In Portugal, only a third of the zones have access to the beaches.

Turismo de Portugal’s Accessible Beach program covers 239 bathing sites this year. This is a plus compared to 77 zones twenty years ago, but experts believe that current figures are insufficient.

The Salvador Association says many areas are only accessible formally. Shoppers and guests complain: the paths are too far from the water or covered with sand, parking is limited, and special seats are often not serviced.