Sao Jacinto
Aveiro, Portugal — Excellent water quality
Located 8.34 km from Aveiro along the coast road, São Jacinto is a Blue Flag beach in Aveiro, Portugal. The Blue Flag designation is awarded annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education and indicates the beach meets strict standards for water quality, safety, and environmental…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Sao Jacinto
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Sao Jacinto?
Located 8.34 km from Aveiro along the coast road, São Jacinto is a Blue Flag beach in Aveiro, Portugal. The Blue Flag designation is awarded annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education and indicates the beach meets strict standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management.
The beach is open during its designated season. Swimmers should exercise appropriate caution in the water. Drinking water is available on-site.
May, June, and September offer the best conditions for a visit. July and August are the busiest months. Plan accordingly if you prefer a quieter experience.
It sits alongside other certified beaches in Aveiro, part of a broader network of other Blue Flag beaches in Portugal certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Sao Jacinto 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 | 10°C | 7°C | Low |
| Feb | 12°C | 9°C | Low |
| Mar | 12°C | 9°C | Low |
| Apr | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
| May | 17°C | 14°C | Med |
| Jun | 18°C | 15°C | Med |
| Jul | 21°C | 18°C | High |
| Aug | 20°C | 17°C | High |
| Sep | 19°C | 16°C | Med |
| Oct | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
| Nov | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Dec | 12°C | 9°C | Low |
The best time to visit Sao Jacinto is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 20.5°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 17.5°C in July.
How crowded does Sao Jacinto get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Portugal, Sao Jacinto sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Sao Jacinto 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 Sao Jacinto
Is Sao Jacinto safe to swim?Sao Jacinto 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 Sao Jacinto?Peak water temperature at Sao Jacinto reaches around <span class="inline-stat">17.5°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 10°C.
What is the beach like at Sao Jacinto?Sao Jacinto on the Aveiro coast of Portugal. The beach is open during its designated season. Swimmers should exercise appropriate caution in the water. Drinking water is available on-site.
Does Sao Jacinto have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Sao Jacinto meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services.
Sao Jacinto 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 Sao Jacinto
How do I get to Sao Jacinto by car?Sao Jacinto is approximately 8.34 km from Aveiro. 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 Sao Jacinto?The nearest airport is Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) (OPO), approximately 64.5 km away.
Can I get to Sao Jacinto by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Aveiro.
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 | 40.6697°N, 8.7448°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Portugal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Sao Jacinto FAQ
Is Sao Jacinto suitable for children?
Sao Jacinto is a Blue Flag certified beach in Aveiro, 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 Sao Jacinto free to access?
Yes, access to Sao Jacinto 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 Sao Jacinto?
The best time to visit Sao Jacinto is May, June, September. Water temperature peaks at around 17.5°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 20.5°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 Sao Jacinto?
Sao Jacinto 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 Sao Jacinto?
Sao Jacinto is located in Aveiro, Portugal. It is approximately 8.34 km from Aveiro. The nearest airport is Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) (OPO), 64.5 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.
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