Rei Cortico
Leiria, Portugal — Excellent water quality
Rei Cortico is a coastal beach in Leiria, Portugal, 10.09 km from Óbidos. It holds a Blue Flag award, verified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education. The beach is open during its designated season, with drinking water available on-site. Swimmers should take appropriate caution…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Rei Cortico
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Rei Cortico?
Rei Cortico is a coastal beach in Leiria, Portugal, 10.09 km from Óbidos. It holds a Blue Flag award, verified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education. The beach is open during its designated season, with drinking water available on-site. Swimmers should take appropriate caution in the water. May, June, and September offer the best conditions for a visit, while July and August draw the largest crowds.
It sits alongside Blue Flag beaches in Leiria, part of a broader network of Blue Flag certified beaches across Portugal certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Rei Cortico 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 | 11°C | 8°C | Low |
| Feb | 12°C | 9°C | Low |
| Mar | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Apr | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
| May | 17°C | 14°C | Med |
| Jun | 18°C | 15°C | Med |
| Jul | 20°C | 17°C | High |
| Aug | 20°C | 17°C | High |
| Sep | 20°C | 17°C | Med |
| Oct | 18°C | 15°C | Low |
| Nov | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
| Dec | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
The best time to visit Rei Cortico is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 19.7°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 16.7°C in July.
How crowded does Rei Cortico get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Portugal, Rei Cortico sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Rei Cortico 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 Rei Cortico
Is Rei Cortico safe to swim?Rei Cortico 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 Rei Cortico?Peak water temperature at Rei Cortico reaches around <span class="inline-stat">16.7°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 11.3°C.
What is the beach like at Rei Cortico?Rei Cortico on the Leiria coast of Portugal. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does Rei Cortico have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Rei Cortico meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby.
Rei Cortico 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 Rei Cortico
How do I get to Rei Cortico by car?Rei Cortico is approximately 10.09 km from Óbidos. 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 Rei Cortico?The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), approximately 289.8 km away.
Can I get to Rei Cortico by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Óbidos.
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 | 39.4207°N, 9.2467°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Portugal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Rei Cortico FAQ
Is Rei Cortico suitable for children?
Rei Cortico is a Blue Flag certified beach in Leiria, 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 Rei Cortico free to access?
Yes, access to Rei Cortico 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 Rei Cortico?
The best time to visit Rei Cortico is May, June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 16.7°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 19.7°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 Rei Cortico?
Rei Cortico 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 Rei Cortico?
Rei Cortico is located in Leiria, Portugal. It is approximately 10.09 km from Óbidos. The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO), 289.8 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.
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