Explore Portugal’s Serra da Arrábida with a Half-Day Open Water Swim Adventure
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have good swimming endurance and comfort in open water settings.
Overview
Dive into an unforgettable half-day open water swimming adventure through Portugal’s Serra da Arrábida Natural Park. Swim from Praia de Alpertuche to Galapinhos Beach, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and turquoise Atlantic waters, then relax on a dolphin-spotting boat ride back to Sesimbra.
Arrábida Island Tour - Half Day
1/2 day • 3 - 5km • Sea
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About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable half-day open water adventure in the stunning Serra da Arrábida Natural Park. Swim from the pristine Praia de Alpertuche to the breathtaking Galapinhos Beach, surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Conclude your journey with a scenic boat ride back to Sesimbra, where you might spot playful dolphins.
Duration
1/2 Day
Distance
3 -5km
Water Temperature
14ºC - 22ºC (57ºF - 72ºF)
What you'll do
An open water adventure in the Serra da Arrábida Natural Park.
Praia do Portinho da Arrábida is one of the most beautiful bays in Portugal, with clear waters and white sand. About 200 meters from the coast you can see Pedra da Anicha, the pearl of this place, which concentrates great biodiversity.
It is from Alpertuche Beach that this adventure will begin and, throughout the entire journey, you will never lose contact with the sandy and scattered rocks.
What's included
Safety
- Personal Accidents Insurance
- Accompanied by experienced guides
- Boat and kayak support (for groups)* Group* = minimum 8 pax.
Food
- Typical cake from the region
Others
- Photos
What's not included
- Equipment
Your itinerary
The Jewel of Arrábida We meet at Marina de Sesimbra from where we depart by boat to Praia de Alpertuche.
Arriving at this small paradise, we will start this adventure across the Atlantic Ocean, swimming to Galapinhos Beach, surrounded by cliffs.
We will end this sea tour with a boat trip back to Sesimbra, where there is a high probability of seeing dolphins.
Adventure Tips
Prepare for cool to warm water temperatures
Water temperatures range from 14ºC to 22ºC, so consider a wetsuit for comfort depending on season and your tolerance.
Keep close with your group and guides
The swim passes near rocky outcrops and cliffs—staying near guides ensures safety and support throughout.
Bring biodegradable sunscreen
Protect your skin and the marine environment by using reef-safe sunscreens during your swim.
Check the weather and sea conditions
Open water swimming depends on calm waters; verify forecasts and local advice before booking or arriving.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common bottlenose dolphins
- Various colorful Mediterranean fish species
History
Serra da Arrábida Natural Park was established in 1976, preserving unique Mediterranean flora and limestone cliffs along the coast.
Conservation
Tour operators emphasize minimal environmental impact by encouraging reef-safe products and ethical wildlife observation practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in Sesimbra
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit
Keeps you warm in cooler water temperatures common in spring and fall.
spring specific
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin while preserving marine life during sunny swims.
summer specific
Swim goggles
Enhances underwater visibility for a better swimming experience.
Quick-dry towel
Useful to dry off efficiently after your swim and boat ride back.