Praia do Leão

How to get to Praia do Leão

Praia do Leão is on the Mar de Fora, near Baía do Sueste. From the parking lot, a short trail of about 230 m, with a wooden ramp, leads to the sand.

The beach is part of the Marine National Park, so bring your ticket's QR Code. Buy it before your trip, as we explain in fees and tickets.

There is no shade and no facilities. Bring water, a hat that stays on and a UV shirt.

Rough sea: when you can swim

The sea at Leão is usually rough, with strong currents. Swimming is only worth it when the sea is calm, and even then with care.

If there are waves, stay on the sand. The beach is well worth it for the view and for photos, with the rock that looks like a sea lion in front.

With kids, Leão is for looking and walking. For a relaxed swim, choose neighboring Baía do Sueste.

Turtle nesting

December to June is green turtle season, and Leão is the archipelago's main nesting site. The nests are marked by Projeto Tamar.

During this season the beach closes at night. Respect the signs, don't step on the nests and keep your distance from the animals.

To understand the work with the turtles, the free Projeto Tamar talk at 8pm in Boldró is worth it.

What to combine on the same day

Sueste and Leão make a classic pair on a single outing, and they're the Plan B when the Mar de Dentro has swell. The Ilha Tour also usually stops at Leão.

Go in the morning, before the strongest sun, and save the afternoon for Sueste or for resting at your pousada.