Why is the Portuguese sea so cold?


Why is the Portuguese sea so cold? The natural phenomenon of upwelling - when cold, deep water is brought to the shore - can cause a significant decrease in sea temperature.


What should I be careful of in Portugal?

Bag snatching, pickpocketing and theft from cars occur. Keep valuables out of sight. Pay attention to your belongings at beaches, tourist spots, and public transport.


Why is the Algarve water so cold?

In the Algarve, the sea is typically warmer compared to the rest of Portugal, but even there, strong winds and currents bring cold water from deeper parts of the Ocean to the surface, resulting in cooler temperatures.


Where is the prettiest beach in Portugal?

Here are 11 of the best beaches in Portugal, with something for every type of traveler.
  • 01 of 11. Praia do Norte. ...
  • 02 of 11. Praia do Camilo. ...
  • 03 of 11. Praia do Quinta do Lago. ...
  • 04 of 11. Zambujeira do Mar. ...
  • 05 of 11. Praia de Cavaleiro. ...
  • 06 of 11. Praia Baleal. ...
  • 07 of 11. Praia da Ursa. ...
  • 08 of 11. Praia da Comporta.


Is it safe to swim in the sea in the Algarve?

The ocean currents can be strong and unpredictable. If you plan on swimming, go to beaches with lifeguards and pay attention to the warning flags – green means it's safe to swim, yellow means use caution and stay near the shore, and red means do not enter.


Is the water too cold to swim in Portugal?

In fact, the waters of Portugal's coasts are rather cold compared to those of the Mediterranean Sea. A period of mental and physical preparation is necessary to enjoy a swim in the waters of the beaches of Portugal. However, there are some places where the temperature of the water is warmer and warmer.


Which part of Algarve is the warmest?

The warmest part of the Algarve is the eastern Algarve. The more west you travel, the colder and windier it usually gets, especially ones you go around the corner at Sagres. I would recommend staying anywhere in between the Spanish boarder and Salema.


What is the best month to swim in Portugal?

The high season – June to August – is the best time for the beach. During the summer months, you'll find warmer ocean temperatures, especially as you head south to the Algarve. Water temps and crowds alike peak in July and August, so plan on sharing those pretty beaches with plenty of other sunseekers.


Is Albufeira sea cold?

The graph below shows the range of monthly Albufeira water temperature derived from many years of historical sea surface temperature data. The warmest water temperature is in September with an average around 70°F / 21.1°C. The coldest month is March with an average water temperature of 60.6°F / 15.9°C.


What months can you swim in Portugal?

You can swim in the ocean comfortably from March until October. And in the winter months, you can take long refreshing beach walks. Find out what the weather in the Algarve is like from January until December.


What is the hottest month in Portugal?

Portugal has a mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. If you enjoy hot perfect sunny days the best time to visit Portugal is between June and August. The hottest month of the year is July with an average daily maximum of 30 C and an average low of 22 C.


Where in Portugal is warm all year?

The Algarve region in the south of Portugal is the most popular tourist destination due to its higher temperatures year-round than the north. You can expect a high average of 29 °C in the height of summer and an average of 26 °C throughout this season.


Where is the clearest water in Portugal?

Praia dos Coelhos, Sétubal The setting for innumerable films and advertising campaigns, this idyllic, secluded beach on the Arrábida coastline boasts some of the clearest waters you'll likely ever swim in. Though increasingly on the tourist trail, it's still relatively crowd-free.


Is it safe to swim in Portugal?

Swimming Safety in Portugal Portugal is lined by the Atlantic Ocean which offers swimmers cool waters and large waves, depending on the location. Caution should be taken for beaches connected to rivers or streams since currents may be strong.