· Portugal

We all want warm water in the ocean, but such places are not so easy to find 🤷‍♀️. Nevertheless, there are exceptions. Here’s a list of beaches where you can not only look at the ocean but also enjoy swimming in it.
Warm South — Algarve:
Praia da Barreta / Ilha Deserta (Faro) — a “hidden paradise.” This is an island accessible only by boat from Faro. It is considered one of the warmest beaches in the Algarve, with water temperatures ranging from 20º to 24ºC. Map
Ilha de Tavira — an island in the Ria Formosa lagoon. Calm, clear, and always warm water. Map
Monte Gordo — one of the warmest beaches in Portugal, close to the border with Spain. Here, the water can warm up to 23–24°C. We go to Monte Gordo every year in early October, and I can confirm — the water is indeed warm, and you can swim for a long time 😁. Map
Cabanas de Tavira — accessible only by boat, but the atmosphere of secluded relaxation and comfortable water is worth it. My daughter goes there with her friends and loves this beach. Map
Ancão (Quinta do Lago – Faro) — an elegant beach near golf resorts. Cozy, well-maintained, with golden sand and pleasant water temperature. Map

Central and Alentejo:

São Martinho do Porto (Leiria) — a crescent-shaped bay, completely sheltered from ocean currents. The water here is always warmer than at neighboring beaches. Map

Costa Nova (Aveiro) — it is said that warm currents reach this beach, making the water quite comfortable (as is the case everywhere warm currents come 😁), plus the striped houses. Map

Lagoa de Santo André (Alentejo) — a lagoon with saltwater near the sea, which heats up significantly faster than the ocean. Map

Ilha do Pessegueiro (Sines, Alentejo) — wild beauty with warm water. Map

Zambujeira do Mar (Alentejo) — although not in the south of the country, it is said that on hot days, the water here is also delightful. Map

Soltróia (Setúbal) — the beaches along the Troia Peninsula are famous for their white sand, calm, and warm water. I love it! Map

Close to Lisbon:

Lagoa de Albufeira (Sesimbra) — another natural lagoon near Lisbon. It is calm, shallow, and the water warms up faster in the summer than on the ocean coast. An excellent option for families with children. Verified👌 Map