Best Beaches in Algarve

Algarve’s coastline is dotted with an endless series of golden sun-baked beaches, turquoise waters with dramatic cliffs in the background.

The best way to explore these picturesque beaches on the coastline is by car. Hidden beaches in the most secluded locations is what makes these beaches even more magical. There are over 150 beaches to choose from, here are our top best beaches in Algarve which we think definitely worth a visit.

 

1Praia da Marinha, Lagoa  

Best for: Families, Sunbathers and Photographers

You have to see this beach to believe it. There is a reason why Praia da Marinha is one of the most photographed beaches in Algarve. It is a small cove beach which nestles at the base of some dramatically stunning cliffs. The contract between the azure water and the golden cliffs is just unbelievable.

This beach is only accessible by car due to its secluded location, and access to this glorious heaven is down a steep pathway along the cliff. It is the hidden location which makes this beach so special, away from the crowds yet plenty to see.

You will find a small cafe right at the entrance of the beach and some small vendors by the car park, but the beach amenities at Praia da Marinha are very limited so make sure to carry some food and water with you.

Our recommendation:

Before you head down to the beach, have a little stroll along the trail on the cliffs (follow this trail to reach Benagil beach and cave). The entrance to the trail is located just off the car park. This view from here is miles away from reality!

 

 

2Praia da Falesia, Albufeira

Praia da Falesia, best beaches in algarve

Best for: Surfing, Running, Families

The colours at Praia da Falesia are different to the other beaches along the coast of Algarve. This beach is backed by fascinating gouged red cliffs which are dotted with pine forests. Praia da Falesia stretches from west of Vilamoura to all the way Olhos de Água making it 6 km long.

There’s plenty to do at either end of this beach, enjoy the waves, take a long walk, windsurf, kite surf or ride a bike along the coastal path. With plenty of beach restaurants open, lifeguards in the busier summer season, it is perfect for families.

The car park is located at the top of the cliffs and offers one of the region’s most impressive view of the coast as you descend to the beach. You can almost see the whole 6 km long golden beach from the viewpoint on the west end of the beach.

 
 

 

3Praia dos Olhos de Água, Albufeira 

Praia dos Olhos de Água

best beaches in algarve

Best for: Families, Couples, Photographers

Not too far away from Praia da Falesia is Praia dos Olhos de Água which translates to ‘Eyes of water’. The beach gets its name due to the freshwater springs which are found amongst the rocks towards the eastern end of the beach.  At low tide, you can see them bubbling up through the sand.

This is a busier beach than the others on the Algarve coast, but for all the good reasons. With plenty of restaurants just a stone’s throw away, you can feel the buzz of the small town,  watch the fishermen going about their day yet enjoy the relaxing beach.

 Olhos de Água used to be a small fisherman’s village, which is still witnessed by the brightly coloured fishermen’s huts and the fishing boats. The bright blue huts against the red cliffs are simply worth taking a photo.

Our recommendation:

Just past the blue huts is a small hill, don’t be afraid to climb this. It offers the most spectacular views of both Praia da Falesia on the left and Praia dos Olhos de Água on the right.

 

 

4Praia do Camilo, Lagos

Praia do Camilo algarve

Best for: Snorkelling, Families

Praia do Camilo is a small yet stunning beach. This picturesque beach is framed by majestic limestone rocks and looks amazing whether you are standing on top of the staircase or on the beach. You will find the most amazing views over the beach and the bay of Lagos from the top of the stairs, with boats jetting and peculiar shaped rocks it is simply beautiful.

There are almost 200 stairs to get to the beach, but once you have the soft white sand between your toes, the climb down will be worth it. A small tunnel connects you to a second beach, which is the same size as Praia do Camilo but rockier, so generally is the less crowded of the two. There is only one restaurant, Camilo at the top of the stairs, which offers delicious fresh seafood. Other amenities are limited, so make sure you grab some snacks and drinks.

 Our recommendation:

Just around the corner via the same staircase is Ponta da Piedade, a regional landmark, it is one thing you have to see when you are in Algarve.  It is best viewed by looking inland from a boat. Find out more about Ponta da Piedade here.