- Type
- Beach
- Area
- East of the island
- Free access
- Yes
- Good for kids
- No
- Requires a hike or walk
- Yes
Galheta is an open-sea beach on the east of the island, between Praia Mole and Barra da Lagoa. It is part of a municipal protected area created in 1990 as Galheta Municipal Park, which is why it has no tourist facilities: no bars or buildings on the sand, according to Wikipedia.
How to get there
Access is by trail only, and the trails are easy:
- From Praia Mole: the trail starts at the corner of the beach and crosses the rocky headland.
- From Barra da Lagoa: there is a path from the channel area.
Naturism
Galheta became known as an optional naturist beach. Wikipedia notes that the practice was banned by the City Council in 2016, and the issue has changed more than once. Follow the signs on site and the rules in force.
Why go
Open sea, rocky headlands, native vegetation and few people. It is one of the best glimpses of what the east of the island looked like before urbanization.
Practical tips
- Take the trail from Praia Mole, the most used one.
- Bring water and snacks: there are no facilities.
- Follow the signs about the beach rules.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Galheta Beach?
Only by trail, from the corner of Praia Mole or from the Barra da Lagoa channel area.
Is Galheta a nudist beach?
It became known for optional naturism, but the rule has changed over the years. Follow the signs and the rules in force on site.
