Discover the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve! From hidden coves to vast sandy beaches, these are the perfect places to enjoy the Portuguese sun.
Why is the Algarve such a great beach destination?
The Algarve in southern Portugal is famous for its stunning beaches and dramatic coastline. It’s no coincidence that this region has won multiple awards at the World Travel Awards (often called the Oscars of travel), where it’s regularly been named Europe’s best beach destination. In 2024, it even claimed the title of the world’s best beach destination.
So, are the beaches really that amazing? Absolutely. The Algarve’s mix of golden sandy shores, rugged cliffs, and crystal-clear water draws millions of visitors each year. But it’s not all about the crowds—there are plenty of quieter spots where you can take in the natural beauty at your own pace.
Having spent so much time in the Algarve, I’ve had the chance to explore countless beaches—from hidden coves to expansive sandy stretches perfect for a long walk. While I’m not one to lounge on the beach for hours, I love taking a moment to unwind. With a good book and the sound of waves in the background, I feel instantly at ease.
In this article, I’m sharing a selection of beaches that have left a lasting impression on me. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or simply enjoy the view, these are the ones not to miss.
These are the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve
Which beaches in the Algarve are truly worth visiting? Spoiler: there are a lot of them! From well-known spots you’ve likely seen in photos to hidden gems waiting to be discovered. In this guide, I’m sharing my personal picks for the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve, based on my own experiences.
Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha is perhaps the most iconic beach in the Algarve, and it’s easy to see why. With its towering cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and unique rock formations, it’s no surprise this spot is often featured on postcards and in travel guides.
This beach isn’t just a stunning place to relax—it’s also the starting (or ending) point of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. This coastal hiking route is one of the most scenic walks in the Algarve and a must-do for nature lovers.
Praia do Camilo
Praia do Camilo is one of my favorite beaches in the Algarve, partly because I’ve spent so much time in Lagos. It’s also simply stunning (and not without reason, it’s the main photo on my homepage). This small, picturesque beach is reached via a long wooden staircase, offering breathtaking views of the bay and the surrounding rock formations as you descend.
In the summer, it can get pretty crowded—it sometimes feels like you’re shoulder to shoulder with everyone else. But visit in winter, and you might just have this incredible beach all to yourself.
Praia de Benagil
Another well-known beach is Praia de Benagil. It’s actually two beaches in one: the main beach near the town and the hidden beach inside the famous cave, Algar de Benagil, which can only be reached by boat. The cave is one of the Algarve’s most iconic natural landmarks and a must-see for many visitors.
While the main beach can get busy in summer with all the tourists heading to the cave, it’s still a nice spot to relax and take in the view of the Atlantic Ocean. Just a word of caution: swimming to the cave isn’t recommended due to strong currents. Instead, rent a kayak or join a boat tour—it’s absolutely worth it!
Praia da Falésia
Praia da Falésia is a vast beach framed by striking red cliffs that stand out against the golden sand and blue sky. During a stay in Quarteira, I walked along the cliffs and was blown away by the views—it’s a memory that has stayed with me.
This beach is perfect for long walks, whether along the shoreline or atop the cliffs, where the scenery constantly shifts. Despite its popularity, Praia da Falésia rarely feels crowded thanks to its expansive size and open space.
Praia Dona Ana
Praia Dona Ana is one of the beaches I love to visit during my lunch breaks in Lagos. It’s the perfect spot to appreciate the Algarve’s natural beauty, with soft sand surrounded by stunning golden rock formations. Plus, it’s just a short walk from the center of Lagos, making it an ideal place to unwind for a while.
Extra tip: On the south side of Praia Dona Ana, there’s a hole in the rocks you can climb through. It leads to a small, hidden beach—definitely worth checking out!
Praia do Carvalho
Tucked away and slightly hidden, Praia do Carvalho is a lovely spot to visit. I stopped by this beach a few times during my walks on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.
Nestled between high cliffs, the beach is only accessible through a tunnel carved into the rocks, which adds a touch of adventure to the experience. Thanks to its sheltered location, Praia do Carvalho is a peaceful place to take a break and enjoy the quiet, even in the winter months.
Praia da Secreta
Looking for another hidden gem? Near Albufeira, you’ll find Praia da Secreta. I stumbled upon this beach by chance during my wanderings (I spent seven weeks in Albufeira at the end of 2020, when there wasn’t much else to do due to the pandemic) and loved the experience of discovering it.
This beach is tucked away among the rocks near Albufeira and can only be reached on foot via a narrow path. Once you get there, you’ll find a wonderfully quiet spot with clear waters and an intimate atmosphere.
Praia dos Rebolinhos
While walking the Fishermen’s Trail between Salema and Sagres, I came across a unique beach covered in smooth, white stones: Praia dos Rebolinhos. This immediately sets it apart from most sandy beaches in the Algarve.
The water here is so clear that you can sometimes spot fish swimming near the shore. Located just outside Sagres and relatively unknown, it’s a quiet spot where you’re unlikely to encounter many people. It’s the perfect place to take a peaceful break and soak in the natural surroundings.
Praia do Amado
In my opinion, Praia do Amado is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve. Located on the rugged west coast, it’s much quieter than the more popular beaches along the south coast. This wide sandy beach is a favorite among surfers thanks to its excellent waves. But even if you’re not into surfing, it’s a great spot to relax or enjoy a walk along the shore.
Praia de Carvoeiro
In the heart of the village of Carvoeiro lies Praia de Carvoeiro, a small beach framed by cliffs and charming whitewashed houses. Its central location makes it a popular spot, perfect for combining with a meal at one of the nearby restaurants or a leisurely stroll through the village.
Extra tip: Pair your visit with a walk along the Carvoeiro Boardwalk, a scenic wooden path that runs along the coastline.
Praia do Beliche
Every time I’m in Sagres, I make sure to stop by Praia do Beliche. Nestled between high cliffs, this beach feels wonderfully sheltered, even on the windy west coast. It’s the perfect spot to sink into the soft sand and watch the surfers catching waves – it’s a favorite activity here.
Ilha Deserta
Ilha Deserta, also known as Barreta Island, is an uninhabited island near Faro that can only be reached by boat. Known for its tranquility and pristine nature, it’s the perfect escape if you’re looking to get away from the crowds.
The beach stretches on for miles with soft sand and crystal-clear water, making it ideal for walking, swimming, or simply soaking up the silence. As a protected nature reserve, there are no buildings here except for a small restaurant by the jetty. Although I haven’t had the chance to visit yet, it’s high on my list—it seems like a truly special experience to explore such a remote place.
Praia da Pena Furada
If you think the Algarve is all about golden cliffs, think again. The west coast is home to cliffs in darker tones, with a rugged and dramatic character that sets it apart from the south.
While hiking the Fishermen’s Trail between Vila do Bispo and Carrapateira, I came across Praia da Pena Furada, a beach that left a lasting impression. The most striking feature is the black rock column rising from the ocean. Scattered across the beach are large black stones, which give it a distinctive and almost otherworldly feel.
Praia do Zavial
Along the Fishermen’s Trail between Salema and Sagres, you’ll come across several beaches, but Praia do Zavial is definitely one of the most beautiful. This wide beach, framed by low cliffs, manages to feel both open and sheltered at the same time.
What makes Praia do Zavial even more special is its accessibility. While it’s a highlight for hikers on the trail, it’s also easy to reach by car, making it a great option even if hiking isn’t your thing.
Praia da Rocha
Praia da Rocha is one of the most famous beaches in the Algarve and a spot I visited several times during my stays in Portimão. It’s a huge beach surrounded by hotels and plenty of beach bars, making it a great choice if you’re looking for convenience and amenities close by.
One of the things I appreciate most is the long boardwalk that runs along the beach. It’s perfect if you want to go for a walk or quickly reach a beach bar without trudging through the sand.
Praia dos Estudantes
Praia dos Estudantes is one of my favorite beaches in Lagos. It’s a small and charming spot, only accessible via a short tunnel carved through the rocks. You can only stand on the beach at low tide, which adds to its unique charm.
What truly sets this beach apart is the stone bridge that spans the rocks, visible from the sand below. The bridge is part of a house perched atop the cliffs, which was on the market a few years ago for 5 million euros—and is likely worth even more now. It’s a fascinating and beautiful place to visit!
Praia de Odeceixe
On the border of the Algarve and Alentejo lies Praia de Odeceixe, a wide sandy beach that I visited during my walk on the Fishermen’s Trail. You pass it when you hike the section between Aljezur and Odeceixe.
This beach occupies a unique spot where the Seixe River meets the ocean, creating a striking contrast between fresh and salt water. You’ll find both a calm riverfront, perfect for relaxing, and a rougher coastline with waves, making it a great spot for surfers.
Praia de Monte Clérigo
The biggest surprise during my hike on the Fishermen’s Trail was Praia de Monte Clérigo. Located on the rugged west coast, this beach offers a striking contrast between the colorful houses of the village and the wide, open stretch of sand. It’s a unique and charming spot to explore, perfect for taking a break or simply soaking in the scenery.
Praia de São Rafael
Perhaps my favorite beach in Albufeira is Praia de São Rafael. Located just outside the busy center,it feels much more connected to nature, offering a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The golden rock formations and crystal-clear water make it a beautiful spot to unwind.
What makes this beach extra special for me is that I once saw dolphins swimming just off the shore – a truly unforgettable experience!
Praia da Bordeira
I saved the best for last! Praia da Bordeira is perhaps the widest beach in the Algarve, with its vast stretch of sand framed by dunes and rock formations that seem to go on forever. Crossing the soft sand can be a bit of a challenge, but it’s part of what makes the experience so memorable.
While surfers are often drawn here for the excellent waves, the beach itself remains wonderfully quiet and peaceful. Nearby Carrapateira, one of the Algarve’s most picturesque villages, adds even more charm to a visit. This is a must-see if you love open spaces, tranquility, and the rugged beauty of the west coast.
Map of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve
Most of the beaches mentioned in this article are located west of Faro, the capital of the Algarve. This is partly because I’ve spent more time in this area, but also because the beaches here are often framed by high cliffs and a rugged coastline, giving them a unique character. In contrast, the beaches east of Faro are expansive sandy stretches—also stunning, but with a completely different vibe.
Below, you’ll find a map showing all the beaches featured in this article.
This is an image, click here to see the map better and zoom in.
Book your trip to the Algarve
Feeling inspired to explore these stunning beaches in the Algarve for yourself? Start planning your adventure and book your trip today!
✈️ Plane tickets – Faro Airport is the international airport of the Algarve and the best place to start your trip. Check WayAway to find the best deals and get cashback on plane tickets.
🚘 Rental Car – If you want to be flexible during your stay in the Algarve, it’s useful to rent a car. Check Rental Cars to find the best deals.
🛏️ Accommodation – You can find great hotels, hostels, or apartments via Booking.com.
💊 Travel insurance – Invest in travel insurance, it will give you peace of mind during your trip. Check out Insubuy to find the travel insurance that fits your needs.
📱 E-sim – Would you like to stay connected during your trip to Portugal? With an E-sim by Airalo, you can use data almost everywhere you go in the Algarve.
🏄🏼 Tours & activities – There are lots of fun tours and guided trips in the Algarve. Check Get Your Guide for all the options.
Read more about the Algarve
Curious about what else the Algarve has to offer beyond its stunning beaches? Check out these travel guides for plenty of inspiration.
I spend a few months in the Algarve every winter, which is why you’ll find plenty of Portugal tips on this website. Be sure to check out:
- The perfect Algarve itinerary for a 1 or 2 week road trip
- Public transport in the Algarve: this is how it works
- 12 Beautiful villages and towns in the Algarve
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