Praia (Graciosa)
Portugal
Located 3.41 km from Santa Cruz da Graciosa along the coast road, Praia (Graciosa) is a beach in Portugal that holds Blue Flag certification. The award reflects the beach's environmental and safety standards, which are assessed annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Praia (Graciosa)
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Praia (Graciosa)?
Located 3.41 km from Santa Cruz da Graciosa along the coast road, Praia (Graciosa) is a beach in Portugal that holds Blue Flag certification. The award reflects the beach's environmental and safety standards, which are assessed annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
The beach operates throughout its designated season. Potable drinking water is available. Swimmers should exercise appropriate caution in the water.
May, June, and September offer the best conditions for a visit. July and August are the busiest months. The beach maintains its Blue Flag status year to year by meeting international water quality and facility standards.
It is part of a wider group of Blue Flag certified beaches across Portugal that meet FEE's annual standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Praia (Graciosa) faces south toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in May, June, September. Direct sun hours follow that facing.
Planning
When to Go: Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| Feb | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| Mar | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| Apr | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| May | 17°C | 14°C | Med |
| Jun | 19°C | 16°C | Med |
| Jul | 21°C | 18°C | High |
| Aug | 23°C | 20°C | High |
| Sep | 22°C | 19°C | Med |
| Oct | 20°C | 17°C | Low |
| Nov | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
| Dec | 16°C | 13°C | Low |
The best time to visit Praia (Graciosa) is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 21.3°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 18.3°C in July.
How crowded does Praia (Graciosa) get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Portugal, Praia (Graciosa) sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Praia (Graciosa) open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (typically July–September). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Praia (Graciosa)
Is Praia (Graciosa) safe to swim?Praia (Graciosa) is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach. Swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at Praia (Graciosa)?Peak water temperature at Praia (Graciosa) reaches around 18.3°C in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 15.3°C.
What is the beach like at Praia (Graciosa)?Praia (Graciosa) of Portugal. The beach operates throughout its designated season. Potable drinking water is available. Swimmers should exercise appropriate caution in the water.
Does Praia (Graciosa) have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Praia (Graciosa) meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services.
Praia (Graciosa) 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.
Transport
Getting to Praia (Graciosa)
How do I get to Praia (Graciosa) by car?Praia (Graciosa) is approximately 3.41 km from Santa Cruz da Graciosa. 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 Praia (Graciosa)?The nearest airport is Graciosa Airport (GRW) (GRW), approximately 4.2 km away.
Can I get to Praia (Graciosa) by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Santa Cruz da Graciosa.
Map
Find Praia (Graciosa)
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Map: OpenStreetMap (ODbL)
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free: no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Parking | ✗ No parking listed nearby |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.9 km from the beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 39.0754°N, 27.9861°W |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Portugal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Praia (Graciosa) FAQ
Is Praia (Graciosa) suitable for children?
Praia (Graciosa) is Blue Flag certified in Portugal, which requires meeting strict standards for water quality, safety, and facilities. Families should check current facility status with the local beach operator before visiting.
Is Praia (Graciosa) free to access?
Access to Praia (Graciosa) is free. There are no entry fees to enter the beach. It is a Blue Flag certified beach in Portugal, recognised for meeting international standards for water quality and environmental management.
When is the best time to visit Praia (Graciosa)?
The best time to visit Praia (Graciosa) is May, June, September. The peak season typically runs High season: July, August, when weather conditions and facilities are at their best. Peak water temperature reaches around 18.3°C in July. Outside peak season, the beach is quieter but some facilities may be reduced.
What is the water quality at Praia (Graciosa)?
Praia (Graciosa) is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict EU Bathing Water Directive standards. Blue Flag certification is awarded and reviewed annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Beaches must pass water quality tests throughout the season to retain their status.
How do I get to Praia (Graciosa)?
Praia (Graciosa) is located in Portugal. It is approximately 3.41 km from Santa Cruz da Graciosa. The nearest airport is Graciosa Airport (GRW) (GRW), 4.2 km away. By car is the most flexible option. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules to the area.
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 Praia (Graciosa)
- ABAE (Associação Bandeira Azul da Europa)
Last verified September 2026. National operator pages and FEE listings are the primary certification sources.