Maia
Portugal
Maia is a beach on the Portugal coastline, located 1470.08 km from Almagreira. 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 Maia
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Maia?
Maia is a beach on the Portugal coastline, located 1470.08 km from Almagreira. 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 time to visit is May, June, or September. July and August are peak season and draw the largest crowds. Check local water safety conditions before swimming.
The beach welcomes visitors year-round and is a solid choice for families and swimmers.
It is part of a wider group of certified beaches throughout Portugal that meet FEE's annual standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Maia 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 | 16°C | 13°C | Low |
| Feb | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| Mar | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| Apr | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| May | 17°C | 14°C | Med |
| Jun | 18°C | 15°C | Med |
| Jul | 20°C | 17°C | High |
| Aug | 22°C | 19°C | High |
| Sep | 22°C | 19°C | Med |
| Oct | 20°C | 17°C | Low |
| Nov | 18°C | 15°C | Low |
| Dec | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
The best time to visit Maia is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 20.4°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 17.4°C in July.
How crowded does Maia get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Portugal, Maia sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Maia 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 Maia
Is Maia safe to swim?Maia 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 Maia?Peak water temperature at Maia reaches around <span class="inline-stat">17.4°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 15.8°C.
What is the beach like at Maia?Maia of Portugal. The best time to visit is May, June, or September. July and August are peak season and draw the largest crowds. Check local water safety conditions before swimming.
Does Maia have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Maia meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services.
Maia 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 Maia
How do I get to Maia by car?Maia is approximately 1470.08 km from Almagreira. 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 Maia?The nearest airport is Santa Maria Airport (SMA) (SMA), approximately 5.1 km away.
Can I get to Maia by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Almagreira.
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 | 36.9477°N, 25.1214°W |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Portugal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Maia FAQ
Is Maia suitable for children?
Maia is a Blue Flag certified beach in Portugal. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is Maia free to access?
Yes, access to Maia 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 Maia?
The best time to visit Maia is May, June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 17.4°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 20.4°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 Maia?
Maia 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 Maia?
Maia is located in Portugal. It is approximately 1470.08 km from Almagreira. The nearest airport is Santa Maria Airport (SMA) (SMA), 5.1 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
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.
Read moreOur editorial team's pick of the standout Blue Flag beaches in Portugal — rated for family friendliness, scenery, and facilities.
Explore PortugalWhat the flag actually means, how certification works, and why a Blue Flag is a genuinely reliable signal — not just a marketing tool.
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