Praia do Sul
Ericeira Insider's Beaches in Ericeira Series - Everything about the Different Beaches in Ericeira
Praia do Sul is also known as Praia da Baleia. It’s a small and charming beach located in the southern part of the Ericeira city center. Big cliffs form a protecting hand behind the beach, to the north you have a view of Hotel Vila Gale. And some how this beach always seems to be warmer and sunnier than anywhere else in Ericeira.
Sitting in one of the cafés on the shore of the beach, it is easy to fall in love with life in Portugal. Surfers, swimmers, sun-worshipers, everyone come here to enjoy the sunny days and lingering sunsets. The waves are generally less wild here than at other beaches around Ericeira, and the cliffs offers a bit of a shield from the wind. Perfect if you want to take a cold rejuvenating dip.
Be Aware of the Tide
Just remember that the size of the small beach varies according to the tide. So don’t leave your towel unsupervised. At high tide there is only a small stretch of sand left.
There is a paved path just above the beach, perfect for a short stroll while enjoying an ice cream from one of the ice cream parlors in town.
At the southern part of the beach there is a pier made of rocks. It is possible to walk around it and access the area further south. This is a great coastal stretch for a small trek. However, make sure you keep an eye on the tide. The size of this area various greatly depending on size of the tide.
At the northern part of the beach, beneath the wall of the Hotel Vila Gale, there is a natural swimming pool (the size of half a soccer field) that are good and safe for children, especially at low tide.
The Amenities at Praia do Sul
A popular café is located just above the pond. Order a bica or an imperal and settle in with a feeling of everyday life. The restaurant in the middle of the beach is good if you get hungry and need something more substantial. They serve grilled fish and other Portuguese staple dishes.
Praia do Sul is particularly popular with local families, many people come back here their whole life.
There are free toilets and free showers and there is plenty of different free parking option nearby. But since the beach is located next to the old town it doesn’t have the parking capacity of Foz do Lizandro or São Julião. Thus it can be difficult to find a parking spot, especially in the summertime.
Don’t miss Praia do Sul on your visit to Ericeira, this beach captures what Ericeira is all about.