Praia Vale dos Frades

Lourinhã, Portugal, Portugal

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Praia Vale dos Frades (also called Praia do Vale dos Frades or Praia da Areia Branca Norte) is a calm, tranquil oceanic beach in the parish of Lourinhã e Atalaia, in the municipality of Lourinhã, Portugal, located on the north side of Praia da Areia Branca and known for its extensive sandy shoreline and crystal-clear waters that are ideal for swimming, long seaside walks, diving, and underwater fishing.

The beach has a large stretch of sand with more sand than rocks, is relatively small and less crowded, and is not supervised or equipped with formal support facilities, so visitors should bring their own supplies and exercise caution while swimming. Access is via three dirt parking areas at the top of the cliff, with entry from the north peak or by walking along the shore from the neighboring beach to the south, and the cliff top shows a patchwork-like pattern of agricultural fields.

It is a popular spot among anglers and divers for its clear waters and rich marine life, and it is part of the “Blue Coast” (Costa Azul) unit near Porto de Peniche, near the Areia Branca (North) beach, and is easily reachable about 45 minutes from Lisbon.