Top 6 Lakes around Sines
Best lakes around Sines are found in the surrounding area of this coastal city in Portugal. The region features notable lagoons and reservoirs, offering natural beauty and recreational opportunities. These bodies of water contribute to a diverse landscape, providing habitats for various wildlife and spaces for outdoor activities. The area is characterized by a mix of natural and man-made aquatic environments.
Best lakes around Sines
- The most popular lakes is Costa de Santo André Beach, a beach adjacent to…
Last updated: June 20, 2026
Campilhas Reservoir
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Costa de Santo André Beach
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Morgavel Dam
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Ribeira de Moinhos Lagoon
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View over the Lagoa de Santo André
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The Lagoa de Santo André is located on the Alentejo coast, between the Tróia peninsula and Cape Sines. It is part of the Nature Reserve of Lagoas de Santo André and Sancha, which occupies part of the coastline of the municipalities of Sines and Santiago do Cacém. The lagoon is situated in the municipality of Santiago do Cacém, about 150 meters from the coast.
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The Morgavel Dam is a huge mirror of water in the heart of the Alentejo, perfect for rolling along without haste. The paved crest invites you to cycle with open views, while, all around, dirt roads stretch out, ideal for exploring the area.
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It is possible to visit the lagoon from the north or south shore. In the first case, there are higher observation points, which allow for a wider view, especially at the far end; the second option may be more advantageous on sunny days, as the light will be more favourable. Whichever route you choose, you can follow the path to the beach and start observing the beach inland. On the north side, the best observation point is right at the end of the path – there is a small hill there, which allows a good view of the lagoon and the beach. On the south side, there is a dirt track that ends in a small car park, which also provides easy access to the lagoon. In the lagoon itself, it is common to see mallards, little egrets, grey herons, cormorants and, occasionally, marsh harriers and common terns. During the nesting season, the purple heron is also present – this species often hides among the reeds, making it easier to see when it takes flight. There are other birds that frequent the reeds and, although frequent, are easier to hear than to see – such as the moorhen, the nightingale and, during the nesting season, the reed warbler. The Moinhos stream also attracts some birds that feed in flight, such as the black swift and the sand martin, which are regularly seen here in spring. The surrounding lands are home to several passerines, such as the reed martin, the linnet and the corn bunting. Sometimes, small flocks of waxbills appear. On the beach it is common to see large flocks of seagulls resting, while in the sea gannets can be seen fishing, sometimes at a short distance. The Kentish plover can also be seen regularly on the beach or in the adjacent dunes. Another species that lives in the dunes is the mountain lark. ( avesdeportugal.info )
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Near Sines, the mouth of the Moinhos stream forms a small lagoon; this wetland is one of the least known on the Portuguese coast; however, the extensive emergent vegetation makes this place an interesting refuge for water birds.
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Beautiful, fine beach, no catering open in March 2025.
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Rustic beach bar with a great view of the Atlantic surf from the deckchair, feet in the sand, a cold beer in your hand - what more could you want?
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Very nice long beach (and some up to 200 meters wide) with a lagoon and beach bar. Immediately behind it is the Lagos de Santo André e Sancha, a nature reserve.
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Completed in 1954, the large Campilhas dam lake can be used to produce electricity, supply drinking water and maintain an irrigation network. Due to repeated droughts, the lake can no longer recover the levels of its creation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around the lakes near Sines?
The region around Sines offers a variety of natural aquatic environments. You can explore the diverse ecosystems of the Santo André and Sancha Lagoons Nature Reserve, which features marshes, willow forests, and reedbeds. The Ribeira de Moinhos Lagoon is a small wetland known for its extensive emergent vegetation. For a different experience, the Morgavel Reservoir provides calm, shallow waters surrounded by natural landscapes.
Are there good spots for birdwatching near Sines?
Yes, the lagoons near Sines are excellent for birdwatching. The Santo André and Sancha Lagoons Nature Reserve is a significant ecological site where you can spot Eurasian coots, cinnamon teals, and Eurasian reed warblers, especially in late summer and early autumn. The Ribeira de Moinhos Lagoon is a refuge for water birds like mallards, little egrets, and grey herons, and during nesting season, purple herons.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Sines?
Beyond enjoying the scenery, you can engage in various outdoor activities. The Lagoons of Santo André offer opportunities for hiking, canoeing, and windsurfing. The Morgavel Reservoir is popular for kitesurfing and wingfoiling due to its calm waters. For more structured activities, you can find numerous hiking trails, cycling routes, and MTB trails in the wider Sines area.
Are there family-friendly lakes or areas suitable for children?
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. The Costa de Santo André Beach, adjacent to Lagoa de Santo André, is an ideal place for swimming and observing water birds. The Santo André and Sancha Lagoons Nature Reserve and the Ribeira de Moinhos Lagoon are also considered family-friendly, offering gentle environments for exploration and nature observation.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near Sines?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. For birdwatching, late summer and early autumn are ideal when many bird species gather at the lagoons. For water sports like kitesurfing or wingfoiling at Morgavel Reservoir, the peak season when coastal beaches are crowded might be preferable for quieter conditions. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the natural reserves.
Can I find hiking trails near the lakes?
Yes, the hinterland around the Lagoons of Santo André offers wonderful hiking opportunities. You can also find various trails of different difficulties in the broader Sines region. For example, there are hiking routes ranging from easy to difficult, such as the 'Samoqueira Beach – Samoqueira Beach loop' or the 'Porto Covo Harbour and Beaches – Porto Covo Bay loop'.
Are there any man-made lakes or reservoirs in the area?
Yes, the region includes significant man-made bodies of water. The Campilhas Reservoir, completed in 1954, is a large dam lake used for electricity production, drinking water, and irrigation. The Morgavel Reservoir, located near the coast, is another man-made lake known for its calm waters suitable for water sports.
What kind of wildlife can be seen at Ribeira de Moinhos Lagoon?
The Ribeira de Moinhos Lagoon is a haven for water birds. You can commonly see mallards, little egrets, grey herons, and cormorants. During the nesting season, purple herons are present, often hiding among the reeds. Other birds like marsh harriers, common terns, black swifts, and sand martins also frequent the area.
Is there a beach associated with any of the lakes?
Yes, the Costa de Santo André Beach is a beautiful, fine beach directly adjacent to the Lagoa de Santo André. It's an ideal spot for swimming and enjoying the coastal environment while also being close to the lagoon's natural beauty.
What is the Campilhas Reservoir used for?
The Campilhas Reservoir, completed in 1954, serves multiple purposes. It is used for producing electricity, supplying drinking water, and maintaining an irrigation network for the surrounding agricultural areas.
Are there any quiet spots away from crowds near Sines?
Yes, the Morgavel Reservoir offers a sense of seclusion and tranquility. While there is limited infrastructure, its natural environment is appealing for those seeking a quiet escape away from more bustling coastal areas, making it a peaceful alternative for enjoying the water.
What makes the Lagoa de Santo André unique?
The Lagoa de Santo André is the most important and largest lagoon along the Alentejo coast. It is unique because it is connected to the Atlantic Ocean by a seasonal channel, creating a diverse ecosystem with a mix of fresh and saltwater. This makes it particularly rich in biodiversity and an excellent spot for birdwatching and various water activities.
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