São Jacinto between the Atlantic and the Ria

At the tip of a peninsula between Ovar and the village of São Jacinto lies the Reserva Natural das Dunas de São Jacinto. It is bordered by the Atlantic to the west and an arm of the Ria de Aveiro to the east. This setting gives the trip its distinctive backdrop: the sea and the Ria stand side by side as different facets of the aquatic landscape.

Dunes, beach and nature watching

Praia de São Jacinto lies on the edge of the reserve. Its long, almost unspoilt sandy beach combines a visit to the seaside with the landscape of the protected area. Many species of ducks and herons, as well as other seabirds, find shelter in specially created freshwater ponds.

The Trilho da Descoberta da Natureza allows visitors to observe and interpret the reserve’s natural features. The Centro de Interpretação provides information about the protected area and the region. Those interested in the history of the landscape will also find a tangible link to the dunes beyond these natural features: the Mata de S. Jacinto was planted in 1888 to stabilise them.

Activities on the sea and the Ria

Bodyboarding is possible on the sea side of Praia de São Jacinto, while sailing takes place on the Ria side. The activities are therefore associated with their respective sides of the water. The Centro de Alto Rendimento de Surf (CARSurf) de São Jacinto is also dedicated to surfing, bodyboarding and longboarding. It is located between Praia de São Jacinto and the Ria de Aveiro and has hosted a stage of the European Tour Bodyboard.

A long wooden walkway runs through São Jacinto between the waters of the Ria and the beach. The Festival Dunas de São Jacinto may also be of interest when planning your trip: it is a three-day event. The programme for the 2026 edition includes stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), canoeing and environmental education activities. The duration and programme may vary from one edition to another.

Church, history and local cuisine

Dedicated to Senhora das Areias, the Ermida da Senhora das Areias is now the parish church of São Jacinto. An image of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, believed to perform miracles, and numerous pilgrimages were associated with it. Next to the Ermida stands the Cruzeiro, which is said to have been built in 1584. It served as an anchorage for ships travelling along the canal.

Craftsmanship also has a place in local culture: a miniature collection of typical Ria boats can be seen at the headquarters of the Reserva Natural das Dunas de São Jacinto. The collection is the work of craftspeople from São Jacinto. One of the area’s gastronomic specialities is a fish and eel stew; it offers another reason to include local cuisine in your travel plans.

Getting there and practical information

A regular boat service runs from Aveiro across the Ria de Aveiro to São Jacinto. As timetables and operators may change, check the current schedule before setting off.

The Praia Acessível service provides people with reduced mobility with an amphibious chair next to the beach station; bathing assistance is not offered. Beach services may change, so check the latest information about the service before your visit.

This makes it easier to choose a destination based on what interests you most during your stay.

Discover more destinations: São Jacinto, São João Da Madeira, Águeda, Albergaria-A-Velha, Oliveira Do Bairro, Sever Do Vouga, Estarreja, Murtosa.

For the broader travel overview: Aveiro.