Tarquínio Paraíso
Setúbal, Portugal: Excellent water quality
Tarquinio Paraiso is an urban beach located in Costa da Caparica, Setúbal region, Portugal. This 270-metre sandy beach offers straightforward, accessible seaside experience with reliable facilities and excellent bathing water quality. The beach faces east, providing morning sun exposure. Well-maintained access roads and paved parking…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Tarquínio Paraíso
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Tarquínio Paraíso?
Tarquinio Paraiso is an urban beach located in Costa da Caparica, Setúbal region, Portugal. This 270-metre sandy beach offers straightforward, accessible seaside experience with reliable facilities and excellent bathing water quality. The beach faces east, providing morning sun exposure.
Well-maintained access roads and paved parking nearby make it practical for day visits. With lifeguard presence and established infrastructure including water supply, sewage, and phone network coverage, Tarquinio Paraiso serves as a dependable coastal destination for swimmers and beach-goers seeking consistent conditions rather than remote scenery.
It sits alongside other certified beaches in Setúbal, part of a broader network of other Blue Flag beaches in Portugal certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
About this beach
What makes Tarquínio Paraíso different
Both the beach and the water entry are listed as wheelchair accessible. Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is 17.9 km away.
The nearest town is Costa da Caparica, 0.5 km away. Tarquínio Paraíso faces east onto the Atlantic Ocean. Praia Nova (0.3 km) and Dragao Vermelho (0.8 km) are the closest other Blue Flag beaches. Further listings are on Blue Flag beaches in Setúbal and the Portugal guide.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Tarquínio Paraíso faces east toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in June, September. Direct sun hours follow that facing.
Planning
When to Go: Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 11°C | 16°C | Low |
| Feb | 13°C | 15°C | Low |
| Mar | 14°C | 15°C | Low |
| Apr | 15°C | 16°C | Low |
| May | 18°C | 17°C | Low |
| Jun | 20°C | 19°C | Med |
| Jul | 22°C | 20°C | High |
| Aug | 22°C | 20°C | High |
| Sep | 21°C | 20°C | Med |
| Oct | 19°C | 20°C | Low |
| Nov | 15°C | 18°C | Low |
| Dec | 13°C | 17°C | Low |
When is the best time to visit Tarquínio Paraíso?
The best time to visit Tarquínio Paraíso is June, September. Air temperatures peak around 22.1°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 19.8°C in July.
How crowded does Tarquínio Paraíso get?
What makes Tarquinio Paraiso functionally different from lesser-developed beaches is its urban positioning and access infrastructure. Being classified as an urban beach, it draws consistent use from Costa da Caparica residents and nearby visitors. The 270-metre length distributes crowds across a moderate expanse, neither vast nor confined.
During summer months, especially July and August when air temperatures average 22.4°C and water reaches 19°C, expect regular beach occupancy. Paved parking nearby removes parking scarcity as a limiting factor on visitor numbers, meaning the beach can accommodate multiple daily visitors without the natural gatekeeping that unpaved or distant parking provides. Lifeguard presence indicates managed capacity expectations.
Shoulder seasons (May through June and September through October) likely see reduced attendance as water temperatures require thermal consideration (18.7°C) and air temperatures are moderate (21-22°C). Winter months from November through March experience significant visitor reduction due to water temperatures ranging from 18.2°C and lower air temperatures. The urban setting means weekday-weekend patterns probably show clearer differentiation than isolated beaches, with weekend clustering more pronounced due to proximity to residential areas.
Is Tarquínio Paraíso open year-round?
The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-06 – 30-09). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Tarquínio Paraíso
Is Tarquínio Paraíso safe to swim?
Tarquínio Paraíso is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated Excellent.
What is the water temperature at Tarquínio Paraíso?
Peak water temperature at Tarquínio Paraíso reaches around 19.8°C in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 11.4°C.
What is the beach like at Tarquínio Paraíso?
Tarquinio Paraiso stretches 270 metres of sand, classified as an urban beach with straightforward characteristics. What distinguishes this beach for practical visitors is its infrastructure reliability. Access roads are paved and well-maintained, removing uncertainty about getting close to the shoreline.
Paved parking exists in the vicinity, eliminating the search for suitable vehicle space. The beach's eastward facing orientation means morning light reaches the sand directly, a consideration for those planning photography or preferring early-day swimming. Water quality ratings confirm excellent bathing conditions, supported by the established sewage and water supply systems serving the area.
These utilities indicate the beach operates within regulated bathing water standards. The 270-metre length is moderate, substantial enough for spreading out during quieter periods, yet compact enough to orient yourself quickly. Lifeguards maintain presence, providing safety oversight.
The urban classification reflects proximity to Costa da Caparica's populated areas rather than isolation. This means the beach integrates with town amenities rather than existing as a standalone destination. For swimmers, the sandy bottom and absence of noted hazards make entry straightforward.
Winter water temperatures drop to 15.7°C in January, rising to peaks of 20.3°C in August. Summer air temperatures average 22°C, providing comfortable beach conditions from June through September.
Shoulder seasons (May and October) offer water temperatures of 19.6°C, requiring consideration for cold-water tolerance. The phone network coverage means connectivity for emergencies or communication remains available.
Tarquínio Paraíso sits on the Atlantic Ocean: explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Atlantic.
While You're Here
Beyond Tarquínio Paraíso
Costa da Caparica, the nearest city, extends beyond Tarquinio Paraiso with a town centre offering shops, restaurants, and accommodation options. The urban beach classification reflects integration with town facilities rather than isolation. Within Setúbal region, the coastline includes additional beaches and estuarine features along the Tagus and Sado river systems.
The Arrábida Mountains rise inland south of Setúbal, accessible by vehicle for views and walking routes. Lisbon lies approximately 30 kilometres north, offering cultural institutions, museums, historic districts, and urban attractions for day-trip consideration.
The region's industrial and fishing heritage means working waterfront areas and fish markets operate in Setúbal proper, providing food-sourcing and economic context for coastal visits. Paved road access throughout the area supports vehicle-based exploration of nearby destinations without requiring hiking or extensive walking.
Transport
Getting to Tarquínio Paraíso
How do I get to Tarquínio Paraíso by car?
Tarquínio Paraíso is approximately 0.54 km from Costa da Caparica. 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 Tarquínio Paraíso?
The nearest airport is Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), approximately 17.9 km away.
Can I get to Tarquínio Paraíso by public transport?
Bus services connect Costa da Caparica and surrounding areas within the Setúbal region. Direct buses operate from Lisbon's main stations toward Costa da Caparica and Setúbal destinations, with journey times of 45-60 minutes depending on service type and traffic.
Regional buses within Setúbal connect smaller towns to Costa da Caparica, providing local access to Tarquinio Paraiso. Specific route numbers and timetables require consultation with Carris metropolitan transport operator or TST regional transport authority for current schedules and stops near the beach access points.
Map
Find Tarquínio Paraíso
Open the map or get directions to the Tarquínio Paraíso pin. Amenity names are listed here only when OpenStreetMap has a mapped feature nearby.
Map loads when you ask. Tiles stay off the first paint.
Map: OpenStreetMap (ODbL)
On the beach
Facilities at Tarquínio Paraíso
- Lifeguards
- Yes, during the certified season
- Wheelchair access
- Accessible site facilities and water entry
- Visual assistance
- No
- Showers
- Yes
- Drinking water
- Yes
- Parking
- 61 m away, no parking fee
- Entry
- Free to enter
These details can change. Check on arrival.
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Official Season | 01 Jun – 30 Sep |
|---|---|
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 38.6407°N, 9.2374°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Portugal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Tarquínio Paraíso FAQ
Is Tarquinio Paraiso worth visiting?
Tarquinio Paraiso suits visitors prioritising reliable facilities and straightforward beach access over remote settings. The 270-metre sandy beach offers excellent water quality with lifeguard coverage, paved parking, and established amenities. Urban location means proximity to Costa da Caparica's services and restaurants.
Worth visiting if you value consistency and practical infrastructure. Less suitable if seeking isolation or undeveloped coastline. Summer months (June-August) with water temperatures 20.3°C and air temperatures averaging 22°C provide optimal conditions.
How do I get to Tarquinio Paraiso?
Public buses connect Lisbon to Costa da Caparica (45-60 minutes), with regional Setúbal services reaching the beach area. From Lisbon, direct buses to Costa da Caparica operate regularly.
No direct airport shuttle to the beach exists. Within Costa da Caparica, local navigation to the beach access points uses paved roads and parking facilities in the vicinity.
What's the best time of year to visit Tarquinio Paraiso?
June through September offers optimal conditions with water temperatures 20.3°C and air temperatures 22.4°C. July-August peak warmth reaches 20.3°C water and 22°C air. May and October provide shoulder-season options with 19.6°C water and 21-22°C air temperatures, requiring thermal consideration.
Winter (November-March) sees water temperatures 18.2°C and lower air temperatures, limiting comfortable swimming unless cold-water experienced. Spring (April) water hits 15.8°C, marginal for most swimmers.
What facilities are at Tarquinio Paraiso?
Established infrastructure includes lifeguard presence, regular water supply, sewage system, and phone network coverage. Paved parking exists nearby with paved access roads in good condition. Urban beach classification indicates proximity to Costa da Caparica's shops, restaurants, and services.
The 270-metre sandy beach offers straightforward entry and bathing with excellent water quality. No evidence of beach bars, rentals, or recreational equipment hire on-site, confirm current facility status locally.
Is Tarquinio Paraiso suitable for families?
Yes, with considerations. Lifeguard presence and excellent water quality support safety. The 270-metre sandy beach provides manageable space for family groups.
Paved parking and good access roads reduce logistics complexity. Urban setting ensures nearby services, shops, and restaurants.
Water temperatures require seasonal attention: June-September (20.3°C) suit most children; winter and early spring require thermal protection or cold-water experience. The established infrastructure including phone network and sewage systems indicates family-oriented development.
Is there wheelchair access at Tarquínio Paraíso?
Wheelchair access is listed for the beach and for getting into the water. Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is 17.9 km away.
Explore More
Nearby Blue Flag Beaches
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.
What the flag actually means, how certification works, and why a Blue Flag is a genuinely reliable signal, not just a marketing tool.
Read moreSources
- Foundation for Environmental Education: Blue Flag programme
- FEE site listing for Tarquínio Paraíso
- ABAE (Associação Bandeira Azul da Europa)
- European Environment Agency: bathing water quality
Last verified September 2026. National operator pages and FEE listings are the primary certification sources.