Grande
Lisbon, Portugal — Excellent water quality
Grande is a beach in Lisbon, Portugal, 3.13 km from Colares. It holds the Blue Flag award, which means the water quality, environmental standards, and visitor safety meet strict criteria set by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Grande
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Grande?
Grande is a beach in Lisbon, Portugal, 3.13 km from Colares. It holds the Blue Flag award, which means the water quality, environmental standards, and visitor safety meet strict criteria set by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
The best months to visit are June and September, when crowds are lighter. July and August draw the most visitors. Water conditions vary by season, so check local safety information before swimming.
The beach welcomes visitors year-round and is a solid choice for families and swimmers who care about environmental standards.
It sits alongside Blue Flag beaches in Lisbon, part of a broader network of Blue Flag certified beaches across Portugal certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Grande faces W toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in 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 | 13°C | 13°C | Low |
| Feb | 13°C | 13°C | Low |
| Mar | 14°C | 14°C | Low |
| Apr | 15°C | 16°C | Low |
| May | 17°C | 16°C | Med |
| Jun | 19°C | 17°C | Med |
| Jul | 20°C | 19°C | High |
| Aug | 21°C | 19°C | High |
| Sep | 20°C | 19°C | Med |
| Oct | 19°C | 19°C | Low |
| Nov | 15°C | 16°C | Low |
| Dec | 14°C | 14°C | Low |
The best time to visit Grande is June, September. Air temperatures peak around 20°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 18.5°C in July.
How crowded does Grande get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Portugal, Grande sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Grande 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 Grande
Is Grande safe to swim?Grande 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 Grande?Peak water temperature at Grande reaches around <span class="inline-stat">18.5°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 12.8°C.
What is the beach like at Grande?Grande on the Lisbon coast of Portugal. The best months to visit are June and September, when crowds are lighter. July and August draw the most visitors. Water conditions vary by season, so check local safety information before swimming.
Does Grande have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Grande meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby.
Grande 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 Grande
How do I get to Grande by car?Grande is approximately 3.13 km from Colares. 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 Grande?The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), approximately 239.7 km away.
Can I get to Grande by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Colares.
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 | ✓ Available during season |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 38.8133°N, 9.4781°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Portugal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Grande FAQ
Is Grande suitable for children?
Grande is a Blue Flag certified beach in Lisbon, 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 Grande free to access?
Yes, access to Grande 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 toilets 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 Grande?
The best time to visit Grande is June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 18.5°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 20°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 Grande?
Grande 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 Grande?
Grande is located in Lisbon, Portugal. It is approximately 3.13 km from Colares. The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), 239.7 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
More Blue Flag Beaches in Portugal
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
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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