Varadouro
Portugal — Excellent water quality
Capelo Beach is located about 21 km from Horta in the village of Capelo. The bathing area features two saltwater pools and offers views of Morro de Castelo Branco.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Varadouro
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Varadouro?
Capelo Beach is located about 21 km from Horta in the village of Capelo. The bathing area features two saltwater pools and offers views of Morro de Castelo Branco.
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
Varadouro faces S toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in 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 | Low |
| 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 Varadouro is June, September. Air temperatures peak around 21.3°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 18.3°C in July.
How crowded does Varadouro get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Portugal, Varadouro sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Varadouro open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (17-06 – 19-09). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Varadouro
Is Varadouro safe to swim?Varadouro 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 Varadouro?Peak water temperature at Varadouro 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 Varadouro?Varadouro of Portugal. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does Varadouro have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Varadouro meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season.
Varadouro 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 Varadouro
How do I get to Varadouro by car?Varadouro is approximately 3.08 km from Pedro Miguel. 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 Varadouro?The nearest airport is Horta Airport (HOR) (HOR), approximately 10.6 km away.
Can I get to Varadouro by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Pedro Miguel.
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 | ✗ |
| Official Season | 17-06 – 19-09 |
| Beach Type | Rocky shore |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 38.5667°N, 28.6095°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Portugal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Varadouro FAQ
Is Varadouro suitable for children?
Varadouro is a Blue Flag certified beach in 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 Varadouro free to access?
Yes, access to Varadouro 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 Varadouro?
The best time to visit Varadouro is 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 Varadouro?
Varadouro 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 Varadouro?
Varadouro is located in Portugal. It is approximately 3.08 km from Pedro Miguel. The nearest airport is Horta Airport (HOR) (HOR), 10.6 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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