Beaches in the Algarve you should visit

The Algarve is world-famous for its beautiful coastline. It has more than 150 beaches spread across nearly 200 kilometres. You can find golden sands, dramatic cliffs, quiet coves, and peaceful islands. There are lively beaches full of energy and calm ones perfect for relaxing. With its mild climate and clear sea, the Algarve is one of Europe’s best destinations for sun and sea lovers.

Beaches in the Algarve

The beaches in the Algarve are some of the most beautiful in Europe. The sand is usually soft and golden, and the water is clean and inviting. On the western side of the Algarve, beaches are wilder and often less crowded, with dramatic cliffs and strong waves. In the central Algarve, between Faro and Portimão, beaches are busier in summer but are surrounded by impressive rock formations. The eastern Algarve is very different, with long sandy stretches, rolling dunes, and quiet islands that can only be reached by boat. No matter where you go, every part of the Algarve offers its own special beach experience.

The main beaches of the Algarve are situated around the following towns:

Albufeira beaches

Albufeira beaches are some of the most popular in the Algarve. Right in the old town of Albufeira, you’ll find four urban beaches – Pescadores, Túnel, Inatel and Alemães – perfect if you want everything close by. Just outside the center, there are smaller coves like São Rafael, Coelha and Evaristo, with golden cliffs and clear water. For more space and stunning scenery, Praia da Falésia is a highlight, stretching for several kilometers beneath red cliffs. Below, you’ll find the complete list of beaches in Albufeira.

Castro Marim beaches

Castro Marim beaches are known for their wide sandy stretches and calm atmosphere. The water here is warmer than in many other parts of the Algarve, making it a favorite for families and those who enjoy long swims. These beaches are less crowded than the central Algarve, so they’re perfect if you want more peace and space. Below, you can see the main beaches in Castro Marim.

Alagoa
Cabeço
Verde

Faro beaches

Faro beaches offer a different experience compared to the cliff-backed shores of the western Algarve. The coastline here is mostly flat, with long sandy stretches and barrier islands that can only be reached by boat. The most popular spot is Praia de Faro, located just outside the city, but there are also quieter islands within the Ria Formosa natural park that feel untouched and peaceful. Below, you’ll find the main beaches in Faro.

Lagoa beaches

Lagoa beaches are among the most famous and photographed in the Algarve. This stretch of coastline is known for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear water. Some of Portugal’s most iconic spots, like Praia da Marinha and Benagil, are located here and attract visitors from all over the world. Whether you want to relax on golden sand, explore sea caves, or enjoy breathtaking views from above, Lagoa has it all. Below, you’ll find the most beautiful beaches in Lagoa.

Lagos beaches

Lagos beaches are some of the most stunning in the Algarve. They are known for their golden sand, dramatic cliffs, and turquoise water. From small sheltered coves like Praia do Camilo to the wide stretch of Meia Praia, there is a beach for every taste. Lagos also has the famous Ponta da Piedade, with its unique rock formations that are a must-see. Below, you can explore the different beaches around Lagos.

Olhão beaches

Olhão beaches are found on the islands just off the coast, as the town itself does not have a beach. From Olhão, you can take a short boat trip to discover long sandy stretches and peaceful spots surrounded by nature. Ilha da Armona and Praia da Fuseta are two of the most popular choices, both offering plenty of space and calm waters. These beaches are perfect if you want to enjoy a more relaxed and authentic atmosphere. Below, you will find the beaches you can visit from Olhão.

Portimão beaches

Portimão beaches are some of the most famous and lively in the Algarve. The highlight is Praia da Rocha, a wide golden beach with a long promenade full of restaurants, bars, and hotels. Nearby, you will find many other beautiful spots like Praia do Vau and Praia dos Três Castelos, each offering impressive cliffs and clear water. With plenty of facilities and activities, Portimão is a great choice for families, couples, and anyone who enjoys a mix of beach and city life. Below, you can see the beaches that belong to Portimão.

Silves beaches

Even though the town of Silves is located inland, the municipality extends to the coast and includes some beautiful sandy spots. Silves beaches are known for their wide stretches of sand, calm waves, and good facilities, making them very family-friendly. Praia de Armação de Pêra is the most famous, while Praia Grande offers plenty of space to relax in a more natural setting. If you’re planning a day by the sea, Silves beaches are a great choice for combining history in town with relaxation by the coast. Below, you can find the complete list of beaches in Silves.

Tavira beaches

Tavira beaches are often described as some of the most beautiful in the Algarve. They are located on long sandy islands just off the coast, which you can reach by boat or small train. Praia do Barril is one of the highlights, known for its wide sands and the unique anchor cemetery. Ilha de Tavira and Ilha de Cabanas also offer endless stretches of sand, backed by dunes and calm waters perfect for swimming. Below, you’ll find the main beaches around Tavira.

Vila do Bispo beaches

Vila do Bispo beaches are some of the wildest and most dramatic in the Algarve. This area is surrounded by steep cliffs and exposed to the Atlantic Ocean, which means stronger waves and cooler water. The scenery is breathtaking, and many of the beaches here are popular with surfers and nature lovers. From sheltered coves to wide open bays, Vila do Bispo offers a truly rugged and unspoiled coastline. Below, you can discover the main beaches in Vila do Bispo.

Vila Real de Santo António beaches

Vila Real de Santo António beaches are located in the eastern Algarve, close to the Spanish border. These beaches are wide, sandy, and backed by rolling dunes, offering plenty of space even in the summer months. The water here is usually warmer and calmer than on the western coast, making it a great area for families. Popular spots include Monte Gordo and Manta Rota, both known for their easy access and relaxed atmosphere. Below, you can see the main beaches in Vila Real de Santo António.

West coast beaches

West coast beaches of the Algarve stretch between Sagres and Odeceixe and feel wild and untamed compared to the southern coastline. Here you’ll find steep cliffs, powerful waves, and wide sandy bays that attract surfers from all over the world. These beaches are less developed and usually much quieter, making them ideal for travelers who love nature and unspoiled landscapes. Whether you’re looking for surf, dramatic views, or peaceful walks, the west coast offers a completely different side of the Algarve. Below, you can explore the main beaches on the west coast.

Islands in the Algarve

Islands in the Algarve are some of the region’s best-kept secrets. Found mainly near Faro, Olhão, and Tavira, these islands are home to long sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Most of them can only be reached by boat, which adds to their charm and keeps them peaceful even in summer. Ilha Deserta is the only uninhabited island, while others like Armona and Tavira have small communities and simple restaurants. If you walk just a little further from the arrival points, you’ll often find quiet stretches of sand all to yourself.

Blue flag beaches in the Algarve

Blue Flag beaches in the Algarve meet strict international standards for safety, water quality, facilities, and environmental care. This eco-label is awarded every year and helps visitors easily find beaches that are clean, safe, and well-managed. The Algarve has dozens of Blue Flag beaches, making it one of the top regions in Europe for certified coastal destinations. From lively town beaches to quiet stretches of sand, you’ll have plenty of trusted options to choose from. If you want the full overview, check out the complete list of Blue Flag beaches in the Algarve.

See all Blue Flag beaches in the Algarve

Sea water temperature and quality

The sea water temperature in the Algarve changes depending on the season, wind, and ocean currents. In general, the water is warmer in the east and cooler in the west. On the west coast, temperatures usually range between 17°C and 20°C, while east of Tavira the sea can reach up to 26°C in summer. When the southeast wind, known locally as sueste, blows, it brings warmer water from North Africa, making the sea noticeably milder.

The water quality in the Algarve is also very good. There is little industry in the region, and modern treatment plants keep the coastal waters clean. On most beaches, flags are used to show whether it is safe to swim:

Green = swimming permitted
Yellow = swimming forbidden
Red = swimming or entering the water forbidden

FAQ

Which Algarve beaches are the most famous?

Some of the most famous include Praia da Marinha, Benagil, Praia da Rocha, and Dona Ana. These beaches are often featured in travel magazines for their beauty. They are must-sees, but also among the busiest in peak season.

How many beaches are there in the Algarve?

The Algarve has more than 150 beaches spread across its stunning coastline. They range from long sandy stretches to small coves hidden between cliffs. No matter what kind of beach you prefer, you will find one that suits your style.

Are Algarve beaches safe for swimming?

Yes, most beaches in the Algarve are safe for swimming, especially those awarded with the Blue Flag. Always check the lifeguard flags for current safety conditions. The green flag means swimming is allowed, while yellow or red means caution or no swimming.

Beaches in the Algarve you should visit