Baleia
Lisbon, Portugal: Excellent water quality
Also known as Praia da Baleia (Whale Beach), named after a whale that washed ashore here in 1872. Located at the southern end of town next to the hotel, this beach draws plenty of visitors. It has lifeguards on duty, public toilets, showers, and parking,…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Baleia
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Baleia?
Praia da Baleia, known as Whale Beach, takes its name from an enormous cetacean that washed ashore here in 1872, a striking reminder of the Atlantic's presence. Located at the southernmost end of Ericeira in the Lisbon region, this west-facing beach has become one of the municipality's most visited. The beach benefits from lifeguard coverage, public toilets, showers, and dedicated parking, making it accessible rather than remote. Water quality is rated as Excellent, and the beach operates a formal SOS system. The setting combines practical amenities with genuine coastal character, attracting both locals and visitors seeking a managed beach experience on the Portuguese coast.
It sits alongside certified beaches along Lisbon, part of a broader network of certified beaches throughout Portugal certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Baleia faces west toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in June, September. Direct sun hours follow that facing.
Planning
When to Go: Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 12°C | 12°C | Low |
| Feb | 12°C | 12°C | Low |
| Mar | 13°C | 13°C | Low |
| Apr | 14°C | 15°C | Low |
| May | 17°C | 15°C | Low |
| Jun | 18°C | 17°C | Med |
| Jul | 20°C | 18°C | High |
| Aug | 20°C | 19°C | High |
| Sep | 20°C | 18°C | Med |
| Oct | 18°C | 18°C | Low |
| Nov | 15°C | 15°C | Low |
| Dec | 13°C | 13°C | Low |
The best time to visit Baleia is June, September. Air temperatures peak around 19.6°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 18.1°C in July.
How crowded does Baleia get?Baleia is one of Ericeira's most visited beaches, and crowds reflect this status, particularly during July through September. Summer weekends see significant attendance, with families drawn by the lifeguard presence and full facility set. The peak season (July–October) typically shows higher density on days with good weather and moderate swell. The lifeguard coverage and beach SOS system attract families seeking supervised swimming areas. Off-season months (November–June) experience substantially lighter use; winter swimmers are a dedicated minority, and water temperatures below 15°C limit casual bathing. The hotel proximity at the southern end may influence visitor patterns. Parking can reach capacity on warm summer Saturdays and Sundays. Early mornings and weekday visits offer quieter conditions year-round. Autumn (September–October) provides a mid-point between peak summer crowds and winter solitude, with water still warm enough for swimming but fewer visitors than July–August.
Is Baleia open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (13-06 – 13-09). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Baleia
Is Baleia safe to swim?Baleia is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated Excellent. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at Baleia?Peak water temperature at Baleia reaches around 18.1°C in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 11.9°C.
What is the beach like at Baleia?Baleia is a west-facing beach positioned at Ericeira's southern edge, adjacent to a hotel. The beach's orientation provides consistent exposure to Atlantic swells and prevailing winds. Water temperatures follow a clear seasonal pattern: winter months (January to March) see temperatures between 12.3°C and 13.4°C, spring gradually warms the water to 14.9–15.0°C by April and May, summer peaks at 18.1–18.6°C from July to October, and autumn cooling brings temperatures down to 15.1°C by November. The official swim season runs from July to October, when water temperatures reach their warmest range and air temperatures average 19.6–20.1°C. Outside this period, swimming is possible but demands cold-water tolerance. The beach's excellent bathing water quality is maintained under regular monitoring standards. Facilities include lifeguard stations staffed during operational periods, public toilets, outdoor showers for rinsing salt water, and adequate parking for day visitors. The beach SOS system provides direct emergency communication. The 1872 whale stranding remains part of local maritime history, marking Ericeira's connection to Atlantic wildlife. The beach's popularity stems from these practical facilities combined with its reliable wave conditions and water quality rating. Summer months draw the heaviest crowds, particularly weekends, when families and water sports enthusiasts occupy the sand and nearshore waters.
Does Baleia have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Baleia meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season. Showers are available. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby. The beach has disabled access facilities.
Baleia sits on the Atlantic Ocean: explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Atlantic.
Planning a trip to Portugal? Blue Flag Beaches Portugal , our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
While You're Here
Beyond Baleia
Ericeira itself is a working fishing town with restaurants serving fresh seafood catches, particularly along the waterfront. Local establishments cater to both visitors and fishing crews. The town centre holds weekly markets during summer months. Several other beaches lie within walking or short driving distance along the Ericeira coastline. Praia do Sul and Praia da Fonte da Telha offer different exposures and conditions. The broader Lisbon region provides cultural attractions, but these require travel inland. The rugged Atlantic coastline around Ericeira attracts attention from coastal walkers and photographers. Local knowledge of weather patterns, tide timing, and swell forecasts is available through established tourism information in the town.
Transport
Getting to Baleia
How do I get to Baleia by car?Baleia is approximately 0.77 km from Ericeira. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Baleia?The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), approximately 250.2 km away. The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), approximately 250 kilometres south. From Faro, driving time to Baleia is around 2.5–3 hours via the A22 motorway northbound. Car rental is the most practical option for beach access. Alternatively, scheduled bus services connect Faro to Lisbon (3–4 hours), from where local transport to Ericeira is available. Direct airport shuttle buses to Ericeira are not standard; planning ahead for ground transport is essential.
Can I get to Baleia by public transport?Bus services operate from Lisbon to Ericeira. Journey time is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on route and stops. Local buses within Ericeira connect to Baleia at the town's southern end. Schedules are regular but less frequent on Sundays and public holidays. Journey planning via local transport websites is recommended before travel. The nearest recorded bus stop is 80 m from the beach.
Is there a train to Baleia?Baleia lists Mafra as the nearest railway station, 12.52 km away. Check current timetables before travelling.
Nearby
Near Baleia
Mapped toilets, bus stops, cafés, parking, and shops within about 500 m of Baleia. Distances are walking-line estimates from the beach pin.
Map loads when you ask. Tiles stay off the first paint.
Map: OpenStreetMap (ODbL)
Toilets near Baleia
- Public toilets Public toilets 259 m
Bus near Baleia
- EN 247 (X) Praia Sul Bus stop 80 m
- Estrada Nacional 247 (Acesso da Praia do Sul) Bus stop 117 m
- Rua General Humberto Delgado 5 Bus stop 434 m
- EN 247 (X) R Eduardo Henr Pereira Bus stop 462 m
- EN 247 (X) R Eduardo Henr Pereira Bus stop 471 m
Cafés near Baleia
- Café Café 249 m
- Jangada Restaurant 328 m
- Restaurant Restaurant 333 m
- Ice cream Ice cream 385 m
- Restaurant Restaurant 392 m
Parking near Baleia
- Parking Parking 97 m
- Parking Parking 166 m
- Parking Parking 182 m
- Parking Parking 492 m
- Parking Parking 499 m
Source: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Names and positions come from mapped OSM features. Confirm on site.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free: no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | ✓ Accessible site facilities |
| Showers | ✓ Available during season |
| Toilets | ✓ Available during season |
| Official Season | 13 Jun – 13 Sep |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Parking | ✓ Available nearby (surface parking) |
| Nearest supermarket | 790 m from the beach |
| Nearest bus stop | 80 m from the beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 38.9566°N, 9.4145°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Portugal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Baleia FAQ
Is Baleia worth visiting?
Yes, if you value managed beaches with reliable facilities and excellent water quality. Lifeguards, public toilets, showers, and parking make it practical for day visits. The official swim season (July–October) offers warm water and good air temperatures. If you prefer quieter, less developed beaches, the crowd and amenity focus may feel less appealing. The beach suits families and supervised swimmers; experienced swimmers seeking isolation or challenging conditions may look elsewhere in Ericeira.
How do I get to Baleia?
Car access is most practical. From Lisbon (around 30km north), drive to Ericeira town, then south to the beach at the town's end. From Faro Airport, it's 250km north via the A22 motorway (2.5–3 hours driving). Bus services connect Lisbon to Ericeira (45–60 minutes). Once in Ericeira, local buses or short taxis reach Baleia's southern position. Parking is available at the beach.
What is the best time of year to visit?
July to October marks the official swim season, with water temperatures between 18.1–18.6°C and air temperatures of 19.6–20.1°C. This period suits swimmers most comfortably. September–October offers fewer crowds than July–August while water remains warm. Winter (January–March) sees water temperatures drop to 12.3–13.4°C, requiring cold-water tolerance. Spring (April–May) is transitional, with temperatures rising gradually but still below comfortable swimming range for most visitors.
What facilities are there at Baleia?
Baleia has lifeguard coverage, public toilets, outdoor showers, and dedicated parking facilities. A beach SOS emergency system is operational. The beach is adjacent to a hotel. These facilities reflect the beach's status as one of Ericeira's most visited beaches. No data is available on dog policies. Water quality is rated Excellent under official monitoring standards.
Is Baleia suitable for families?
Yes. Lifeguard presence, managed facilities (toilets, showers), parking, and the beach SOS system create a supervised environment suited to families with children. The peak swim season (July–October) offers warm water and good weather. The beach's popularity with families confirms this suitability. Avoid winter months unless your family is accustomed to cold water (12–13°C). The location at Ericeira's southern end near a hotel provides convenient nearby services.
Are there toilets near Baleia?
Yes. OpenStreetMap maps toilets near Baleia, including 259 m away. Distances are walking-line estimates within about 500 m of the beach pin. Confirm opening hours on site; some facilities are seasonal. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Is there a bus near Baleia?
Yes. OpenStreetMap maps a public-transport stop 80 m from Baleia (EN 247 (X) Praia Sul), plus 4 more within about 500 m. Check current timetables before you travel. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Are there cafés near Baleia?
Yes. OpenStreetMap lists 5 cafés or restaurants near Baleia, including 249 m away, Jangada (328 m), 333 m away, and 385 m away. Hours and seasonal opening are not verified here. Check on the day. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Is there parking near Baleia?
Yes. OpenStreetMap maps parking 97 m from Baleia, with 5 lots or spaces inside about 500 m. Charges and time limits are not recorded here. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Explore More
Nearby Blue Flag Beaches
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status, from water quality to environmental education.
Read moreOur editorial team's pick of the standout Blue Flag beaches in Portugal, rated for family friendliness, scenery, and facilities.
Explore PortugalWhat the flag actually means, how certification works, and why a Blue Flag is a genuinely reliable signal, not just a marketing tool.
Read moreSources
- Foundation for Environmental Education: Blue Flag programme
- FEE site listing for Baleia
- ABAE (Associação Bandeira Azul da Europa)
- European Environment Agency: bathing water quality
Last verified September 2026. National operator pages and FEE listings are the primary certification sources.