Whether hidden coves, expansive sandy beaches, or unique sights – the Algarve in Portugal has something to offer everyone. In the following article, we would like to introduce you to the 15 most beautiful beaches in the Algarve (and there could certainly be more).

We love the Algarve because of its unique landscape and a true paradise for beach lovers. With its breathtaking coastline stretching for more than 150 kilometers, the region offers some of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Europe.

Crystal-clear waters, dramatic rock formations, hidden coves, breathtaking lagoons, and golden sand await you. Are you intrigued? Then don’t miss the following beaches in the Algarve. Have fun browsing!

• The most beautiful beaches in the Algarve in the west
  • 1. Praia de Odeceixe
  • 2. Praia da Amoreira
  • 3. Praia de Monte Clérigo
  • 4. Praia da Arrifana
  • 5. Praia da Bordeira
  • 6. Praia de Castalejo
• The most beautiful beaches in the Algarve in the south
  • 1. Praia Dona Ana
  • 2. Praia do Camilo
  • 3. Praia dos Três Irmãos
  • 4. Praia da Marinha
  • 5. Praia do Vale de Centeanes
  • 6. Praia da Falésia
• The most beautiful beaches in the Algarve in the east
  • 1. Ria Formosa Natural Park near Faro
  • 2. Praia da Ilha de Tavira
  • 3. Praia de Cacela Velha
• The most beautiful beaches in the Algarve – Conclusion

The most beautiful beaches in the Algarve in the west

1. Praia de Odeceixe

For us, Praia de Odeceixe is one of the most picturesque beaches in the Algarve and is located on the border between the municipalities of Aljezur and Odeceixe. The cliffs and the surrounding green hills form a fascinating contrast with the azure waters of the Atlantic.

The beach is located at the mouth of the Odeceixe River, which flows into the Atlantic. At high tide, the river and the sea merge, creating a natural pool on the beach that’s perfect for swimming and splashing around. It’s truly uniquely beautiful there!

The beach is ideal for jumping into (and against) the waves, sunbathing, or trying out water sports like surfing or bodyboarding. While we played ball on the beach, the kids went snorkeling in the small lagoon.

Information about Praia de Odeceixe

• Parking: above the beach & along the road (free of charge)
• Activities: sunbathing, swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, walking
• Food: two establishments directly on the road + two bars further down
• Infrastructure: toilets, showers, umbrella rental
• Great viewpoint at the large upper parking lot

2. Praia da Amoreira

Near the small fishing village of Monte Clérigo is the beautiful Amoreira Beach. The Praia da Amoreira is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation. The sandy area is beautifully complemented by the clear, blue waters of the Atlantic and the surrounding cliffs.

Amoreira lies at the mouth of the Aljezur River, which flows into the ocean at high tide. This creates a beautiful environment with shallow lagoons perfect for playing and relaxing. Surfing, bodyboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding are also popular water sports here.

There are also some lovely walking and cycling trails in the area (e.g. Amoreira Beach Trail) for exploring the stunning coastal scenery. The beach is easily accessible, although the path down to the beach requires some steps.

Information about Praia da Amoreira

• Parking: above the beach; on both sides
• Activities: sunbathing, swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, walking
• Food: Restaurant O’Capitão above the beach + Restaurant Paraíso do Mar
• Infrastructure: Restrooms only in the restaurants
• Great viewpoints above the beach

3. Praia de Monte Clérigo

For us, the Praia de Monte Clérigo is also one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve. Monte Clérigo is characterized by its impressive coastal landscape, characterized by dramatic cliffs and rolling sand dunes. We love the green hills that surround the long sandy beach, creating a beautiful backdrop.

The colorful houses at the southern end of the beach are particularly beautiful and also make for great photo opportunities. The light is simply sensational, especially in the evening at sunset. Be sure to bring your camera!

The fine sandy beach is known for its good surfing conditions and attracts both beginners and experienced surfers. Depending on the weather and current, you can swim and splash around here. However, the sea is generally a bit wilder and the waves higher on the west coast.

Tip: At the southern end of the beach, you can walk along the rocks at low tide and spot small crabs, fish, and with a bit of luck, even starfish. Small pools form between the rocks and are especially popular with children.

Information about Praia de Monte Clérigo

• Parking: along the road + directly behind the O Zé restaurant
• Activities: sunbathing, swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, walking
• Food: O Sargo, O Zé & A Rede
• Infrastructure: WC & Showers on site (free)
• Great viewpoints above the beach

4. Praia da Arrifana

Praia da Arrifana is located just 8 km from Monte Clérigo and is surrounded by impressive cliffs. The view from the plateau onto the beach is simply spectacular. The clear water attracts numerous surfing beginners, as Arrifana is considered an ideal spot for newbies.

A visit to Ti Raul Surf Rental is highly recommended for a delicious coffee. In addition to surfboards and wetsuits, they also offer delicious bowls and smoothies. The spectacular view from the cozy terrace over the bay is a real highlight.

Above the beach there are also several smaller shops where you can rent surfboards, bodyboards and wetsuits, usually for around €35 per day for the board and wetsuit. The kids had the time of their lives in the water.

Info about Praia da Arrifana

• Parking: above the beach
• Activities: surfing, bodyboarding, sunbathing, swimming
• Food: Cal Arrifana, Sea You Surf Café, Ti Raul, Tasca D’Arrifana, and others
• Infrastructure: restrooms on site (free)
• great viewpoints above the beach

5. Praia da Bordeira

A tour of the Algarve would be incomplete without a visit to the legendary Praia da Bordeira. We had the pleasure of exploring this unique place in 2015, 2018, and 2024. The expansive, approximately 3 km wide beach captivates with its wildly romantic setting and quiet location, far from crowds and hustle and bustle.

Particularly impressive are the beautifully landscaped wooden walkways, which lead to various viewpoints and facilitate the descent to the beach. The sea is often rough and stormy here, which is why few visitors dare to jump into the water. Only a few brave surfers occasionally conquer the powerful waves.

Generally, swimming is not recommended here, however, as the current is very strong and the waves are often very high. People come to Praia da Bordeira to sunbathe and enjoy the surroundings. Also explore the circular trail at Cabo Pontal (hiking trail W6) with its many great viewpoints and Praia do Amado.

Information about Praia da Bordeira

• Parking: above the beach near the wooden walkways and behind the dunes
• Activities: sunbathing, walking, surfing
• Food: no restaurants (there used to be a small snack bar)
• Infrastructure: restrooms, deckchair rentals
• Great viewpoints above the beach

6. Praia de Castalejo

Let’s move on to an absolute highlight along the Costa Vicentina. The Praia de Castalejo, located on the untouched west coast of the Algarve near Vila do Bispo, is a true gem for nature lovers and surfers. Away from the crowds of tourists, this beach remains a true insider tip for anyone who wants to enjoy the region’s wild beauty and breathtaking scenery.

Framed by dramatic cliffs and jagged rock formations, the expansive beach with its fine sand provides an ideal backdrop for long walks. The sea is often rough and unpredictable here, which is why swimming is not recommended due to the strong currents. Nevertheless, a visit is an absolute must!

A highlight is the nearby Cordoama viewpoint – the panoramic view of the Atlantic from the steep cliffs is simply breathtaking! If you want to stroll through Vila do Bispo beforehand, we have a few culinary recommendations for you: Restaurant O Cultural, Restaurant Pisco, Izzy’s Market and the Restaurant Ribeira do Poço.

Information about Praia de Castalejo

• Parking: in front of the restaurant and a little further up
• Activities: sunbathing, walking, surfing
• Food: Restaurant Castelejo on site
• Infrastructure: Restrooms only in the restaurant (just ask nicely)
• Great viewpoints above the beach

The most beautiful beaches of the Algarve in the south

1. Praia Dona Ana

Praia Dona Ana is a beautiful beach near the city of Lagos. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve and is known for its dramatic rock formations, golden sand, and turquoise waters. While it can get quite crowded in summer, you can usually find a spot.

Praia Dona Ana is only about a 20-minute walk from the historic center of Lagos and is easily accessible, both on foot and by car. However, there is limited parking on site, so it is recommended that you walk.

The beach is framed by towering cliffs, shaped by wind and water over the centuries. These rock formations not only offer a spectacular view, but also protected areas where you can sunbathe or swim.

Information about Praia Dona Ana

• Parking: above the beach in front of the Carvi Beach Hotel
• Activities: various activities at Algarve Fun Sports
• Food: Restaurante Marisol
• Infrastructure: toilets, showers, sun lounger rentals
• great viewpoints above the beach

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2. Praia do Camilo

Another beautiful beach in the Algarve is Praia do Camilo. Also located near Lagos, it is also known for its spectacular rock formations, crystal-clear waters, and unique, secluded atmosphere.

The beach is accessible via a long wooden staircase with over 200 steps leading down from the cliffs, offering impressive views of the Atlantic Ocean even during the descent. It is surrounded by high, rust-red and orange cliffs punctuated by natural arches and caves.

This setting makes the beach one of the most picturesque and photogenic beaches in the Algarve. The calm, clear waters provide ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling. Underwater, you can spot fish and other marine life. When we were last there (May 2024), the beach was closed due to repair work on the stairs!

Information about Praia do Camilo

• Parking: above the beach “Parking Camilo” (free)
• Activities: snorkeling, diving, sunbathing, swimming
• Food: Restaurante Camilo above the beach
• Infrastructure: Restrooms only in Restaurant Camilo
• Great viewpoints above the beach

3. Praia dos Três Irmãos

Another gem is hidden in the southern Algarve near the small fishing village of Alvor. Praia dos Três Irmãos is known for its impressive rock formations. It is also surrounded by high cliffs and striking rocks, some of which are interspersed with caves and grottos.

The “Three Brothers” (Três Irmãos), after which the beach is named, are three rocky cliffs that rise out of the sea and give the beach its characteristic appearance. At low tide, you can explore small caves and grottos carved into the cliffs – be sure to pack your camera!

The best time to visit is at low tide, as you can easily explore the small coves on foot and find a quiet spot among the rocks. Tip: Hidden between the rocks is the small Caniço Restaurant, where you can enjoy a drink or two overlooking the sea.

Info about Praia dos Três Irmãos

• Parking: at the O Luís and Atlântida restaurants
• Activities: sunbathing, swimming, surfing, kiting, volleyball
• Food: Sol e Sombra, Atlântida, O Luís,
• Infrastructure: Restrooms, showers, deck chair rentals
• Great viewpoints: Miradouro da Prainha

4. Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha is one of the most famous and beautiful beaches in the rocky Algarve and is often considered one of the best beaches in Europe. It is located near Carvoeiro in southern Portugal and is known for its spectacular rock formations, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque cliffs.

The approximately 500-meter-long beach is surrounded by striking limestone cliffs, including natural arches and striking sea stacks. You’ll often find this beach on postcards. Access is via a steep staircase that winds down the cliffs. In summer, however, the beach is packed!

The coastal hiking trail above Praia da Marinha offers unique views of the coast and the striking cliffs. This trail is one of the most famous hiking trails in the Algarve and connects several beautiful beaches. We highly recommend this hike through the “Seven Hanging Valleys”!

Information about Praia Marinha

• Parking: ample; above the beach (free)
• Activities: sunbathing, swimming, reading, relaxing
• Food: only a small snack bar on the beach, a few food trucks in the parking lot
• Infrastructure: toilets, showers
• Great viewpoints: Praia da Marinha Panoramic Observatory

5. Praia do Vale de Centeanes

Praia do Vale de Centeanes is a beautiful and slightly less crowded beach in the Algarve, near Carvoeiro. It is located in a small, picturesque bay and is surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, typical of the Algarve coast.

Near the beach, there are some impressive caves and grottos that you can explore on a boat tour. For example, there is the famous Benagil Cave at Praia de Benagil, which is not far from the beach.

We have been to this beach several times and like the atmosphere there. At high tide, the beach becomes increasingly smaller, and you have to lie closer to the rocks. The water is beautiful, clean, and refreshing. Praia do Carvoeiro and Praia do Carvalho are also nearby.

Information about Praia do Vale de Centeanes

• Parking: limited, along the access road to the beach
• Activities: sunbathing, swimming, reading, relaxing
• Food: Restaurant O Stop
• Infrastructure: toilets, showers
• Great viewpoints: Miradouro Vale Centeanes & Miradouro Praia Centeanes

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6. Praia da Falésia

There are countless beautiful beaches along the Algarve, but Praia da Falésia is quite special. It stretches for almost 6 kilometers along the coast between Vilamoura and Olhos de Água (near Albufeira) and is known for its striking cliffs, up to 40 meters high, which glow in shades of red, orange, and ochre.

The name “Falésia” translates as “cliff,” which describes this beach perfectly. The wide, flat sand makes it attractive for families with children, as it offers plenty of room to play. Despite its popularity, the beach’s length means you can almost always find a quiet spot.

Above the beach, hiking trails run along the cliffs, offering great views of the ocean and the surrounding area. These hikes are particularly spectacular during sunset, when the cliffs are bathed in golden light.

Information about Praia da Falésia

• Parking: ample; along the long beach
• Activities: sunbathing, swimming, surfing, kiting, diving
• Food: Bolas do João, Alfamar beach bar, Praia dos Tomates restaurant, O Golfino
• Infrastructure: restrooms, showers, deckchair rentals
• Great viewpoints: many along the cliffs above the beach

The most beautiful beaches in the Algarve in the east

1. Ria Formosa Nature Park near Faro

The Ria Formosa Nature Park near Faro is an impressive and unique natural area in the Algarve. It’s a protected lagoon system stretching approximately 60 kilometers along the coast and consisting of a chain of dune islands, salt marshes, sandbanks, and small coves.

This natural park is considered one of Portugal’s most important wetlands and is a true paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers. So be sure to pack your binoculars and your camera! There are numerous hiking and biking trails through the park, giving you the opportunity to experience the diverse landscape up close.

Some of the islands of the natural park, such as Ilha de Faro, Ilha da Culatra, Ilha Deserta and Ilha da Armona, offer beautiful beaches that invite you to swim or relax. These islands can usually only be reached by boat from Faro and Olhão.

Information about the Ria Formosa Natural Park near Faro

• Parking: large parking lots in Faro and Olhão + on the Ilha de Faro
• Activities: sunbathing, swimming, reading, relaxing
• Food: various restaurants on the islands
• Infrastructure: toilets, showers, deck chair rentals
• Great viewpoints: many along the cliffs above the beach

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2. Praia da Ilha de Tavira

Praia da Ilha de Tavira is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve and is located on the 14 km long sandy island of Tavira, which is part of the protected Ria Formosa Natural Park. This paradisiacal beach stretches for several kilometers and is known for its fine, golden sand and calm, clear waters.

It is an ideal spot for families, nature lovers, and beachgoers seeking a relaxed and idyllic atmosphere. Despite its natural surroundings, the beach offers good amenities, including restaurants and beach bars serving local dishes, snacks, and fresh seafood. You can also rent parasols and sunbeds.

The Island of Tavira is accessible by boat, making the experience special. There are regular ferry connections from the port of Tavira and Quatro Águas. Alternatively, you can also reach the island on foot over a narrow bridge (bridge to Ilha de Tavira).

Information about the ferries:

• Departure from the Quatro Águas marina or from the port in Tavira (behind the market hall)
• Cost: Return trip between €1.70 and €2.20 per person (children receive a discount)
• Alternative: Water taxi (Aquatáxi) from Quatro Águas
• Tip: Be sure to explore the town of Tavira

3. Praia de Cacela Velha

Praia de Cacela Velha is a secluded and picturesque beach in the eastern Algarve, often considered one of the most unspoiled beaches in the region. It is located near the small village of Cacela Velha, on the edge of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. A spectacular landscape of sand dunes, turquoise waters, and plenty of peace and quiet awaits you, far from the hustle and bustle of tourism.

The beach is completely unspoiled and offers no tourist infrastructure. It is surrounded by sand dunes that extend into the Atlantic. The sea is calm and ideal for swimming. At low tide, lagoons form where the water is particularly warm and shallow – perfect for families with children.

While the beach is accessible on foot across the lagoon at low tide, local fishermen often offer small boat trips to take visitors to the offshore sandbanks. The charming village of Cacela Velha, with its whitewashed houses and Moorish fortress, sits on a cliff above the beach. It is definitely worth a visit.

The Algarve’s Most Beautiful Beaches – Conclusion

Now you’re spoiled for choice! The Algarve’s many beautiful beaches are a perfect blend of impressive nature, tranquility, and adventure. The coastline is characterized by breathtaking diversity, from expansive sandy beaches and majestic cliffs to hidden coves and caves.

Crystal-clear waters invite you to swim and snorkel, while hiking trails along the coastline offer spectacular views. Whether you’re looking for relaxing hours in the sun or exploring the fascinating rocky landscapes, the Algarve’s beaches offer the perfect experience for every taste.