In our opinion, the beaches in the Algarve are simply the most beautiful in the world.☺️ In this article Algarve, Portugal: 20 Best Places for Your Holiday we share our favourite spots along the coast. You don’t have to agree with us, but you’ll definitely find beaches here that you’ll fall in love with. From the magical hidden coves of Carvoeiro, through the lively and bustling coast near Portimão, to the surfing paradise around Sagres – every place has something special. Let’s take a look at the most beautiful beaches in Algarve, Portugal!
What You should Know about the Beaches in the Algarve?
When planning a seaside vacation, the Algarve in Portugal is our top pick. With over 200 stunning beaches scattered along its coastline, the Algarve boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
Here you’ll find the most diverse beaches, from coves surrounded by limestone cliffs to vast golden sandy beaches – there’s something for everyone. The region offers picturesque scenery with unique rock formations and crystal-clear turquoise waters that take your breath away.
One of the reasons why the beaches in the Algarve are so popular is the favorable climate. With sunshine for approximately 300 days a year, you can comfortably enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports, we even swam in October, but the water was already for the brave.
Algarve, Portugal: 20 Best Places for Your Holiday
Now let’s take a look at our favorite beaches in the Algarve. Here are, in our opinion, the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.
Praia Da Marinha
Praia da Marinha is one of the most iconic beaches in the Algarve, famous for its fascinating limestone cliffs, golden sand, and crystal-clear water. In high season, it must be really packed, because even in the off-season, there are quite a lot of people.
We like to go there to watch the sunset; once we even managed to get up for the sunrise. In winter, parking is free, but in summer it’s not, and there’s also a limited number of people allowed on the beach. So go early! Dogs are not allowed on the beach during summer.
Beach in the Center of Carvoeiro
If you’re staying in Carvoeiro, don’t forget to visit the local beach. Carvoeiro Beach, or Praia do Carvoeiro, is small but beautiful. We like to go there during winter.
The golden sand is gently surrounded by azure waters and impressive cliffs; you can climb up above the beach, like we did, and take beautiful photos.
In town, there are many nice cafes and great restaurants; we’re fans of Indian and sushi, but you’ll also find traditional Portuguese options.
💡 TIP: Visit the new restaurant Levels, which is right by the beach, where you can enjoy amazing coffee (the best in town) and brunch.
Praia Da Dona Ana
In Lagos, you definitely shouldn’t miss Praia da Dona Ana, which Condé Nast Traveler magazine named the best beach in the world. This iconic Algarve beach is located among impressive limestone cliffs on the beautiful Golden Coast. The most beautiful photos can be taken on the stairs leading to the beach.
Ponta Da Piedade
Another beach you shouldn’t miss near Lagos is Ponta da Piedade. It’s mainly a viewpoint where you’ll get wonderful photos, and you can also set off from here for a kayak or boat trip – you’ll go exploring caves.
I recommend booking a trip through GetYourGuide, which works reliably, and you won’t have to go around stalls in towns where there might be queues in summer..
Praia De Vale Covo in Carvoeiro
We came here almost every day when we lived in Carvoeiro. It’s our favorite beach; I consider it one of the most beautiful.
This idyllic cove is surrounded by majestic limestone cliffs, I could sit here for hours just watching the sunset and the waves, breaking against the beach and cliffs.
During high season, you can enjoy a glass of wine at a bar with a beach view. ☺️
Praida Da Rocha
One of our favorite beaches is in Portimão. Along the beach, there are many bars; it’s long, wide, and sandy. In winter, we go there for long walks with our dogs (they probably aren’t allowed in summer) and enjoy the sunset.
Meia Praia
A short distance from Lagos – you can get there from Lagos with a longer walk – is Alvor, a charming fishing village where you’ll find the long and wide sandy beach Meia Praia.
It’s ideal for families with children; it’s usually quiet here – though I don’t know about high season – but it’s so wide that you’ll definitely find your own spot.
We like to come here early in the morning when the beach is almost empty and we can enjoy a quiet walk at sunrise. A walk on the golden sand with the gentle sound of waves is actually a form of meditation.
Praia Do Carvalho
Praia do Carvalho is definitely one of the most photogenic beaches. It’s quite popular, so it can be crowded in summer, but we come here to read during winter. It’s usually quite peaceful here.
If you come here outside of the hottest periods, we recommend heading to the trail that runs around Praia do Carvalho; it’s part of the famous hiking trail called Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos “Trail of the Seven Hanging Valleys”.
This trail is one of the most beautiful and popular in the Algarve, offering breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and picturesque beaches. The trail connects Praia da Marinha and Praia de Vale Centeanes, passing right by Praia do Carvalho.
Praida De Odeceixe
Praia de Odeceixe is one of the popular beaches for families with children. It’s long and wide, so even in high season, you’ll find a spot where children can play peacefully in the sand.
The water is usually calmer here than elsewhere, and just like everywhere else in the Algarve, there’s clear water and golden sand. A short distance from here, you’ll also find another beautiful beach ideal for snorkeling – Ingrina. You can also go on a snorkeling trip through GetYourGuide.
Praia Do Barril
If you head to the eastern part of the Algarve, you shouldn’t miss Praia do Barril, which is probably one of the best beaches in Portugal for families with children. This beach even has a Blue Flag designation, meaning it’s extremely safe (more below); it’s known for its shallow waters, which is ideal if you have small children.
During high season, lifeguards are also present on the beach; at Praia do Barril, there are also showers, toilets, and several beach bars, so you won’t go hungry.
The journey to the beach is an experience in itself – you can walk across the beautiful dunes, or take a small train, which is a popular activity, especially for families with children.
What Does the Blue Flag Designation Mean for Beaches?
The Blue Flag designation is awarded to beaches and marinas that meet strict quality and safety standards. If a beach carries this prestigious designation, it guarantees that it is safe, clean, offers quality services on site, and also prioritizes environmental protection. It is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).
Praia Da Luz
The charming smaller beach Praia da Luz is a short distance from Lagos, and you’ll find more hipster establishments along the promenade. We like to go to Endless Summer, where they have good coffee and food.
It’s usually quieter here, but in high season, it’s probably not quiet anywhere. This beach is ideal for small children because the water tends to be calmer here.
Praia De Faro
This beach, located near Faro airport, is again ideal for families with children, because in addition to beautiful golden sand, there’s also relatively shallow and, for Portugal, warm water. Which is perfect for children to play and swim, and additionally, lifeguards are present during high season.
There are beach bars, restaurants, and water sports equipment rentals, such as kayaks or paddleboards. Children will also love the small playground near the beach.
Bordeira Beach
Among the most beautiful beaches, we must also include Bordeira Beach, which is completely different from all the others. It’s popular mainly among surfers; it’s not really for lounging on the beach, but even if you don’t surf, you should definitely go there.
Right from the parking lot, you have dramatic views of surfers and waves breaking against the cliffs and beach. Additionally, there are beautiful photogenic dunes where you can easily walk for two hours.
Surfer’s Beach – Arrifana
If Bordeira doesn’t appeal to you for surfing, try Arrifana, which is also among the extremely popular beaches for surfers. However, if you arrive late, parking can be a bit of a problem even in the off-season. There’s also a really nice cafe here that serves food – SEA YOU SURF CAFÉ.
Praida Do Amado
Another popular beach among surfers is Praia do Amado; this beach is ideal for surfers of all levels. Its relatively secluded location means fewer people come here, which is always a huge plus for us – we don’t seek out crowds.
Even though we don’t surf yet, we come here for a walk almost every time. It’s a bit wilder, ideal for dog walks in winter, and you can take beautiful photos here or just meditate with your eyes open.
Praia Da Amoreira
Praia da Amoreira is another great beach popular among surfers. You’ll find it near the town of Aljezur on the western coast of the Algarve.
Year-round, it offers good surfing conditions thanks to long, consistent waves. The waves here are usually suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers.
The best time for surfing is from October to May; the water here is clear, and the temperature is around 20 °C. The beach is popular among families with children and experienced surfers alike.
Where to Learn Surfing in Portugal?
If you want to learn the basics of surfing, the Algarve is ideal for it; there are many schools here that will teach you the fundamentals. You can easily book a lesson, for example, through GetYourGuide.
What to Read Next?
If you’re heading to the Algarve or are already here, we recommend checking out our article with tips on what to see here, where you’ll also find our ideal itinerary, which we use when visitors come to see us in Portugal.
We recommend combining your visit to the Algarve with a visit to Lisbon and perhaps even Porto, which is further away, but it’s doable, as Lukáš would say.
FAQ
Which Beach is Best for Surfing in the Algarve?
The best beach for surfers is Arrifana and Bordeira Beach, known for its strong waves and vast sandy areas, ideal for advanced surfers. For beginners, Praia do Amado is ideal.
Which Beach is Ideal for Families with Children?
Praia do Barril: This beach is perfect for families thanks to its shallow waters and the presence of lifeguards during high season. The beach also has a Blue Flag designation, which guarantees cleanliness and safety.
Where Can I Find a Quiet Beach Near Carvoeiro?
Praia de Vale Covo: This hidden cove is an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and beautiful scenery. It is surrounded by limestone cliffs and offers amazing views.
What is the Best Beach Near Lagos?
Praia da Dona Ana: This beach is considered one of the most beautiful in the world, with limestone cliffs and crystal-clear water. It’s a great place for relaxation and photography.
Where Can I Find a Less Crowded Beach for Surfing?
Praia do Amado: This beach is less crowded due to its relatively secluded location. It offers great surfing conditions for all levels.
What is the Best Beach for Long Walks?
Meia Praia: This long and wide sandy beach near Alvor is ideal for long walks, especially in the morning at sunrise.
What is the Best Beach Closest to Faro?
Praia de Faro: Located near Faro airport, making it easily accessible. The beach is ideal for families with children thanks to its shallow waters and nearby beach bars and restaurants.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
