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Things to Do in Aljezur and Its Beaches

  • Writer: Miguel
    Miguel
  • Jun 2, 2025
  • 4 min read

Updated: Jun 13, 2025

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)
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 - photo by Paulo Calheiros
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
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!




 
 
 

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