The Algarve region of Portugal is one of the most popular summer destinations for European tourists. The warm and sunny climate, the beautiful beaches of golden sand and the crystal blue sea are some of the main attractions. In addition, the region offers a wide range of activities, including boat trips, water sports, golf, cycling and hiking.
Last summer, we took a 2-week trip in Portugal, concentrating most of the days along the coast of the Algarve Region. And to help you in the planning of your next trip, we list the most beautiful beaches we visited. And recommend that they should be included in any itinerary for the Lusitanian country.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience one of the best cuisines in Portugal: The best Pastel de Nata de Lisboa in Portugal and the Pastel de Belém
Are you going to South America? Read our post with information and tips for a safe trip to Rio de Janeiro in Brazil.
The best beaches we visited in Algarve, Portugal
Algarve coastal towns are known for their picturesque architecture, restaurants, bars and lively nightlife. The main cities in which tourists stay are:
- Lagos is a historic city with a beautiful marina, where you can take boat trips to explore the caves and cliffs along the coast.
- Albufeira is a bustling and vibrant city with many beachfront bars and restaurants.
- Vilamoura is a renowned golf destination with several world class golf courses.
- Faro is the capital of the region, with a charming old town and an international airport that is the gateway to the region.
We stayed in Lagos and from there we went to the following beaches:
1. Praia Dona Ana (Dona Ana Beach)
The Dona Ana Beach was our base place, the Hotel Carvi Beach we stayed in is on the parking lot of the beach, it was just down the stairs and stepping on the sand. And I can say that our choice was excellent, the beach is beautiful, calm, quite extensive and the fact that we did not need to “fight” for parking was excellent.
It was also an excellent “business card” for what is the city of Lagos, beaches with golden or copper colored cliffs, depending on the sunlight, and a sea of several shades of blue and green, quite calm. Enabling wonderful photos. All this with a great infrastructure for tourists.
2. Cacela Velha
The town of Cacela Velha is actually a small village that is about 20 minutes drive from Tavira. Formed by only a small set of white houses with blue doors and windows, your visit is worth three reasons: the city itself, which although small is very beautiful; the Casa Velha Restaurant, where I ate an incredible Octopus Rice; and of course, its beach.
One of the advantages of this beach is that it is very similar to those of Brazil, with a wide strip of sand white sand and fininha without stones. A beautiful place, calm and with a good sea to enter. How could I not like it?
3. Praia do Pinhão (Pinhão Beach)
It’s the beach right next to Dona Ana Beach and it only took 10 minutes to walk from our hotel to get there. Praia do Pinhão is much smaller in extent and more protected from the winds, besides having a part that can be accessed by a passage in the rocks, where couples are quieter. But despite being very beautiful, because it is embedded in the cliffs, it is covered in the shadows early and the cold ends up winning the will to spend more time.
4. Praia dos Estudantes (Student’s Beach)
It is a beach, just like Pinhão, very small and between rocks and cliffs. Its advantage is that it is closer to the center of Lagos. How is it possible so much beautiful beach so close, no?
5. Praia da Batata (Batata Beach)
The Batata beach is in front of the wall of the old center of Lagos. So if you prefer an easier beach to visit, with bars and restaurants nearby, this is the stop.
6. Praia do Barril (Barril Beach)
The beach that is in Tavira is a little more difficult to reach, only the name on the GPS does not help much. But we are nice and help, just include the coordinates 37 ° 05’35.8 “N 7 ° 40’33.1” W.
The attractions are a much more organized infrastructure, with restaurant, bar, rentals of chairs and umbrellas and bathrooms very close and accessible.
Other points that you might like are the anchor graveyard that is near the sand strip, the picturesque train that takes visitors from the parking lot to the beach and also its extension (it is huge, with several points to be discovered). The sea is very tasty and it was possible to have a lot of fun.
7. Praia do Camilo (Camilo Beach)
In the direction of Ponta da Piedade, is the beach that we consider the most beautiful, Praia do Camilo. Accessible by a huge staircase, it is a mixture of Pinhão Beach with Dona Ana. A little more extensive than the others, but with the cliffs and cliffs closer. This helps to leave the beach with a beautiful beautiful look and the quieter sea, practically a swimming pool.
The cover photo of this publication is also Camilo Beach.
Extra: Ponta da Piedade
And speaking of Ponta da Piedade. Do not miss to visit. It is an incredible place and has already been considered by many publications as the most beautiful part of the coast of Europe.
The Algarve region of Portugal is a popular summer destination for its breathtaking beaches, pleasant climate, variety of activities and charming towns. It is an attractive location for those who want to relax by the sea, but also for those looking for a little more adventure on their vacation.
Best tours and tourist attractions in the Algarve Region in Portugal
Some of the main offers of guided tours and tourist attractions on the beaches, islands and cities of the Algarve region in Portugal. Be sure to check it out.
Accommodation offers in Algarve Region in Portugal
Find the best hotel, hostel and Bed&Breakfast accommodation options in the Algarve region of Portugal.
Booking.com Booking.comGeneral international travel tips
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