Everything you need to know about Azenhas do Mar, Portugal 2022
Azenhas do Mar is a tiny town embedded into the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic ocean. Its white houses cascade down to the blue ocean pool making it one of Portugal’s most picturesque coastal towns. The town is sleepy, without many tourists or shops, but full of authentic Portuguese charm.
THINGS TO DO AZENHAS DO MAR
Azenhas do Mar’s tranquility provides the perfect conditions for a relaxing stop on a day trip to escape the busier cities nearby. With only a couple of restaurants and a small beach, the tiny Portuguese village provides a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon or Sintra.
Because it is such a small town, I recommend Azenhas do Mar as a stop for lunch or dinner or a day trip. However, if you want to stay somewhere authentic, it is in a great location to explore the beaches of Sintra and the beautiful surrounding nature.
Either way, here are the must-do’s in Azenhas do Mar:
Enjoy Azenhas do Mar Beach
This secluded beach is beautiful from the cliffs above, but it is small and pretty much disappears at high tide except for an ocean inlet pool. The pool is man-made and fills up with tide but is protected from the ocean so you can swim even when currents are stronger.
During low tide, there is a small beach area that is on the wilder side as far as beaches go. By this, I mean it is rocky, has strong currents, and is only accessible by some steep stairs. While this beach is only accessible during low tide, there are a host of other beaches nearby, check out this post that covers some of the best beaches in this area.
Eat Excellent Seafood at Azenhas do Mar Restaurant
The Azenhas do Mar restaurant has a neat patio area that serves food and drinks. The patio is right on the ocean with a comfy, casual seating area.
Sitting here with a drink was my favorite part about visiting Azenhas do Mar. The restaurant also has an ocean view and serves local cuisine and fresh seafood. It is pricier but the food was tasty and the view at sunset is unbeatable.
Another great option for food is Agua e Sal. It is further up the cliff, but still has an ocean view from the outside seating area. It had excellent, fresh seafood and a laidback atmosphere. I highly recommend this quaint, authentic spot.
Explore the Quaint Cobblestone Streets
The tiny village has the most charming houses and winding cobblestone streets. It won’t take you long, but take some time to wander around the hilly little village.
Azenhas do Mar translates to “Watermills of the Sea,” and throughout the town, you will see mills and mill stones, which is where town got its name.
Walk the Paths Along the Coastline
Along the cliffs, there is a network of paths that have excellent viewpoints of the town and of the endless Atlantic coastline. Take a walk along these paths (as long as you are not afraid of heights) to get the best perspective on the town.
If you want a longer hike there is a 7.6 km loop that will take you down to another beautiful beach in the area, Praia do Magoito. If you are staying near either of these locations I recommend this hike and you can enjoy the towns/beaches on either end.
HOW TO GET TO AZENHAS DO MAR
The easiest way to get to this is by car. I recommend exploring Portugal by car in general because it makes it easier to get to more secluded/off-the-beaten-path locations such as this one.
If you don’t have a car, there are buses that run from Sintra. From the Portela de Sintra station, you can take bus 440 to the final destination of Azenhas do Mar. This bus takes about 20-25 minutes but it runs infrequently. You can also take but 441 with the end destination of Terrugem which runs more frequently and also takes about 20 minutes.
Lastly, you can always take an Uber or Bolt (the preferred ride service in Portugal).
WHERE TO STAY IN AZENHAS DO MAR
Azen Cool House is a great option for accommodation in Azenhas do Mar. It has a neat communal area and amenities such as a pool and tennis court. The rooms are clean and cute and some have balconies with great views. It is the perfect casual escape and in a great location to explore the surrounding area of Sintra, and Ericeira.
Another more private option is Azenhas do Mar West Cost design and Surf Villas. The villas have views of the sea and you can hear the ocean from your bedroom. The interior has been given a modern update with a cute and cozy interior design.
Lastly, stay in Sintra and visit Azenhas do Mar on a day trip. If you are looking for accommodation near Sintra, I have a couple of suggestions here
WEATHER IN AZENHAS DO MAR
When you google photos of Azenhas do Mar, you might be tricked into thinking the town is draped in sunshine, bright and colorful. The reality is that the weather in Azenhas do Mar is very unpredictable and the city is often overcast due to its proximity to the coast.
The good news is that the foggy mornings usually burn off and turn into sunshine in the afternoon. In the summertime, you can usually expect nice weather and temperatures between 68 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
CONCLUSION: AZENHAS DO MAR
The best way to describe Azenhas do Mar is a picturesque village where there may not be tons to do, but if you are in the area it is worth a visit. I think the best way to experience Azenhas do Mar is to go for a day trip from another larger town. Or, stay for a night to get off the beaten path.
While you’re there, plan on walking the coastal paths, taking a dip in the ocean inlet pool, eating some great seafood, and taking in the ocean views. If you are looking for an authentic Portuguese experience on the west coast, this is it.