The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, is blessed with a bounty of beautiful beaches that’ll keep everyone happy — from dramatic cliff-backed coves fronted by turquoise waters, to golden stretches of sand that are ideal for surfing and family vacations. With such a diversity, it can be pretty tricky to decide which to visit. So, read on to be inspired by our guide to the best beaches in the Algarve, along with detail on how to reach them, and the best time to visit.
As touched on above, the Algarve has stacks of beaches to suit every type of traveler. In fact, there are over 150 to choose from, and many are among the very best beaches in Portugal overall.
While you can still find secluded spots that will appeal to travelers seeking off-the beaten-track serenity and wilder experiences in nature, the region is also home to many of the best beach towns in Portugal, which are variously ideal for families, couples and nightlife-lovers, with accessible, well-maintained beaches that are loaded with facilities and tourist infrastructure.
While we share detail on the 15 best beaches in the Algarve right below, a couple are especially worth highlighting here as top contenders to be included in your Portugal itinerary.
Firstly, Praia da Marinha, which is oft hailed as being one of most beautiful beaches in the whole of Europe, thanks to its soul-stirring cliff scenery and easy access to fun boat trips.
Then there’s Praia da Luz — a pretty seaside spot that’s ideal for family vacations.
Interest piqued? Keep reading to discover the best Algarve beaches, armed with the knowledge that enjoying them is among the best things to do in Portugal!
Praia da Marinha is one of the best beaches in the Algarve, Portugal © Shutterstock
With its towering golden cliffs, clear azure water, and rock formations, including the famous “M” arch, Praia da Marinha is a true jewel of the Algarve.
Accessible by a staircase carved into the cliff, the beach might be small, but it’s big on spectacular scenery, and a top place to swim and snorkel.
Into adventure? Marinha is also the start of the Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos (Seven Hanging Valleys Trail), a scenic coastal hike.
Praia da Marinha is located close to Lagoa, and best reached by car.
It takes around 30 minutes to drive from Portimão or Albufeira.
The May to October period is great for swimming and fun in the sun, with May, September and October being quieter, and often a little cheaper than the peak summer season (July to August).
Want wider context on when to visit Portugal? Discover the best time to visit Portugal.
Albufeira, the Algarve © Shutterstock
Famous for its striking red cliffs, 6km of soft sand and walkable shoreline, Praia da Falésia offers plenty of space even in the peak summer season months.
Scenically sited between lively Albufeira and the more peaceful Vilamoura, it’s ideal for walking, running, and beach games, with sun bed rentals, beach bars and access ramps making it a hit with all kids of visitors.
Add to that the clear, calm water, and Praia da Falésia amounts to being one of the most versatile beaches in the Algarve.
Located between Albufeira and Vilamoura, Praia da Falésia is easily accessed by car or public transport, with parking available near Olhos de Água.
As is typical around these parts, June to September is best for warm swimming conditions and long sunny days.
Meawhile, spring and fall will suit travelers who are looking to enjoy long coastal walks in milder, quieter surroundings.
Praia do Camilo, Portugal © Shutterstock
A dramatic wooden staircase leads down to the golden beach of Praia do Camilo.
Located near Lagos, it also boasts with turquoise water, spectacular sea arches, soft sand and a steep-cliff backdrop.
Though small in size, it’s rich in natural beauty and great for snorkeling, with rock formations revealed at low tide.
Meanwhile, the mearby Ponta da Piedade offers cliff-top trails and boat tours to caves and grottoes, making this area an absolute must-visit of the Algarve.
Praia do Camilo is located a 10-minute drive or 30-minute walk from Lagos town center.
Note that the beach entrance isn’t served by public transport, and parking is limited.
Want more context on transport? Read up on getting around Portugal.
Again, May to October is best. We also suggesting arriving before 10am to secure the best spot.
Praia do Amado, Portugal © Shutterstock
Located on the wilder west coast near Carrapateira, Praia do Amado is a hotspot for surfers, bodyboarders, and nature lovers alike.
Backed by cliffs and dunes, the beach faces the Atlantic and serves strong swells and sweeping views at one fell swoop.
While several surf schools operate here, there’s also plenty of room for sunbathers, and much to keep nature lovers happy, too.
Less crowded than southern Algarve spots, it retains a raw, wild atmosphere, with boardwalks leading to scenic viewpoints.
Praia do Amado is accessible by car via the N268 from Aljezur or Vila do Bispo, and parking is available near the cliffs.
March to November is best for surf, with July–August better for sunny summer vacations.
For a pleasant balance of good waves and more moderate crowds, head here in April or September, with the former also offering the pleasing sight of blooming wildflowers.
Ria Formosa, Portugal © Shutterstock
Accessible by ferry, Praia da Ilha de Tavira lies on a barrier island in the beautiful, wildlife-rich Ria Formosa Natural Park.
Boasting an undeveloped stretch of soft sand and calm waters, it’s a great place to visit if you’re traveling to Portugal with kids, and for those seeking a more tranquil vacation.
Offering nature trails and campsites, it’s also a great base for nature lovers who are looking to embrace sustainable tourism in the Algarve.
Ferries run from Tavira town center during summer, with water taxis also available in shoulder seasons.
June to September are best for swimming and the broadest offering of tourist services.
Meanwhile, May and October are more peaceful months to visit, and the weather is still mild.
Praia da Rocha, Portugal © Shutterstock
Located in the lively resort town of Portimão, Praia da Rocha is best known for its vast golden sands, towering cliffs and pretty promenade.
As such, it’s one of the very best beaches in the Algarve for travelers who are looking for a classic seaside vacation with plenty of bars, restaurants, beach clubs and facilities, including water sports, beach volleyball, and sun loungers.
Nearby attractions include the Santa Catarina Fortress, which really does make it a top all-round Algarve destination.
Praia da Rocha is easily accessible on foot from Portimão, and also well-connected by train and bus from Lagos, Faro and Lisbon.
Fancy exploring Lisbon during your Portugal beach vacation? Work out how many days you need in Lisbon, and discover the best area to stay in Lisbon.
June to September are best if you're looking for a for a lively atmosphere. May and October are quieter, but still warm and sunny for beachgoers.
Tavira, the Algarve © Shutterstock
Located on Tavira Island within Ria Formosa Natural Park, Praia do Barril is a serene, wide sandy beach that’s accessed via a scenic walk or mini-train ride across a lagoon.
Along the way, you’ll traverse a marshland teeming with birds, which makes this the ideal beach for nature lovers.
Once a tuna fishing site, the beach still features the eerie Anchor Graveyard, where hundreds of old ship anchors are displayed in the dunes, along with sunbeds and restaurants.
The island can be reached by foot or mini-train from Pedras d’El Rei, just a short drive from Tavira.
Through summer, buses run to the park entrance from Tavira.
July–August are the warmest and busiest months, with June and September still offering sunshine in quieter conditions.
Not fixed on a summer vacation? Read our all-year guide to the Algarve.
Portimão, the Algarve © Shutterstock
Located close to Alvor, Praia dos Três Irmãos means “Beach of the Three Brothers” — a name that refers to the three prominent sea stacks that characterise its dramatic shoreline.
At low tide, you can walk through tunnels and arches to adjacent beaches — it’s a place of fabulous rock formations, hidden caves and interconnected sandy coves.
Also ideal for relaxed swimming, with a mix of open areas and secluded spots between cliffs, it’s also has plenty of facilities, with beach bars, toilets, sun beds and lifeguards available during the summer months.
Praia dos Três Irmãos is located a few minutes from Alvor by car, or 10 minutes by foot.
Portimão is also just 10 km away.
Late-May to early-October is the best period to visit.
Our tip is to head here in the morning or late afternoon so you can explore the extraordinary tide pools.
Love exploring beyond the norm? Discover the best places to get off the tourist trail in Portugal.
Benagil Cave, Portugal © Shutterstock
Close to Carvoeiro, Praia do Carvalho is something of a hidden gem, with a secluded location and a dramatic entryway of a staircase carved through a cliff tunnel.
Flanked by steep limestone walls, it has the feel of a natural amphitheatre for snorkeling, rock climbing, and peaceful bathing in clear waters.
Though less crowded than other beaches, it’s important to arrive early, as space is limited and there are no rental services or lifeguards. You’ll also need to bring ring your own supplies.
While in this area, look into taking a boat trip to Benagil Cave, which happens to be one of the best things to do in the Algarve.
Praia do Carvalho is located off the N125 road, near Benagil and Carvoeiro.
June to September is best for warm water and safe swimming conditions.
Praia de Odeceixe, the Algarve © Shutterstcok
Offering a glorious river-meets-ocean setting that’s perfect for swimming and surfing, Praia de Odeceixe is backed by green hills and overlooked by a pretty whitewashed village.
Located on the border between the Algarve and Alentejo, the river lagoon here is calm and safe for children, while the Atlantic side offers rolling surf and a wide sandy expanse.
Part of the Vicentine Coast Natural Park, Praia de Odeceixe is also understandably popular with nature lovers.
Praia de Odeceixe can be reached via a 2.5-hour drive from Faro, or one-hour drive from Lagos.
It’s also served by a (limited) bus service from Aljezur.
May to September is best, with June and September striking a perfect balance between warm weather and smaller crowds.
Cabo de São Vicente, Portugal © Shutterstock
Beloved by surfers, adventurers, and those seeking a wilder setting, a secluded beach tucked between towering cliffs near Cabo de São Vicente.
Accessed via a steep stairway, the crescent-shaped cove showcases fine golden sand, powerful Atlantic waves, and dramatic rock walls, with crisp, clean water that’s ideal for surfing and bodyboarding.
While there’s a seasonal beach café and board rentals, it remains mostly untouched by development.
Praia do Beliche is located just five minutes from Sagres by car, followed by a steep walk down to the beach.
Praia do Beliche is best-visited from May to October.
Lagos, the Algarve © Shutterstock
Located in the charming seaside town of Luz, just west of Lagos, family-friendly Praia da Luz offers calm, shallow waters and a wide sandy stretch of sublime sand.
Flanked by a rocky headland and backed by a palm-lined promenade with cafés, ice cream parlors and shops, it’s the ideal place to swim and socialize.
Alongside being served by water sports rentals and lifeguard services, a paved walkway connects the beach to other parts of Luz, making it ideal for relaxed seaside strolls and exploring further afield.
Praia da Luz is a 10-minute drive from Lagos. With plenty of parking areas, it’s also well-served by local buses.
June to September are best for the warmest water, and to access the area’s full services.
In the process of planning your trip? Read up on Portugal accommodation.
Portugal's Comporta region is worth considering as a vacation destination © Shutterstock
Though falling just outside the Algarve border, Praia do Carvalhal is a worthy inclusion due to its pristine setting and popularity with Lisbon weekenders and eco-travelers.
Nestled between dunes and pine forests, it’s a place of pretty soft golden sand, with a relaxed, upscale vibe, stylish beach restaurants, and nearby nature trails inviting walks on the wilder side.
Part of the Comporta region, Praia do Carvalhal offers a refreshing contrast to the Algarve’s more developed southern coast.
Praia do Carvalhal is located about two hours from Lisbon by car, and best accessed with your own transport.
June to September is best for beach services, while May and October offer more tranquillity without summer crowds.
Praia da Coelha, the Algarve © Shutterstock
Surrounded by golden cliffs, lush vegetation, and calm turquoise water, Praia da Coelha (Rabbit Beach) is a very picturesque cove near Albufeira.
A path to the beach winds through olive trees and coastal scrub, setting the scene for a peaceful day by the sea, with a seasonal beach bar offering drinks and seafood.
Foodies, take note, this area boasts some of the best restaurants in Portugal, and is a great place to gorge on Portuguese food.
Praia da Coelha can be reached from Albufeira town in ten minutes by car or taxi.
On arrival, a short trail leads down to the beach from the parking area.
Again, May to September is best for swimming and to enjoy the full range of facilities.
Aljezur © Richard James Taylor
Located near Aljezur, at the heart of the Vicentine Coast, Praia do Monte Clérigo is a laid-back beach that’ll suit families and surfers down to the ground.
While the gently sloping sands and clear tidal pools at low tide make it fun and safe for kids, the consistent waves attract surfers of all experience levels, with a handful of restaurants and cafés speckling the beachfront village.
In addition, the area is crisscrossed by scenic trails that link to the Rota Vicentina hiking network, which happens to be among the best hikes in Portugal.
Praia do Monte Clérigo is accessible via a winding road, about ten minutes from Aljezur,
Visit in spring or early fall (September to mid-October) for surfing and nature walks without summer’s bustle.
Fado musicians in the Algarve, Portugal © Shutterstock
Ready to vacation in Portugal? Before taking the plunge, read our guide to how to plan a trip to Portugal, and wise up with our Portugal travel trips.
Not keen on planning? Contact our local Portugal travel experts — they can curate your perfect Portugal itinerary for any duration.
For a taste of what to expect, our 5 days in Portugal itinerary is great if you're looking for a shorter break.
Hoping to stay longer? See our suggested 7 days in Portugal itinerary, and 10 days in Portugal itinerary ideas.
written by
Joanne Owen
updated 02.06.2025
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