Praia de Vila Praia de Âncora

Portugal, Portugal

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Praia de Vila Praia de Âncora is a huge, expansive sandy beach located in the picturesque fishing village of Vila Praia de Âncora in the municipality of Caminha, in Viana do Castelo District on northern Portugal's Costa Verde coast.

This oceanic beach stretches from the fishing port to the mouth of the Âncora River, which flows 15 kilometers from the scenic Serra de Arga hills, and the beach is partially crossed by the river's final arm while being protected by a northern breakwater that offers shelter for swimmers on windy days.

The enormous beach experiences strong Atlantic waves that create excellent conditions for surfing, making it a popular destination for surf enthusiasts, while the area adjoining the Avenida Marginal coast road attracts more bathers due to calmer waters and easier access. The southern portion of the beach, accessible only via a wooden walkway over the river, remains practically deserted and is surrounded by protected sand dunes called Dunas do Caldeirão, offering a peaceful, natural atmosphere for those seeking seclusion.