Praia do Paraíso: the #1 guide
Praia do Paraíso is one of the Algarve’s best-kept secrets. Just a short walk west of bustling Praia do Carvoeiro, this hidden gem offers a quiet, scenic escape far from the crowds. Framed by golden cliffs and accessible only by a steep staircase, it rewards those who seek it out with crystal-clear water, raw natural beauty, and rare tranquility. Whether you’re chasing serenity, stunning cliffside views, or a romantic sunset, Praia do Paraíso lives up to its name. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the most of your visit.
In this article you will find:
- What makes Praia do Paraíso 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 Paraíso
- Hidden in plain sight – just 400 meters from the busy Praia do Carvoeiro, this beach offers a peaceful, uncrowded escape few tourists know exists.
- Dramatic cliff backdrop – surrounded by towering golden cliffs, the beach sits at the base of a steep staircase, creating a cinematic coastal setting that feels worlds away from the crowds above.
- Perfect for couples and solitude seekers – its small size, quiet atmosphere, and secluded vibe make it ideal for those who prefer privacy, relaxation, and a more intimate Algarve experience.
- Unfiltered natural beauty – with crystal-clear water, no beach bars or sunbeds, and rock pools at low tide, this is a place to connect with the raw, untouched side of the coast.
- One of the best sunset spots in the region – stay until evening and head to the top of the cliffs for sunset views that rival any postcard—just bring a bottle of wine and soak it in.
Would you like to see Praia do Paraíso and the surrounding area of Carvoeiro? Then check out the video below.
What to expect at the beach
Praia do Paraíso is a very small beach located in a small cove. Literally, the name means Paradise Beach. When visiting the beach, you will understand the name. It looks like a small paradise between the tall cliffs. These cliffs protect the beach against the wind, which is nice. Praia do Paraíso is also known as Praia do Monte Carvoeiro, referring to the area of Monte Carvoeiro, which is the luxurious area in the village of Carvoeiro behind this beach.
Praia do Paraíso consists of a small strip of sand. During high tide, the beach pretty much disappears. That is why it is best to visit the beach at low tide. Moreover, during low tide you can also find some rock pools. When you arrive on the beach from the stairs, you will find yourself in a small cove.
However, behind the rocks on the right there is a bigger strip of sand, which is the best place to enjoy this beach. Behind the strip of sand, there is actually a raised rocky platform, where you can put your towel without the risk of it getting wet.
Even though there are no facilities on the beach itself, Praia do Paraíso is still good for sunbathing and relaxing. You can also explore some caves on either side of the beach.
Praia do Paraíso is relatively hidden and unknown. Many people visiting Carvoeiro don’t know about this beach, even though it is only about 400 metres west of the popular Praia do Carvoeiro. That is one reason why the beach is usually quite empty. Another reason is that it takes some effort to reach Praia do Paraíso. Access is by a steep staircase, which might be difficult for people with mobility issues. However, the visit is well worth the effort. Praia do Paraíso is thus a great beach to avoid the large groups of people you find in Carvoeiro. The beach is particularly popular among couples who prefer some privacy and want to get away from the crowded Carvoeiro, without driving very far.
Make sure to stay for the sunset as well. The sunset is especially beautiful from the cliffs on top of the beach.
In general it is great to walk around on top of the cliffs here. The cliff views over Carvoeiro are stunning as well.
Our tips
Want to experience Praia do Paraíso like a local, not a tourist? These are the tips we would give our best friends:
- Go 1 hour before low tide for the full beach reveal. Most visitors don’t realize this: at high tide, the beach nearly disappears. But time your visit for just before low tide, and you’ll get the maximum strip of sand, access to rock pools, and safer passage to the nearby caves. This one move will 10x your experience.
- Sit on the rocky shelf, not the sand. During high tide, many first-timers get surprised when the sea creeps up. Locals and pros spread their towels on the raised stone platform behind the beach. Higher up, no wet gear, and perfect for relaxing.
- Snorkel on the west side. This area is calm, shallow, and full of marine life. The western edge of the cove has better clarity, smoother currents, and is where you’re most likely to spot fish. Very few people bring snorkel gear here, so you’ll have it all to yourself.
- Skip Carvoeiro at sunset; watch it from the cliffs above Paraíso. Tourists crowd Carvoeiro’s boardwalk at golden hour, but the sunset view from the top of Praia do Paraíso is next level. It’s peaceful, panoramic, and you’ll have a front-row seat with almost no one else around.
- Want the best photo spot? It’s not on the beach. Walk 2 minutes west along the cliff path and you’ll find a natural ledge overlooking the sea with Carvoeiro in the distance. It’s completely off the radar, and one of the Algarve’s most photogenic hidden gems.
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. When driving on the EN125, take the exit near Lagoa and continue on the M1272 in the direction of Carvoeiro. You will see the signs indicating Carvoeiro beach. When in Carvoeiro, go west up the hill on Rua do Paraíso, towards Monte Carvoeiro. Praia do Paraíso is about 400 metres west of Praia do Carvoeiro. There is a small parking area on top of the cliff. However, parking here is very difficult during summer. You might have to park a bit further. Access to the beach is via a long staircase, consisting of a few hundred steps. Beware that the descent is pretty steep, which makes the trip back up the stairs quite hard.
Best restaurant near the beach
There is a restaurant on top of the cliffs, called Mar d’Fora. This is a very good restaurant, serving mainly fish and seafood dishes. However, the best thing about this restaurant is the sunset view. It is well worth visiting the restaurant just to see the sunset.
Best hotels near the beach
Praia do Paraíso is relatively close to Praia do Carvoeiro. Thus we recommend the same hotels as you can find in the article about Praia do Carvoeiro.
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 very best of the Algarve? Don’t leave it to chance. Book an unforgettable excursion and discover hidden caves, dramatic coastlines, and crystal-clear waters with expert local guides. These tours sell out fast, so we’ve handpicked the top-rated ones you can secure online right now. Explore our curated favourites below and make your trip extraordinary.
FAQ
The name means “Paradise Beach” in Portuguese. It’s named for its secluded setting, clear water, and picturesque cove surrounded by dramatic cliffs. It really feels like a hidden paradise.
Access is possible, but not easy. You must descend a steep staircase with several hundred steps. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues, strollers, or very young children.
No, Praia do Paraíso is usually quiet, even in summer. The steep access and lack of facilities keep most casual tourists away, making it ideal for those seeking peace.
Visit during low tide when the beach is fully accessible and the sand is exposed. Early mornings and late afternoons are perfect for light, shade, and fewer people.
While children can enjoy the beach, the steep staircase makes it difficult for families with young kids or strollers. Use extra caution if bringing children.
Yes, the water is clear and generally safe, but it can get deep quickly. As there are no lifeguards, only confident swimmers should venture far from shore.
Yes, there are small caves and crevices on both sides of the beach. During low tide, you can safely explore the edges, but watch for rising water.
No, it’s not a popular or safe spot for cliff jumping. The rocks are uneven and the water below can be shallow or unpredictable.
It’s only about 400 meters from Praia do Carvoeiro. You can walk there in under 10 minutes from the town center.
Yes, the clear water and rocky surroundings make it a good spot for casual snorkeling. Bring your own gear, as nothing is available to rent.
There’s no natural shade on the sand, so bring a beach umbrella if you want sun protection.
Beach facilities
There are no facilities on Praia do Paraíso. For example, there are no lifeguards and there is no toilet. We recommend to bring your own food and drinks. The nearest facilities are in the restaurant on top of the cliff, but from the beach you have to walk back up many stairs to get there.
Facilities in Praia do Paraíso:
- Restaurant: on top of the cliff
- Bar/club: no
- Toilet: no
- Shower: no
- Water sports: no
- Sunbeds: no
- Parking: yes, near the restaurant
- Lifeguards: no
- Blue Flag beach: no
