Cais do Bico

Cais do Bico is the largest quay complex in the municipality of Murtosa, opening onto the Murtosa channel of the Ria de Aveiro lagoon. The site was once one of the most important unloading places for seaweed, salt and building materials, and in the early 20th century more than 250 traditional moliceiro boats moored here. Today the quay still serves as a working base for a large community of fishermen from Murtosa, and it provides shelter for both pleasure and fishing boats.

The current infrastructure was built by Murtosa municipality and inaugurated in May 2008, with a major upgrade carried out in 2012. The harbor includes a slipway (rampa de varadouro) for launching and hauling out boats, which is also used for local boating events.

At the quay you'll find the restaurant/café "O Bico", though it is only open for lunch, along with a bar with supporting facilities. There are also balneários (toilet and shower facilities) and good parking available in the area around the quay.

Just a short walk from the quay lies the beautiful and calm Praia do Bico, a Blue Flag beach. The area also offers a large green picnic area, nature trails along the shore ideal for walking and cycling, and good opportunities to spot flocks of flamingos and herons at low tide. Head to Cais do Bico to experience both the maritime life and the peaceful nature of the Ria de Aveiro.