High tide - Low tide

Why Tides Matter on Portugal’s West Coast

Summary

Along Portugal’s Atlantic coast, tides play a much bigger role than many visitors expect. The difference between high and low tide can be several meters, which means beaches, access and everyday experiences can change noticeably during the day. 

How Tides Work – In Simple Terms

Tides are caused by the moon’s gravitational pull on the oceans. As the moon moves around the Earth, it pulls the water with it, creating a regular rhythm of rising and falling sea levels.

Along the West Coast of Portugal, there are usually two high tides and two low tides every 24 hours. Because tides follow the moon rather than the clock, each high and low tide happens roughly 45–55 minutes later every day.

Over the course of a month, the height of the tide also changes:

Around full moon and new moon, the difference between high and low tide is largest

Around half moon, the difference is smaller

This is why some days the sea feels much closer — and other days the beach feels wide and open.

Portugal vs. Scandinavia – A Noticeable Difference

For many visitors from Denmark, Sweden or Norway, tides feel unfamiliar.

In much of Scandinavia, especially around the Baltic Sea, tides are often only a few centimeters and barely noticeable. Along Portugal’s Atlantic coast, the difference between high and low tide can be 2 to 4 meters, sometimes more.

This makes tides a visible and practical part of daily life here.

What This Looks Like in Everyday Life 

You notice tides very quickly once you spend time near the ocean.

On the beach, people may settle down comfortably, only to realise later that towels and bags suddenly get wet. It’s not a sudden wave — it’s simply the tide rising, sometimes combined with a few larger waves at the same time.

I notice it even more when walking our dog. Some beaches are simply not walkable at high tide. I can park, walk down where I can see the beach from the cliff, and realise there’s barely any space at all. Other beaches — including our local one — usually still have enough room, even when the water is high.

When the tide turns and the water starts pulling back, it leaves things behind. That’s when you suddenly see shells, seaweed, driftwood — and occasionally more unexpected finds. It’s all part of how the ocean constantly reshapes the coastline.

Simple Tide Terms 

High tide

When the sea level is at its highest point and the water has moved as far up the beach as it will go.

Low tide

When the sea level is at its lowest point and the water has pulled back, leaving the beach at its widest.

Rising tide (flood tide)

The period when the water is moving in and the tide level is increasing.

Falling tide (ebb tide)

The period when the water is moving out and the tide level is decreasing.

Why It’s Useful to Know

You don’t need to plan your day around the tide. But maybe you will choose another spot on the beach next time?

Knowing that it exists — and that it changes constantly — helps you avoid small surprises and better understand why the coast looks and feels different throughout the day.

If you're curious about the exact timing on a specific day, local tide forecast are easy to check online.

Jorgen/Living on the West Coast of Portugal

---

Small moments • True gems • Real Portugal

If our inspiration can help you get more out of your time in Portugal – both on and off the course – then we're happy.

Plan your next Golf Trip

More Tips & Recommendations