Pessegueiro Island and São Torpes (Southest Alentejo, Portugal)

Pessegueiro Island


The Pessegueiro Island and São Torpes, located in the northern extension of the Vicentine Coast, are among the best snorkeling spots along Portugal's wild west coast.

These locations are approximately two hours from Lisbon, and São Torpes Beach is situated just outside Sines, offering parking.


São Torpes beach


São Torpes Beach once had warm water, reaching almost 30 degrees Celsius due to the on-site thermoelectric plant, but after its deactivation in 2021, the temperature now matches that of other beaches in the region.


How to get to Pessegueiro Island


To reach Pessegueiro Island the traditional way, you must first go to the village of Porto Covo, along the Alentejo coast. From Porto Covo, during the summer season, daily boat tours depart from the local fishing port, typically at 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 4:00 PM, with the crossing lasting approximately 15 minutes.

However, to snorkel there, I did something different. I went to Pessegueiro Island beach and asked the lifeguard if the current was strong that day, and he said it was fine and I could try swimming there. He added that I could swim out, but not enter the island.

I took advantage of the low tide, which reduced the distance to the beach to about 150 to 200 meters.


Distance to the island at low tide


It was easy to make the crossing, despite there being a part with little visibility, which is always a bit uncomfortable, but snorkeling near the island is very pleasant with big fish.

Here is the video with Snorkeling in both places:





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