Sao Jacinto offers several distinct highlights for a stay: an expansive sandy beach, nature trails, lagoons and local history.
Beach and Ria
Praia de São Jacinto is extensive and almost untouched. Surfing and bodyboarding are practiced on the ocean side. On the quieter side along the Ria de Aveiro, sailing and sport fishing are among the most popular activities. If you prefer to experience the beach on foot, there is plenty of room for long walks; the sandy beach seems to stretch almost endlessly northward. The difference between the ocean side and the quieter side along the Ria helps you plan your beach visit around your preferred activities. The only connection between the Ria de Aveiro and the sea is a channel that cuts through the coastal strip between Barra and São Jacinto.
Two Nature Trail Routes
The nature discovery trail comprises two signposted circular routes: the red route is about 7.5 km long, and the green route about 3.5 km—around four kilometres shorter. Both figures are approximate. The red route crosses a raised boardwalk to the outer dune ridge and the Pateira Pequena and Pateira Grande lagoons. The green route is shorter, runs through the forest and leads to the smaller Pateira Pequena. The green loop is around four kilometres shorter; the red route also crosses the raised boardwalk and continues to Pateira Grande.
Lagoons and Nature Conservation
The artificial pond Pateira was created in the 1980s and became an important site for overwintering ducks. Sightings may vary by season. In 2021, access to the primary dune was prohibited to protect plant species. Check locally for the current conditions.
The nature reserve visitor centre organises guided visits along the nature discovery trail. Check the arrangements for visits before you travel.
Church and Festival
The Ermida is now the parish church of the Freguesia São Jacinto. A Cruzeiro is said to have been built beside it in 1584. The contrast between its present-day religious function and a construction date that is only assumed provides a tangible reference point for local history.
The Dunas de São Jacinto Festival is a recurring event. Its ninth edition took place in 2025, and the festival returned in 2026. The programme varies from one edition to the next. If you would like to plan your stay around this event, check the specific event dates.
Getting There by Boat and Bike
From Aveiro, the regular boat service is the fastest way to get to Sao Jacinto. Schedules and operators may change; check the latest times before departure. The completed Via Ciclável de São Jacinto connects the ferry landing, the beach and the Reserva Natural das Dunas de São Jacinto nature reserve, offering another way to link these destinations by bike.
For the broader travel overview: São Jacinto.
