About Salema

Praia da Salema is a fishing village in Vila do Bispo, Algarve, in the stunning Natural Park of Southwest Alentejo and breathtaking Costa Vicentina. Salema is between the bustling town of Lagos and the most westerly town in Europe, Sagres. Locals say the village is named after a fish, the Salema, which used to be caught off the coast in years gone by. It's believed that the inhabitants of the wealthy Roman villa only 2km away in Boca do Rio used to love to eat the Salema fish for recreational purposes due to its hallucinogenic properties. This hallucinogenic fish is related to the Bream, which is still found in abundance off the coast of Salema today. Folklore or truth?! All fishermen enjoy a good tale!!! Salema remains a fishing village; the central area of the beach is occupied by fishermen's boats and their gear. The fishermen's hut is occupied most days by the elder fisherman, who keep a watchful eye on the younger generation. They are always willing to pass on their knowledge to youngsters seeking guidance. Pop down to the beach to observe the boats returning from an evening at sea in the early morning. The best of their catch will be sold to the local restaurants. The connection to fishing and the sea is evident throughout the winding alleys between the traditional whitewashed houses. Salema beach is located within the base of the coastal cliffs around the village. Visitors can enjoy a beautiful promenade and terraces along the seafront. The gently sloping white sandy beach is ideal for swimming and safe for children with a Life Guard in the summer. We have a Blue Flag beach which means that the seawater quality has been rated as excellent according to European standards of cleanliness. The Atlantic can be a little chilly but heats up during the season when it offers an enjoyable and refreshing break during the warmer months. In 2016 The Guardian awarded Salema the best beach for families in all Europe and the number 13 globally! Fossilised Dinosaur Footprints can be found in the cliffs, dating back to the Early Cretaceous Period and are around 150 million years old! Locals have known of them for many years, but they became public knowledge when officially documented in 2001. Retaining its charm, Salema has around a dozen bars and restaurants, two mini-markets, a few ATM's and a tour company, The Way Tours. Hire kayaks paddle-boards, organise a boat trip, bounce around on the inflatables, go horse riding, enjoy a walking tour, a round of Golf or even hire a private boat charter.Water parks and adventure parks can also be purchased there. The West Coast of the Algarve is only 15 minutes by car. With stretches of wild sandy beaches below cliffs that stretch for miles, the sea rolling in with the full force of the Atlantic and some of the best surfing conditions around. Within the local area, we are spoiled for choice with an excellent selection of spas, Golf courses, Tennis courts, boat trips, horse riding, walking tours and trails. Enjoy a day in the hip town of Lagos with its castle, marina and winding streets filled with shops and restaurants. Perhaps a more chilled, bohemian day out in the Western fortressed town of Sagres? Both towns are just over a 10-minute drive away or by bus, stopping directly outside A Maré. If you have any specific questions or queries about the village, please email daniela@the-mare.com, and she'll do her best to answer them. Salema remains a bit of a hidden gem and is often described as a "little piece of paradise". A Maré is authentic and retains the essence of Salema; we believe it's what makes us stand out.