Colares · Sintra
Praia Grande (Sintra)
Dinosaur footprints, Atlantic cliffs and one of Europe's largest saltwater pools.
Beach Information
About the Beach
Praia Grande in Colares hides a scientific rarity at its southern end: 66 theropod dinosaur footprints preserved in limestone for over 100 million years, discovered in 1981 by Portuguese palaeontologists. The site is freely accessible and visible at low tide — a natural open-air museum unique on the Atlantic coast.
The beach hosts one of Europe's largest saltwater pools, carved directly into the coastal rock by Hotel das Arribas, measuring over 100 metres in length. In August, it welcomes international bodyboarding competitions that draw athletes from around the world.
Access is via a winding road through Colares scrubland and pine forest; parking is limited in high season. Frequent wind and lateral currents call for care, especially to the south. Lifeguard on duty June to September.
Experiences in the region
See experiences in Sintra on GetYourGuide →Beach equipment
Editorial references
PrehistoricPortugal.com (footprints) · VisitSintra · Hotel das Arribas
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.