TRAVEL-GUIDES
Coolstays guide to Comporta
21st February 2023
Just one hour’s drive from Lisbon, Comporta is tucked away on the wild Atlantic coast amidst picturesque pine forests and is one of the most amazing holiday destinations in all of Portugal.
This stunning village in the Alentejo region is home to some fabulous villas and is near to a number of spectacular beaches offering you the chance to try your hand at watersports or simply sit back and relax in style. But there’s plenty more to do in and around Comporta, so read on to find out how you can spend your days if you visit this beautiful part of Portugal.
This stunning village in the Alentejo region is home to some fabulous villas and is near to a number of spectacular beaches offering you the chance to try your hand at watersports or simply sit back and relax in style. But there’s plenty more to do in and around Comporta, so read on to find out how you can spend your days if you visit this beautiful part of Portugal.
Hit the beach
You can’t go to Comporta without visiting the beach. With miles of incredible sand and sea on your doorstep and a whole host of activities too, you’re spoiled for choice.
Praia da Comporta should be your first port of call, being right in the midst of the village. This is one of the most popular beaches in the area for a reason. It’s backed by wind-swept sand dunes and gorgeous pine forests, making you feel cut off, adrift from the world. Popular with kitesurfers and sunbathers alike, Praia da Comporta has two restaurants that offer you delicious food and drinks with a view, and you can even enjoy a cocktail at the super-cool beach bar.
A few kilometres down the coast is the equally wonderful Praia do Pego beach. Bleached white sand and crashing waves make this a perfect spot to spend the afternoon and there’s also an amazing beachfront restaurant called Sal, that sits on stilts above the sand. Sit on the wraparound deck and enjoy the sea views as you tuck into a delicious meal. Sal’s famous for its clams, ceviche and delicious local wine.
Other fantastic beaches in the area include Carvalhal beach, Praia dos Brejos and Praia da Raposa.
Praia da Comporta should be your first port of call, being right in the midst of the village. This is one of the most popular beaches in the area for a reason. It’s backed by wind-swept sand dunes and gorgeous pine forests, making you feel cut off, adrift from the world. Popular with kitesurfers and sunbathers alike, Praia da Comporta has two restaurants that offer you delicious food and drinks with a view, and you can even enjoy a cocktail at the super-cool beach bar.
A few kilometres down the coast is the equally wonderful Praia do Pego beach. Bleached white sand and crashing waves make this a perfect spot to spend the afternoon and there’s also an amazing beachfront restaurant called Sal, that sits on stilts above the sand. Sit on the wraparound deck and enjoy the sea views as you tuck into a delicious meal. Sal’s famous for its clams, ceviche and delicious local wine.
Other fantastic beaches in the area include Carvalhal beach, Praia dos Brejos and Praia da Raposa.
Why Comporta’s beaches are so special
- Miles of untouched coastline: Stretching for over 60km, the region's beaches offer endless space, peace, and panoramic ocean views.
- Pristine white sand: The sand here is fine, soft, and almost luminous under the Portuguese sun — perfect for barefoot walks.
- Crystal-clear Atlantic waters: Ideal for swimming, surfing, and kitesurfing, the sea here is invigoratingly fresh and clean.
- Laid-back, barefoot luxury vibe: Comporta has a unique charm — stylish yet understated, with chic beach bars and rustic cabanas.
- Spectacular sunsets: The west-facing beaches deliver some of Portugal’s most beautiful evening light — perfect for a sunset drink.
- Unspoilt natural setting: Backed by dunes, pine forests, and rice fields, the scenery feels wild and wonderfully remote.
- Great beachside dining: From Sal to Comporta Café, you can enjoy fresh seafood and local wines right on the sand.
- Wildlife and serenity: Fewer crowds mean more space to unwind — and if you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins offshore.
Photo by Eduardo Goody on Unsplash
Sado Estuary Natural Reserve
The beautiful Sado Estuary Natural Reserve is just a short drive from Comporta and offers an abundance of natural beauty and wildlife for you and your loved ones to enjoy. A huge wetland, separated from the sea by the Tróia peninsula, the nature reserve is home to endless bird species as well as dolphins!
An official conservation area, the Sado Estuary Natural Reserve is also home to a number of threatened species, including the black bat and otter.
It’s not just the abundant wildlife that make this so special. You’re also able to enjoy a mixture of landscapes from marshes and sandbanks to rice paddies, woods and reed plantations.
Explore the area on foot or hop on one of the many cruises that take you out across the estuary, offering you a unique vantage point on the water.
An official conservation area, the Sado Estuary Natural Reserve is also home to a number of threatened species, including the black bat and otter.
It’s not just the abundant wildlife that make this so special. You’re also able to enjoy a mixture of landscapes from marshes and sandbanks to rice paddies, woods and reed plantations.
Explore the area on foot or hop on one of the many cruises that take you out across the estuary, offering you a unique vantage point on the water.
Why the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve is so special
- Incredible biodiversity: Home to over 200 bird species, including flamingos, herons, and storks, the reserve is a paradise for nature lovers.
- Resident dolphins: One of the few places in Europe where you can spot bottlenose dolphins living year-round in the wild.
- Protected environment: As an official conservation area, the reserve safeguards rare species like the black bat and the European otter.
- Varied landscapes: Wander through marshes, sandbanks, rice paddies, and pine woods — each offering its own unique scenery.
- Peaceful walking trails: Explore quiet paths through the wetlands and enjoy the sights and sounds of untouched nature.
- Scenic boat tours: Take a river cruise across the estuary for a fresh perspective — and a chance to spot dolphins and seabirds up close.
- Rich cultural heritage: The surrounding region is dotted with Roman ruins, fishing villages, and traditional salt pans still in use today.
- Perfect for photographers: With its ever-changing light, migratory birds, and tranquil waters, it’s a dream for capturing Portugal’s wild side.
Photo by Eduardo Goody on Unsplash
Visit the Carrasqueira Palafitic Pier
Lovers of striking sunsets and remarkable, unique architecture really should visit the Carrasqueira Palafitic Pier. Situated in Carrasqueira, making it walkable from Comporta, this wooden pier is built on irregular stilts and offers some truly wonderful photo opportunities.
A work of art, the pier is one of the municipality’s most popular sites and was built in the 1950s and 60s. Local fishing boats still dock on this rickety pier that’s hundreds of metres long. Feel free to wander the wooden walkway and take in the lovely views, watching the fishing boats as they make their way in with the day’s catch. You may also catch a glimpse of some of the beautiful bird species from the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve.
A work of art, the pier is one of the municipality’s most popular sites and was built in the 1950s and 60s. Local fishing boats still dock on this rickety pier that’s hundreds of metres long. Feel free to wander the wooden walkway and take in the lovely views, watching the fishing boats as they make their way in with the day’s catch. You may also catch a glimpse of some of the beautiful bird species from the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve.
Why you’ll love the Carrasqueira Palafitic Pier
- Unique architecture: Built on crooked wooden stilts in the 1950s and 60s, this pier is unlike anything else in Portugal.
- Living history: Still used today by local fishermen, it’s a fascinating glimpse into Comporta’s traditional way of life.
- Perfect photo spot: The winding wooden walkway, colourful boats, and reflections on the water make for stunning photography.
- Spectacular sunsets: Visit in the late afternoon to watch the sky turn golden over the estuary — it’s one of the area’s most magical sights.
- Peaceful atmosphere: Far from the crowds, it’s a serene place to slow down and enjoy the rhythm of local coastal life.
- Easy to reach: Located just outside Comporta village, it’s an easy stroll or short cycle away.
- Wildlife sightings: Keep your eyes peeled for herons, flamingos, and other birdlife drifting in from the Sado Estuary.
- Cultural connection: The pier is a beloved symbol of the region — a reminder of the harmony between people, land, and sea.
Photo by Eduardo GoodyCourtney Cook on Unsplash
Enjoy a round of golf
Avid golfers will love visiting Comporta, thanks to the number of top quality courses in the area.
Visit Comporta Dunes, near the village of Carvalhal close to Pego Beach, and enjoy a marvellous course that winds its way through pine forests and sand dunes offering you breathtaking sea views as you play.
You can also head slightly further afield to Troia Golf Course, which was designed by the famous American golf architect Robert Trent Jones Senior and offers yet more amazing sea views. This course was voted the 25th best golf course in the world by Golf World in 2003 and has hosted a number of international tournaments, making it ideal for anyone after a more challenging round!
Herdade do Pinheirinho is also well worth a visit and is set in 200 exclusive hectares. There are 27 holes on offer and the course is set amongst picturesque pine forests and lakes. Other activities on offer at Herdade do Pinheirinho include surfing, horseback riding, tennis, cycling and running.
Visit Comporta Dunes, near the village of Carvalhal close to Pego Beach, and enjoy a marvellous course that winds its way through pine forests and sand dunes offering you breathtaking sea views as you play.
You can also head slightly further afield to Troia Golf Course, which was designed by the famous American golf architect Robert Trent Jones Senior and offers yet more amazing sea views. This course was voted the 25th best golf course in the world by Golf World in 2003 and has hosted a number of international tournaments, making it ideal for anyone after a more challenging round!
Herdade do Pinheirinho is also well worth a visit and is set in 200 exclusive hectares. There are 27 holes on offer and the course is set amongst picturesque pine forests and lakes. Other activities on offer at Herdade do Pinheirinho include surfing, horseback riding, tennis, cycling and running.
Why golfers will love Comporta
- World-class courses: Comporta is home to several outstanding golf courses that blend natural beauty with challenging design.
- Comporta Dunes: A breathtaking course near Carvalhal, winding through pine forests and sand dunes with sweeping sea views.
- Troia Golf Course: Designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., this championship course offers a demanding yet rewarding game beside the ocean.
- Award-winning pedigree: Troia Golf Course was ranked among the top 30 golf courses in the world by Golf World, and continues to impress international players.
- Herdade do Pinheirinho: Set across 200 hectares of pristine countryside, this 27-hole course combines lush fairways with serene lakes and forest scenery.
- Scenic backdrops: Play your round against a backdrop of Atlantic waves, pine-scented air, and golden dunes — a true golfer’s paradise.
- More than just golf: Many courses also offer luxury facilities and activities such as surfing, horse riding, tennis, and cycling.
- Easy access: All courses are within a short drive of Comporta village, making them perfect for a relaxed golfing getaway.
Best time of year to visit Comporta
Comporta is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own charm — from sun-soaked beach days to tranquil winter escapes surrounded by nature. Here’s what to expect throughout the year:
As the rice fields turn a lush green and wildflowers bloom, spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit Comporta. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the beaches are blissfully quiet.
This is peak season, when Comporta truly comes alive. Long, golden days, warm seas and a glamorous yet relaxed vibe make summer ideal for beach lovers and social butterflies alike.
Autumn is one of the best times to visit if you want warm weather without the crowds. The sea stays pleasant for swimming, and the rice harvest brings a splash of gold to the landscape.
Quiet and peaceful, winter in Comporta is perfect for a restorative break. While it’s cooler, you can still expect plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures compared to northern Europe.
Spring in Comporta (March – May)
As the rice fields turn a lush green and wildflowers bloom, spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit Comporta. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the beaches are blissfully quiet.
- Enjoy coastal walks: Wander along Praia da Comporta or Praia do Pego before the summer crowds arrive.
- Birdwatching: Spot migratory species in the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve.
- Cycle through the countryside: Explore pine forests and rice paddies bursting into life.
- Dine outdoors: Local restaurants begin opening their terraces for long, lazy lunches in the sun.
Summer in Comporta (June – August)
This is peak season, when Comporta truly comes alive. Long, golden days, warm seas and a glamorous yet relaxed vibe make summer ideal for beach lovers and social butterflies alike.
- Hit the beaches: Spend your days between Praia do Pego, Praia da Comporta, and Carvalhal Beach.
- Try water sports: Surf, paddleboard or kitesurf along the coast.
- Enjoy beach clubs and bars: Sip cocktails at Sal or Comporta Café as the sun goes down.
- Attend local events: From art exhibitions to music festivals, there’s always something happening.
Autumn in Comporta (September – November)
Autumn is one of the best times to visit if you want warm weather without the crowds. The sea stays pleasant for swimming, and the rice harvest brings a splash of gold to the landscape.
- Take a dolphin cruise: The calm seas are perfect for spotting dolphins in the estuary.
- Play golf: Courses like Troia and Comporta Dunes are quieter and in great condition.
- Go wine tasting: Sample local Alentejo wines at nearby vineyards.
- Watch the sunsets: The light at this time of year is magical for photography.
Winter in Comporta (December – February)
Quiet and peaceful, winter in Comporta is perfect for a restorative break. While it’s cooler, you can still expect plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures compared to northern Europe.
- Relax and recharge: Enjoy cosy stays in boutique hotels or stylish villas.
- Walk the dunes: Crisp, clear days are ideal for peaceful beach walks.
- Spot wildlife: Visit the Sado Estuary to see wintering birds and dolphins.
- Savour local flavours: Warm up with seafood stews and Alentejo wines by the fire.
How to get to Comporta
Comporta is beautifully tucked away on Portugal’s Alentejo coast, around an hour south of Lisbon. Despite its peaceful, off-the-beaten-path feel, it’s easy to reach by air, car, or train.
Flying into Lisbon is the easiest and quickest way to reach Comporta. The airport is well-connected to major European cities, and once you land, the drive south to the coast is straightforward and scenic.
Driving is one of the best ways to reach and explore Comporta. The roads are in excellent condition, and the journey offers beautiful views of rural Alentejo, pine forests, and coastline. Having a car also gives you freedom to visit beaches, villages, and vineyards nearby.
Travelling to Comporta by train is a comfortable and scenic option, though it requires a short car or taxi transfer at the end of your journey. Portugal’s rail network is reliable, and trains from Lisbon to Grândola or Alcácer do Sal run regularly.
By plane
Flying into Lisbon is the easiest and quickest way to reach Comporta. The airport is well-connected to major European cities, and once you land, the drive south to the coast is straightforward and scenic.
- Nearest airport: Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is the closest major airport, just 120km from Comporta (around 1 hour 15 minutes by car).
- International connections: Lisbon Airport welcomes direct flights from across Europe, the UK, and major global hubs.
- Alternative airports: Faro Airport is around 2 hours 30 minutes away, ideal if you’re exploring southern Portugal as part of your trip.
- Car hire: Car rental is available at both Lisbon and Faro airports, and is the most convenient way to explore the region.
By car
Driving is one of the best ways to reach and explore Comporta. The roads are in excellent condition, and the journey offers beautiful views of rural Alentejo, pine forests, and coastline. Having a car also gives you freedom to visit beaches, villages, and vineyards nearby.
- From Lisbon: Cross the Vasco da Gama Bridge and follow the A2 motorway south before taking the Alcácer do Sal or Grândola exit toward Comporta — the drive takes around 1 hour 15 minutes.
- From the Algarve: Head north on the A2 motorway, then take the Grândola exit — the drive takes around 2 hours.
- From Porto: Follow the A1 and A2 motorways south to Lisbon, then continue as above (approx. 4 hours total).
- Scenic route: You can also take the ferry from Setúbal to Tróia and drive along the stunning Tróia peninsula straight into Comporta.
By train
Travelling to Comporta by train is a comfortable and scenic option, though it requires a short car or taxi transfer at the end of your journey. Portugal’s rail network is reliable, and trains from Lisbon to Grândola or Alcácer do Sal run regularly.
- Nearest stations: The closest railway stations are in Grândola and Alcácer do Sal, both around 30–40 minutes from Comporta by taxi or rental car.
- From Lisbon: Regular trains run from Lisbon’s Oriente Station to Grândola or Alcácer do Sal — the journey takes roughly 1 hour.
- Connections: Once you arrive, local taxis or pre-booked transfers are available to take you to your accommodation.
- Top tip: Combine your train trip with a ferry crossing from Setúbal to Tróia for a scenic approach to Comporta.
Top Coolstays near Comporta
FAQs about visiting Comporta
Where exactly is Comporta located?
Comporta sits on Portugal’s Alentejo coast, about 120km south of Lisbon. It’s part of the Troia Peninsula, a tranquil stretch of sand and rice fields between the Atlantic Ocean and the Sado Estuary.
How do I get to Comporta from Lisbon?
The easiest route is by car — it’s around a 1 hour 15 minute drive via the A2 motorway. You can also take a scenic ferry from Setúbal to Tróia and drive along the peninsula.
What are the best beaches in Comporta?
Praia da Comporta, Praia do Pego, and Carvalhal Beach are the most popular. All feature soft white sand, clear Atlantic waters, and stylish beach bars.
When is the best time to visit Comporta?
The most popular months are May to September for sunshine and swimming. Spring and autumn are quieter and ideal for walks, cycling, and wildlife watching, while winter offers peaceful escapes.
Can I see dolphins in Comporta?
Yes! The Sado Estuary is home to a resident pod of bottlenose dolphins. Boat tours run regularly from nearby Setúbal and Tróia.
What is the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve known for?
It’s a protected wetland teeming with wildlife, from flamingos and herons to otters and rare bats. Visitors can explore on foot, by bike, or by boat.
What is the Carrasqueira Palafitic Pier?
This unique wooden pier, built in the 1950s and 60s, stretches out over the estuary on crooked stilts. It’s still used by local fishermen and is a fantastic spot for photos and sunsets.
Is there good golf in and around Comporta?
Absolutely. Courses like Comporta Dunes, Troia Golf Course, and Herdade do Pinheirinho offer world-class play surrounded by dunes, pine forests, and ocean views.
Do I need a car in Comporta?
Yes, having a car is recommended. The region is rural and spread out, with limited public transport — driving gives you flexibility to explore beaches, villages, and vineyards.
What kind of holiday can I expect in Comporta?
Think barefoot luxury: relaxed beach days, stylish restaurants, unspoilt nature, and a slow pace of life. It’s perfect for couples, families, and anyone looking to unwind in understated style.