Praia de Monte Clérigo: The West-Coast Cliff Beach With Built-in Sunset
Overview
Praia de Monte Clérigo is a west-coast beach near Aljezur, nestled between dramatic cliffs and accessible via a scenic descent through pine forest. It is popular with surfers and families alike, offering both powerful Atlantic waves and calmer sections near the river mouth.
Getting There
From Aljezur, take the N120 towards the west coast. Look for signs to Monte Clérigo beach parking (paid parking in summer, free shoulder season). The descent on foot involves steps and a moderate path through vegetation.
Coordinates: 37.3267° N, 8.7967° W
Parking: Large lot (paid June-September, free otherwise)
What Makes It Special
The beach faces west directly into the Atlantic, making it one of the Algarve best sunset beaches. The contrast between the dark cliff faces, golden sand, and blue water creates photographer-friendly scenes year-round. A small river meets the ocean at the southern end, creating calm pools suitable for children.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Best for walking, wildflowers on clifftops, fewer crowds
- Summer: Most crowded, best for surfing, parking fills early
- Shoulder seasons: Ideal balance of weather and solitude
Activities
- Surfing: Consistent Atlantic swell, suitable for intermediate+ in bigger conditions
- Swimming: Safer in the southern section near river mouth; beware strong currents elsewhere
- Cliff walking: Paths along the clifftops connect to neighboring beaches
- Photography: West-facing for sunset, dramatic cliff formations
Practical Tips
- Check tide times — beach shrinks significantly at high tide
- No facilities outside summer season; bring water and snacks
- Strong currents mean swimming only in designated safe zones
- Wind picks up in afternoon; mornings are calmer
Nearby
- Praia da Amoreira (5 min north, river beach)
- Porto de Mós (10 min south, another west-coast beach)
- Aljezur town (10 min inland, restaurants and supplies)
