Introduction to Lagos and Ponta da Piedade

Lagos lies in the lee of Ponta da Piedade, an outstanding rocky coastline with cliffs and caves. Ponta da Piedade is a stunning natural wonder located along the coastline of Lagos in the Algarve region of Southern Portugal, featuring golden cliffs, hidden grottos, and natural sea arches rising 20 meters above the Atlantic Ocean.

Approach and Navigation

Key Landmarks

• Ponta da Piedade light: 37º04’8N/8º40′.1W (FL 7s 50m 20 miles). Yellow lighthouse tower with two conspicuous palm trees.
• West mole: 37º05’8N/8º39′.9W – white tower, red bands, Fl (2) R6s 5,5M
• East mole: 37º05’8N/8º39′.9W – white tower, green bands, Fl (2) G 6s 6,5M

Navigation Notes

• Channel depth: 3-4m
• Speed limit: 3 knots
• Be aware of fish farms marked by 4 yellow buoys
• Lifting bridge operates only during office hours

Lagos Marina

Mooring Information

• Tie up at the reception quay near the lifting bridge for formalities
• Bridge width limit: 11m
• All berths are alongside finger pontoons
• Maximum LOA: 30 meters
• Maximum beam: 10 meters

Facilities

• Water & electricity available on the quay
• Fuel station next to the reception quay
• Private guest showers and VIP/family bath
• Domestic and recyclable trash receptacles throughout the marina
• Supermarkets within 200m of pontoons

Transportation

Bus and train stations 200m from Marina. Faro airport is a 60-minute drive away, and Lisbon is 2.5 hours by car.

Anchorages

Praia São Roque

Coordinates: 37° 6′ 7″ N, 8° 39′ 52″ W

Anchor NE of the entrance in 4-6m, on sand. Sheltered from W, N, E winds. Be aware of tides up to 3m.

Ponta da Piedade

Coordinates: 37° 4′ 55″ N, 8° 39′ 59″ W

Bottom is rocky. Suitable in calm weather.

Barranco da Martinho

Coordinates: 37° 4′ 52″ N, 8° 40′ 24″ W

Sandy bottom. Suitable in calm weather.

Local Attractions

Lagos, home of the Portuguese Discoveries, offers a rich historical experience. The Golden Coast, stretching from Lagos to Sagres, boasts coves, caves, and private beaches. Ponta da Piedade is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, featuring sea pillars, fragile rock arches, and mysterious caves set against turquoise waters.

Exploring Ponta da Piedade

• View from cliff-top platforms
• Boat tours through grottoes and around rock formations
• Visit nearby beautiful beaches

Note: The area can get crowded during summer months, but its mild climate makes it an ideal year-round destination.