Complexo Balnear da Ponta Gorda

I usually make a point of using my swimsuit at least once on holiday, and after researching the various lidos, I chose this one because it seemed to be the quietest—and we’d actually walked past it the day before. I didn’t fancy one with a crab as a lodger or rough waters that wouldn’t suit my mum. This one isn’t the closest to town amenities, but that’s probably why it stays so peaceful. We had a bit of a laugh getting in. There’s a little kiosk outside with turnstiles, and as we were fiddling with some doorknobs trying to figure out where to go, a head suddenly popped out the other side to greet us—scared the life out of both of us! We paid for two sunbeds and access, and I also bought a padlock. Ironically, I’d taken one out of my bag while packing, thinking I wouldn’t need it—so definitely bring your own to save a couple of euros. Inside the complex, it was lovely and quiet—though bear in mind this was a weekday in May with temperatures around 20°C. Still warm enough to enjoy without the crowds. We spotted some lockers, and since I had my swimsuit on underneath my clothes, I just got changed right there. Mum went off looking for the ladies' changing rooms. There was some work going on around the pool and it was a bit overcast, so most people were just sunbathing—but me and mum had a proper go in the pool. It’s one of those that’s shallow around the edges and deeper in the middle—great if you’re not a super confident swimmer. It overlooks the sea too, and you can walk further down to a section that lets you into the ocean itself, though it was a bit choppy that day. Upstairs seemed to have a spot for kids or teens, and there looked to be a café, though I couldn’t tell if it was open. At the end of the day, we went back to get our stuff from the lockers and got whistled at a bit awkwardly—turns out we’d been using lockers next to the gents. But there weren’t any clear signs saying they were for men only, so we just shrugged it off and headed over to the proper ladies' changing area. Overall, it was a chilled and peaceful experience—definitely one of the quieter lidos. I don’t think I’d cope with it in peak season, but for a calm, low-key day, it was perfect.

— Penny Lane

We purchased tickets on site before the morning rush around 11, which I would recommend, however to enter and pass through the turnstiles the staff seemed perplexed by 3 admissions in one printed barcode which their own staff provided to us. Aside from that, there were may lifeguards and clearly marked staff, which added to the feel of safety in the complex. The swimming pool was wonderful, with steps on either side leading into the pool. Additionally the area of the sea available was my favourite part with floating stations available on either side to rest on whilst in the water. However as the tide rose around 3 the water became more choppy so only confident swimmers should be entering around that time. Diving boards dotted around added to the overall fun! Overall, it was a wonderful experience, and the sun loungers were an excellent addition to the experience (including an extra cost).

— Potatoes

Ticket cost with sun bed 7.10 Swimming pool has salt water. There inside small beach shop and cafe. Best visit very early quite time.

— Aiva Jurenovska

I was informed that the see access and natural pool was not permitted after I have bought a ticket only. The safeguards closed the see with no reason because the weather was good and the see was calm.

— Даниленко Игорь

Terrible Experience! Never Again This public pool is a nightmare because of the people. We paid €11 for entry and €5.50 for two sunbeds and an umbrella, but it wasn't worth it at all. The adult pool was completely overrun with children — screaming, yelling, and jumping on people. It was loud, chaotic, and very unpleasant. We’re definitely not coming back. Disgusting place.

— Hanna Yarash