Misleading Beachfront Advertising
This property was booked through Expedia, with VRBO handling the reservation. The listing clearly stated it was non-refundable and advertised the home as beachfront with direct beach access and easy access to the sand. It also described the location as being in a picturesque village.
After booking, the owner sent a separate contract in French with additional terms. Near the end, it stated that the property is not actually on the beach.
Upon arrival, we found the property is about 1.5 km from Praia de Rio de Moinhos. Getting to the beach requires a 20–30 minute walk, including crossing the busy N13 road, or a short drive. This does not match what most travelers would consider “beachfront” or “direct access.”
The main listing photo prominently shows a sandy beach, reinforcing the impression that the home is directly on or next to the beach. If the owner acknowledges in the contract that it is not beachfront, the listing should reflect that accurately.
The “picturesque village” description is also misleading. The home is in a modern residential area of Marinhas, not a traditional village setting.
To be fair, the property itself is very nice—clean, spacious, well-equipped, and comfortable for six people. The issue is not the home, but the accuracy of how its location and beach access are advertised.