Ilhavo · Aveiro
Costa Nova Beach
Striped fishing huts, Ria de Aveiro on one side and the Atlantic on the other — Portugal's most photographed coastline.
Beach Information
About the Beach
Costa Nova do Prado is a sand barrier between the Ria de Aveiro and the Atlantic Ocean, celebrated for its palheiros — former fishermen's cottages with vertical coloured stripe facades, now listed as heritage by the municipality of Ilhavo. The unique combination of navigable lagoon to the east and Atlantic surf to the west makes it one of the most versatile destinations on the central coast.
The Ria de Aveiro, classified as a Special Protection Zone (ZPE) and Protected Landscape Area, frames the beach within a landscape of saltmarsh, dunes and pine forest. Traditional moliceiro boats — flat-bottomed vessels with ornate prows — travel the channels between Costa Nova and Aveiro, carrying seaweed and tourists alike.
The beach is accessible by ferry from Aveiro (about 40 minutes), making it a viable car-free destination. In high season, the access road fills up quickly; arriving before 10 am or using public transport is recommended.
Experiences in the region
See experiences in Aveiro on GetYourGuide →Beach equipment
Editorial references
Wikipedia (Costa Nova) · cm-ilhavo.pt · ICNF (Ria de Aveiro Natural Park) · APA (water quality)
Editorial content curated by the Portugal Travel Hub team. Water quality per official APA analysis.
Before you go: confirm lifeguard hours, road access and capacity — especially in high season and after heavy rain.
Last updated: 2026-05-19.