Fontes
Santarém, Portugal
Fontes is a beach on the Portuguese coast with a Blue Flag award, which means it meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and safety. The beach is open seasonally, so check local conditions before you go. May, June, and September offer the best…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Fontes
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Fontes?
Fontes is a beach on the Portuguese coast with a Blue Flag award, which means it meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and safety. The beach is open seasonally, so check local conditions before you go. May, June, and September offer the best weather for a visit. The Blue Flag certification comes from the Foundation for Environmental Education, so families and environmentally minded travelers can rely on consistent safety and cleanliness standards here.
It sits alongside Blue Flag beaches in Santarém, part of a broader network of Blue Flag certified beaches across Portugal certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Fontes 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 | 9°C | 10°C | Low |
| Feb | 10°C | 10°C | Low |
| Mar | 12°C | 12°C | Low |
| Apr | 14°C | 15°C | Low |
| May | 18°C | 16°C | Med |
| Jun | 20°C | 19°C | Med |
| Jul | 23°C | 22°C | High |
| Aug | 24°C | 22°C | High |
| Sep | 22°C | 20°C | Med |
| Oct | 17°C | 18°C | Low |
| Nov | 12°C | 13°C | Low |
| Dec | 10°C | 10°C | Low |
The best time to visit Fontes is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 23.1°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 21.6°C in July.
How crowded does Fontes get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Portugal, Fontes sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Fontes 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 Fontes
Is Fontes safe to swim?Fontes is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach — swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at Fontes?Peak water temperature at Fontes reaches around <span class="inline-stat">21.6°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 9.1°C.
What is the beach like at Fontes?Fontes on the Santarém coast of Portugal. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does Fontes have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Fontes meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services.
Fontes 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 Fontes
How do I get to Fontes by car?Fontes is approximately 16.65 km from Abrantes. 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 Fontes?The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), approximately 289.5 km away.
Can I get to Fontes by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Abrantes.
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 | 39.6098°N, 8.2361°W |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Portugal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Fontes FAQ
Is Fontes suitable for children?
Fontes is a Blue Flag certified beach in Santarém, Portugal. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is Fontes free to access?
Yes, access to Fontes is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. 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 Fontes?
The best time to visit Fontes is May, June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 21.6°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 23.1°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 Fontes?
Fontes is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. 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 Fontes?
Fontes is located in Santarém, Portugal. It is approximately 16.65 km from Abrantes. The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), 289.5 km away. 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
More Blue Flag Beaches in Portugal
Editorial
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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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