Trying to make a short list of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve is really difficult. In fact, the southern region of Portugal is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. What makes this territory unique in the world is the fact that they are all different. You will find huge sand stretches, small coves and bays only reachable by boat, imposing rock formations and dramatic cliffs. Here is our top 10 of Algarve beaches, check it out!
1. Praia de Odeceixe
In the Natural Park of the Vicentina coast there is one of the most incredible beaches of the coast: Odeceixe. The beach looks like a long sand strip surrounded by imposing rocks that change their shape depending on the tide. The beach is located in the Aljezur municipality, on the border between the Algarve and the Alentejo region.
Praia de Albandeira
Protected by imposing cliffs, the beach of Albandeira is characterized by golden sand and emerald sea. Praia de Albandeira is located halfway between the towns of Carvoeiro and Armação de Pêra. In this area you will find many small coves and bays created by yellow limestone cliffs.
3. Praia da Falésia
Praia da Falésia is located in Albufeira, really close to Vilamoura. It’s the most iconic beach in the area, characterized by its ochre cliffs facing towards the turquoise sea. This beach is easily reachable even by foot from two of our apartments: Vilamoura All In and Vilamoura House Garden. In the picture down below it’s possible to see the view of the beach from the sea. This will give you an idea of how picturesque the falésias look.
4. Praia da Bordeira
This amazing beach is located near Carrapateira, a small village not far from Sagres. It is characterized by a long spacious beach that stretches or shortens according to the tides. This beach is really huge and not so crowded, so parking here should be quite easy. In Praia da Bordeira you can also test your surfing skills by renting all the material you need.
5. Benagil
In Lagoa, the beach of Benagil is one of the most scenic in the region. Here you will find a must-see cave. A part of the vault of the Benagil Cave collapsed forming a circular opening that filters out the sun’s rays making the water transparent and the sand golden. Don’t worry, it’s easy to reach: to mark the entrance to the cave of Benagil there are two stone arches.
📍 Benagil
6. Praia do Camilo
Praia do Camilo is one of the most beautiful beaches in Lagos. The beach can be reached through a staircase of about 200 steps. But before you start your descent, make sure to appreciate the wonderful landscape. Nearby is Ponta da Piedade, an area characterized by cliffs with natural caves that you can explore by boat.
7. Praia Dona Ana
Praia Dona Ana is one of the most beautiful in Lagos. It can be reached from the city center on foot, with a walk of about 30 minutes. It’s characterized by a wide beach of golden sand, nestled between the tall cliffs of Ponta da Piedade. The sea is particularly clear and transparent. Very crowded in the high season, the beach is accessible by two wooden stairs.
On site there are several services, including:
- bathrooms
- showers
- a bar
- a restaurant.
8. Praia da Rocha
Praia da Rocha is a large golden beach characterized by spectacular rock formations. It is one of the most popular beaches in the Algarve and it can be easily reached from Faro Airport. During the summer it can be crowded, so September or the spring months are the best periods to visit it.
Due to its proximity to Portimao and the many services offered, including bars, restaurants, water sports rental and the constant presence of lifeguards, praia da Rocha is particularly loved by families, but also by young people. If you’re staying at our Portimão Red Apartment, you can reach this beautiful beach just with a 15 minutes walk!
9. Praia da Marinha
Praia de Marinha is located between Albufeira and Carvoeiro. This beautiful beach is characterized by the presence of a double rocky arch, perfect for taking photo-memories. It is perhaps one of the most unique beaches in the Algarve. A charming beach of golden sand completely embraced by high cliffs overlooking the sea.
If seen from above it gives breathtaking views, thanks to the rock sculptures smoothed by the wind. The sea is particularly clear and crystalline, with the seabed gently sloping offshore. One of the best ways to appreciate it is by having a nice boat ride along the coast.
10. Praia do Amado
This is one of the best beaches in the western Algarve for surfers. In fact, they go there every year from all over Europe on the occasion of various international competitions. For this reason, close to the beach it is possible to find:
- sports equipment shops
- real surf schools
- numerous tourist services.
This beach is largely unspoilt and natural. For years only surfing enthusiasts have come to ride the waves, but gradually it’s becoming popular due to its beauty. You should know, though, that the Ocean’s water is a little colder there than in the Southern Algarve.
