Beaches in Algarve

Arrifes is a beach in Albufeira, in the district of Faro, awarded the Blue Flag in 2026 by ABAAE. This page will be expanded with more information on access, amenities and water quality.

Cabanas-Mar is a beach in Tavira, in the district of Faro, awarded the Blue Flag in 2026 by ABAAE. This page will be expanded with more information on access, amenities and water quality.

Forte Novo is a beach in Loulé, in the district of Faro, awarded the Blue Flag in 2026 by ABAAE. This page will be expanded with more information on access, amenities and water quality.

Lota is a beach in Vila Real de Santo António, in the district of Faro, awarded the Blue Flag in 2026 by ABAAE. This page will be expanded with more information on access, amenities and water quality.

Maria Luísa is a beach in Albufeira, in the district of Faro, awarded the Blue Flag in 2026 by ABAAE. This page will be expanded with more information on access, amenities and water quality.

Meia Praia is one of the longest beaches in the Algarve, with around four kilometres of golden sand stretching from Lagos. Its calm, shallow water makes it ideal for families with children and for water sports. The view of Lagos and the Ponta da Bandeira fort adds character to the setting.

Praia da Armação de Pêra is one of the largest beaches in the Algarve, with a long stretch of fine sand running for several kilometres between rocky promontories. The bathing town is one of the Algarve's most traditional tourist centres, with a strong presence of both Portuguese and international visitors. The small Nossa Senhora da Rocha fort, at the end of the beach, is the area's most recognisable landmark.

Praia da Bordeira, in the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, is one of the wildest and longest beaches on the Vicentine Coast, surrounded by huge dunes and a river estuary. Powerful waves make it a paradise for experienced surfers, while the absence of development keeps the natural beauty intact. The River Bordeira crosses the dunes before reaching the Atlantic, creating a unique landscape.

Praia da Coelha is a medium-sized beach with the cliffs characteristic of the central Algarve, reached via a steep descent. Its clean water and lower visitor numbers compared with Albufeira's main beaches make it a quieter option for anyone after some peace. The well-preserved natural setting and the absence of heavy development are its main draws.

Praia da Falésia is striking for the long stretch of red and ochre cliffs that dominate the landscape for several kilometres. Fine golden sand and clear water make it one of the most popular destinations in the eastern Algarve. The contrast between the red cliffs and the blue Atlantic creates scenery of unrivalled beauty.

Praia da Fuzeta sits on the barrier island that shelters the Ria Formosa, reached by ferry or on foot at low tide from the picturesque fishing village of Fuzeta. Its warm, calm water is much loved by families, and the preserved natural setting of the lagoon offers unique conditions for birdwatching. Fuzeta keeps an authenticity that sets it apart from the more touristy beaches in the Algarve.

Ilha da Culatra is an isolated fishing community in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, reached only by ferry from Olhão, with no cars and no roads. Its Atlantic-facing beaches offer kilometres of virgin sand with intact dunes and an atmosphere of total tranquillity. Living alongside the local fishermen and their colourful boats makes this place an authentic and memorable experience.

Fuzeta island, reached by boat from the village of Fuzeta, has an Atlantic side with a fine-sand beach and an inner side facing the lagoon with calm, warm water. This duality makes it one of the most versatile beaches in the Ria Formosa. The preserved natural setting and the absence of cars guarantee a quiet that is increasingly rare.

Ilha de Tavira is one of the longest barrier islands in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, with kilometres of deserted beach reached by ferry from Tavira. The Atlantic-facing side offers open surf beaches, while the lagoon side delivers warm, calm water. The island has a handful of seasonal restaurants but keeps an untouched, lightly developed character. It is also known as Praia de Tavira, and the bathing water that monitors it is called Ilha de Tavira-Mar.

Praia da Ingrina is a hidden beach near Sagres, reached by a dirt track that ends at a small cove of fine sand with exceptionally clean, calm water. The lack of amenities and the isolation create a pristine natural setting much loved by visitors looking for peace and contact with nature. Its small size and quiet atmosphere contrast with the busier tourism elsewhere in the region.

Praia da Luz is a family-friendly beach next to a quiet, well-equipped fishing village, known for its laid-back and safe atmosphere. Black basalt rock dotting the golden sand is a striking feature of this beach, forming natural rock pools at low tide. The lively seafront, lined with restaurants and bars, invites long summer afternoons.

Praia da Manta Rota is a quiet beach on the eastern Algarve with a long stretch of golden sand, part of the Ria Formosa barrier-island system. Its water is generally calm and warm, influenced by the proximity of the lagoon, making it ideal for families. The surrounding area has grown into a quality tourism destination, with good access and amenities.

Praia da Marinha is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, with golden cliffs and unique rock formations that create natural caves and arches. Access is via steps carved into the cliff, revealing a beach of fine sand and stunning turquoise-blue water. It is an unmissable destination for snorkelling enthusiasts and photographers.

Praia da Oura sits in the Montechoro tourist area of Albufeira, with solid amenities and a wide range of nightlife in the surrounding streets. Fine sand and calm water make it very popular with visitors staying at the area's hotels. The atmosphere is cosmopolitan and lively, with a strong British and Irish visitor base.

Praia da Quarteira is a long urban beach with a strong fishing tradition, where you can still see fishermen working their nets and lines. With a long stretch of fine sand and a lively seafront lined with restaurants and shops, it offers everything you need for a comfortable stay. The Quarteira fish market is a must-stop to sample the local cuisine.

Praia da Rocha is one of the most famous beaches in the Algarve, known for the striking golden rock formations that rise from the sand. With a long sandy stretch and crystal-clear water, this urban beach has all the amenities for a perfect visit. The lively Portimão seafront promenade completes the bathing experience.

Praia de Alagoa-Altura is in the municipality of Castro Marim, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Albufeira, known as Praia dos Pescadores, sits at the heart of the lively Algarve town, with the iconic tunnel through the cliff as its gateway. Surrounded by restaurants, bars and shops, it is the focal point of Albufeira's bathing life — one of Portugal's most popular tourist destinations. Fine golden sand and crystal-clear water round out a buzzing atmosphere.

Praia de Alemães is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

This Vicentine Coast beach in the Aljezur municipality has long stretches of sand and a wild setting, within the protection of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park. Atlantic waves here are energetic, making it attractive to surfers, and the surrounding dunes and pine trees give it a preserved natural character. Access via trail keeps visitor numbers moderate.

Praia de Almádena/cabanas Velhas is in the municipality of Vila do Bispo, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Almargem is in the municipality of Loulé, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Alvor stretches along the Alvor estuary, an area of great biodiversity where dunes and salt marshes form a singular landscape. Its calm water and broad sand make it ideal for families, and the wooden boardwalk along the estuary lets you observe local wildlife and plants. The picturesque village of Alvor, with its fish market, is a short walk away.

Praia de Alvor-Nascente is in the municipality of Portimão, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Alvor-Poente is in the municipality of Portimão, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Amoreira is a wild beach on the Vicentine Coast where the River Aljezur meets the Atlantic, creating a freshwater lagoon that lets you swim in two kinds of water in one place. Long dunes and native coastal vegetation form one of the most preserved coastal ecosystems in Portugal. Proximity to the historic town of Aljezur, with its Moorish castle, adds a cultural dimension to the visit.

Praia de Amoreira-Mar is in the municipality of Aljezur, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Amoreira-Rio is in the municipality of Aljezur, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Boa by APA in 2025.

Praia de Armona-Mar is in the municipality of Olhão, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Armona-Ria is in the municipality of Olhão, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Arrifana is one of the gems of the Vicentine Coast, framed by imposing black cliffs and the ruins of a Moorish fortress on the headland. Consistent, high-quality waves have made it one of Portugal's most respected surf destinations. The small village of Arrifana, with its fresh-fish restaurants, completes the charm of this wild beach.

Praia de Aveiros is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Barcos/armação de Pêra Nascente is in the municipality of Silves, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Barranco is in the municipality of Vila do Bispo, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Barranco das Canas is in the municipality of Portimão, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Barreta is in the municipality of Faro, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Barril is in the municipality of Tavira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Batata is in the municipality of Lagos, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Good by APA in 2025.

Praia de Belharucas is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Beliche is one of the beaches closest to Cape St Vincent, the southwesternmost point in continental Europe, tucked between imposing cliffs that partially shelter it from the wind. Its water is exceptionally clean and the wild natural setting is the main attraction. Access via cliff steps and the isolation keep this beach a refuge for more adventurous visitors.

Praia de Benagil is world-famous for its sea cave — the Algar de Benagil — accessible only by sea, which has become a photographic icon of Portugal. The small beach tucked between cliffs is the starting point for kayak and boat trips to the cave. The combination of blue water and the natural architecture of the rocks makes this place truly unique.

Praia de Boca do Rio is in the municipality of Vila do Bispo, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Burgau is a charming small beach tucked into a cove, with the picturesque fishing village cascading down to the sand. Its location on the western Algarve, between Lagos and Sagres, ensures clean water and a less crowded atmosphere than the more touristy beaches in the region. The surrounding rock formations and walkable sea caves make for a uniquely exploratory experience.

Praia de Cabanas is part of the Ria Formosa barrier-island system, reached by boat from the fishing village of Cabanas de Tavira. Calm, shallow water makes it ideal for families, and the preserved dune system keeps the natural setting intact. The village of Cabanas has authentic charm, with seafood restaurants and a quiet riverfront.

Praia de Cabanas Velhas is an almost-secret beach on the western Algarve, with turquoise water and a small cove of white sand sheltered by rocks. The absence of any amenities ensures a completely untouched natural experience. Visitors who walk the Vicentine Coast trails discover here one of the most beautiful and quiet beaches in the entire Algarve.

Praia de Cabeço is in the municipality of Castro Marim, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Cacela Velha is one of the most idyllic beaches in the Algarve, reached by boat from the historic village of Cacela Velha that sits on a hill overlooking the lagoon. The barrier island offers an almost deserted sand strip with intact dunes and privileged views of the lagoon and the village with its small fortress and brilliant white church. The isolation and peace found here are rare in the modern Algarve.

Praia de Camilo is in the municipality of Lagos, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Aceitável by APA in 2025.

Praia de Caneiros is in the municipality of Lagoa, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Careanos is in the municipality of Portimão, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Carvoeiro is the central beach of the charming fishing village of the same name, tucked between golden limestone cliffs that form a natural amphitheatre. The colourful village framing the beach makes one of the Algarve's most iconic postcards, with white houses and lively restaurants right by the sand. Its compact size and family-friendly feel make it a much sought-after destination.

Praia de Cavacos is in the municipality of Olhão, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excelente by APA in 2025.

Praia de Cordoama is in the municipality of Vila do Bispo, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Cova Redonda is in the municipality of Lagoa, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Culatra-Mar is in the municipality of Faro, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Dona Ana is one of the most photogenic beaches in Lagos, tucked between golden cliffs sculpted by the sea into arches and rocky pillars. Its crystal-clear water and fine sand make it a favourite among tourists visiting the region. Access via cliff steps adds to the experience of discovering this natural jewel.

Praia de Evaristo is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Fábrica-Mar is in the municipality of Vila Real de Santo António, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excelente by APA in 2025.

Praia de Falésia Açoteias is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Falésia Alfamar is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Faro is the closest urban beach to the Algarve's capital, reached by a bridge over the Ria Formosa, and very popular with city residents. Set within the Ria Formosa Natural Park, it combines easy access with a high-quality natural setting, with dunes and clean water. The beach has a good range of seasonal bars and restaurants, becoming a lively summer meeting point.

Praia de Faro-Mar is in the municipality of Faro, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Furnas is in the municipality of Vila do Bispo, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Fuseta-Mar is in the municipality of Olhão, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Fuseta-Ria is in the municipality of Olhão, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Galé-Leste is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Galé-Oeste is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Garrão-Nascente, widely known simply as Praia do Garrão, stretches between Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago, beside the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Set against low cliffs broken by a wide dune field, the sand offers more privacy than the town beaches of Albufeira or Vilamoura, and there is a freshwater wetland ringed by pine woods. Access is via boardwalks with ramps and steps.

Praia de Garrão-Poente, also known as Praia de Vale Garrão, lies between Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago, beside the Ria Formosa Natural Park. It is a long stretch of sand backed by low cliffs and a dune area covered in native vegetation, with the ochre tones that mark this coastline. Quieter and more natural than the resort beaches, it holds the Praia Acessível accessibility award.

Praia de Ilha do Farol-Mar is in the municipality of Faro, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Inatel-Albufeira is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Loulé Velho is in the municipality of Loulé, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Manuel Lourenço is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Mareta is in the municipality of Vila do Bispo, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Marina de Portimão is in the municipality of Portimão, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

This section of Meia Praia, east of Armação de Pêra, is a quieter beach with good amenities and lower visitor numbers than the main core. Water quality is good and the long stretch of sand provides space for everyone. The semi-natural setting and partially preserved dunes give it a calmer character.

Praia de Monte Clérigo is in the municipality of Aljezur, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Monte Gordo is one of the longest urban beaches on the eastern Algarve, with a wide stretch of golden sand and particularly warm water, influenced by the Guadiana current. The town of Monte Gordo has a casino and a broad range of accommodation, making it a very complete bathing destination. Calm water and fine sand are perfect for families with young children.

Praia de Odeceixe sits where the River Seixe meets the Atlantic, on the natural boundary between the Algarve and the Alentejo, within the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park. The lagoon formed at the river mouth offers calmer water much loved by families with children, while the Atlantic side draws surfers. The picturesque village of Odeceixe is just two kilometres away, rounding out the experience of this unique rural area.

Praia de Odeceixe Mar is the Atlantic-facing stretch of Odeceixe beach, different from the lagoon side where the River Seixe meets the sea. Open ocean waves create interesting surf conditions, while the wild landscape of the Vicentine Coast unfolds in all its grandeur. The boundary between the Algarve and the Alentejo crosses right through this beach, making it geographically singular.

Praia de Odeceixe-Mar is in the municipality of Aljezur, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Olhos de Água owes its name ("Eyes of Water") to the freshwater springs that emerge from the rocks at low tide — a unique natural phenomenon that fascinates visitors. It is a beach with solid amenities and fresh-fish restaurants, with an authenticity that sets it apart from the more touristy beaches around Albufeira. The small fishing village keeps a genuinely Algarvian charm.

Praia de Oura-Leste is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Pego Fundo is in the municipality of Alcoutim, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. River beach with water quality rated Good by APA in 2025.

Praia de Peneco is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Pescadores is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Boa by APA in 2025.

Praia de Pintadinho is in the municipality of Lagoa, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Good by APA in 2025.

Praia de Porto de Mós is one of the largest beaches in Lagos, with a long stretch of fine golden sand flanked by imposing orange cliffs. Variable swell conditions make it a favourite with families and surfers alike. The clifftop walking path offers stunning panoramic views over the Algarve coast.

Praia de Quinta do Lago lies within the Ria Formosa Natural Park, reached via a famous wooden footbridge over the lagoon that has become one of the most iconic images of the Algarve. A vast stretch of sand and well-preserved dunes create an unspoilt natural setting, even though the beach sits next to one of Portugal's most prestigious golf resorts. The ecological richness of the surrounding lagoon makes this spot unique.

Praia de Rocha Baixinha is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Rocha Baixinha-Nascente is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Rocha Baixinha-Poente is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Sagres sits next to the Sagres fortress, at one of the westernmost points in continental Europe, surrounded by dramatic Atlantic scenery. Its cool water and powerful waves draw surfers and bodyboarders year-round. The historic atmosphere of the village of Sagres, linked to the Portuguese Age of Discovery, adds depth to any visit.

Praia de Salema is one of the most authentic fishing-village beaches in the western Algarve, with fishermen's boats lined up on the sand and a traditional village that has kept its identity despite tourism growth. Calm water and fine sand create perfect conditions for families, and the village's fresh-fish restaurants are a local benchmark. Its genuinely Algarvian feel sets Salema apart from the more touristy beaches in the region.

Praia de Santa Eulália is in the municipality of Albufeira, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Santo António is in the municipality of Vila Real de Santo António, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de São Brás is a small beach between Portimão and Carvoeiro, with the rock formations characteristic of the western Algarve and a more reserved atmosphere. The absence of major amenities ensures a more natural, peaceful setting. Its clean water and rocky scenery attract visitors who prefer less commercial beaches.

Praia de São Lourenço, on Armona island within the Ria Formosa Natural Park, is reached by ferry from Olhão, with a long stretch of fine sand and exceptional water quality. The island's isolation guarantees a more natural and peaceful experience than on the mainland beaches. The lagoon along the inner side of the island is a habitat of great biodiversity.

Praia de São Rafael is one of the most picturesque beaches on the western Algarve, with rock formations that create sheltered coves of fine sand and very calm turquoise water. The natural caves and arches that frame the strand are an attraction in themselves and can be explored at low tide. Good signage and quality access have made it one of the busiest in the Albufeira area.

Praia de Senhora da Rocha is in the municipality of Lagoa, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Três Castelos is in the municipality of Portimão, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Vale de Centeanes is a small, wild beach on the Lagoa coast, reached by a footpath from the car park. The golden cliffs and natural arches flanking the beach are typical features of this part of the central Algarve. Its clean water and low visitor numbers make it a much-loved refuge.

Praia de Vale do Lobo is one of the most exclusive beaches in the Algarve, associated with the luxury resort of the same name and its famous golf courses. The red and ochre cliffs that dominate the landscape are iconic of this part of the central Algarve, creating scenery of remarkable beauty. Fine sand and clear water round out the high-end experience that characterises this destination.

Praia de Vale do Olival is in the municipality of Lagoa, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Vale dos Homens is in the municipality of Aljezur, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia de Vale Figueiras is an isolated Vicentine Coast beach, surrounded by dunes and cliffs within the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park. Consistent waves attract more experienced surfers, and the absence of crowds creates an atmosphere of discovery. Access via a dirt road through pine wood and dune is part of the experience of this wild beach.

Praia de Vilamoura is one of the most cosmopolitan beaches in the Algarve, set next to one of Europe's largest marinas and surrounded by luxury hotels, golf courses and casinos. Fine sand and crystal-clear water combine with high-end amenities, making it one of the best-equipped beaches in the country. The Vilamoura marina is the starting point for boat trips and diving.

Praia do Amado is one of the main surf spots on the Vicentine Coast, with regular, high-quality waves that draw surfers from across Europe. Within the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, it keeps a natural setting of great ecological value. Its long dunes and the open Atlantic view create a landscape of primitive beauty.

Praia do Âncão is one of the longest and wildest sections of the Ria Formosa, with well-preserved dunes and a setting of great ecological value. Its location away from the main tourist centres ensures a quieter, nature-focused experience. The surrounding area is a refuge for several migratory bird species that use the lagoon as a stop on their seasonal routes.

Praia do Carvalho is one of the most secret and stunning beaches in the Algarve, reached only through a tunnel carved into the cliff that creates a magical sense of discovery. The small cove tucked between limestone rocks remains relatively unknown, offering a quiet refuge with water of exceptional clarity. Its unique beauty and unusual access make for a memorable experience.

Praia do Castelejo is one of the windiest and most exposed beaches in Portugal, on the western Algarve coast between Sagres and Carrapateira. Powerful waves and constant wind make it one of the country's best surf and bodyboard spots for experienced practitioners. The dramatic landscape of black cliffs and open Atlantic conveys a feeling of being at the end of the world.

Praia do Castelo is one of the most hidden and stunning beaches in the Albufeira area, reached only by dirt paths and steps down the cliff. The cove, completely surrounded by golden rocks, creates a setting of total isolation, with water of extraordinary clarity. Difficult access keeps visitor numbers low, preserving an untouched natural setting that is very rare in the central Algarve.

Praia do Martinhal is a beach with calm, shallow water, much loved by families with children, next to the luxury resort of the same name. The sheltered bay offers perfect conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing and is known for its steady winds. The landscape, within the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, ensures a preserved natural setting.

Praia do Tonel sits just metres from Ponta de Sagres, with powerful waves that make it one of the best surf spots in the Algarve. Steady wind and frequent waves draw surfers from around the world, and the view of Cape St Vincent in the distance makes this beach truly iconic. The rugged landscape and the power of the Atlantic create a uniquely wild natural experience.

Praia do Vau sits between Portimão and Praia da Rocha — a well-equipped urban beach with the rock formations characteristic of the western Algarve. Its calm water, sheltered by the rocks, makes it very popular with families and visitors staying in the surrounding hotel area. The short distance to the lively Praia da Rocha lets you combine quiet with entertainment.

Praia dos Três Irmãos ("Three Brothers") takes its name from the three rock formations that rise from its water, creating caves and natural passages that are the beach's main attraction. Set between Alvor and Praia da Rocha, it combines the natural beauty of the Algarve cliffs with good bathing conditions and full amenities. Boat and kayak trips between the rock formations are a very popular experience.

Praia Fluvial da Albufeira da Barragem de Odeleite is a beach in Castro Marim, in the district of Faro, awarded the Blue Flag in 2026 by ABAAE. This page will be expanded with more information on access, amenities and water quality.

Pego do Inferno is a waterfall and natural pool in the interior of the Tavira municipality, formed by the River Séqua, creating a natural lagoon of cool, crystal-clear water surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation. Although it has no official beach amenities, it is very busy in summer with visitors looking for a natural refuge of great beauty in the inland Algarve hills. The primitive setting and the sound of the waterfall create an authentic nature experience.

Praia Grande de Ferragudo is a long beach with a privileged view of the São João de Arade castle and the mouth of the Arade river, creating a unique historical and natural setting. The fishing village of Ferragudo, opposite Portimão, keeps its genuine charm with cobbled streets, white houses and an authentic atmosphere. The beach has good access and amenities and is a calmer alternative to the busy Praia da Rocha.

Praia Grande-Nascente is in the municipality of Silves, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excelente by APA in 2025.

Praia Grande-Poente is in the municipality of Silves, district of Faro, in the Algarve region. Coastal beach with water quality rated Excellent by APA in 2025.

Praia Verde is one of the quietest and best-preserved beaches on the eastern Algarve, fringed by pine trees and Mediterranean vegetation that give it its name ("Green Beach"). Its location away from the main tourist centres ensures greater calm and a more natural setting, with preserved dunes and excellent water quality. The nearby campsite is popular with Portuguese visitors.

Praia Verde Lago is a beach in Castro Marim, in the district of Faro, awarded the Blue Flag in 2026 by ABAAE. This page will be expanded with more information on access, amenities and water quality.

Salgados is a beach in Albufeira, in the district of Faro, awarded the Blue Flag in 2026 by ABAAE. This page will be expanded with more information on access, amenities and water quality.

Terra Estreita is a beach in Tavira, in the district of Faro, awarded the Blue Flag in 2026 by ABAAE. This page will be expanded with more information on access, amenities and water quality.

Zavial is a beach in Vila do Bispo, in the district of Faro, awarded the Blue Flag in 2026 by ABAAE. This page will be expanded with more information on access, amenities and water quality.