Blog
Cyanobacteria at Portugal's River Beaches 2026: Symptoms, Risks and Alerts
Every summer, river beaches across Portugal get closed over cyanobacteria — bacteria that release toxins into freshwater. Symptoms, who's most at risk, and where alerts have happened in 2026.
Coasteering in Portugal 2026: the Complete Guide to the Algarve's Adventure Sport
Cliff jumping, cave swimming and coastal scrambling: coasteering is taking over the Algarve. Find out where to go, what it costs and how to do it safely in 2026.
Where to See Whales and Dolphins in Portugal From Land (2026 Guide)
No boat trip needed: the cliffs of Sagres and the Sado Estuary, home to a resident dolphin population, are among Europe's best spots to watch whales and dolphins from land. Full 2026 guide.
Sharks in Portugal 2026: the Real Risk at the Beach and What to Do
Figueira da Foz, Nazaré, the Tagus estuary and Furadouro: 2026 brought several real shark sightings near the Portuguese coast. Discover the species, the real risk according to experts, and what to do if you spot a shark at the beach.
Aljezur, Portugal: Complete Guide to the Costa Vicentina's Surf Beaches (2026)
Complete guide to Aljezur's seven beaches in 2026 — Arrifana, Monte Clérigo, Amoreira, Bordeira, Amado, Vale Figueiras and Odeceixe. How to get there, when to go, surfing, bathing season and where to stay on the Costa Vicentina.
Beach Weddings and Photo Shoots in Portugal 2026: Do You Need a Permit? Rules and Prices
Personal photos are always free, but weddings and commercial shoots on Portuguese beaches may require a permit from the Port Authority or Municipal Council. Full 2026 guide to rules, authorities, and prices.
Thunderstorms at Portuguese Beaches 2026: Lightning Risk, Warning Signs and What to Do
An open beach is one of the worst places to be during a thunderstorm. Learn to spot the warning signs, read Portugal's IPMA weather alerts, and what to do in the first minutes to stay safe.
Purple Flag on Portuguese Beaches 2026: What It Means and Why Most Tourists Miss It
Spotted a purple flag flying at a Portuguese beach and not sure what it means? Learn when it's used, why it's more common in 2026, and what to do if you're stung.
Total Solar Eclipse 12 August 2026: Best Beaches in Portugal to Watch It
A total solar eclipse crosses Portugal on 12 August 2026 for the first time in over a century. Coverage by region, exact times, and the best west-facing beaches to watch it safely at sunset.
Vilamoura and Quarteira: Complete Beach Guide and What to Do in 2026
Complete 2026 guide to Vilamoura and Quarteira beaches: from bustling Marina Beach to hidden Trafal Cove. Detailed profiles, comparison table, marina, golf, dining and how to get there.
Sea Urchin Stings in Portugal 2026: First Aid, Prevention and Where the Risk Is Highest
Stepped on a sea urchin in a tide pool or rocky cove in Portugal? Here's what to do in the first minutes, what not to do, and where the risk is highest.
Camping on the Beach in Portugal 2026: Is It Illegal? Rules, Fines, and Where to Legally Stay Overnight
Pitching a tent or sleeping on the sand is one of the most common (and least talked about) offences on Portugal's beaches. Here's what the law says, what the fines cost, and where you can legally stay overnight near the sea.