Sintra / Lisbon Coast, Portugal • Atlantic Ocean

Praia da Ursa

Considered by Michelin Guide as one of the most beautiful wild beaches in the world, framed by colossal limestone sea stacks near Europe’s westernmost point.

Praia da Ursa in Sintra / Lisbon Coast, Portugal

Photo: Rnbc (talk) at en.wikipedia (CC BY-SA 3.0) · Wikimedia Commons source

Local Notes & Setting

  • Wear sturdy hiking boots for the steep 30-minute rocky scramble down from Cabo da Roca
  • Named after the 'Ursa' rock stack which resembles a mother bear holding her cub
  • Pack all drinking water and food as there are zero facilities in this untouched sanctuary

Water & Beach Specifications

Peak Summer Sea Temp 19.8°C (Peak Air: 25°C)
Monthly Sea Temps (May–Oct) May: 16.6°C · Jun: 18.2°C · Jul: 19.4°C · Aug: 19.8°C · Sep: 19.2°C · Oct: 18.2°C
Best Months June, July, August, September
Sand & Shoreline Fine White Sand • Deep Water
Water Clarity Crystal Clear (Clarity: 4.95/5 • Scenery: 4.85/5)
Daily Cost Guide €25/day (Sunbeds: €0)
Coordinates 38.7903°N, -9.4917°E

Explore complete 12-month NOAA climatology curves for this coastline in our Portugal Sea Temperature Guide →

Amenities

Watersports: Swimming Only
Naturist: Designated / Tolerated
Free Parking: Available
Bathrooms: None
Showers: None
Food / Tavernas: None
Good for Kids: Steep Entry
Lifeguard: Unsupervised
Sunbed Rentals: None
Natural Shade: Exposed
Wheelchair Accessible: Inaccessible

Nearest Airport & Transit Gateway

LIS · 30m drive

30-min scenic coastal train or drive from Lisbon (LIS).

Frequently Asked Questions about Praia da Ursa

What is the water temperature at Praia da Ursa?

The peak summer sea surface temperature at Praia da Ursa averages 19.8°C (68°F), based on 30-year NOAA OISST satellite climatology.

What type of coast or sand is Praia da Ursa?

Praia da Ursa is classified as a fine white sand shoreline located in Sintra / Lisbon Coast, Portugal.

Is Praia da Ursa good for families with kids?

Praia da Ursa has steeper entry or natural coastal features better suited for confident swimmers.

Are there parking and facilities at Praia da Ursa?

Free parking is available. No public restrooms directly on-site.

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