Praia (Graciosa)
Portugal
Located 3.41 km from Santa Cruz da Graciosa along the coast road, Praia (Graciosa) is a beach in Portugal that holds Blue Flag certification. The award reflects the beach's environmental and safety standards, which are assessed annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Praia (Graciosa)
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Praia (Graciosa)?
Located 3.41 km from Santa Cruz da Graciosa along the coast road, Praia (Graciosa) is a beach in Portugal that holds Blue Flag certification. The award reflects the beach's environmental and safety standards, which are assessed annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
The beach operates throughout its designated season. Potable drinking water is available. Swimmers should exercise appropriate caution in the water.
May, June, and September offer the best conditions for a visit. July and August are the busiest months. The beach maintains its Blue Flag status year to year by meeting international water quality and facility standards.
It is part of a wider group of Blue Flag certified beaches across Portugal that meet FEE's annual standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Praia (Graciosa) faces S 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 | 15°C | 12°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 | 19°C | 16°C | Med |
| Jul | 21°C | 18°C | High |
| Aug | 23°C | 20°C | High |
| Sep | 22°C | 19°C | Med |
| Oct | 20°C | 17°C | Low |
| Nov | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
| Dec | 16°C | 13°C | Low |
The best time to visit Praia (Graciosa) is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 21.3°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 18.3°C in July.
How crowded does Praia (Graciosa) get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Portugal, Praia (Graciosa) sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Praia (Graciosa) 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 Praia (Graciosa)
Is Praia (Graciosa) safe to swim?Praia (Graciosa) 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 Praia (Graciosa)?Peak water temperature at Praia (Graciosa) reaches around <span class="inline-stat">18.3°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 15.3°C.
What is the beach like at Praia (Graciosa)?Praia (Graciosa) of Portugal. The beach operates throughout its designated season. Potable drinking water is available. Swimmers should exercise appropriate caution in the water.
Does Praia (Graciosa) have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Praia (Graciosa) meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services.
Praia (Graciosa) 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 Praia (Graciosa)
How do I get to Praia (Graciosa) by car?Praia (Graciosa) is approximately 3.41 km from Santa Cruz da Graciosa. 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 Praia (Graciosa)?The nearest airport is Graciosa Airport (GRW) (GRW), approximately 4.2 km away.
Can I get to Praia (Graciosa) by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Santa Cruz da Graciosa.
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 | 39.0754°N, 27.9861°W |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Portugal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Praia (Graciosa) FAQ
Is Praia (Graciosa) suitable for children?
Praia (Graciosa) 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 Praia (Graciosa) free to access?
Yes, access to Praia (Graciosa) 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 Praia (Graciosa)?
The best time to visit Praia (Graciosa) is May, June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 18.3°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 21.3°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 Praia (Graciosa)?
Praia (Graciosa) 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 Praia (Graciosa)?
Praia (Graciosa) is located in Portugal. It is approximately 3.41 km from Santa Cruz da Graciosa. The nearest airport is Graciosa Airport (GRW) (GRW), 4.2 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
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