Would you like to enjoy a unique, unspoilt natural setting by the ocean? Direction Praia da California in Sesimbra! This quiet, clean stretch of bay at the foot of one of the cliffs of the Arrabida Natural Park lies to the east of the fishing village. We were seduced by its lively atmosphere and crystal-clear waters, creating a bathing spot that will appeal to young and old alike.
In this article, you’ll find our photos and tips for making the most of your visit to Praia da California.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is Praia da California Beach worth it?
Yes, this beautiful beach is well worth a visit! You’ll notice that its atmosphere is more intimate than the other beaches at the foot of a cliff in the Arrabida Natural Park. This beach will surprise you with its breathtaking natural setting. Between its transparent waters, the calm of the area and the immense granite rocks with their verdant mantle, we didn’t know where to look! This is undoubtedly one of Sesimbra’s best beaches and an ideal spot for swimming.
Type of beach
Sand or no sand?
When we arrived, we plunged our feet into the fine, warm, golden sand. What a pleasure!
We were also impressed by the cleanliness of the site, which makes it an ideal environment for playing in the sand without fear of coming across garbage.
Swimming conditions and supervision
Swimming conditions are really pleasant, with calm, clear waters. Note also that the beach is supervised by lifeguards during the summer season.
If you’re sensitive to the cold, we advise you to wear swimming shoes, as the water remains cool all year round. Let’s not forget that we’re on the Atlantic Ocean!
Installations
What a pleasure to discover a well-equipped beach, especially on vacation! There are showers and public toilets accessible to people with reduced mobility. Sunshades and deckchairs can also be rented for added comfort. We also noticed that there’s a first-aid post on site.
And what a clever idea to provide self-service beach ashtrays and sorting garbage cans for more responsible waste management practices on the beach!
Praia da California beach in Sesimbra: access
Where to find Praia da California
- Less than 10 minutes’ walk from downtown Sesimbra, Portugal
- In the Arrábida Nature Park, protected by wooded hills
- 55min drive from Lisbon
- 40min drive from Setúbal
- 1h05min drive from Cascais
Access by car and parking
The city has several parking options. We recommend that you use one of the following paid parking lots:
- Outdoor parking Avenue 25 de Abril
- Parking Palames, rue de Palames
- Parking Infante, General Humberto Delgado Street
- Parking Telpark Praia da Califórnia
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Portugal
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
Public transport access
There are very few options for getting to Sesimbra’s Praia da California by public transport. Bus route 207 links Lisbon to Sesimbra from the Sete Rios terminal, with several daily departures on weekdays and weekends (find out more here).
Special features
Dog
Dogs are not allowed on the beach. We saw several signs on site indicating this restriction.
Reduced mobility access
The beach is accessible to people with reduced mobility thanks to a number of facilities, including an access ramp, adapted toilets and showers, and reserved parking spaces.
With children
This beach is perfect for families. We particularly appreciate its modest size, which makes it easy to keep an eye on children when they’re playing or swimming. A variety of activities are offered on site, including inflatable water games, a beach library for the curious, and introductory surf, paddle, kayak and snorkeling sessions if you’d like to discover marine flora and fauna in a different way.
Naturism
It is not possible to practice naturism on this beach. It’s also forbidden to camp or light fires on any of Sesimbra’s beaches.
Eating out
We’ve tested some of the best addresses nearby. Among them, Restaurant La Villa offers fusion cuisine combining local Portuguese produce and Italian know-how. At the foot of the Oceanfront Sesimbra Hotel, the Jungle Restaurant welcomes you in a modern, green atmosphere, with a menu that blends local flavors with international inspiration. Find all our suggestions for where to eat in Sesimbra.
Hotels
You’re right in the center of Sesimbra, find our suggestions here. Here are our recommendations for hotels near Praia da California:
- TheSesimbra Oceanfront Hotel, featuring rooms with balconies overlooking Plage da California, an infinity pool and a spa.
- Hotel SANA Sesimbra, opposite Sesimbra Beach, offering ocean-view rooms and a panoramic Jacuzzi
WHERE TO STAY IN Sesimbra
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
On the heights of Sesimbra
Four Points By Sheraton Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
On the beach
Sesimbra Oceanfront Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
See our complete selection of the best hotels in Sesimbra
