The Best Beaches in the Algarve, Portugal
Note: This post was written in partnership with the Algarve Tourism Bureau. However, as always, all opinions are my own.
On a recent trip to Portugal, I made it my mission to find all of the best beaches in the Algarve. Why? Because I had been hearing for a long time that the Algarve region of Portugal has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
And I wasn’t disappointed. Every single beach we visited in the Algarve was absolutely stunning.
The Algarve’s beaches have soft golden sand, towering orange cliffs, and crystal clear water.
If you’re planning a trip or just want to inspire your wanderlust, read on to discover the best beaches in the Algarve, Portugal!
Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha is one of the most famous beaches in Portugal. That’s why it tops my list of the best beaches in the Algarve, Portugal.
If you’ve seen a postcard of the Algarve, there’s a good chance it features this beach! In fact, it’s widely considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
Praia da Marinha is picture perfect whether you’re standing on the cliffs above, or on the beach below.
The beach can only be accessed by walking down a steep staircase. This is pretty common for beaches in the Algarve, since they are set so far below the cliffs above.
Depending on the tides, you may need to dash through a little bit of water to reach the best part of the beach.
Praia da Marina has a parking lot on site. But come early if you’re visiting in the summer. This beach is extremely popular.
Although we visited in April, we hear it can get very busy during peak season! This beach didn’t have any services when we visited in April, other than a couple of vendors near the parking lot selling water and souveniers.
Praia do Camilo
Praia do Camilo is possibly the cutest beach in Lagos, and certainly one of the best beaches in the Algarve, Portugal. It’s a little sliver of paradise that can only be reached by walking down 200 wooden steps. It has its own parking lot and there is a nearby restaurant at the top of the cliffs.
Praia do Camilo also boasts one of the natural stone arches that dot the coastline of the Algarve. As with most beaches in the Algarve, it doesn’t feel too windy down on the beach, since you are sheltered by the surrounding cliffs.
Praia Dona Ana
Praia Dona Ana is one of the wider swatches of sand in the Lagos area. Although its rock formations aren’t as iconic as some of the nearby beaches, Praia Dona Ana is an idea beach for sunbathing and swimming – although in full disclose, the water was freezing when we visited in April.
When we visited Praia Dona Ana, there was a small beachside restaurant open offering simple sandwiches and salads.
Praia do Pinhão
Praia do Pinhão is one of the less crowded beaches in Lagos. You can reach this beach by walking down a trail from Praia Dona Ana.
We parked on a small side street to reach this beach because we had no idea what we were doing (lol!). But, I recommend parking in the lot at Praia Dona Ana and walking over to Praia do Pinhão.
Praia do Carvoeiro
Praia do Carvoeiro just screams MEDITERRANEAN VACATION when you see it. Although its rock formations aren’t as unique as some of the other beaches in the Algarve, unlike the other beaches on this list, Praia do Carvoeiro is a town beach surrounded by cafes and pedestrians.
Out of the all the beaches we visited in the Algarve, it had the most traditional Mediterranean vibe.
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That wraps up my list of the best beaches in the Algarve, Portugal. If I’ve missed your favorite beach in the region, let me know in the comments!
But let’s be honest, the Algarve region has so many unbelievable beaches to explore, you really can’t go wrong. I’m already dreaming about my next trip back to the Algarve. Maybe in June next time, so the water will be a bit warmer!
And, if you’re looking for hotel options in the Algarve region, here are my recommendations:
- Onyria Palmares Beach House Hotel – This luxurious and modern property in Lagos has a gorgeous swimming pool, fantastic restaurant (and they were so kind to prepare special vegan options for the blogger I was traveling with) and spacious rooms with a view.
- Four Seasons Fairways – This villa property in Quinto do Lago is great for groups. You can enjoy the private pool in your villa’s backyard, or head to the shared pool if you’re feeling more social. Four Seasons Fairways also has a gorgeous casually elegant restaurant that was recently renovated.
- Pousada Palácio de Estoi – This hotel near Faro is a former pink palace turned luxury hotel. Even if you don’t get a chance to stay here, it’s worth a visit to check out the property.
xx
Vicki
I love a good beach day! These snaps make these places look like a dream!