Lagos Ponta da Piedade Coast Cruise & Swimming Stop

Summary

Cruise past Lagos cliffs to Ponta da Piedade then swim in hidden coves

You’ll cruise from Lagos along sculpted cliffs to Ponta da Piedade with a local guide sharing stories as you go. There’s time to swim in a sheltered bay (if you’re braver than me) and see famous beaches like Praia Dona Ana from the water. Expect laughter, salt on your lips, and that feeling of wanting just one more hour at sea.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the light bounced off those golden cliffs near Lagos — it’s not something you can really capture in photos, you know? We slid out from the harbor, cushions under us (honestly, comfier than I expected), and there was this salty tang in the air. Our captain, João, pointed at a rock shaped like an elephant — I squinted and yeah, maybe if you tilt your head. He laughed when someone asked if he ever gets tired of this view. “Never,” he said. Seemed true.

We drifted along the coast toward Ponta da Piedade, and João kept up a steady stream of stories — some about shipwrecks, some about fishermen who still work these waters. The boat slowed by Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo; both beaches had just a handful of people that morning, umbrellas poking up like jellybeans. Then we anchored in this little bay tucked behind the rocks. The water was colder than I thought but clear enough to see fish darting around my toes. Someone’s kid shrieked with laughter when their dad jumped in (I hesitated longer than I’ll admit).

I didn’t expect how quiet it felt once the engine cut out — just gulls and that soft slap of water against the hull. João handed out a few snorkels for anyone who wanted them, but honestly I just floated for a while staring up at those crazy rock formations. There’s something about being out there that makes you feel small in a good way. On the way back to Lagos, sun-warmed and salty-skinned, I caught myself wishing we could stay out another hour or two… but maybe that’s always how it goes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Coast cruise and swimming at Ponta da Piedade

• Check in 15 minutes before departure
• Cruise along Lagos coast
• See Praia Dona Ana beach
• See Praia do Camilo beach
• Enjoy rock formations at Ponta da Piedade
• Swim in sheltered bay at Ponta da Piedade

Top questions

How long is the Lagos coast cruise to Ponta da Piedade?

The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Is swimming included during the tour?

Yes, there’s usually a stop in a sheltered bay near Ponta da Piedade for swimming.

Where does the tour depart from?

You check in inside Lagos Train Station before departure.

Are there guides on board?

Yes, there is a local guide providing live commentary throughout the trip.

Are children allowed on this boat tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join and ride in a pram or stroller.

What beaches will we see during the cruise?

You’ll pass by Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo along with other coastal sights.

Is public transportation nearby for getting to departure?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to Lagos Train Station.

What’s included

Your day includes live commentary from your local guide as you cruise along Lagos’ coastline past Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo toward Ponta da Piedade. There’s cushioned seating on board plus easy stairs for getting into the water during your swim stop before heading back to port together.