Praia do Palheirão

Tocha, Portugal, Portugal

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Praia do Palheirão is a long, wild Atlantic beach just a few kilometers north of the town of Tocha on the central Portuguese coast, part of the Costa de Prata in the Coimbra region and officially recognized as “Praia Dourada” (Golden Beach).

It stretches for several kilometers of unspoiled golden sand between preserved dunes and a pine forest, giving it a quiet, almost untouched feel even in summer, and it is popular with naturists, families, and visitors who want lots of open space and a natural setting. The beach is Blue Flag certified, with lifeguards in the main bathing season, toilets, showers, parking, and a wooden boardwalk leading from the road down to the sand, as well as a café or bar area and a small camping‑site nearby.

The sea generally has strong waves and cooler water, making it better for experienced swimmers and water‑sports enthusiasts than for casual bathing, and the area is also known for traditional “palheiro” wooden houses and long walks or bike rides along the dunes.