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The beaches in the world!

Seeking the quintessential beach getaway? Your search ends in the Algarve! With its glistening azure waters, majestic cliffs, and boundless sandy shores, this destination caters to every type of beach enthusiast. Unveil the secluded coves of Praia do Vau, bask in the sun-kissed splendor of Praia da Luz, or ride the waves at Praia do Amado in Sagres. The options are endless, and the decision is entirely yours to make!

prainha

The Western Algarve

In this section and close or relatively close to Casa dos Arcos we will be focusing on the Western Algarve.

The Western Algarve delivers a radical change of scenery with the most beautiful beaches not only in the Algarve but in the whole world.

Between Albufeira and Lagos you will be surprised by the most beautiful and dramatic rock formations, caves and holes that are real art galleries. A feat of nature with fabulous bays hidden in corners of cliffs and rock formations.


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Praia do Peneco...

An elevator takes you to the bottom of the cliff to Praia do Peneco and a few meters further on you can find more space for your towel at Praia dos Pescadores. If you have legs and are looking for a quieter area, head east where Praia do Inatel or Praia dos Alemães could be your choice.


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praia do peneco
praia da gale

Praia da Galé...

Between Albufeira and Galé, the coastline is adorned with charming tiny cove beaches. The next perfect spot to spread out your towel awaits at Praia da Galé.

 

Moving onward, we arrive at Armação de Pêra, a picturesque coastal enclave nestled within Silves. This idyllic destination is a favorite among families seeking a beach holiday. Kilometers of sandy coastline connect Armação de Pêra to its Praia Grande, separated by the meandering Ribeira de Alcantarilha.

 

From here, a plethora of twenty hidden gems await beachgoers in the Algarve, perfect for those yearning for off-the-beaten-path experiences. Among these, Praia da Cova Redonda stands out, captivating visitors with its breathtaking scenery: golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and a picturesque cove nestled at the foot of towering cliffs. Just westward lies the enchanting point of Nossa Senhora da Rocha, adorned by a charming chapel, dividing two small yet delightful pearls of the Algarve's beaches: Praia da Senhora da Rocha to the east and Praia Nova to the west—larger and more secluded, accessible solely by stairs and devoid of support services.

 

Praia da Marinha serves as the gateway to the Pedestrian Route of the 7 Suspension Valleys, boasting approximately 6 kilometers of awe-inspiring rock formations, including caves, cliffs, and natural arches. If you're a hiking enthusiast embarking on this trail, the temptation to take a refreshing dip in the crystalline waters of the scenic Algarve beaches—Praia da Marinha, Praia de Benagil, Praia do Carvalho, and Praia do Vale de Hundreds—will prove irresistible.

Benagil

Praia da Marinha

 

If the word Benagil doesn't immediately bring to mind the Algarve, it means that you know little about your own country. Benagil is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Algarve: the Benagil Caves, an incredible and imposing temple entirely built by the hands of Nature. Benagil beach may be small in size but it is huge in fame… And we might add, in natural beauty.

 

Benagil beach

 

Still in the municipality of Lagoa, be sure to visit the wonderful rock formations of Algar Seco and take a dip in Praia do Carvoeiro, voted the best beach in Europe in 2018 by European Best Destinations.

 

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benagil from the top
benagil inside
inside benagil
ria alvor protected birds

Beaches of Portimão

 

And now, we find ourselves in Portimão, where one of our cherished beaches in the Algarve awaits: Praia da Rocha. This expansive stretch of sand, long and wide, beckons visitors with its allure. Admittedly, the backdrop may not boast the most picturesque scenery, as it's dominated by tourist complexes atop the cliffs. However, Praia da Rocha compensates with its nearly two kilometers of well-appointed promenade, lined with restaurants and terraces—a perfect setting for enjoying a delightful fish meal accompanied by a refreshing drink.

 

Stone beach

 

Praia do Vau is one of the beaches awarded with the Blue Flag. With an extension that allows pleasant walks on the sand or between rock formations that allow you to reach other small beaches. Accessible to people with reduced mobility, Praia do Vau has several restaurants and other beach facilities.

 

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Alvor Beaches

 

Três Irmãos beach is characterized by unique rock formations on the Algarve coast. This is the beach of choice for Alvor fans looking for a combination of calm waters and the scenic beauty of the Algarve cliffs.

 

Três Irmãos Beach

 

Heading westward, we stumble upon the vast sandy expanse of Praia do Alvor, flanked by excellent dining options, easy accessibility, and ample space for laying out your towel. As you venture further west, the beach widens, offering more room to roam. It's an ideal spot for those who relish long strolls, offering a choice between the beach itself or picturesque pathways over the marshes of the Ria de Alvor, nourished by the Ribeira de Odiáxere.

 

Upon arriving in the municipality of Lagos, the options abound. Lagos boasts some of the most breathtaking rock formations in the Algarve, with Ponta da Piedade reigning as the queen of the Algarve cliffs. Praia Dona Ana commands attention for its frequent appearances on the international media's lists of top beaches in the Algarve.

 

For seekers of sheltered nooks amidst the ochre-hued cliffs, which have become synonymous with the Algarve, Lagos offers a satisfying array. Accessible only by stairways, Praia do Pinhão and Praia do Camilo may deter the lethargic, but they beckon the adventurous. Craving kilometers of sandy shores? Meia Praia is the ultimate destination to fulfill your desires.

Amidst your aquatic escapades, carve out time for a brief excursion to Ponta da Piedade, where you'll be treated to some of the most enchanting coastal vistas in the Algarve. It's a cherished spot for witnessing the sunset in this region.

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We suggest you embark on an unforgettable journey through the magical landscapes of the Algarve by traversing the remarkable Ponta da Piedade Trail and Walkways—a standout among the region's finest trails and pedestrian routes.

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ria de alvor praia do alvor beach
ria alvor walks
ria de alvor beach and walks

On the way to Sagres!

 

As we approach Ponta de Sagres, we encounter the coldest and most turbulent waters along the southern coast of the Algarve. Sagres boasts the highest concentration of beaches catering to surfers, kitesurfers, and windsurfers in the entire region. Praia do Zavial, Praia do Martinhal, adorned by the Islets of Martinhal, Praia da Mareta nestled at the heart of Sagres, Praia do Tonel and Praia do Beliche situated on the Costa Vicentina side, are indispensable for wave enthusiasts in the Algarve.

 

And now, onto the virtually uninhabited beaches of the Algarve. To uncover these hidden gems, one must venture towards the Costa Vicentina between Sagres and Aljezur, traversing vast stretches of rugged terrain, weathered by the relentless winds that characterize Sagres. Here, fierce winds and tumultuous seas have sculpted one of the most breathtaking and dramatic stretches of the Portuguese coastline. The landscape transitions from glistening gold to deep ochre, evoking the sensation of walking on scorched earth.

 

Perfect for those seeking unspoiled natural beauty, this coastline also holds appeal for adrenaline junkies. Describing the tranquility of this region as mere understatement would be an understatement itself. Few dare to explore these remote areas due to the scarcity, or outright absence, of amenities and services. The sea rages with formidable intensity, demanding utmost respect. Therefore, if you seek a family-friendly beach, Sagres may not be your ideal destination. However, if you harbor a distaste for crowds and yearn for moments of peaceful sunbathing and gentle toe-dipping, then these beaches are tailor-made for you. In fact, they're precisely what you're seeking.

 

Costa Vicentina still in the Algarve

 

Praia do Castelejo, da Cordoama and do Amado are absolute musts. Great for surfing these beaches benefit from east winds to guarantee off shore wind. They all have restaurants

 

Praia da Cordoama

Aljezur

 

The municipality of Aljezur presents the calmer beaches in the Algarve. Praia da Arrifana, is protected by a cove and calms the rougher Atlantic waters. White sands can be found at Praia do Monte Clérigo or Praia da Amoreira, where the Ribeira de Aljezur flows.

 

Odeceixe

 

Praia de Odeceixe is our final suggestion as one of the best beaches in the Algarve. Bbetween Alentejo and Algarve, this beach has a wonderful panoramic view of the cliffs and combines the sea beach with the sand at the mouth of Ribeira de Seixe.

 

 

With more than one hundred beaches and a Mediterranean climate, it's no wonder that the Algarve's beaches are Portugal's most popular holiday destination. Now all you have to do is choose between the best beaches in the Algarve that we have suggested here... Or go out and explore a hidden gem.

praia do zavial sea beach
praia do zavial surf beach
praia do zavial
Beliche praia beach
praia do amado or amado beach
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