Monte Clerigo
Faro, Portugal — Excellent water quality
Located in the municipality of Aljezur in the Algarve, this beach sits within the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina and is designated as a Natura 2000 site (PTCON0012 "West Coast") and an Important Bird Area. The region supports diverse wildlife and coastal…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Monte Clerigo
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Monte Clerigo?
Located in the municipality of Aljezur in the Algarve, this beach sits within the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina and is designated as a Natura 2000 site (PTCON0012 "West Coast") and an Important Bird Area. The region supports diverse wildlife and coastal ecosystems.
It sits alongside Blue Flag beaches in Faro, part of a broader network of Blue Flag certified beaches across Portugal certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Monte Clerigo faces W toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in 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 | 10°C | Low |
| Feb | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
| Mar | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
| Apr | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| May | 18°C | 15°C | Low |
| Jun | 19°C | 16°C | Low |
| Jul | 21°C | 18°C | Med |
| Aug | 21°C | 18°C | High |
| Sep | 21°C | 18°C | Med |
| Oct | 19°C | 16°C | Low |
| Nov | 16°C | 13°C | Low |
| Dec | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
The best time to visit Monte Clerigo is September. Air temperatures peak around 20.7°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 17.7°C in July.
How crowded does Monte Clerigo get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Portugal, Monte Clerigo sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Monte Clerigo open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-07 – 30-09). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Monte Clerigo
Is Monte Clerigo safe to swim?Monte Clerigo 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>. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at Monte Clerigo?Peak water temperature at Monte Clerigo reaches around <span class="inline-stat">17.7°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 Monte Clerigo?Monte Clerigo is a sandy beach on the Faro coast of Portugal. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does Monte Clerigo have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Monte Clerigo meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby.
Monte Clerigo 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 Monte Clerigo
How do I get to Monte Clerigo by car?Monte Clerigo is approximately 5.18 km from Aljezur. 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 Monte Clerigo?The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), approximately 86.0 km away.
Can I get to Monte Clerigo by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Aljezur.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✓ Available during season |
| Official Season | 01-07 – 30-09 |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 37.3405°N, 8.8532°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Portugal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Monte Clerigo FAQ
Is Monte Clerigo suitable for children?
Monte Clerigo is a Blue Flag certified beach in Faro, Portugal. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season, providing an important safety layer for families. 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 Monte Clerigo free to access?
Yes, access to Monte Clerigo 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 Monte Clerigo?
The best time to visit Monte Clerigo is September. Water temperature peaks at around 17.7°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 20.7°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 Monte Clerigo?
Monte Clerigo 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 Monte Clerigo?
Monte Clerigo is located in Faro, Portugal. It is approximately 5.18 km from Aljezur. The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), 86.0 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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