São Lourenço
Ericeira Insider's Beaches in Ericeira Series - Everything about the Different Beaches in Ericeira
When it comes to the seven beaches of the Ericeira World Surf Reserv, São Lourenço flies slightly under the radar. The beach bus doesn’t go here. Even during peak season there are generally less people here than at the other beaches. And in the winter time you can sometimes have the beach to yourself.
A Special and Peaceful Beach
According to the rumor this is the mayor of Mafras favorite beach. And São Lourenço do has its own unique charm and flavor. The beach is big by Ericeira standard. The sand in São Lourenço is not fine like at the other beaches. Instead it consists of small pebbles of various beautiful colors. Thus its perfect for a treasure hunt for children, or adults.
The beach is also great for winter beach strolls. Its always quiet and peaceful, perfect for soaking up vitamin Sea. Often the waves crash on the shore rather violently, thus we don’t recommend swimming here when the beach is unsupervised. In the summertime there is a designated swimming area, supervised by lifeguards.
Grilled Fish and Stunning Views From the Cliffs off São Lourenço
The cliff formation to the south of the beach is majestic and intriguing. And during low tide you can follow a fisherman’s trail up on the rocks and take a closer look at the interesting rock formations.To the north of the beach a staircase leads up to various viewpoints and to the small village of São Lourenço. This is also the location of the popular restaurant Golfinho Azul. If you want fresh grilled fish with a stunning view, this is the place.
In the summertime São Lourenço is the place to go for beach games. There is plenty of space. Just bring rackets and a football and all your friends. There is also a volleyball court set up in the summer, free to use.
Just like in many other beaches around Ericeira there is a river that connects the land with the ocean. During the wetter six months of the year this river is often overflown and children enjoy going there to feed the ducks.
There is also a beach bar at São Lourenço. It is as calm and inviting as the beach. Go here with a book and order a glass of wine.
The beach has a big parking and a wooden pathway that provides easy beach access for everyone. Toilets are available beside the bar. Unfortunately, the toilets are only open when the bar is open.
The Surf at São Lourenço
Surfing at São Lourenço is fine for intermediate surfers on calm days. However, this is known as Ericeira’s big wave surf spot (and Ericeira is known as one of Portugal’s big-wave locations). So on bigger days make sure it’s not above your ability. Due to the steep drop of the sand into the ocean, getting in and out of the water at high tide can be quite challenging.
No visit to São Lourenço is complete without a stop at Pizza Mobile. Pete and his crew serve thin-crust pizzas from a wood oven. Go early, Pizza Mobile is always crowded. Enjoy the pizza while soaking up the wild beauty of São Lourenço and the surrounding hills.