The natural amphitheater of Sancho Beach has calm, blue-green water and stunning views of jagged cliffs. Steep trails with scenic lookouts surround the beach, which is flanked by the ruins of a fort. Climb to higher ground for a vantage point over the area to see the twin peaks of Dois Irmãos Hill slightly east.
Find a spot on the white stretch of sand in front of green mossy hills. Swim in the clear, blue-green water and snorkel to see colorful fish. Spot sea turtles, manta rays and small sharks in the water and crabs, birds and lizards on the trails. Beachcomb with your kids to find intriguing marine treasures. Note that the waves can be quite rough here.
Follow the Golfinho Trail at the back of the beach, stopping at the viewpoints along the way. Take the Dois Irmãos Lookout Trail up to the spot of the former São João Baptista Fort that played a role in the protection of this part of the island. It exchanged fire with São Pedro do Boldró Fort to the east.
From the fortress, admire the wonderful view of Dois Irmãos Hill. It comprises two rocks of similar size and appearance that rise from the ocean near the shore. Stay for sunset, when the two large hills form a silhouette against the darkening sky.
Bring what you need to enjoy the serenity of this beach, which does not have services or deck chairs. Access via the trails, ladders and stairs is fairly arduous, which adds to the beach’s quiet and mysterious charm. Pay a small fee to enter the beach, which partially disappears at high tide. Check at Tamar to be sure the beach is not closed during nesting season for turtles.
Sancho Beach is a 1.2-mile (2-kilometer) walk west from the airport on the northern coast of the island. Note that it lies in a fairly secluded part of the island, away from the village of Vila dos Remédios. Take a bus to a nearby stop to reach this beach, which is beside Porcos Bay and Cacimba do Padre Beach.
