When Is the Best Time
Santa Marta Beach is a beautiful hidden cove and not well known although close to the harbour of Cascais. The beach and bay are easy to access at low tide if you wish to come to this beach for swimming, I recommend visiting this spot during the incoming tide when the sea level increases. Tide Times Cascais (Scroll down for detailed information)
The Atlantic Ocean is refreshing cold usually, the sea temperature is below 20°C. However, with mid-day temperatures around 30°C from May to October in the sun, it is a perfect place to escape the crowds at the famous beaches along the promenade between Estoril and Cascais.
We also love to visit this picturesque beach and cove in the winter. The winter is mild, and you can walk bare-legged with your feet through the sea.
The Farol Museu de Santa Marta is open to the public during the week from 10 am to 5 pm and at weekends with a lunch break for an hour from 1 pm until 2 pm. On Monday, museums and historic buildings are closed in Portugal. Inside is an exhibition about lighthouses in Portugal, but unfortunately, the top of the lighthouse is not accessible. Entrance fee 2€
At the beginning of the cove is another museum located, the "Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães", by a wealthy family. It is worth visiting for its fine art and antique furniture from the 19th and 20th centuries. It was a summer house with a lovely huge garden rather park of an Irish family in the 19th century. It is open from 10 am until 6 pm during the week and at weekends also here is an hour lunch break from 1 pm until 2 pm.
The entrance is free every Sunday of the month in all museums I know around Lisbon.
My Top Tip - Boca do Inferno
It is a 10 minutes walk along the coast to this iconic landmark of Boca do Inferno. Watch the sheer power of the sea, especially at high tide when the waves crash into the hole while you are standing on the edge of the cliff. This is a fascinating place I recommend stopping or walking to.
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Best Months to Visit
Location and Tips
This beach is beautifully located with a magnificent view of the lighthouse "Farol de Santa Marta" and the villa and museum "Casa de Santa Marta". The view from the bridge to the cove and lighthouse is already worth coming here.
If you stay in Lisbon, you can take the train to Estoril or Cascais and enjoy this lovely area. We always walk from Estoril along the promenade to Cascais, with beautiful beaches next to the path.
Santa Marta is still a hidden gem more known by the residents. Finding a car park in Cascais is frequently impossible. Many restaurants along this walk are an attraction for residents and visitors alike, offering fresh grilled fish and other delicious seafood and a spectacular view of the sea.
The majority of my family lives around Estoril; that's why I know such hidden spots.
I took all pictures; contact me if you wish to use any.
