Portuguese Bend - all beaches

This beach is truly one-of-a-kind! The way the water crashes against the rocks in a wild and untamed manner is simply mesmerizing. It's a photographer's paradise, with endless opportunities for capturing breathtaking shots. If you're a fan of rock collecting, you'll be delighted to discover an array of cool rocks scattered along the shore. One of the most endearing aspects of this beach is the playful sea lions who love to sneak up on unsuspecting fishermen and steal their catch. They're absolutely adorable and will even make eye contact with you! Overall, this beach is a must-visit for anyone seeking natural beauty and a touch of wildlife magic.

This beach is an ideal spot to take your kids for a refreshing swim. It can get a bit crowded on weekends, but that's typical for a popular destination. You can park on the streets or in the parking lot near Merrimac park entrance for a fee of $7. The beach was remarkably tidy, and there were volleyball nets located in front of the beach homes on the hilltop. I visited on a Sunday, and the ride there was delightful, with a stunning view of the area. Lifeguards were present throughout the beach, and there were plenty of recycling and trash cans available. Fortunately, most people kept their areas clean, making this one of the cleanest beaches I've ever visited. This is an excellent destination to revisit throughout the summer. Although it can get crowded with surfers, you must be cautious when they discover a good spot with waves to ride, no matter how small. Overall, I had a fantastic time with my family and would highly recommend this beach.

This location is a true gem, with the added bonus of fascinating tide pools to explore. It's important to come prepared with sturdy hiking boots, as the beach is littered with sharp rocks. Water shoes are also a must-have for exploring the tide pools, which are an absolute delight. The ideal time to visit is during the lowest tide, which typically occurs one day prior to a Full or New Moon. During super low tide, the tide pools are even more impressive. For those seeking a bit of adventure, the short and easy hike up to the top of the rock offers breathtaking views that are not to be missed.

This hidden gem of a beach is a true spectacle, and the best part is that it's open to the public, not just the resort guests. Upon arrival, we noticed many cars entering the resort with valet parking for a fee of $25 per day, and parking lots reserved for guests only. However, if you park on the street before reaching the valet entrance, you can park for free. There's even a sidewalk trail that bypasses the golf course and leads straight to the beach. Although it's a 5-10 minute walk, the lush plants, trees, and breathtaking views make it feel like a leisurely stroll. Once you reach the beach, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained, such as renting kayaks, practicing archery, or simply lounging around. The park managers have thoughtfully provided wooden chairs for visitors to use. There's even a rocky area to explore. Our personal favorite is a short hill climb that offers stunning views of the ocean from the cliff. We highly recommend checking out this beach, as it's truly a unique and unforgettable experience. The only thing to keep in mind is that you won't be able to see the sunset directly from this area, as it faces a different direction.

This exquisite beach is a perfect location for capturing timeless memories. It's a paradise for photographers, ideal for capturing the essence of love and joy on special occasions such as engagements, maternity and weddings. I find it to be an absolute gem and love to recommend it to my clients.