Fonte Do Cortico
Setúbal, Portugal — Excellent water quality
Located about 435 km from Santo André, Fonte Do Cortico holds a Blue Flag award, which means it meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and visitor safety. The beach is open year-round, though May, June, and September offer the best conditions for swimming.…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Fonte Do Cortico
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Fonte Do Cortico?
Located about 435 km from Santo André, Fonte Do Cortico holds a Blue Flag award, which means it meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and visitor safety. The beach is open year-round, though May, June, and September offer the best conditions for swimming. Check with local authorities before your visit for current safety information. The Blue Flag certification makes it a reliable choice if you're traveling with family or prioritize environmental responsibility.
It sits alongside certified beaches along Setúbal, part of a broader network of certified beaches throughout Portugal certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Fonte Do Cortico faces W toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in May, June, September. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 12°C | 13°C | Low |
| Feb | 12°C | 13°C | Low |
| Mar | 14°C | 14°C | Low |
| Apr | 15°C | 16°C | Low |
| May | 18°C | 16°C | Med |
| Jun | 20°C | 18°C | Med |
| Jul | 21°C | 19°C | High |
| Aug | 21°C | 20°C | High |
| Sep | 21°C | 19°C | Med |
| Oct | 19°C | 19°C | Low |
| Nov | 15°C | 16°C | Low |
| Dec | 13°C | 14°C | Low |
The best time to visit Fonte Do Cortico is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 20.9°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 19.4°C in July.
How crowded does Fonte Do Cortico get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Portugal, Fonte Do Cortico sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Fonte Do Cortico open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (typically July–September). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Fonte Do Cortico
Is Fonte Do Cortico safe to swim?Fonte Do Cortico is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach — swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at Fonte Do Cortico?Peak water temperature at Fonte Do Cortico reaches around <span class="inline-stat">19.4°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 12.3°C.
What is the beach like at Fonte Do Cortico?Fonte Do Cortico on the Setúbal coast of Portugal. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does Fonte Do Cortico have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Fonte Do Cortico meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Parking is available nearby.
Fonte Do Cortico sits on the Atlantic Ocean — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Atlantic.
Planning a trip to Portugal? Blue Flag Beaches Portugal — our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to Fonte Do Cortico
How do I get to Fonte Do Cortico by car?Fonte Do Cortico is approximately 435.28 km from Santo André. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Fonte Do Cortico?The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), approximately 137.3 km away.
Can I get to Fonte Do Cortico by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Santo André.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 38.0513°N, 8.8196°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Portugal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Fonte Do Cortico FAQ
Is Fonte Do Cortico suitable for children?
Fonte Do Cortico is a Blue Flag certified beach in Setúbal, Portugal. The EU Excellent water quality rating means the water is safe and clean for all swimmers, including children. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is Fonte Do Cortico free to access?
Yes, access to Fonte Do Cortico is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Parking is available nearby; check local signs for any parking charges. Facilities including beach amenities are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit Fonte Do Cortico?
The best time to visit Fonte Do Cortico is May, June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 19.4°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 20.9°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at Fonte Do Cortico?
Fonte Do Cortico is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is currently rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to Fonte Do Cortico?
Fonte Do Cortico is located in Setúbal, Portugal. It is approximately 435.28 km from Santo André. The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), 137.3 km away. Parking is available at or near the beach. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
Explore More
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Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status — from water quality to environmental education.
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