There are so many stunning beaches in Algarve that creating a Top 10 list proved impossible. Whether you’re in search of cozy, cave-like beaches to live out your “Blue Lagoon” dreams or long sandy stretches perfect for kids to play in shallow waves, Algarve has everything you need.
Let’s take a tour through the 20 Best Beaches in Algarve, arranged from west to east. Each one offers a unique coastal experience. You can also find them on the Google Map at the bottom of the article.
Praia de Porto Mós is a one-kilometer-long beach between Lagos and Luz, popular with surfers and those seeking a quieter spot. With two beachside restaurants and easy access from the car park, it’s ideal for families and disabled visitors. The beach features steep, picturesque cliffs that protect from northern winds, and its Blue Flag status ensures summer lifeguards.
Close to the scenic Ponta da Piedade, this small beach near Lagos feels untouched by urban hustle, despite being just a kilometer from the town center. A beachside restaurant and café are nearby, and its Blue Flag guarantees lifeguards in summer.
Praia de Alvor and Meia Praia meld into a huge, crescent-shaped beach, perfect for families and bird watchers alike. The Alvor River creates a lagoon, making it a delightful spot for observing wildlife. A boardwalk takes visitors close to nature, and you might even spot flamingos.
This charming beach, discovered while hiking the Trail of the Headlands, is a true gem. Steep golden cliffs, turquoise waters, and unique rock formations create a picture-perfect scene. The beach bar and restaurant, aptly named “King of the Beach,” add to the allure. The Blue Flag ensures summer lifeguards.
Carvoeiro is a captivating urban beach with houses clinging to steep rocks, creating a vertical village that gazes at the sea. Bustling from morning to night, it’s surrounded by restaurants and cafés. Don’t miss a visit to Algar Seco, a nearby cave and natural pool. The Blue Flag status provides summer lifeguards.
My favorite is this beach, framed by towering limestone walls and serving as a resting spot before embarking on the Seven Hanging Valley’s Trail. Its proximity to summer homes, a beachfront restaurant, and parking make it popular, though it can get crowded. The stunning cliffs against the blue sky are breathtaking. The Blue Flag status ensures lifeguards in summer.
Accessed by descending stairs and tunnels, this beach offers seclusion and awe-inspiring cliffs on both sides. It’s perfect for snorkeling with its fascinating rock formations and clear waters. The Blue Flag status ensures summer lifeguards.
A small fishing village beach, and a starting point for kayak and paddle tours to the famous Benagil caves. Its turquoise waters and proximity to seafood restaurants make it a great destination. If too crowded, nearby Praia do Carvalho offers an alternative.
Another favorite, this beach greeted me after arriving in Algarve. Sheltered by steep cliffs and with gentle waves, it feels like paradise. The beachside restaurant and the stunning scenery ensure you won’t want to leave. The Blue Flag status provides summer lifeguards.
Praia Nova’s WOW factor is evident with its golden cliffs and proximity to the church of Nossa Senhora da Rocha. It’s a refuge from the tourist-heavy town of Armação de Pêra. The Blue Flag ensures summer lifeguards.
This enormous beach is known by several names, including Praia dos Salgados and Praia da Galé. It’s perfect for birdwatching and tanning, with golden limestone cliffs appearing as you move east. The beach restaurants, especially Pedras Amarelas, impress with rooftop dining. The Blue Flag status provides summer lifeguards.
Praia do Castelo is a favorite for its golden sand and family-friendly waters. Its popular restaurant and beach bar add to its charm. The Blue Flag status ensures summer lifeguards.
Another stunning beach, Praia da Coelha, is surrounded by steep cliffs and clear blue waters. It’s popular with families due to its beachside restaurant. The Blue Flag status ensures summer lifeguards.
This hidden beach, offering a “Blue Lagoon” fantasy, is surrounded by steep walls with ocean access through a cave. Visit early or in winter for the best experience. The Blue Flag status ensures summer lifeguards.
Another beach surrounded by golden cliffs, this popular spot has a beachfront restaurant and offers hours of wave-watching fun. The Blue Flag ensures summer lifeguards.
Praia dos Arrifes, known for its coastal rocks, might not be ideal for small children due to hidden reefs, but it’s excellent for snorkeling. Its popularity is bolstered by a beach restaurant, and if crowded, nearby Praia de São Rafael is a good alternative. The Blue Flag status ensures summer lifeguards.
Albufeira’s urban beach stretches almost 2 kilometers, from Praia do Peneco to Praia dos Alemães. With plenty of restaurants, cafés, and bars nearby, this beach is perfect for sunbathing. The Blue Flag status ensures summer lifeguards.
A likely candidate for a Top 10 list, this beach stretches over 5 kilometers and is backed by mesmerizing ochre-colored cliffs. The contrast of the white sand, azure sea, and orange cliffs is intoxicating. The Blue Flag status ensures summer lifeguards.
Close to the airport, this long beach offers ample privacy if you keep walking. Accessible by a short walk or bus, it provides various snacking options nearby. The Blue Flag status ensures summer lifeguards.
This unique beach combines perfect white sand with beachfront restaurants. Its anchor graveyard adds a slightly eerie yet beautiful touch. Accessible by a walk through salt marshes or a tourist train, it’s worth the journey. The Blue Flag status ensures summer lifeguards.
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