Praia da Corredoura: the #1 guide
Praia da Corredoura in Lagoa is one of the Algarve’s best-kept secrets. It is a golden-sand beach hidden between cliffs and only reachable by sea. Located just east of the famous Benagil Cave, this untouched spot feels like your own private paradise. With calm, clear water, dramatic rock formations, and zero crowds, it’s a dream for adventurous travelers who want to escape the busy beaches. Whether you arrive by kayak, SUP, or boat, getting here is half the thrill, and the reward is unforgettable.
In this article you will find:
- What makes Praia da Corredoura 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 da Corredoura
- A rare escape into untouched nature – reachable only by water, this beach stays blissfully empty even during peak summer. No roads, no tourists, no noise. Just raw coastline, silence, and the feeling of finding something few ever do.
- A setting straight out of a travel magazine – golden cliffs, powdery sand, and clear turquoise water create one of the Algarve’s most cinematic landscapes. You don’t arrive here, you uncover it.
- Perfect for explorers and peace-seekers – paddle through sea caves, snorkel in crystal-clear water, or simply stretch out on the sand without another soul in sight. This is what Algarve dreams are made of.
- Snorkeling and cave exploring at their best – the calm, clear water is perfect for spotting fish and swimming into the nearby sea caves. It’s a natural playground for the curious.
- Uninterrupted peace and stillness – with no facilities, music, or crowds, it’s just you and the rhythm of the waves. This is the beach where time slows down.
Looking forward to see Praia da Corredoura and its surroundings? Then watch the short video below.
What to expect at the beach
Praia da Corredoura is a medium-sized beach located in a cove between Praia de Benagil (in the west) and Praia da Marinha (in the east). In fact, the beach is just east of the famous Algar de Benagil (the Benagil cave). Praia da Corredoura is surrounded by tall cliffs, which protect the beach from the wind.
Praia da Corredoura is a deserted beach. That is because there is no easy way to access the beach. The beach is not accessible on foot; the beach is only accessible from the water. That means that you can only reach the beach if you have a boat, kayak or stand-up paddle board. The fact that this beach is so hard to access truly means that there is usually no one on the beach, even in the height of summer. If you manage to reach Praia da Corredoura, you will have the whole beach to yourself.
Sometimes the only life on the beach are a flock of sea birds.
The best thing to do on this beach is to soak up the sun and enjoy the peace. In addition you can search for shells or take a dive in the crystal clear water. The water is usually calm, with small waves only. It is great for snorkelling as well.
Furthermore, there are two caves in the cliffs on either side of the beach. You can explore them, which is a nice thing to do.
Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos
There is a walking trail from Praia da Marinha all the way to Praia de Vale Centeanes. This trail is called Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos (trail of the Seven Hanging Valleys) and is truly one of the best walks in the entire Algarve. The walk takes you along seven valleys.
Praia da Corredoura is in fact one of the valleys along this walking trail. Since the walking trail is quite popular, you will occasionally see people walking by on top of the cliffs. If you do (part of) this walk, you can admire Praia da Corredoura from the cliffs as well, which is a beautiful sight.
Our tips
Want to experience Praia da Corredoura like a local, not a tourist? These are the tips we would give our best friends:
- Go by SUP or kayak, not motorboat. It’s the most immersive way to arrive, and you won’t be stuck on a tight schedule like the boat tours. You’ll also be able to glide into hidden corners that boats can’t reach.
- Pack a dry bag with frozen water bottles. They’ll keep your gear cool and become cold drinking water as the day heats up. There’s zero shade here, so hydration is key.
- Snorkel just off the east side of the beach. It’s where the clearest water and best rock formations are. You’ll often find small fish and crabs hiding near the ledges.
- Don’t miss the double cave on the western cliff. It looks ordinary from the outside, but once inside, you’ll see the sunlight split through the rock ceiling. A hidden gem missed by 90% of visitors.
- Bring a GoPro or waterproof phone case. You’ll regret it if you don’t. The approach through the cliffs, the quiet landing, and the panoramic views are some of the Algarve’s most cinematic moments.
How to get there
Praia da Corredoura is not accessible from the top of the cliffs. It is only accessible from the water. This means you can only access it by boat, kayak or stand-up paddle board. If you do not wish to undertake this journey alone, there is in fact, an organized stand-up paddle board tour towards the beach.
We recommend to kayak to this beach. In this way, you are not dependent on the time schedule of others and can thus truly enjoy this beach on your own pace. You can rent a kayak from Praia de Benagil or Praia da Marinha.
Best restaurants and hotels near the beach
The beach is relatively close to Praia do Carvalho. Thus we recommend the same restaurants and hotels as you can find in the article about Praia do Carvalho.
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.
Top excursions nearby
Ready to experience the Algarve beyond the beach? These handpicked excursions are the ones travelers rave about, and they often sell out fast. Whether you’re into sea caves, dolphin watching, or sunset cruises, these tours offer unforgettable moments just minutes away. Book your favorite now to secure your spot and skip the last-minute stress.
FAQ
It’s one of the few beaches in the Algarve that’s completely cut off from roads and footpaths. The isolation, the cliffs, and the clear water make it feel like a secret hideaway.
You can only access the beach by water. There are no footpaths from the cliffs. Visitors typically reach it by boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard from nearby Benagil Beach or Praia da Marinha.
No, there is no land access. The cliffs surrounding the beach are too steep and dangerous to descend, so walking is not possible.
Yes, it’s generally safe, especially on calm days. However, beginners should go with a guided tour to ensure safety around the caves and coastal currents.
It usually takes 10 to 15 minutes to kayak from Benagil Beach to Praia da Corredoura, depending on sea conditions and your pace.
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended due to boat traffic and currents around the caves. Use a kayak or paddleboard for a safer visit.
Morning or late afternoon are ideal. You’ll avoid strong sun and boat traffic, and the light is perfect for photos.
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a dry bag, and snorkel gear if you have it. There are no shops or facilities, so pack like you’re going on a mini expedition.
It’s peaceful and beautiful, but due to its remote access and lack of shade or facilities, it’s better suited for adults or teens rather than small children.
A small amount of natural shade appears near the cliffs depending on the time of day. However, it’s mostly sunny, so bring a hat or umbrella.
Yes, the calm waters and rocky formations make it a great spot for snorkeling. You might see fish, sea urchins, and starfish near the rocks.
Most rentals are available at Praia de Benagil or Praia da Marinha. Many offer hourly rentals or guided tours that include Corredoura.
Beach facilities
There are absolutely no facilities on Praia da Corredoura. There is no toilet nearby and there is not a restaurant in sight. This is a truly deserted beach.
Facilities in Praia da Corredoura:
- Restaurant: no
- Bar/club: no
- Toilet: no
- Shower: no
- Water sports: no
- Sunbeds: no
- Parking: no
- Lifeguards: no
- Blue Flag beach: no
