Praia do Evaristo: the #1 guide

Praia do Evaristo is a small, scenic beach just west of Albufeira, known for its rocky coastline, clear waters, and laid-back charm. Unlike many of the Algarve’s larger beaches, Evaristo offers a quieter experience, perfect for snorkeling, exploring natural rock pools, or enjoying a good seafood lunch by the sea. With soft golden sand and hidden coves between weathered rocks, it’s the perfect spot to unwind away from the busy resort crowds. Read on for everything you need to know to plan your perfect visit.

In this article you will find:

• What makes Praia do Evaristo unique
• Tips for swimming, walking, and exploring the beach
• Where to eat, stay, and enjoy the view
• Practical advice on parking, getting there, and avoiding the crowds
• Hidden spots and must-see highlights nearby

Why visit Praia do Evaristo

• Top spot for snorkelling – the beach’s rocky seabed is home to colorful marine life, making it one of the Algarve’s best spots for snorkelling.
• Peaceful and uncrowded – far enough from Albufeira’s center to avoid the crowds, yet close enough for convenience.
• Natural pools and coves to explore – kids and adventurers will love the small pools and hidden coves formed between the rocks.
• Celebrity favorite – this beach is known to attract famous Portuguese visitors, adding a subtle touch of glamour.
• Legendary seafood restaurant – dine right on the beach at the no-menu, catch-of-the-day Evaristo Restaurant, loved for its freshness and sea views.

For a quick preview of this beach, check out the video below. Note: the video has no sound.

 

What to expect at the beach

Praia do Evaristo is a small beach in a rocky bay. It is surrounded by beautiful scenery, such as low ochre cliffs and pine trees. There are no high cliffs on this beach, in contrast to some other beaches in Albufeira. Praia do Evaristo is named after the restaurant that is situated here, which has been here since 1986.

There are many rocks at Praia do Evaristo, both inside and outside the water. You can see that many of the rocks have been subject to heavy erosion. The many rocks is also what characterizes the beach. At high tide, the waves crash against the rocks, which is a nice sight to admire.

You should definitely explore the unique landscape surrounding the beach. There is a pathway on the eastern cliff to explore. And there is much to discover on the western side as well. For example, you will find many coves which are nice to explore.

The sand on the beach is golden, and the water is very clear. However, Praia do Evaristo is not a great beach for swimming, because of these rocks. At the same time, it is a great beach for snorkelling. There are many rocks underwater, which have plenty of marine life around them. If you go snorkelling, you can see many fishes and other sea creatures. This is a great experience and a lot of fun.

Even though Praia do Evaristo is in Albufeira, it is far enough from the town to escape the masses. This is also why Praia do Evaristo is less crowded than the urban beaches in Albufeira town. The beach is mostly visited by Portuguese people, although you can find some tourists as well. Moreover, in summer Praia do Evaristo attracts some famous Portuguese people. For example, the former president of Portugal, Aníbal Cavaco Silva, is a regular guest here.

Look around and you will find some natural pools. Kids love to explore these pools and rock formations on the beach.

Cliff walk

You can walk in the surrounding area to nearby beaches. From these cliffs you also have a great view over the area. Nearby beaches are Praia da Balbina in the west and Praia do Castelo in the east.

Our tips

Want to experience Praia do Evaristo like a local, not a tourist? These are the tips we would give our best friends:

• Explore west for secret coves. Most people don’t go beyond the beach. Walk west (to the right) along the rocks (especially at low tide) and you will discover tiny, nearly private coves that feel untouched.
• Bring reef shoes if you want to snorkel. The marine life is spectacular, but you’ll miss it without the right gear. Reef shoes let you explore rocky sections safely and spot fish up close.
• Don’t plan on swimming too far out. The rocks underwater extend quite a bit from shore. Stay closer in, snorkel near the boulders, and avoid deeper areas unless you’re an experienced swimmer.
• Watch for rock pools at low tide. Kids and adults alike love discovering little sea creatures in these naturally formed pools. They are scattered around the western edge and easy to miss if you don’t look closely.
• Skip the central sand, go left for privacy. The center fills up fast. For more space and fewer sunbeds, head left past the main access ramp, it’s quieter and more scenic.

How to get there & parking

The easiest way to move around in the Algarve is by car. If you don’t have one, make sure to rent a car. To reach Evaristo beach, take exit 9 on the A22 highway. Continue on the N395 in the direction of Albufeira and turn right at the big roundabout towards the M526. Follow this road and you will see signs indicating the beach. There is only one road leading directly to the beach. At the end of this road there is a medium-sized car park.

Beware that parking here can be difficult in summer. From this car park, there is a boardwalk to the beach. Since the beach is not backed by high cliffs, this also means you do not have to go down a long staircase to reach the beach. It is only a short walk. This also makes this beach more accessible than nearby Praia do Castelo.

Beach restaurant

There is one restaurant directly on the beach, called Evaristo. The restaurant opened in 1986 and is quite known in the area. Their specialty is fresh grilled fish and seafood. However, the restaurant has no menu. You can choose from the selection of the catch of the day, and they will provide suggestions. Whatever you choose, it will be fresh and tasty.

In summer, the restaurant is sometimes visited by Portuguese celebrities. Compared to other restaurants in the Algarve, this restaurant is relatively expensive. However, the atmosphere is good, the food is delicious and you have a great sea view from the restaurant. It is recommended to make a reservation in advance.

Hotels

Praia do Evaristo is relatively close to Praia do Castelo. Thus we recommend the same hotels as you can find in the article about Praia do Castelo.

Transfer to the hotel
Whatever hotel you choose, it is important to think about how to get there. If you don’t have a car, make sure to rent a car. Alternatively, you can book an airport transfer from Faro Airport directly to your hotel.

 

Excursions

Make your trip truly unforgettable by booking one of the top-rated excursions in the area. Whether you dream of cruising along the Algarve’s stunning coastline, exploring the famous Benagil cave, or spotting dolphins at sea, these handpicked experiences are the best of the best. Don’t miss out. Secure your spot now, before they sell out! Check out our top recommendations below.

 

Beach facilities

Praia do Evaristo is a Blue Flag beach. It has the most important facilities. For example, there is a restaurant/bar for food and refreshments. You can also find the toilets and showers near the restaurant. Moreover, the beach is accessible by wheelchair.

Facilities in Praia do Evaristo:

• Restaurant: yes
• Bar/club: no
• Toilet: yes
• Shower: yes
• Water sports: no
• Sunbeds: yes
• Parking: yes
• Lifeguards: yes
• Blue Flag beach: yes