Things to Do in Aljezur and Its Beaches

Looking for the best activities on the SW Algarve Coast? From the dramatic cliffs of Arrifana to the serene sands of Monte Clérigo and Amoreira, the Vicentine Coast Natural Park offers endless adventures. Whether you’re hiking, surfing, or exploring local spots, there’s something for everyone. As hosts at Yucca Garden Holiday Homes in Vale da Telha, a calm urbanization within the natural park just a 5–7 minute drive from these beaches, we’ve put together this guide to the top things to do in the area. Ready to explore? Book your stay at yuccagarden.pt/our-place!

Vicentine Coast Natural Park trail near Aljezur (around Ponta da Atalaia)

Hike the Rota Vicentina’s Coastal Trails

The Vicentine Coast Natural Park is a hiker’s paradise, and the Trilho dos Pescadores (Fishermen’s Trail) is a must-do. This 226.5km, 13-stage coastal path rotavicentina.com winds through the park, offering stunning ocean views and wildflower-filled landscapes, especially in spring. From Vale da Telha, you can access shorter sections of the trail, like the 10km stretch between Arrifana and Monte Clérigo, perfect for a half-day hike. Vale da Telha’s location, about 1km from secluded beaches and cliff trails, makes it a great starting point for these adventures.

• Best Time: Spring (March–May) for wildflowers, or fall (September–October) for cooler weather.

• Tip: Bring water and wear sturdy shoes—the trails can be rocky.

• Stay Nearby: Our 2-bedroom Villa (4 guests) in Vale da Telha is a 5-minute drive from trail access points. Book at yuccagarden.pt/our-place/villa.

Arrifana Beach - on a calm day, some surfers at the South end

Surf the Waves at Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, and Amoreira

Surfing is a year-round activity on the SW Algarve Coast, with each beach offering a unique vibe. Arrifana Beach, steps from Arrifana’s slope-side lodges, is a hotspot with consistent waves—calmer 1–2m waves in summer, and bigger 2–5m swells in late fall (November) and winter for experienced surfers. Monte Clérigo Beach, a 5-minute drive from Vale da Telha, has surf schools and rentals, ideal for beginners in summer. Amoreira Beach, just 2–3 minutes from Monte Clérigo, offers a quieter spot with a river mouth you can cross in summer.

• Best Time: Summer for beginners, late fall/winter for experienced surfers.

• Local Spot: After a session at Arrifana, grab a bite at Bar da Praia da Arrifana—a favorite for surfers.

• Stay Nearby: Our 1-bedroom Lodge (2–3 guests) in Vale da Telha is perfect for surfers, a 5-minute drive from Arrifana. Book at yuccagarden.pt/our-place/lodge.

Explore the Beaches of Monte Clérigo, Amoreira, and Arrifana

The beaches of the Vicentine Coast Natural Park are perfect for a day of exploration. Monte Clérigo Beach, with its easy access and beachfront houses, is great for a relaxed day by the sea—though parking can be tricky in July and August, so arrive early. Amoreira Beach, a short drive from Monte Clérigo, features a calm river mouth (crossable in summer) and uncrowded sands, ideal for a peaceful escape. Arrifana Beach, nestled below dramatic cliffs, offers a scenic backdrop for a coastal walk, especially at sunrise or sunset when it’s less crowded.

• Best Time: September for warm weather and fewer crowds.

• Tip: From Vale da Telha, you’re just 1km from secluded, natural beaches and cliff trails—perfect for a quiet coastal walk.

Praia do Medo Da Fonte Santa - just a tiny step away from Vale da Telha

Stay in the Heart of the Natural Park at Vale da Telha

Vale da Telha is a calm urbanization within the Vicentine Coast Natural Park, located about 1km from secluded, natural beaches and cliff trails. It’s a great base for visitors looking to be near Aljezur while staying closer to the three main beaches—Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, and Amoreira—all just a 5–7 minute drive away. Vale da Telha offers some convenient services like restaurants, cafés, a supermarket, a mini-market, and surf rentals/schools, making it easy to plan your adventures while enjoying a peaceful setting.

• Why Stay Here: Great location, calm atmosphere, close to beaches and trails.

• Stay with Us: Yucca Garden Holiday Homes in Vale da Telha offers modern rentals with private terraces, rated 4.8 from 60 reviews. Book at yuccagarden.pt/our-place.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do Near Aljezur

What are the best hiking trails near Vale da Telha?

The Trilho dos Pescadores in the Vicentine Coast Natural Park is a top choice. Try the 10km stretch between Arrifana and Monte Clérigo for a scenic half-day hike.

Where can I surf near Arrifana?

Arrifana Beach is great for all levels—calmer waves in summer, bigger swells in late fall and winter. Monte Clérigo and Amoreira, 5–7 minutes from Vale da Telha, are also excellent.

Are Monte Clérigo and Amoreira good for a beach day?

Yes! Monte Clérigo has easy access but can be busy in summer—arrive early. Amoreira is quieter, with a river mouth to explore in summer.

What’s there to do near Vale da Telha?

Vale da Telha is about 1km from secluded beaches and cliff trails—great for hiking or quiet walks. You’re also just 5–7 minutes from Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, and Amoreira for surfing and beach days, with local cafés and restaurants nearby.

Start Your SW Algarve Coast Adventure

From hiking the Rota Vicentina to surfing at Arrifana, the SW Algarve Coast has it all. Whether you’re exploring Monte Clérigo’s sands or enjoying Vale da Telha’s proximity to secluded beaches, there’s no shortage of things to do. At Yucca Garden Holiday Homes in Vale da Telha, our modern rentals are minutes from these spots, earning 4.8 from 60 reviews: “Amazing stay!” – Maria, 2024. Book your adventure at yuccagarden.pt/our-place!

Find Us: View Yucca Garden Holiday Homes on Google Maps

When Is the Best Time to Visit Aljezur and Its Beaches?

Planning a trip to the SW Algarve Coast, home to Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, and Amoreira beaches? The Atlantic Ocean shapes this region’s unique climate, offering a distinct experience every season—whether you’re hiking, surfing, or exploring the coast. As locals and hosts at Yucca Garden Holiday Homes in Vale da Telha, a 5–10 minute drive from these beaches, we’ve created this guide to help you choose the best time to visit and where to stay. Here’s your guide to the area’s weather and accommodations in the Vicentine Coast Natural Park. Ready to plan your getaway? Book at yuccagarden.pt/our-place!

Ponta da Atalaia - Vicentine Coast Natural Park near Aljezur

How Does the Atlantic Shape the Weather in the Vicentine Coast Natural Park?

The weather in the Vicentine Coast Natural Park area is ruled by the Atlantic, keeping it cooler than the Algarve’s south coast. Summer days are warm, but nights can be chilly, even in August, so pack a light jacket or sweatshirt. The Nortada, a strong north wind, brings a frequent breeze. Winters are mild, rarely dropping below 10°C, with rainfall concentrated between November–December and February–March. The ocean sets the mood: calm in summer (1–2m waves), wild in winter (2–5m waves). Each season brings a unique vibe to Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, and Amoreira—let’s explore when to visit.

Why Is Spring Ideal for Hiking Near Aljezur? (March–May)

Spring is the peak season for hikers in the Vicentine Coast Natural Park, with warmer days and some rain. The park blooms with wildflowers, making it ideal for the Trilho dos Pescadores (Fishermen’s Trail), a 226.5km, 13-stage coastal path (rotavicentina.com). The sea starts to calm (1–3m waves), drawing surfers to Arrifana with fewer crowds. Monte Clérigo and Amoreira remain quiet for coastal exploration.

• Why Visit: Lush landscapes, mild weather, uncrowded beaches.

• Activities: Hike the Rota Vicentina’s coastal trails.

• Surfing: Arrifana sees less crowded waves.

View of Pedra da Agulha from the South - Vicentine Coast Natural Park near Aljezur

What Makes Summer Great for the Beaches? (June–August)

Summer brings milder seas (1–2m waves) to Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, and Amoreira, but Arrifana gets crowded with surfers and surf schools—visit at sunrise or after 5pm (schools operate 10am–5pm) to avoid the rush. Monte Clérigo offers easy beach access, though parking is limited in July and August. Amoreira is less busy, providing a calmer coastal experience.

• Why Visit: Warm days, calmer seas.

• Activities: Enjoy the beaches, surf at less crowded times.

• Surfing: Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, and Amoreira have manageable waves.

• Stay with Us: Our 2-bedroom Villa (4 guests) in Vale da Telha is perfect for summer beach trips. Book at yuccagarden.pt/our-place/villa.

Arrifana Beach - Vicentine Coast Natural Park near Aljezur

Is Fall the Nicest Season for the SW Algarve Coast? (September–November)

Fall, especially September, is the highlight of the SW Algarve Coast. The sea stays calm, the Nortada eases, and crowds thin out after the peak season. Days are sunny and warm, extending into October, with November bringing shorter days and occasional rain. By late fall (November) bigger swells attract experienced surfers. Monte Clérigo and Amoreira offer peaceful beaches.

• Why Visit: Calm seas, fewer tourists, pleasant weather.

• Activities: Explore beaches, hike, surf.

• Surfing: Calmer waves in September–October.

• Stay with Us: Our 1-bedroom Lodge (2–3 guests) in Vale da Telha is great for fall surfers, a 5-minute drive from Arrifana. Book at yuccagarden.pt/our-place/lodge.

Praia do Medo Da Fonte Santa Beach - Vicentine Coast Natural Park near Aljezur

What’s Winter Like Near Aljezur? (December–February)

Winter is mild (above 10°C) but rainy, with rainfall peaking in November–December and February–March. The ocean gets wild (2–5m waves), causing downtime for surfers. Monte Clérigo and Amoreira are quiet, showcasing the coast’s dramatic beauty.

• Why Visit: Quiet escapes, dramatic seascapes.

• Activities: Experience the coast’s wild side.

• Surfing: Canguru at Arrifana for experienced surfers tackling bigger swells.

Overview of Beaches and Accomodation Areas around Vicentine Coast Natural Park near Aljezur

Where to Stay in the Vicentine Coast Natural Park Area?

Accommodations in the Vicentine Coast Natural Park area sit on a scenic plateau 70m above sea level, offering ocean views, while Aljezur town lies in a valley outside the park, a 10-minute drive inland. Here’s where to stay near Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, and Amoreira, with Yucca Garden Holiday Homes in Vale da Telha as a top choice.

Why Stay in Vale da Telha?

Vale da Telha, between Monte Clérigo and Arrifana (5-minute drive to both), offers villas with pools and gardens, smaller units, and apartments. It’s the most central location of the few we listed, enabling you to reach Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, and Amoreira within 5-7 minutes by car. You’ll find restaurants, cafés, a supermarket, a mini-market, and surf rentals/schools, yet it feels non-urban with cliffside ocean views. Short hikes from our homes lead to wild beaches, nearly empty even in summer. Yucca Garden Holiday Homes here provides modern rentals with private terraces, rated 4.8 from 60 reviews. Book at yuccagarden.pt/our-place.

What’s It Like to Stay in Arrifana?

Arrifana is steps from Arrifana beach, with slope-side surf lodges (steep road, sea views) or cliff-top accommodations (a short walk to the sand). Eat at Bar da Praia da Arrifana, but for groceries, drive to Vales in Vale da Telha (5 minutes). It’s ideal for surfers needing quick beach access.

Why Choose Monte Clérigo for Your Stay?

Monte Clérigo, a hamlet on the slopes facing Monte Clérigo beach, offers beachfront houses with prime access to the sand. Accommodations are simple but location-driven. A surf school and rentals are nearby, but groceries require a 5-minute drive to Vales. Amoreira beach, 2–3 minutes away, has a river mouth crossable in summer.

Is Espartal a Good Option for a Quiet Stay?

Espartal, a 4-minute drive from Monte Clérigo and Amoreira’s southern access, features villas and apartments in a tranquil setting with no bars or shops. Monte Clérigo’s amenities are close, and Aljezur’s Intermarché supermarket is 10 minutes away.

Frequently Asked Questions About the SW Algarve Coast

When is the best time to surf near Aljezur?

Late fall (November) and winter bring 2–5m waves, bigger swells at Arrifana’s Canguru for experienced surfers. Summer’s 1–2m waves at Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, and Amoreira are calmer.

What’s the weather like in the Vicentine Coast Natural Park in spring?

Spring (March–May) is mild with some rain, ideal for hiking the Rota Vicentina and exploring uncrowded beaches like Monte Clérigo.

Is summer too crowded at Arrifana and Monte Clérigo?

July and August are busy at Arrifana and Monte Clérigo. Visit at sunrise or after 5pm to avoid surf school crowds, or try Amoreira.

Where’s the best place to stay near Arrifana beach?

Vale da Telha, 5 minutes from Arrifana, offers villas and Yucca Garden Holiday Homes with private terraces. Arrifana has slope-side surf lodges with sea views.

How close are Yucca Garden Holiday Homes to Monte Clérigo and Amoreira?

Our homes in Vale da Telha are a 5–7 minute drive from Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, and Amoreira, perfect for exploring the area’s beaches. Many more beaches are reachable in 20-30 minute drives.

Plan Your SW Algarve Coast Adventure

The SW Algarve Coast shines year-round, from spring’s hiking trails to late fall and winter’s bigger swells. Whether you’re exploring Monte Clérigo, visiting Amoreira, or surfing, there’s a perfect time and place to stay. At Yucca Garden Holiday Homes in Vale da Telha, our modern rentals are minutes from these beaches, earning 4.8 from 60 reviews: “Perfect location!” – João, 2024. Book your stay at yuccagarden.pt/our-place!

Find Us: View Yucca Garden Holiday Homes on Google Maps

Spring in the Costa Vicentina

Anticipating Warmer Days

Spring sunset viewed from the cliffs of Monte Clérigo, with serene waves and a sky painted in soft pastels.

With (hopefully most of) the rain behind us, we eagerly await the warmer days ahead. The sun is making more frequent appearances, and temperatures are climbing, signaling the approach of summer. This is the perfect opportunity to discover the coastline, hike picturesque trails, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Costa Vicentina.

Ideal Weather for Hiking

The mild, not too hot weather creates a perfect environment for outdoor activities. This comfortable climate allows hikers to enjoy their adventures without the discomfort of the heat of the summer.

Beautiful Landscapes

The landscapes are adorned with greener and more beautiful flowers, adding to the scenic beauty. The vibrant colors of blooming flowers enhance the hiking experience, making every trail a visual delight.

Perfect Hiking Conditions

With the combination of pleasant weather and stunning floral displays, this season is ideal for hikes. Nature enthusiasts can explore the great outdoors and appreciate the breathtaking views that surround them.