Discover the stunning shell-shaped bay of Sao Martinho do Porto with exciting boat trips, kayaking, and paddleboarding adventures.
Sao Martinho do Porto, nestled on Portugal's Silver Coast, boasts a bay unlike any other. Its almost perfectly circular, sheltered inlet makes it an idyllic setting for a wide range of water-based activities. Unlike many coastal towns exposed to the open Atlantic, this bay offers calmer waters, ideal for families and those seeking a more relaxed yet engaging exploration of the coastline. This unique geographical feature creates a natural playground, perfect for discovering the charm of Sao Martinho from a different perspective. The Bay Exploration & Watersports category in Sao Martinho do Porto focuses on connecting you with the serene beauty of its famous bay and the gentle waves that lap its shores. These tours and activities allow visitors to immerse themselves in the local marine environment, whether it's gliding across the glassy surface on a paddleboard, exploring hidden coves by kayak, or enjoying a leisurely boat cruise with panoramic views. It’s a fantastic way to experience the essence of this picturesque fishing town, blending adventure with the tranquility of its distinctive bay.
Discover our top picks for bay exploration & watersports in Sao Martinho do Porto

Journey to the outskirts of Porto where you will partake in Mountain tour. Watch the Roman excavations and understand the story of the mountains Visit a rural mountain village. All of this in a 4x4, with a professional guide will accompany you and make easy discovery the countryside. Small group along the way.

Cross the border into Spain and retrace part of St James Way – a sacred route followed by centuries of pilgrims – on a visit to Santiago de Compostela from Porto. On this memorable day trip, explore Compostela's famous cathedral and the city's UNESCO World-Heritage-listed Old Town. Back in Portugal, pay a visit to Valença do Minho, dominated with a fortress of two towers and a double great wall projected in the Vouban style during the return ride to Porto.

Absorb the peace and tranquility of one of Portugal’s most visited holy places on this full-day Fátima, Nazaré, and Óbidos journey, from Lisbon. Each year millions of pilgrims flock to the site where apparitions of Our Lady of Fátima are said to have appeared. Explore the Apparitions Chapel, the Holy Trinity Cathedral, and the sanctuary’s other monuments on a guided tour. Continue to Nazaré to see massive waves, discover S. Martinho do Porto Beach, a beautifull and amazing bay, and visit the quaint village of Óbidos.

Embark on a delicious journey through Porto, discovering its rich culinary heritage and vibrant history. Dive into local flavors with a visit to one of the most traditional spots to try a Bifana, a spicy pork sandwich that pairs perfectly with a refreshing Super Bock, Porto’s favorite beer. Taste alheira, a unique smoked sausage with a fascinating history, best enjoyed with a glass of Vinho Verde. As we stroll through Porto’s Jewish Quarter, we uncover the stories of the city’s Jewish heritage, hidden within its narrow streets. A short break calls for a classic Portuguese pairing: Bolinho de bacalhau (salt cod fritters) with a shot of Licor Beirão, Portugal’s beloved herbal liqueur. Finally, we savor bacalhau, Portugal’s famous salted cod, accompanied by a glass of Douro wine. To finish, there’s no better way to end the night than with a pastel de nata, the irresistible Portuguese custard tart. Join us!

We begin with a walking tour through Porto’s historic center, starting with the grand Avenida dos Aliados and the iconic Clérigos Tower. Discover unique spots like the beautifully decorated McDonald’s and São Bento Train Station, where you’ll learn about its historic tile panels. From there, we’ll walk up to the Cathedral of Sé (external visit) for panoramic views, followed by a stop at the Fernandina Wall. At Batalha Square, we’ll board a comfortable bus to Vila Nova de Gaia for a traditional Port wine cellar visit, where you’ll learn about the production process and enjoy a tasting of three wine varieties. The tour concludes in Porto’s city center

Please note: At the end of the tour, in addition to the ticket, each participant is welcome to tip the guide an amount they feel is appropriate. This tip, which usually ranges from €15 to $50, is a great way to show your appreciation for the experience. Discover Porto’s history, culture, and breathtaking views on a walking tour with experienced guides. Perfect for first-time visitors. Itinerary: Igreja do Carmo (Twin Churches) Lello Bookstore Former Jail & Courthouse Surviving City Walls Vitória Viewpoint Clérigos Tower Avenida dos Aliados & King Pedro IV Monument São Bento Train Station and its 20,000 azulejo tiles Ribeira District (UNESCO area) Porto Cathedral (12th century) ...and more! Please note: some uphill walks are included, but the views are worth it. We’ll also provide local tips and suggestions for the rest of your stay.

Discover Porto in a Day: Guided City Tour, Douro River Cruise & Port Wine Tasting Enjoy a full-day small-group tour that captures the best of Porto’s history, culture, and flavors. Begin with hotel pickup and explore the city by car with a local guide, visiting must-see landmarks like Clérigos Tower, São Bento Station, Livraria Lello, Porto Cathedral, and the charming Ribeira district. Next, relax on a 1.5-hour sailboat cruise along the Douro River, admiring stunning panoramic views of the city skyline. Onboard, enjoy an exclusive tasting of premium Port wines paired with regional snacks for an authentic local experience. Limited to 8 guests for an intimate and personalized journey. You’ll also receive tailored lunch recommendations to suit your tastes (meal not included). Book today to experience Porto’s beauty, history, and world-famous wine all in one unforgettable day!

Join us for a Trailrunning Tour along the Atlantic Cliffs in Portugal. This curated experience showcases some of the most stunning views our company has to offer, as you traverse majestic cliffs overlooking the breathtaking Atlantic Ocean. With a clear sky, the horizon stretches from Nazaré to Berlenga, promising captivating sights at every turn. Designed as an introduction to trail running, this tour beautifully combines running and walking along a picturesque coastline, allowing you to soak in the mesmerizing scenery whenever you desire. Capture unforgettable moments with your camera or simply pause to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you. More than just a run, this journey is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the enchanting landscapes of the UNESCO Geopark Oeste, where you will encounter remarkable geosites, including the St. Anna Chapel, Portugal’s highest dune, and incredible dinosaur tracks. Join us for an extraordinary experience where nature meets adventure.

Make the most of your vacation budget, book your departure transfer in advance and save both time and money! This private transfer service from your Porto hotel to Oporto Airport ensures a smooth, comfortable, and stress-free end to your stay. Avoid the uncertainty of last-minute transportation and enjoy peace of mind knowing your driver will arrive on time, ready to assist with your luggage. Travel in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle and arrive at the airport relaxed and ready for your flight.

Embark on an extraordinary journey south from Nazaré to discover Portugal's most dramatic coastal contrasts and ancient secrets. Our expert guides reveal the dinosaur footprint trails preserved for 175 million years, then lead you to the serene shell-shaped bay of São Martinho do Porto—King Carlos's declared "most beautiful place on earth." Experience the breathtaking Túnel para o Atlântico where calm lagoon waters meet crashing Atlantic waves in one stunning passage. Explore the mystical 12th-century Capela de Santa Ana, recently restored on its clifftop sanctuary where crusaders once prayed, and discover hidden gems like wild Praia da Gralha's untouched golden sands. Small groups ensure personalized storytelling of legends, maritime traditions, and geological marvels that shaped this magical coastline over millions of years.

The capital of Galicia is the 3rd biggest pilgramage site of the world, visited by more than 250.000 pilgrims a year. The beautiful cathedral dates back to the 11th century and the Ways of Santiago are world heritage site by Unesco. Come and discover the city of the Apostle and its history! Viana has a big sea tradition, being one of the most beautiful cities of northern Portugal. It always had great importance throughout the history of the country, specially during the discovery era and for cod fishing. Discover the world heritage palaces, convents, churches and the fountains that are definitely worth a visit.

This is a guided walk with a small group and certified mountain guide just for you, or for your small group. When travelling support the local small business, walk with one local small business, avoid the big group walks, we believe in persons, not in numbers

Compliance with schedules and customer satisfaction always comes first. In addition to the experienced team, we bet on a modern and comfortable fleet that has all the necessary amenities for a great tour: Wi-Fi, snacks, water, etc. What we offer is a unique experience, in which our main focus is to provide all customers with a safe and comfortable tour.

Visit Vila do Conde, Viana do Castelo, Ponte de Lima and Braga. From Porto, always traveling by the sea, we will visit all these cities with stops in the most emblematic monuments of each city, in the most beautiful beaches, and to taste the local sweets. We will visit Viana do Castelo the jewel of Minho and Ponte de Lima the oldest village in Portugal. Braga is the 3rd largest city in Portugal with over 2000 years of history. Travel in a Mercedes-class V250 Avantgarde van with 8 seats, with tinted windows, leather seats, air conditioning, refrigerator and wi-fi. Sustainability, Carbon Neutral Drive We are a company concerned with our ecological footprint. We choose, whenever possible, agents of the local economy for partnerships, helping in regional development. We value and give priority to local products obtained in a natural and sustainable way. When booking our Tours, we will plant trees to neutralize our Co2 emissions emitted by the kilometers travelled.

Discover the best of northern Portugal on an exclusive private tour that combines history, culture, stunning views and the charm of the coast. This half-day tour takes you to explore three iconic cities – Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia and Matosinhos – in a comfortable and personalized way. Porto: Enjoy the historic heart of the city, the iconic Torre dos Clérigos, admire the tiled panels of São Bento Station, and enjoy the vibrant Cais da Ribeira on the banks of the River Douro. We have included stops at viewpoints for unforgettable panoramic photographs. Vila Nova de Gaia: Cross the iconic Louis I Bridge to discover the neighboring city, famous for its wine cellars. Relax in the Morro Garden and enjoy one of the most impressive views in the area. Matosinhos: Finish the tour with a visit to the Atlantic coast, known for its beaches and excellent gastronomy. Enjoy the breeze of the sea at Matosinhos Beach and admire modern attractions such as the Anémona.
The unique, almost circular bay provides calm waters, making it ideal for all skill levels and ages.
From tranquil paddleboarding to scenic boat tours, there’s an aquatic adventure for everyone.
Capture breathtaking views of the coastline, the bay, and the charming town from the water.
Easily reach picturesque spots and enjoy the natural beauty without the challenges of rough seas.
Many tours are designed with families in mind, offering safe and enjoyable experiences for children and adults alike.
Experience the relaxed pace and local charm of a traditional Portuguese fishing town from its most defining feature – the bay.
Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the bay at your own pace. These are fantastic for solo adventurers or couples seeking quiet exploration.
Relax on a boat trip that circumnavigates the bay, offering commentary on local history and landmarks. Many cruises include opportunities for swimming or a light snack.
Join a guided tour on a kayak or paddleboard, led by local experts who can show you the best spots and provide paddling tips. These are great for learning more about the area.
Packages designed for families or groups, often combining gentle watersports with boat-based fun. These tours focus on shared enjoyment and accessible activities for all ages.
Tours typically range from 2 to 4 hours, allowing ample time to enjoy the activities and scenery without feeling rushed.
The sheltered bay means activities are usually possible even when the open sea is rough. Tours may be cancelled in extreme weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds.
Group sizes vary. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are individual, while boat tours can range from small intimate groups to larger vessels. Guided watersports tours usually have small, manageable groups.
Typically includes the equipment (kayak, paddleboard, life vest), and for boat tours, the vessel and a skipper. Some guided tours may include snacks or drinks.
Meeting points are usually clearly specified, often near the main beach or marina in Sao Martinho do Porto. Detailed instructions are provided upon booking.
Consider costs for personal expenses, meals not included in the tour, and gratuities for guides or skippers if you were particularly pleased with the service.
Book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred activity and time slot.
Check the weather forecast, although Sao Martinho's bay offers good protection, light rain won't typically stop an activity.
Wear comfortable, quick-drying clothing. A hat and sunglasses are essential, and consider reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment.
Bring a waterproof bag for your phone, keys, and any valuables you wish to keep dry.
Hydration is key! Carry a reusable water bottle. Some tours may provide water, but it's best to be prepared.
For kayaking and paddleboarding, bring water shoes or sandals that can get wet and offer good grip.
Don't forget your camera! The views from the bay are stunning, and you'll want to capture them.
Listen carefully to your guide's safety briefing, especially for watersports, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
A: Absolutely. The bay's unique, almost circular shape creates a naturally sheltered environment with calm waters, making it exceptionally safe and ideal for all skill levels, including beginners and families.
A: While it's always advisable to be comfortable around water, most tours provide life vests, and the calm conditions reduce risk. For kayaking and paddleboarding, basic swimming ability is a plus, but not always strictly required for guided tours that stay close to shore.
A: Wear quick-drying clothing like shorts and a t-shirt or swimwear. Avoid heavy cotton. It's a good idea to wear water shoes or sandals that you don't mind getting wet. Don't forget a hat and sunglasses.
A: Age restrictions can vary by operator and specific tour. Generally, children can participate on boat tours with parental supervision. For watersports like kayaking or paddleboarding, there might be a minimum age, often around 6-8 years old when accompanied by an adult.
A: This varies. Some boat tours may allow you to bring a small amount of your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. However, many tours offer refreshments as part of the package, so it's best to check with the specific tour provider when booking.
A: In case of bad weather that makes the activity unsafe or unenjoyable, operators typically offer to reschedule your tour for another day or provide a full refund. You'll usually be contacted by the operator in advance.
A: For most bay exploration and standard watersports tours in Sao Martinho do Porto, wetsuits are not usually necessary due to the protected and often mild water temperatures. However, some operators might offer them upon request, especially for longer tours or during cooler months. It's always best to inquire directly with the tour provider.
A: Yes, many operators offer private tours for individuals, families, or groups looking for a more personalized experience. These can be booked directly through the platform, often with options to customize the itinerary.
Discover the unique shell-shaped bay, perfect for safe swimming and watersports year-round.
Experience authentic Portuguese coastal life away from the biggest tourist crowds.
Enjoy fresh seafood with stunning views of the tranquil bay.
Explore the historic fort overlooking the picturesque bay, a glimpse into past defenses.
Stroll along the promenade, a vibrant hub for local gatherings and relaxation.
Find a peaceful seaside escape with genuine charm and natural beauty.
Portugal enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The coastal regions experience more moderate temperatures due to Atlantic influences, while inland areas can have greater temperature extremes.
The shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices, making them ideal for exploring.
July and August represent the peak tourist season, characterized by hot weather, crowded beaches, and higher accommodation costs, particularly in popular coastal resorts.
From November to March, Portugal experiences its off-season with cooler, wetter weather, especially in the north. This period is ideal for budget travelers seeking a quieter experience and a chance to explore cities without the summer rush.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Discover the rugged beauty and serene landscapes surrounding Sao Martinho do Porto on expertly guided coastal walks and nature trails.
Discover the calm waters and sandy shores of Sao Martinho do Porto with engaging family-friendly tours and activities.
Uncover centuries of maritime defense and captivating folklore in the picturesque bay of São Martinho do Porto.
Discover the authentic soul of Sao Martinho do Porto through its vibrant local markets and skilled artisan workshops.
Savor the authentic tastes of Portugal's Silver Coast with curated food and wine tours in the charming bay of Sao Martinho do Porto.
Getting around Sao Martinho do Porto is quite straightforward. The town centre and promenade are easily walkable, perfect for leisurely strolls. For exploring slightly further afield or accessing nearby beaches, local buses offer a convenient option. Renting a bicycle is also a popular choice for enjoying the coastal paths. If you're planning day trips to nearby towns like Nazaré or Obidos, consider using regional bus services or hiring a car for maximum flexibility. Taxis are available for shorter, direct journeys.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
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