Praia do Matadouro is mostly a beach for surfers
Popular among anglers, this is a rocky beach with little sand but with many small tidal pools at low tide. It’s quite picturesque, with a number of charming houses standing above it (where you may stay overnight, as they’re part of the Villa Ana Margarida Beach guesthouse - see below).
Praia do Matadouro is a rocky beach
The waves tend to be calmer than those of neighboring beaches, but are still good enough for surfers. Many surfing schools choose it as the site of lessons for beginners. There are no lifeguards on duty, and no facilities except for portable bathrooms during the official bathing season.
Traditional houses in Praia do Matadouro that make up Vila Ana Margarida (see below)
Beach for: Surfers, Couples
Lifeguards: No
Bathrooms: Yes (in the bathing season)
Showers: No
Rentals: No
Bar or Restaurant: No
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia do Matadouro
Praia do Matadouro is located to the south of Ericeira’s camping site. It’s within walking distance of the center, and you’ll see a sign pointing to it from the coastal road.
For its exact location, see the Ericeira beaches map.
Hotels by Praia do Matadouro
A group of traditional Portuguese houses (with a few Gaudí influences) standing by the sea in Praia do Matadouro is now open to guests looking for memorable days in the sun. There’s an outdoor swimming pool, sun loungers, and even barbecue facilities.
If you want to feel like you’re in your own beach house, stay at this hostel located a short walk south of Praia do Matadouro. Guests relax in the living room which opens to an outdoor area for hours in the sun, and sleep in standard rooms with double or twin beds, or in basic rooms with bunk beds. Best of all is the access to a swimming pool.