Praia de los Coelhos

Introduction

Welcome to a corner of Portugal that has stolen our hearts: Praia de los Coelhos. Majestically nestled in the heart of Parque Natural da Arrábida, very close to the vibrant city of Setúbal, this beach is certainly one of those places that remains etched in memory long after departure. It's not just a beach; it's an experience, a natural sanctuary where time seems to stand still and beauty manifests in its purest and wildest form. Upon visiting, we understand why many consider it one of the most beautiful beaches on the entire Portuguese coast.

What makes Praia de los Coelhos so special is its unique combination of factors. On one hand, we encounter a landscape that seems taken from a Caribbean postcard, with unrealistically transparent turquoise waters inviting immediate immersion. On the other, there's its intrinsic character as a wild and virgin beach, forcing us to disconnect from daily hustle and reconnect with nature in its most pristine state. Here we won't find large resorts or crowds, but the serene company of the sea, the sand, and the imposing cliffs covered in Mediterranean vegetation that embrace it.

Let's prepare to explore every facet of this paradise. From the adventure of reaching its shores, through immersion in its refreshing waters, to discovering the charms the Setúbal region has to offer. With this article, we hope to virtually transport you to Praia de los Coelhos and awaken in you the irresistible desire to experience it in person. It's a destination that, we are convinced, will exceed all your expectations and gift you moments of unparalleled peace and awe.

How to Get to Praia de los Coelhos

Getting to Praia de los Coelhos is, in itself, part of the adventure and charm of this place. Don't expect a direct and easy access, as its wild nature implies a small effort that, we assure you, is completely worth it. The beach is located within the Parque Natural da Arrábida, between the towns of Setúbal and Sesimbra, and the N379-1 road is the main route that runs through the mountains and brings us closer to this paradise.

Access by Car

For most of us, the car is the most practical option to get near the beach. From Setúbal, we'll take the N379-1 road towards Azeitão and then towards the Arrábida coast. As we venture into the park, the panoramic views of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean begin to be spectacular, a prelude to what awaits us. It's important to consider that, especially during the high season (summer months) and on weekends, parking can be a real challenge. The road is narrow and only allows parking on the shoulders or in small designated areas along it, near the beach accesses. Often, we'll have to park a bit far and walk along the road until we find the access trail. We recommend arriving early in the morning to secure a good spot.

The Trail to the Beach

Once we've found a place to park, the second part of the journey begins: the descent to the beach. Access to Praia de los Coelhos is via a steep trail, sometimes with improvised wooden or earthen steps. This path is relatively short but requires some caution and proper footwear; beach sandals are not the best option for this stretch. It's not a path suitable for people with reduced mobility, baby strollers, or those carrying a lot of weight. However, each descending step rewards us with increasingly impressive views of the cove, and the anticipation of reaching that hidden paradise makes the effort insignificant. The descent lasts approximately 10 to 15 minutes, depending on our pace and the stops we make to admire the landscape and take photos. The return, obviously, is uphill and requires a bit more energy, but the reward of having enjoyed the beach will give us the necessary boost.

The Sand and the Water

Upon stepping onto Praia de los Coelhos, the first thing that captivates us is the quality of its sand. It's a fine sand, of an almost dazzling white that contrasts wonderfully with the intense blue of the sky and the turquoise of its waters. The texture is soft and pleasant underfoot, inviting long walks along the shore or simply relaxing lying on it. This sand, so characteristic of the Arrábida beaches, is the result of the erosion of the limestone rocks of the mountains, which has been deposited over time, creating this welcoming bed.

But if the sand is impressive, the water is, without a doubt, the true protagonist. The waters of Praia de los Coelhos are of astonishing transparency, allowing us to see the seabed with exceptional clarity. Their color, which varies between an emerald green and an intense turquoise blue, is simply hypnotic and reminds us of tropical destinations, despite being in the heart of the Portuguese Atlantic. This clarity is largely due to the protection offered by the natural bay where the beach sits and the sea currents that keep the water clean and fresh.

Sea Temperature and Tranquility

The water temperature in this part of the Atlantic is, as expected, cooler than in the Mediterranean, but during the summer months (June to September), it is very pleasant and refreshing. It's perfect for combating the heat and revitalizing us. The particular configuration of the cove, sheltered by the mountain cliffs, means the waters are generally very calm, with little surf. This makes it an ideal place to swim safely, even for the less experienced, and to enjoy activit