Porto, a city known for its amazing beaches, is also home to some of the most beautiful outdoor pools in Portugal. Porto’s coastline can sometimes be wild and unpredictable, with rough seas and strong winds. Even on a hot day, the thought of sand whipping into your face and red flags signaling dangerous swimming conditions can make the beach less inviting.
However, you can still escape the heat and enjoy a refreshing swim at one of the local pools, offering a perfect alternative to the blustery beach. Lets dive into The 5 Best Outdoor Swimming Pools Around Porto.
Whether you’re a local seeking a refreshing escape or a traveler looking to unwind under the sun, Porto’s outdoor pools offer the perfect blend of relaxation and scenic views. In this blog, we’ll dive into the best outdoor pools the city has to offer. Discover the top places to cool off, get away from the wild sea and enjoy Porto’s vibrant atmosphere.
1
Quinta Da Conceicao – Outdoor Swimming Pool
Nestled within the lush greenery close to Matosinhos, just a short drive from Porto, the outdoor swimming pool at Quinta da Conceição is a hidden gem that combines nature and architecture in perfect harmony. Designed by the renowned Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, this pool is an example of modernist design seamlessly integrated into its natural surroundings. The pool’s minimalist aesthetic, with clean lines and simple structures, contrasts beautifully with the park’s mature trees and landscaped gardens.
The tranquil atmosphere of Quinta da Conceição makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing swim or a day of leisure. Despite its serene setting, the pool is equipped with all the necessary amenities, including changing rooms, sunbeds and a snack bar. Outsisde the pool is surrounded by grassy areas where visitors can enjoy a picnic, while the shaded pathways and nearby historical features of the park offer opportunities for exploration.
The outdoor swimming pool at Quinta da Conceição is not just a place to cool off on a hot day but a destination where architecture and nature converge, offering a unique experience that reflects the essence of Portuguese design and culture. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this pool is a must-visit when in the Porto area.
Costs
Monday to Friday
Adult All day – 6 euros
Child All day – 3.50 euros
Half Day –
Adult Half day – 4 euros
Child Half day – 2.50 euros
Weekends / National Holidays
Adult All day – 8 euros
Child All day – 4 euros
Half Day –
Adult Half day – 5 euros
Child Half day – 3 euros
The tranquil atmosphere of Quinta da Conceição makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing swim or a day of leisure. Despite its serene setting, the pool is equipped with all the necessary amenities, including changing rooms, sunbeds and a snack bar. Outsisde the pool is surrounded by grassy areas where visitors can enjoy a picnic, while the shaded pathways and nearby historical features of the park offer opportunities for exploration.
The outdoor swimming pool at Quinta da Conceição is not just a place to cool off on a hot day but a destination where architecture and nature converge, offering a unique experience that reflects the essence of Portuguese design and culture. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this pool is a must-visit when in the Porto area.
Costs
Monday to Friday
Adult All day – 6 euros
Child All day – 3.50 euros
Half Day –
Adult Half day – 4 euros
Child Half day – 2.50 euros
Weekends / National Holidays
Adult All day – 8 euros
Child All day – 4 euros
Half Day –
Adult Half day – 5 euros
Child Half day – 3 euros
2
Piscina das Marés – Outdoor Sea Swimming Pool
Piscina das Marés, located in the coastal town of Leça da Palmeira near Porto, is a masterpiece of modern architecture and one of the most iconic outdoor swimming pools in Portugal. Designed by the acclaimed Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira in the 1960s, this pool complex is celebrated for its seamless integration with the natural landscape. The pools are carved directly into the rocky shoreline, creating a unique interaction between the man-made and the natural, with the Atlantic Ocean serving as a dramatic backdrop.
The complex consists of two saltwater pools, one large and one smaller, that fill with ocean water during high tide. The pools are surrounded by rugged rocks, enhancing the feeling of being immersed in nature. Siza’s design emphasizes simplicity and functionality, with minimalistic concrete structures that blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment. The use of natural materials and the thoughtful placement of the pools within the landscape make Piscina das Marés a striking example of organic architecture.
Beyond its architectural significance, Piscina das Marés is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The pool offers a refreshing swim with stunning ocean views, while the surrounding sunbathing areas provide a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery. The site also includes essential amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and a café, ensuring a comfortable visit.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a lover of the ocean, or simply looking for a unique swimming experience, Piscina das Marés offers an unforgettable blend of design and nature.
Costs
Monday to Friday
Adult All day – 8 euros
Child All day – 5.50 euros
Half Day – From/ To 2pm
Adult Half day – 5 euros
Child Half day – 3.50 euros
Weekends / National Holidays
Adult All day – 10 euros
Child All day – 6 euros
Half Day – From/ To 2pm
Adult Half day – 6 euros
Child Half day – 4 euros
The complex consists of two saltwater pools, one large and one smaller, that fill with ocean water during high tide. The pools are surrounded by rugged rocks, enhancing the feeling of being immersed in nature. Siza’s design emphasizes simplicity and functionality, with minimalistic concrete structures that blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment. The use of natural materials and the thoughtful placement of the pools within the landscape make Piscina das Marés a striking example of organic architecture.
Beyond its architectural significance, Piscina das Marés is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The pool offers a refreshing swim with stunning ocean views, while the surrounding sunbathing areas provide a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery. The site also includes essential amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and a café, ensuring a comfortable visit.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a lover of the ocean, or simply looking for a unique swimming experience, Piscina das Marés offers an unforgettable blend of design and nature.
Costs
Monday to Friday
Adult All day – 8 euros
Child All day – 5.50 euros
Half Day – From/ To 2pm
Adult Half day – 5 euros
Child Half day – 3.50 euros
Weekends / National Holidays
Adult All day – 10 euros
Child All day – 6 euros
Half Day – From/ To 2pm
Adult Half day – 6 euros
Child Half day – 4 euros
3
Solário Atlântico – Outdoor Swimming Pool
Piscina Solário Atlântico, located in the coastal town of Espinho just south of Porto, is a popular outdoor swimming destination that combines the charm of seaside relaxation with modern amenities. The Piscina Solário Atlântico was built in 1942 by architects Eduardo Martins and Manuel Passos, although it only became a facility of the Espinho City Council in 1960.
Since then, the Piscina Solário Atlântico has undergone significant changes. The most recent renovation began in December 1997, aiming to reduce the depth of the main pool for ecological and energy reasons, bringing it down to 2.5 meters from the original 5 meters. The diving platform, positioned 2.5 meters above the water level, was deactivated for safety reasons but remains as an architectural symbol of this pool.
One of the key attractions of Piscina Solário Atlântico is its spacious sunbathing areas, where visitors can lounge and soak up the sun with the sound of the waves in the background. The pool itself is filled with seawater, providing the refreshing sensation of an ocean swim without the worry of strong currents or tides. The design of the facility is simple yet effective, blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings.
This spot is especially popular with families, as it offers a safe place for children to swim and play, along with convenient amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and a café for snacks and refreshments. The pool’s location in Espinho also makes it easily accessible by train from Porto.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a peaceful day by the water or a fun outing with family and friends, Piscina Solário Atlântico in Espinho offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty and relaxation, is this the best on our list of The 5 Best Outdoor Swimming Pools Around Porto?
Costs
Adult All day – 5.50 euros
Child All day – 4 euros
Half Day –
Adult Half day – 4 euros
Child Half day – 3 euros
Schedule
16 June to 18 September from 09 00 to 19 00
Since then, the Piscina Solário Atlântico has undergone significant changes. The most recent renovation began in December 1997, aiming to reduce the depth of the main pool for ecological and energy reasons, bringing it down to 2.5 meters from the original 5 meters. The diving platform, positioned 2.5 meters above the water level, was deactivated for safety reasons but remains as an architectural symbol of this pool.
One of the key attractions of Piscina Solário Atlântico is its spacious sunbathing areas, where visitors can lounge and soak up the sun with the sound of the waves in the background. The pool itself is filled with seawater, providing the refreshing sensation of an ocean swim without the worry of strong currents or tides. The design of the facility is simple yet effective, blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings.
This spot is especially popular with families, as it offers a safe place for children to swim and play, along with convenient amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and a café for snacks and refreshments. The pool’s location in Espinho also makes it easily accessible by train from Porto.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a peaceful day by the water or a fun outing with family and friends, Piscina Solário Atlântico in Espinho offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty and relaxation, is this the best on our list of The 5 Best Outdoor Swimming Pools Around Porto?
Costs
Adult All day – 5.50 euros
Child All day – 4 euros
Half Day –
Adult Half day – 4 euros
Child Half day – 3 euros
Schedule
16 June to 18 September from 09 00 to 19 00
Piscina Municipal da Granja, located in the picturesque coastal area of Granja, just south of Porto, is a cherished outdoor swimming facility that combines modern amenities with a serene seaside atmosphere. Nestled along the scenic coast, this pool offers locals and visitors a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with the added charm of the Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop.
The pool, which is filled with seawater, provides a unique swimming experience that captures the essence of ocean bathing without the challenges posed by strong tides and waves. The design of Piscina Municipal da Granja is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, featuring ample sunbathing areas where guests can relax and enjoy the coastal views. The pool’s location allows for easy access to the beach, making it an ideal spot for a day of leisure by the sea.
In addition to the main swimming area, the facility includes a smaller, shallow pool that is perfect for children and families. The complex is well-equipped with amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and a café, ensuring a comfortable and convenient visit for all.
Piscina Municipal da Granja is particularly popular during the summer months when locals and tourists flock to the coast to take advantage of the warm weather and beautiful surroundings. Its combination of natural beauty, modern facilities, and family-friendly atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing day by the water in the Porto region.
Costs
Full Day
Adult All day – 6 euros
Child All day – 4 euros
Half Day – from 3pm
Adult Half day – 4 euros
Child Half day – 3 euros
End of Day – from 5pm
All – 2 euros
Schedule
Monday to Sunday from 9a.m. to 7:30p.m.
The pool, which is filled with seawater, provides a unique swimming experience that captures the essence of ocean bathing without the challenges posed by strong tides and waves. The design of Piscina Municipal da Granja is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, featuring ample sunbathing areas where guests can relax and enjoy the coastal views. The pool’s location allows for easy access to the beach, making it an ideal spot for a day of leisure by the sea.
In addition to the main swimming area, the facility includes a smaller, shallow pool that is perfect for children and families. The complex is well-equipped with amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and a café, ensuring a comfortable and convenient visit for all.
Piscina Municipal da Granja is particularly popular during the summer months when locals and tourists flock to the coast to take advantage of the warm weather and beautiful surroundings. Its combination of natural beauty, modern facilities, and family-friendly atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing day by the water in the Porto region.
Costs
Full Day
Adult All day – 6 euros
Child All day – 4 euros
Half Day – from 3pm
Adult Half day – 4 euros
Child Half day – 3 euros
End of Day – from 5pm
All – 2 euros
Schedule
Monday to Sunday from 9a.m. to 7:30p.m.
5
Piscina Praia de Canide Sul
Since making its splashy debut in 2022, the saltwater tank has become the hottest new attraction on the beach, despite being refreshingly cooler than the sea! Beachgoers are flocking in droves, eager to dip their toes into this unique watery wonder.
This beachside gem, with its maximum depth of just one meter, is cleverly nestled in the sand and warmed by the sun’s rays through solar panels. Families are loving the perfectly tempered water, hovering between a blissful 28 and 29 degrees Celsius. If the tank continues to keep its cool in 2024, it’ll comfortably fit up to 50 people. But don’t dawdle—each guest gets a 30-minute splash session to make the most of this sandy oasis!
The pool is open from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM, but be prepared for a bit of a wait during peak times—everyone wants a piece of this sun-soaked paradise!This eco-friendly pool is a real gem, using sea water warmed by solar panels (talk about green energy!). The local council, led by Eduardo Vítor Rodrigues, proudly announced that the pool, a €96,468 investment, is under constant watch to ensure its sustainability.
Stepping into this pool feels like a seamless blend with the sea. The entry starts with a gentle slope on a nearly flat surface, gradually deepening to 50 centimeters midway, and reaching a maximum depth of one meter at the far end. Plus, you can lay out your towel and bask in the sun around the pool’s edge.
The concept for this beach oasis was born out of a desire to address some of the challenges typical beaches face. Miguel Lemos Rodrigues, president of the Águas de Gaia board, explained that while the region boasts some of the best beaches in the country, they had two main issues: cold water and the relentless northern winds.
Costs
Full Day
Free but only allowed to stay for 30 minutes
Schedule
Monday to Sunday from 9a.m. to 7:30p.m.
Thanks for reading The 5 Best Outdoor Swimming Pools Around Porto where is your favourite pool around Porto?
This beachside gem, with its maximum depth of just one meter, is cleverly nestled in the sand and warmed by the sun’s rays through solar panels. Families are loving the perfectly tempered water, hovering between a blissful 28 and 29 degrees Celsius. If the tank continues to keep its cool in 2024, it’ll comfortably fit up to 50 people. But don’t dawdle—each guest gets a 30-minute splash session to make the most of this sandy oasis!
The pool is open from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM, but be prepared for a bit of a wait during peak times—everyone wants a piece of this sun-soaked paradise!This eco-friendly pool is a real gem, using sea water warmed by solar panels (talk about green energy!). The local council, led by Eduardo Vítor Rodrigues, proudly announced that the pool, a €96,468 investment, is under constant watch to ensure its sustainability.
Stepping into this pool feels like a seamless blend with the sea. The entry starts with a gentle slope on a nearly flat surface, gradually deepening to 50 centimeters midway, and reaching a maximum depth of one meter at the far end. Plus, you can lay out your towel and bask in the sun around the pool’s edge.
The concept for this beach oasis was born out of a desire to address some of the challenges typical beaches face. Miguel Lemos Rodrigues, president of the Águas de Gaia board, explained that while the region boasts some of the best beaches in the country, they had two main issues: cold water and the relentless northern winds.
Costs
Full Day
Free but only allowed to stay for 30 minutes
Schedule
Monday to Sunday from 9a.m. to 7:30p.m.
Thanks for reading The 5 Best Outdoor Swimming Pools Around Porto where is your favourite pool around Porto?
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