Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
black
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
15 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
150 m
Frequently asked questions
Praia do Populo: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +20.0°C, warms up to +23.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Praia do Populo: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Praia do Populo: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 15 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Praia do Populo: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — black. Texture — fine. Beach length — 150 metres.
Praia do Populo: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June, July, August, September. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Praia do Populo: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — minimal. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Praia do Populo: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Praia do Populo: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, parking, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Praia do Populo: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Praia do Populo: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Bar do Pópulo. Cuisines available: Portuguese. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Praia do Populo: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Sunglasses.
Praia do Populo: when is the best time to swim?
Best time is from June to September. Fewer people and calmer water in the morning. In the evening — beautiful sunsets.
Praia do Populo: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Dogs are prohibited on the beach during the bathing season. Littering and open fires are prohibited.
Praia do Populo: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Praia do Populo: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for water sports enthusiasts and families with children. Suitable for diving, surfing, bodyboarding and windsurfing. Not suitable for lovers of white-sand beaches.
Praia do Populo: what makes this beach unique?
Populo Beach, also known as Praia Pequena, is the only beach in Ponta Delgada with dark volcanic sand awarded the Blue Flag. The water warms up to 22°C in summer, making it popular among divers and surfers.
Praia do Populo: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Blue Flag, Dark volcanic sand, Calm water, Excellent diving, Surfing and bodyboarding, Bar and restaurant, Lifeguards, Parking, Accessible for disabled. Cons: Small beach, Volcanic sand (not white), Can be crowded in season, Water can be cool.
Praia do Populo: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Ponta Delgada, Sete Cidades Crater, Furnas. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Praia do Populo: does the beach have a Blue Flag?
Yes, the beach holds the international "Blue Flag" certification. This means the beach meets high standards of water cleanliness, safety and infrastructure.
Praia do Populo: how do I get to the city of Ponta Delgada?
The beach is located near the city of Ponta Delgada. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Ponta Delgada.