coordinates DMS: 38°18'19.2"N 08°46'49.4"W