The beach is home to the Martinhal Roman Kilns, where ancient pottery was produced for the Roman salting industry.
The Ilhéus do Martinhal offshore islands are protected nesting grounds for various species of seabirds.
The bay's natural sheltered positioning creates a microclimate that remains significantly calmer than the nearby Beliche or Tonel beaches.
The sand composition here is noted for being exceptionally fine and pale compared to the darker, coarser sands found on the western coast of the Sagres peninsula.
Praia do Martinhal is a southeast-facing bay located in the Sagres region of the Algarve, protected from the strong northerly winds typical of the area. The beach is characterized by fine white sand and clear, shallow turquoise waters, making it an optimal location for family-oriented swimming and windsurfing. A cluster of limestone islets, the Ilhéus do Martinhal, sits just offshore, creating a unique coastal horizon. The site contains the remains of a Roman fish-salting factory, reflecting the area's ancient importance in the Atlantic trade. The surrounding dunes are part of the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina. Visitors can observe distinct rock formations and fossil-rich cliffs flanking the sandy shoreline. Its geographic orientation provides a calmer sea state compared to the exposed western Atlantic beaches nearby.
The elevated wooden boardwalk path overlooking the bay, which provides a panoramic view of the Ilhéus do Martinhal islets.
Visit during low tide to explore the rock pools and visible Roman archaeological remnants near the western edge of the beach.
Pack water shoes if you plan to explore the rocky shoreline, as the limestone edges can be sharp.
Arrive early in the day if visiting in July or August to secure a spot in the primary parking areas near the access paths.
Do not attempt to swim out to the limestone islands, as the currents between the beach and the rock formations can be unpredictable.
Respect the dunes by using designated wooden walkways and do not disturb protected vegetation.
