Cabo Espichel Swim Tour by Swim Together in Portugal
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3–5 hours including swim and lunch
Fitness Level
Participants should be strong swimmers comfortable in open water with moderate currents.
Overview
Swim Together’s Cabo Espichel Swim Tour invites you to navigate secret coastal passages and marvel at dramatic natural arches along Portugal’s wild Atlantic shoreline. Finish with a local lunch and discover the charms of Sesimbra.
Cabo Espichel Swim Tour
1 day • 3km • Sea
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About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling open water swim at Praia da Baleeira, a hidden gem surrounded by stunning cliffs. Explore secret passages, encounter vibrant marine life, and marvel at natural arches. After your adventure, enjoy a delicious lunch in a local tavern and discover the beautiful Sesimbra region.
Duration
1 Day
Distance
3km
Water Temperature
14ºC - 22ºC (57ºF - 72ºF)
What you'll do
An open water swim along the shore, full of secret passages.
Praia da Baleeira is a small pebble beach, hidden between the steep slopes of Cabo Espichel and “protected” by Forte S. Domingos da Baralha. It once served as a shelter for fishermen, with traces of its activity still visible.
Along the entire swimming route, it will be possible to observe dense forests of seaweed that serve as a refuge for several marine species. Sometimes you may be lucky enough to see shoals of bream and salemas.
What's included
Safety
- Personal Accidents Insurance
- Accompanied by experienced guides
- Boat and kayak support (for groups)* Group* = minimum 8 pax. If there is no group, a walk will be made to the swimming location.
Food
- Lunch (Only waters included. Other drinks with extra cost. NOTE: Vegetarian option included)
- Water bottle and typical cake from the region
Others
- Photos
- Visit the Sesimbra region
What's not included
- Equipment
Your itinerary
A Well-Kept Secret We meet at Marina de Sesimbra from where we depart by boat to Praia da Baleeira.
Arriving at Ponta da Passagem we will start our swimming tour passing under the crevice that gives this place its name. Just ahead, we will cross the Arco da Pombeira, an imposing natural arch, which constitutes the high point of this adventure.
Finally, we will arrive at Chã dos Navegantes from where you can see the entire coast of Sesimbra and where the support boat will be waiting for us for the trip back to Sesimbra village, where we are sometimes accompanied by dolphins.
After a delicious lunch in a typical Portuguese tavern, we will visit the region.
Adventure Tips
Check water temperature
Water ranges from 14ºC to 22ºC—bring a wetsuit if you’re prone to cold.
Book in advance for group support
Boat and kayak backup require a minimum of eight swimmers, so plan ahead to guarantee support.
Arrive early at Marina de Sesimbra
Meeting on time ensures a smooth start and more time to enjoy the swim and regional lunch.
Wear swim shoes
Pebbly beaches and rocky entry points can be slippery—protect your feet during entry and exit.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common dolphins often seen on return boat rides
- Shoals of bream and salema fish in kelp forests
History
Praia da Baleeira once served as a refuge for local fishermen, with traces still visible along the shore.
Conservation
The swim tour respects the local marine environment, promoting sustainable interaction with the kelp ecosystems and minimizing disturbance.
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Adventure Hotspots in Lisboa
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit
Keeps you warm in cooler water temperatures common in spring and fall.
spring specific
Swim cap
Improves visibility and holds heat for safety and comfort during the swim.
Water shoes
Protect feet on rocky entry points and pebble beaches.
Waterproof sunscreen
Vital to prevent sunburn during exposed coastal swims.
summer specific