30 Best Beaches in Algarve, Portugal
A guide to the best beaches in Algarve, Portugal including secluded, Instagrammable and most beautiful beaches of the Algarve
The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, impresses with stunning coastlines, amazing Atlantic beaches, and whitewashed fishing villages perched on cliffs overlooking sandy coves.
Tourists coming here have one common goal, that of finding the best beaches in the Algarve and planning some fun things in Algarve like planning boat trips, hiking beautiful trails, etc.
A challenging quest, considering the beauty of this place and uniqueness of each stretch of sand. Please note that most beaches cannot be reached by public transport! It’s thus essential to have a car to visit the here-mentioned places.
When in the Algarve, I rent a car with Discover Cars since they have the best deals and amazing customer support. – Check rates here
This region has a beach for everyone. Whether you’re a lazy sunbather, a surfer, or a Gen Zer looking for that “Insta-worthy” shot to impress your followers, the Algarve will likely surprise you. Where to go?
Pack your favorite (sustainable!) swimsuit and check out the 30 stunning beaches below.
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Best Beaches in Algarve for cliffs
1. Ponta da Piedade, Lagos
How to get there: You can reach Ponta da Piedade by car, taxi, boat, or walking. There is no public transport in the region, thus I recommend renting a car. – Check deals here
Where: 4 km south of Lagos
Facilities: There is a car park, a few gift shops and a restaurant. Overnight camping is not possible on Ponta da Piedade.
Ponta da Piedade is by far one of the best places in Algarve to visit if you’re fascinated by rugged coastlines and the rough beauty of wild nature.
Almost untouched by humankind, Ponta da Piedade reveals splendid rock arches, hidden grottos, and sea pillars shaped over the years by the savage ocean and winter storms.
Ponta da Piedade can only be appreciated in its true glory from the sea, where the turquoise waters overlap with the precariously balanced golden cliffs in an explosion of color.
The cliffs surrounding this beach, also hold some of the most scenic hiking in Algarve, and it is one of the top things to do in Lagos Portugal.
In a word, Ponta da Piedade can only be described as stunning.
Check vacation rentals in Algarve here
2. Praia de Marinha, Lagoa
How to get there: The quickest way to get to Praia de Marinha from Lagos is by car, including a taxi. The cheapest is with bus line 77. Otherwise, you could simply walk.
Where: Caramujeira
Facilities: Praia de Marinha is surrounded by hotels, resorts, and other tourist facilities.
One of the best places to stay is the Suites Alba Resort and Spa, located at less than 1 km from Praia de Marinha.
Before you start searching for the best place to stay in Algarve, you should work out which area suits your interests the best to enhance your experience.
Known for its Mediterranean climate and superb cliffs, Praia de Marinha is one of the most emblematic places to go in the Algarve.
The beach can only be reached by a steep wooden staircase, but it’s well worth the effort.
From down there, you can admire spectacular rock formations, hidden sea caves, grottoes, and pinnacles.
A small tunnel under the rocks even connects Praia de Marinha with another gem, the tiny Praia de Mesquita.
Alternatively, if you’d rather have a walk than going down the stairs, you can enjoy stunning views from the top.
To avoid crowds, visit in the off-season; this is one of the top things to do in Algarve in December.
Check family activities in Algarve here
3. Praia dos Tres Irmaos (Prainha), Alvor
How to get there: By car, taxi, or foot from Alvor or Portimao. Some facilities offer shuttle services to and from Praia dos Tres Irmaos.
Where: 2 km from Alvor, one of the finest resort towns of the Algarve.
Facilities: The Pestana Alvor Praia is located only 4 minutes away from Praia dos Tres Irmaos, and offers a number of facilities to its guests.
More budget-friendly accommodation is offered by the Pestana Alvor Park Hotel in Alvor and the Plaza Real Atlantic Hotel in Portimao.
Praia dos Tres Irmaos is one of Portugal‘s best-kept secrets. Located in a sheltered bay and stretching along 7 km, it impresses with stunning rock formations, rugged cliffs, and many hidden coves waiting to be explored.
Praia dos Tres Irmaos‘s name was given by the “Three Brothers”, a peculiar rock formation rising from the sea, and characterized by soft golden sand.
Walking barefoot, sunbathing, and swimming in the crystal clear waters are just some of the things to do on Praia dos Tres Irmaos. Easily accessible, it’s perfect for families with small children, and also one of the best snorkeling spots in the region.
Check family activities in Algarve here
4. Praia Dona Ana, Lagos
How to get there: By car, urban bus services, or foot
Where: 2 km from central Lagos
Facilities: The Carvi Beach Hotel Algarve, located right next to the beach, offers comfortable accommodation and rooms with a view, and features a rooftop swimming pool, ideal for anyone looking for Algarve hotels on Praia Dona Ana.
The Costa d’Oiro Ambiance Village impresses with Mediterranean architecture, gardens, terraces, and swimming pools, perfect for families.
By far, one of the most picturesque beaches in the Algarve, Praia Dona Ana, is nestled within the limestone cliffs of Ponta da Piedade headland.
Expect turquoise waters, soft golden sand, and all modern beach facilities, from sunbeds to fancy restaurants on Praia Dona Ana.
Praia Dona Ana is ideal for families, as well as swimmers, lazy sunbathers, snorkelers, and anyone else looking to admire stunning cliffs and enjoy an amazing beach.
Praia Dona Ana is also perfect to charter a boat!
Check boat rentals in Algarve here
Most Instagram-Worthy Beaches in Algarve
5. Praia de Benagil
How to get there: By foot from Benagil or by car from Carvoeiro, Armaçao de Pera (one of the best things to do in Silves) or Lagoa. – Check cave tours in Benagil here
Where: Benagil
Facilities: The Rocha Brava Village Resort offers 4-star accommodation facilities and all you need for an unforgettable holiday in the Algarve.
The Montinho Boutique B&B might be a better choice if you’re looking for a quieter location, or you could opt for Terraços de Benagil, located at a stone throw’s away from Praia de Benagil.
Praia de Benagil attracts with soft sand and turquoise waters, but its gem is the sensational Algar de Benagil.
It’s likely you’ve already seen this cave featured in many tourist guides about the Algarve, and a picture here will surely leave your Instagram followers in awe.
Dubbed as one of the best places to see in a lifetime, this wonder of nature is one of the most amazing places to see in the Algarve.
This postcard perfect location also attracts snorkelers, thanks to the impressive quality of the water.
The best times to visit Praia de Benagil you want to snap that Insta-worthy shot is at sunrise or sunset when the beams of sunlight entering from “the eye” create a whimsical atmosphere that’s impossible to find elsewhere.
Check cave tours in Benagil here
6. Praia do Camilo, Lagos
How to get there: By car from Faro or Lagos.
Where: Lagos
Facilities: The Cascade Wellness Resort is an ideal choice for wellness enthusiasts and families.
Praia do Camilo is a picture-perfect destination in Lagos and one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve.
Praia do Camilo is accessible via a long wooden staircase counting 200 steps and finishes with a wooden walkway to the beach. Surrounded by rock formations and bathed by Atlantic’s turquoise waters, the beach is stunning at sunrise and sunset.
Perfect for swimmers, Praia do Camilo impresses with shallower and warmer waters than other beaches in the Algarve, or, if you don’t feel like taking the stairs down to the beach, you can always take an Insta-worthy picture from the top of the cliffs overlooking the stunning bay.
Check water sport activities in Algarve here
7. Praia dos Estudantes, Lagos
How to get there: The easiest way to get to Praia dos Estudantes is by foot, from Lagos. You can either take the stairway from Mar Restaurante & Bar to the beach or go to Praia de Batata and cross the tunnel to Praia dos Estudantes.
Where: Lagos
Facilities: The Lagos Avenida Hotel stands out with top-of-the-class facilities and stunning views over the harbor, and is ideal for singles and couples.
Families and groups can enjoy the four-star apartments at the Aqualuz Suite Hotel Apartamentos, while the Mar Restaurante & Bar near Praia dos Estudantes is one of the best beach restaurants in the Algarve.
Famous for its Roman bridge built right on the beach, Praia dos Estudantes is the perfect spot for an afternoon walk. It is quite small, but absolutely stunning, surrounded by ancient history, cliffs, and virgin vegetation.
With calm waters and protected by winds, Praia dos Estudantes is also a great choice for families. Water is a bit cooler, but the tranquility of this place makes it easy to overcome the inconvenience.
If you’re still wondering where to stay in Algarve, have a look at my favorite Airbnbs in Algarve here.
Best Beaches in Algarve for lazy sunbathing
8. Praia da Batata, Lagos
How to get there: By foot from Lagos
Where: Lagos
Facilities: The Tivoli Lagos Hotel is conveniently located near Praia da Batata and in the close proximity of all interest points in Lagos.
The Cascade Wellness Resort offers an excellent alternative to all kinds of travelers, from families with kids to couples as well as solo travelers.
The gateway to Praia dos Estudantes, Praia da Batata, is one of the best beaches in the Algarve for lazy sunbathers. Situated in a sheltered cove and protected by stunning rock formations, it attracts tourists and locals alike.
Ideal for families and not-so-experienced swimmers, Praia da Batata protected from Atlantic’s big waves and strong currents.
An urban beach in the true sense of the word, Praia da Batata attracts youths and adults alike with many activities, from beach sports to kayaking, paddle boarding, or diving.
For refreshments, lunch, or a well-deserved cocktail, go to the Batata Beach Bar or the Mar Restaurante & Bar.
9. Praia da Falesia, Albufeira
How to get there: The easiest way to get to Praia da Falesia from Albufeira is to follow the signs for the Pine Cliffs Hotel, A Luxury Collection Resort, Algarve which is one of the best beach hotels in the Algarve.
Where: Albufeira
Facilities: The Pine Cliffs Hotel, A Luxury Collection Resort, Algarve is by far your best choice if you want to stay close to Praia da Falesia.
But, you can check out my guide on the best hotels in Albufeira to find the perfect place for your holiday.
The Epic Sana Algarve Hotel offers much more than accommodation, as it’s home to the Al Quimia Restaurant, a place where to taste some of the most original dishes designed by a Portuguese chef.
Reminding of the Grand Canyon, Praia da Falesia is made famous by its red cliffs and particularly soft sand.
Stretching over miles of land, this splendid beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or practicing some sports.
Families also love Praia da Falesia, thanks to the calm, transparent waters of the ocean.
Those craving for some nighttime beach fun will also love the buzzing nightlife near Praia da Falesia ranging from open-air discos to all sorts of events taking place from late spring all throughout the summer.
Make sure to check out all the other amazing things to do in Albufeira when you’re not hanging out at the beach.
Check boat trips in Algarve here
10. Praia da Rocha, Portimao
How to get there: By foot or Portimao’s urban transport
Where: Portimao
Facilities: The Bela Vista Hotel & Spa offers 5-star accommodation and a wealth of facilities, including a section of private beach.
The Jupiter Algarve Hotel is a more budget-friendly alternative for couples and families. Praia da Rocha is surrounded by bars, restaurants, and large parking.
Praia da Rocha is not only the best beach in Portimao; it’s the place where mass tourism in the Algarve was born.
This is one of my favourite day trips from Lagos Portugal for a relaxing day on the beach.
It’s perfect for lazy sunbathing, practicing water sports, spending quality time with your family, or enjoying the buzzing nightlife.
Wide and long, it boasts expanses of soft golden sand and crystal clear waters. The water temperature can be quite cold, yet Praia da Rocha is one of the best beaches for swimming in the Algarve.
If you plan on staying in the area, I recommend the Bela Vista Hotel & Spa, which is one of the best 5-star hotels in Algarve. This also allows you to explore all the fun things to do in Portimao.
Best Beaches in Algarve for Party Lovers
11. Meia Praia, Lagos
How to get there: Meia Praia is just a couple of minutes on foot from Lagos marina. You can also reach the beach by bus, train, car, and water taxi.
Where: Lagos
Facilities: The Palmares Beach House Hotel makes for a great stay in the Meia Praia area, and offers many hiking and cycling possibilities.
Above the eastern side of Meia Praia, there is a golf course, and you can expect all modern beach facilities, from restaurants to bars and clubs, sunbeds, and watersports.
Undoubtedly one of the best beaches in the Algarve for party lovers, Meia Praia, boasts numerous clubs and beach bars where you can have a drink or enjoy a full night out.
Perhaps the most renowned is the Palmares Beach Club, in the middle section of Meia Praia. Here, you can enjoy endless hours of entertainment, amazing cocktails, exquisite music, as well as good food.
Best Beaches in Algarve for families
12. Praia da Coelha, Albufeira
How to get there: Praia da Coelha can only be accessed by foot from the resort village of Sesmarias.
Where: Albufeira
Facilities: Facilities include sunbeds, parasols, café bars, and restaurants directly on the beach.
Charming Praia da Coelha might be harder to access than other beaches, but its secluded nature is exactly what makes it perfect for families.
Surrounded by golden cliffs, Praia da Coelha features azure waters and fine golden sand that it’s incredible to walk onto. Relatively quiet during the week and incredibly popular among locals, Praia da Coelha is perfect for families with young children.
Snorkelers will also like Praia da Coelha thanks to the calm waters and abundant sea life. In the colder months, Praia da Coelha is an ideal spot for walking and gathering seashells.
Check family activities in Algarve here
13. Praia de Sao Rafael, Albufeira
How to get there: Praia de Sao Rafael is easily accessible by car or taxi from anywhere in Albufeira.
Where: Albufeira
Facilities: The Sao Rafael Villas, Apartments & GuestHouse offers comfortable accommodations for families, as well as numerous facilities. For a stay closer to Praia de Sao Rafael, go to the Nau Sao Rafael Atlantico, while Praia de Sao Rafael is a great place to eat.
Surrounded by mesmerizing rock formations that protect it by winds, Praia de Sao Rafael attracts hordes of tourists and locals each season. It features pink gold sand and incredibly clear water.
Few currents and typically small waves make Praia de Sao Rafael safe even for the youngsters.
Located farther away from Albufeira than other beaches, Praia de Sao Rafael is less crowded, and you can choose to rent a sunbed or bring your own parasol.
Good water temperature, especially in summer, also makes Praia de Sao Rafael perfect for snorkeling and swimming. No doubt, one of the best spots in the Algarve.
Check water sports in Algarve here
14. Praia Santa Eulalia, Albufeira
How to get there: Praia de Santa Eulalia is easily accessible by car from Albufeira.
Where: Albufeira
Facilities: Expect all modern facilities, from sunbeds and parasol to boat rentals and tours, beach sports, beach restaurants, bars, clubs, and nearby hotels.
Long and wide, Praia de Santa Eulalia has the reputation of being the best beach for families around Albufeira. It’s clean and well-maintained, it descends slowly into the sea, and the water temperature is relatively warm.
Renowned for being a very green beach, Praia de Santa Eulalia is surrounded by palm trees, flowers, and typical pines. If you don’t want to rent a sunbed, finding a shady spot shouldn’t be too hard.
Near Praia de Santa Eulalia, there is also a leisure resort as well as art galleries that offer plenty of things to do to keep your kids entertained.
Check family activities in Algarve here
15. Praia de Odeceixe, Odeceixe
How to get there: Located near the village of Odeceixe, Praia de Odeceixe is reachable by car. You can park either on the southern cliffs or on the roadside.
Where: Aljezur
Facilities: The guesthouse Sol Mar is an excellent vacation spot for families looking to spend some time in Odeceixe. Beach facilities include everything from bars and restaurants to sunbeds, water sports, beach sports, as well as showers and toilets.
Bent like a horseshoe and nestled in stunning scenery, Praia de Odeceixe will surely impress all of your family. Kids can have fun building sandcastles or they can bathe in the warm water.
Praia de Odeceixe is also famous for its lagoons forming in the sand during low tide and that provides true entertainment to the little ones.
Rockpools also attract youngsters and adults alike. Less crowded than other beaches, Praia de Odeceixe is the perfect spot for a relaxing vacation.
Check boat trips in Algarve here
Best Beaches in Algarve for surfers
16. Praia da Arrifana, Sagres
How to get there: Praia da Arrifana can be easily reached by car or taxi from Aljezur or Sagres. There is no public transport. – Check car rentals here
Where: Aljezur
Facilities: Praia da Arrifana complies with all environmental standards and offers plenty of facilities, including sunbeds, water sports, restaurants, and more.
The HI Arrifana Destination Hostel offers both private rooms and beds in shared dormitories and is preferred by surfers who want to stay as close as possible to Praia da Arrifana.
One of the best beaches for surfing in the Algarve, Praia da Arrifana, is known for its southwest-facing position and high cliffs that protect it from the northern winds.
Praia da Arrifana can cater to every surfer’s needs and is ideal for beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike.
If you’ve never surfed before, the Arrifana Surf School offers private lessons and also rents everything from surfboards to wetsuits.
Check surf classes in Algarve here
17. Praia de Amado, Espinho
How to get there: Located south of the village of Carrapateira, Praia do Amado can be reached by car or by foot from the village.
Where: Carrapateira
Facilities: Near Praia do Amado, the Casa da Estrela offers affordable accommodation in rooms with a view. Numerous restaurants surround Praia do Amado, and you can also expect all modern facilities.
Praia do Amado is known for its big, consistent waves that allow surfers to challenge their skills or have some fun in all seasons.
Surfing conditions are so good on Praia do Amado that it’s easy to attend international tournaments as well as ad-hoc competitions.
However, Praia do Amado might not be the best place for beginners, as the big waves can be quite dangerous for newbies.
If you want to get started with surfing, check surf classes in Algarve with AdrenalineHunter.
Check surf classes in Algarve here
18. Praia do Castelejo, Sagres
How to get there: The best way to get to Praia do Castelejo is by car or taxi from Sagres.
Where: Sagres
Facilities: Praia do Castelejo has all the facilities you’d expect from a Blue Flag, including ample parking, toilets, restaurants, cafes, and even a lifeguard during summer.
Praia do Castelejo is a secluded beach that attracts hordes of new surfers year after year as surfing is one of the top things to do in Sagres.
Protected from strong currents and really big waves, Praia do Castelejo is perfect for beginners.
Whether you decide to surf with a buddy or ask an instructor for help, learning the basics should be pretty easy.
Check surf schools in Algarve here
The only thing to pay attention to on Praia do Castelejo is the seabed, which can be quite rocky in some areas.
19. Praia do Beliche, Sagres
How to get there: Praia do Beliche is located at only 5 minutes by car from Sagres. It is very well signposted, parking is free, and there is plenty of parking space nearby.
Where: Sagres
Facilities: Praia do Beliche has plenty of facilities, from restaurants and cafes to showers, toilets, lifeguards, and surf gear rentals.
Surfers looking for accommodation near Praia do Beliche might like Cercas Velhas, a tourist facility offering clean rooms with a private bathroom.
Surrounded by impressive cliffs, Praia do Beliche has the feel of remote, unspoiled territory.
The view is magnificent, and so is surfing here. Ideal for intermediate or expert surfers, you’ll have a chance to ride many waves, and can even entertain yourself by simply watching the surfers.
Newbies can also attend a class or two at the nearby surf school. At the end of the day, don’t forget to find the fortress of Beliche, located only two minutes’ drive from Praia do Beliche.
Check surf schools in Algarve here
20. Praia do Tonel, Sagres
How to get there: Praia do Tonel is situated near the fortress of Sagres, and can be reached by car. There are plenty of free parking spaces in the area. Alternatively, you can use a taxi or hotel shuttles.
Where: Sagres
Facilities: Near Praia do Tonel, the Mareta View Boutique Bed & Breakfast is the perfect place for a cozy holiday. Like most beaches in the Algarve, you can expect multiple on-beach facilities, from bare necessities to restaurants and bars.
Praia do Tonel can only be defined as a surfer’s paradise. Waves can get quite big all year round, offering sensational experiences to surfers of all levels.
A surfing school makes it easy to learn the basics or rent equipment.
Check surfing schools in Algarve here
Experienced surfers can have a wealth of fun on Praia do Tonel in winter when the ocean’s waves are truly impressive. However, remember to pay attention to currents, as the lifeguard facility is only seasonal!
21. Praia da Amoreira, Aljezur
How to get there: Like most beautiful beaches in the Algarve, Praia da Amoreira can be reached by car. Drive towards Rogil, and just follow the road signs for the beach.
Where: Aljezur
Facilities: Attracting surfers as well as water sports lovers, Praia da Amoreira has numerous facilities for athletes and families alike. There is also a restaurant as well as nearby hotels.
Part of the the Costa Vicentina natural park, Praia da Amoreira, is one of the best spots for surfing in the Algarve.
Smaller waves make it perfect for surfers of all levels, and as it usually happens, it features bigger waves in winter. Praia da Amoreira is thus perfect to visit in case you visit the Algarve in winter.
Conveniently located on Praia da Amoreira, the Atlantic Riders surf school offers lessons as well as equipment rentals. If you’re not confident enough to surf alone, just book a session and enjoy the waves with an instructor.
Check surfing schools in Algarve here
When you’ve got tired of riding waves, head over to the southern side viewpoint to enjoy a lovely view over Praia da Amoreira.
22. Praia de Vale Figueiras, Carrapateira
How to get there: Praia de Vale Figueiras is very easy to reach by car from either Aljezur or Carrapateira.
Where: Carrapateira
Facilities: While Praia de Vale Figueiras is one of the best spots for surfing in Portugal, it has no facilities except for parking and lifeguard during summer.
Surfers of all levels love Praia de Vale Figueiras for its consistent waves. It has little to no facilities, but perhaps that’s exactly why it is so popular.
While there are no surfing schools on Praia de Vale Figueiras, many surfing schools in the Algarve come here for practice, so it can be quite easy to find an instructor to train with you.
The lack of facilities may come as a blessing, though, as Praia de Vale Figueiras is really quiet, even during summer.
Few visitors, mostly due to the fact that Praia de Vale Figueiras has to be accessed via a dirt road, makes it a good place to escape the crowds and enjoy your favorite watersport in all peace of mind.
Check surf lessons in Algarve here
Best offbeat Beaches in Algarve
23. Praia Grande, Lagos
How to get there: Praia Grande is one of the most difficult to access. The best way to get there is by boat. If you’d like to get there by yourself, make sure to get a map of the Algarve coastline to make sure you’re on the right track.
Where: Lagos
Facilities: Praia Grande has no facilities
Praia Grande, near Lagos, is one of Portugal’s best-kept secrets. This stunning, secluded beach is nestled in a cove formed by tall rock formations. Reaching it via land is near impossible, that’s why few people visit it.
However, Praia Grande is easily accessible from the sea, and you can even enjoy a wonderful boat trip on your way here.
24. Praia da Barreta/ Praia da Ilha Deserta, Faro
How to get there: Praia da Barreta/Praia da Ilha Deserta can only be reached from the sea. There is a ferry from Faro that takes about 45 minutes to get there.
Where: Faro
Facilities: Facilities on Praia da Barreta/Praia da Ilha Deserta include a restaurant where you can taste delicious seafood, sunbeds, and lifeguards.
Ilha Deserta, or Ilha da Barreta on its official name, is one of the five barrier islands of Ria Formosa and the only uninhabited one.
A visit here is one of the best things to do in Faro in February.
Needless to say that Praia da Barreta/Praia da Ilha Deserta has managed to maintain its virgin beauty over the centuries, and impresses with one of the most beautiful beaches in the region.
Stretching over about 6 km, Praia da Barreta/Praia da Ilha Deserta‘s main appeal is its remoteness and unspoiled nature.
The soft white sand is very pleasant to walk on, while the peaceful ocean invites you to take a bath.
The water is so clear here that Praia da Barreta/Praia da Ilha Deserta is perfect for diving and snorkeling. In contrast with the rest of the region, the island has no rocks or cliffs, yet it’s one of the best places to go to Algarve.
Check vacation rentals in Algarve nearby
25. Praia de Vale Figueiras, Aljezur
How to get there: You can get near Praia de Vale Figueiras by car, then reach the beach on foot.
Where: Aljezur
Facilities: Parking and lifeguard during summer
Perhaps one of the most accessible off-the-beaten-track beaches in the Algarve, Praia de Vale Figueiras is situated half-way between Aljezur and Carrapateira and is one of the few beaches on the mainland that maintained its virgin beauty.
Praia de Vale Figueiras is ideal for solo travelers, couples, and water sports enthusiasts. Surfers, above all, find here a true paradise.
Praia de Vale Figueiras has no facilities except for parking and a summer lifeguard, but that’s where its beauty comes from. After all, you can find plenty of restaurants, hotels, bars, and clubs in the proximity.
26. Praia de Ilha de Tavira, Tavira
How to get there: By boat or water taxi from Tavira or Quatro Aguas.
Where: Tavira
Facilities: Praia de Ilha de Tavira boasts loads of facilities, such as restaurants, beach shops, bars, and an ATM.
Praia de Ilha de Tavira is the main beach on the island, stretching for as far as the eyes can see, and is one of the top things to do in Tavira.
The white sand and azure waters give Praia de Ilha de Tavira a mesmerizing allure. Although cold, the water is calm and crystal clear, making this destination perfect for families with children.
Backed by sand dunes rather than cliffs, Praia de Ilha de Tavira has an unearthly look, and it will surely make you feel like in a fairytale.
Besides sunbathing and swimming, you can also enjoy long walks on Praia de Ilha de Tavira or make a day trip to the stunning Ria Formosa.
Check vacation rentals in Algarve here
27. Praia de Cacela Velha, Manta Rota
How to get there: If you don’t mind long walks, you can reach Praia de Cacela Velha on foot from Praia de Manta Rota. Otherwise, by boat from Sitio da Fabrica.
Where: Cacela Velha
Facilities: No facilities.
Praia de Cacela Velha is one of the jewels of Ria Formosa, a beach known for its warm water and wild beauty.
Very calm and peaceful; Praia de Cacela Velha features white sand expanses that change shape with the tides. It is stunning at sunset or sunrise and is one of the best beaches in Europe to explore on foot.
Near Praia de Cacela Velha, the old Portuguese village Cacela Velha looks like a place trapped in history, but that is amazing to explore.
Best Beaches in Algarve for Luxury travelers
28. Praia Quinta do Lago, Almancil
How to get there: The easiest way to get to Praia Quinta do Lago is by car from Almancil.
Where: Almancil
Facilities: Praia Quinta do Lago boasts all facilities expected from a luxury beach, from sunbeds and parasols to restaurants, cafes, bars, beach shops, and more.
The ideal spot for those who want to enjoy a luxury vacation in the Algarve, Praia Quinta do Lago impresses with a fine landscape made up of dunes and lush vegetation.
The fine sand is pleasant to walk on, while Praia Quinta do Lago is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
The Conrad Algarve offers luxury accommodation near Praia Quinta do Lago, as well as a variety of activities ranging from golf to fitness and yoga classes.
29. Praia do Ancao, Almancil
How to get there: Praia do Ancao is situated about 30 minutes away from Faro by car. Hotel shuttles and taxis are other options to get here.
Where: Faro
Facilities: Amenities on Praia do Ancao include a variety of restaurants, beach shops, as well as luxury resorts nearby.
A seemingly endless stretch of sand, Praia do Ancao impresses with pristine sand dunes, fine golden sand, and plenty of facilities.
Luxury beachgoers can enjoy the many nearby resorts near Praia do Ancao, while dining options include the Algarve’s most famous fish and seafood restaurant, 2 Passos.
Praia do Ancao is also popular for watersports, from paddleboarding to kayaking and waterskiing.
30. Praia de Vale de Lobo, Vilamoura
How to get there: Praia de Vale do Lobo is easily reachable by car or taxi from Vilamoura, Almancil, and Quarteira.
Where: Vilamoura
Facilities: Sunbeds, restaurants, bars, clubs, and all other facilities expected from a luxury resort.
Consistently awarded with a blue flag since 1987, Praia de Vale do Lobo is one of the best places for a luxury holiday in the Algarve, Portugal. Its greatest highlights are lush nature and impressive expanses of sand.
The Vale do Lobo is also one of the most renowned Algarve resorts on Praia de Vale do Lobo. It is famous for its impressive golf courses, and this is definitely the place where to go to the Algarve if you want to find premiere and exclusive resorts.
Sunbathing and swimming in Algarve – All You Need to Know!
Best time to visit Algarve:
Thanks to the mild climate that southern Portugal enjoys, the Algarve is a great destination all year round.
If you’d like to avoid the crowds of tourists and the scorching sun, go-between late April and early June or from mid-September to late October.
Here’s our guide on things to do in Algarve in April.
Algarve in October is a perfect time to enjoy the beach as the weather is cooler (but not yet cold), and most of the crowds are gone.
If you don’t really mind the droves of crowds, but want to enjoy warmer water, summer is the best season to go. On the other hand, surfers might best enjoy the Algarve’s coastline in winter.
Water temperatures:
Bathed by the Atlantic ocean, the Algarve isn’t exactly renowned for its warm waters. Spring and fall may not be the best seasons to go if you want to swim, as water temperatures usually range between 16°C and 20°C.
In summer, you can expect between 20°C and 22°C. The water usually stays warm all the way through September, and if you decide to visit in other seasons, you can always sunbathe and enjoy golf or hiking, two popular activities in the region.
Main tourist hubs:
Faro, the Algarve’s capital, is by far the main tourist hub in the region, known for its Old Town sitting on Moorish and Roman foundations, exquisite beaches, natural parks, and lively nightlife.
Albufeira is the destination of choice for many holidaymakers. Centrally located within the region, it boasts some of the fanciest resorts, top-notch leisure facilities, restaurants, bars, and clubs.
In the western Algarve, Lagos is perhaps the most famous town. From a collection of medieval castles to stunning cliffs and scenic beaches, it’s the place to go if you want to enjoy dolphin-watching, sightseeing cruises, or inexpensive shopping.
There are dozens of other reasons as well to visit Portugal as soon as possible.
Safety precautions:
The Algarve is generally considered a safe region. Like most tourist hubs, it’s known for petty theft, so you might want to keep an eye on your belongings.
Swimmers and surfers visiting the west coast should be aware of temperamental environmental conditions, including strong winds and sometimes strong ocean currents. Westwards from Lagos, cliff instability might also be an issue.
How many beaches are there in Algarve?
The Algarve is one of the most popular beach destinations in Europe for a reason.
It counts 107 beaches, ranging from golden sand expanses ideal for sunbathers and families to hidden coves, small strips of land ideal for surfers, as well as few rockier beaches.
In other words, it is quite easy to find the perfect beach for anyone.
Map – Beaches of the Algarve
Short FAQ about the Best Beaches in Algarve
What are the best beaches in Algarve for families?
Praia da Batata, Praia Santa Eulalia and Praia de Odeceixe are the best beaches in Algarve for families
What are the best beaches near Faro, Algarve?
Praia da Barreta and Praia do Ancao are nearest beaches near Faro.
What are the best beaches in Albufeira, Algarve?
Some of the best beaches in Albufeira are Praia da Falesia and Praia de Sao Rafael.
Before You Go: Top Tips for your Trip
- You’ll snap tons of photos and I love to take my GoPro in order to shoot even in extreme situations.
- Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and hiking sandals when traveling to warm countries. Consider trying some of these eco-friendly vegan hiking boots.
- Sunscreen is key! I always take with me my eco-friendly sunscreen by Thinksport.
- I always carry a light rain jacket, just in case. Pack smart with these organic cotton clothing companies.
- Be environmentally friendly and get one of these awesome backpacks made from recycled materials.
- Get in the mindset with these amazing wilderness survival books.
- Travel insurance is essential! If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, travel is protected against all odds with HeyMondo.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
