Praia do Beliche – the #1 guide
Praia do Beliche is one of the Algarve’s most striking beaches. Wild, dramatic, and full of character. Backed by steep cliffs and shaped by the Atlantic, this beach near Sagres draws surfers, nature lovers, and those looking for something off the beaten path. It’s just far enough from town to feel remote, yet easy to reach for a day of exploration. Whether you’re here to ride the waves, catch a sunset, or simply unwind, Beliche offers an experience that feels both raw and unforgettable. Dive into our guide to make the most of your visit.
In this article you will find:
- What makes Praia do Beliche 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 Beliche
- Dramatic cliffside setting – enclosed by steep rock walls, the beach feels intimate and naturally protected from the wind.
- Waves made for surfing – consistent swells and clear breaks make it a favourite spot for both beginner and experienced surfers.
- Wild, raw beauty – the beach has an untouched vibe, with golden sand, rugged coves, and striking Atlantic views.
- Quieter than most Algarve beaches – close to Sagres, yet far enough to avoid big crowds, even in summer.
- Easy comforts on-site – with a beachside restaurant, sunbed rentals, and free parking nearby, you can stay all day without a hassle.
To get an idea of Praia do Beliche, watch the short video below.
What to expect at the beach
Praia do Beliche is surrounded by impressive 40 metres tall cliffs on both sides, forming a wonderful small bay. Praia do Beliche has a feeling of remoteness and unspoiled nature. Its scenery is really magnificent.
The beach actually consists of two small bays. The second bay is right next to the first one. This bay is more quiet than the first bay.
The sand on Praia do Beliche is nice and gold-coloured. It feels very nice to walk here.
The water has a beautiful colour, but can be quite cold. Still, it can be very refreshing to swim here on a warm day. Actually, swimming on this beach means jumping into the waves. The waves here can be quite rough and big. This can be fun for teenagers in particular.
However, be careful when swimming. The current can be strong here, so only swim if the conditions are right and you feel confident about it. Also, don’t let small children go near the water alone. Fortunately, there are no rocks in the water.
The spectacular cliffs protect the beach from the wind. Especially winds from the north and east are blocked by the cliffs. Praia do Beliche is very well sheltered, which is nice because Sagres is very windy. However, you can sometimes still feel the wind, but much less than in other parts of Sagres.
There are also some small caves in the rocks, which can be fun to explore.
These small coves on the beach are a great place for taking photos.
It is best to stay in the middle section of this beach. Don’t stay underneath the cliffs. Always keep a safe distance from them, since there is the danger of rockfall. There are various warning signs. Also, don’t stay too close to the water. The water rises very quickly on this beach, which might surprise you. After all, you don’t want to wet your towel and belongings.
Away from the crowds
From all the beaches facing south in the Algarve, this one is the westernmost of all. It is the last beach before the lighthouse of Sagres, which was long considered to be the end of the world. Praia do Beliche is close enough to Sagres that it is easily accessible, but still far enough from the main tourism hubs to not be too crowded.
Once you are on the beach, the town somehow feels very far away. This is why the beach is not as crowded as most of the beaches that are located near the big cities of the Algarve. There are rarely big crowds here, even in the summer.
It is very easy to find a good spot on the beach. Out of the peak touristic season, the beach is almost deserted. This makes Praia do Beliche a great place if you seek to quietly enjoy a beach in the Algarve.
Usually there are quite a few Spanish people visiting the beach as well. They drove all across the Algarve to end up on this beach, which confirms the uniqueness of this beach.
Stairway to the beach
To access the beach, you have to go down a long man-made stairway made out of stone. There are about 100 steps, some of which can be quite steep. However, the walk is well worth the effort.
Going back up the stairs can be tough, especially with a surfboard. From the stairway you have an amazing view over the beach though.
Surfing
Praia do Beliche is an excellent beach for surfing.
The waves on this beach can be rough, and the conditions on this beach are perfect for riding these waves.
There is a surf school nearby, which is perfect if you don’t have a lot of surfing experience.
When you are not surfing yourself, it can be entertaining to just watch the surfers have fun. In addition to surfing, bodyboarding is also popular here.
Watch the video below to get an idea of the surfing culture on the beach.
Nudism
The western section of the beach is an unofficial nude beach. It is the second cove of the beach, which is the part that is the furthest from the entrance. This part is enjoyed by naturists who like to tan everywhere.
Fortaleza de Beliche
Not far from Praia do Beliche you can find the fortress of Beliche (Fortaleza de Beliche). From the beach, it is only a 2 minute drive. The fortress was destroyed by Francis Drake in the 16th century, and later damaged by the earthquake of 1755. Nowdays, this fortress is closed to the public due to safety reasons. There is a possibility that the cliff on which the fortress stands, will collapse.
Our tips
Want to experience Praia do Beliche like a local, not a tourist? These are the tips we would give our best friends:
- Arrive before 10:00 AM for golden light and an empty beach. This is when the cliffs glow, the sand is untouched, and the waves are at their calmest. You’ll feel like the beach was reserved just for you.
- Skip lunch crowds by ordering takeaway from the beach restaurant by 12:00 PM. Their grilled fish sells out fast. Take it to go and eat with your feet in the sand while everyone else is still lining up.
- Watch the sunset from halfway up the stairs. Most people rush off, but this is when the cliffs turn orange and the beach empties. It’s the perfect time for a quiet moment or a final photo with zero crowds.
- Watch for dolphins during morning hours. Occasionally, small pods pass by the bay, especially when the sea is calm. Bring binoculars or a long zoom lens if you’re hoping to spot them.
- Walk west at low tide to reach the second cove. This cove is quieter, more private, and perfect for naturists. Check tide times to avoid getting cut off on your way back.
Best restaurants near the beach
There is a restaurant right on the beach. They have a barbeque. When you are walking by, the smell of the barbeque is very inviting. You could for example order chicken piri piri or fresh fish from the restaurant, which can be great if you are hungry. Also you could go here for just a drink or a snack, while enjoying the Reggae music in the background. The restaurant has a nice view over the beach and the Atlantic Ocean. They also do takeaway, which means that you can enjoy your food on the beach.
Another option is the restaurant Terra. This restaurant is situated just across the parking area behind the beach. It is one of the best restaurants in Sagres. The food is excellent and the service is great. When you are looking for a good meal, this place is highly recommended. During summer, it can be busy, which is why it is recommended to make a reservation.
Best hotels near the beach
Looking for a great place to stay near Praia do Beliche? We’ve selected our favorite hotels in the area based on location, comfort, and guest reviews. The Algarve has become extremely popular, and the best places tend to sell out fast, especially in peak season. To avoid missing out, we recommend booking your hotel as early as possible. Our favourite hotels near the beach are:
- Mareta View – Boutique Bed & Breakfast. This 4 star bed & breakfast has all the modern facilities you need. They also have a nice tropical garden and a hot tub. Particularly liked by couples.
- Tonel Apartamentos Turisticos. These apartments have their own kitchen, so you can prepare your own meals if you want to. Very colourful furniture, which gives the place a nice feel.
- Cercas Velhas. These rooms are the most highly rated in the area. Clean rooms, each with a private bathroom. You can rent a bike or car from this property.
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.
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. From the village of Sagres, the beach is a 5 minute drive by car. The beach is located on the EN268 road, which goes from Sagres to the Cape of Saint Vincent. The beach is very well signposted, so it should not be that hard to find. You can park your car next to the road. Parking is free and there is plenty of parking space near the beach. It is also possible to walk to the beach. From the town of Sagres it is about a 35 minute walk to Praia do Beliche.
Top excursions nearby
While Sagres is an unforgettable destination, the Algarve holds so much more waiting to be explored. From dramatic cliffs and sea caves to historic towns and hidden beaches, the region is filled with places that most travelers miss. The easiest way to experience the best of it is with a local guide, someone who not only takes you there but brings every location to life with insights and stories you won’t find in any guidebook. These tours help you make the most of your trip without the hassle of planning. Explore our handpicked favorite excursions below and unlock the Algarve’s most extraordinary sights.
FAQ
Praia do Beliche is suitable for families with older children, especially those who enjoy the outdoors. The waves can be strong, so it’s not ideal for toddlers or very young kids. There are no playgrounds or shaded areas, but there is a restaurant for snacks and meals. Always supervise children near the water due to the currents.
Yes, but swimming here requires caution. The waves can be strong and the sea can change quickly, especially at high tide. Confident swimmers will enjoy jumping into the waves, but beginners should stay close to the shore. Wearing water shoes is optional, as there are no sharp rocks in the water.
Yes, you can hike along the cliffs from Beliche toward Cabo de São Vicente. The views are stunning, especially around sunrise or sunset. The path is uneven and unmarked in places, so wear sturdy shoes. Bring water and a hat if you’re hiking during the day.
Absolutely. This beach is one of the top surfing spots in the Sagres area, with consistent waves and clean breaks. It’s ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers, though beginners can take lessons from the nearby surf schools. The surf culture adds a laid-back energy to the beach.
Yes, the far western cove is known for unofficial nudism. It’s discreet and often used by naturists, particularly when the beach is less crowded. This area is well-separated from the main beach, offering privacy. It’s accepted but not officially designated as a nude beach.
Yes, there are surf schools nearby where you can rent gear or take lessons. Some instructors even teach directly on the beach. It’s best to book in advance during peak season. Bodyboards are also commonly used here.
Yes, Praia do Beliche is about a 35-minute walk from the center of Sagres. The walk is along a scenic stretch of road but lacks shade. Bring water and sunscreen if you plan to walk. It’s a popular route for hikers and backpackers.
Sagres is generally windy, but Praia do Beliche is sheltered by cliffs. Winds from the north and east are mostly blocked, making it more comfortable than other beaches nearby. Occasionally, wind can still be felt, especially on the higher sections. The bay shape helps minimize wind exposure.
There is no artificial shade like umbrellas or shelters. Some shade can be found near the cliffs, but it’s not recommended to sit directly under them due to rockfall risk. Bring your own umbrella or tent if you need shade. Early morning or late afternoon sun is softer.
It’s less crowded than many Algarve beaches, especially those near Albufeira or Lagos. Even in summer, it’s usually possible to find a quiet spot. Early mornings and weekdays are the calmest. Out of season, the beach is often nearly empty.
Besides surfing and bodyboarding, you may find occasional stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals. Kayaking is less common due to the waves. Most water sports focus on wave-based activities. Equipment can usually be arranged nearby or in Sagres.
Spring and autumn offer great weather with fewer crowds. Summer is busier but still manageable. Early mornings or late afternoons are the most scenic and peaceful. Winter is quiet and rugged, ideal for solitude and photography.
It’s excellent for photography thanks to its dramatic cliffs, waves, and sunset views. The natural light at golden hour creates stunning visuals. The stairway also offers a great perspective of the beach below. Bring a wide-angle lens for the best results.
Waves are usually moderate to strong, with occasional swells perfect for surfing. Conditions change with the tides and wind direction. Swimmers should take caution and stay informed via the beach’s flag system. Surfers often check the surf report before heading out.
Beach facilities
To get to Beliche beach, you have to walk down a long stairs. Some of the steps are actually quite steep. This makes Praia do Beliche not accessible by wheelchair, but can also be annoying when you have to carry your surfboard. There are lifeguards on duty and you can rent sunbeds here. It is also possible to hire a canoe or a stand-up paddle board. The only public toilet is on top of the cliffs, but it is not very clean.
Facilities in Praia do Beliche:
- Restaurant: yes
- Bar/club: no
- Toilet: yes, on top of the cliff
- Shower: no
- Water sports: yes, especially surfing
- Sunbeds: yes
- Parking: yes
- Lifeguards: yes
- Blue Flag beach: yes
