Praia da Ingrina: the #1 guide
Praia da Ingrina is one of the Algarve’s best-kept secrets. Set in a natural cove near Raposeira, this small beach offers calm, crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and a tranquil setting rarely found in more developed parts of the region. Surrounded by the raw beauty of the Costa Vicentina Natural Park, it’s a favourite spot for swimming, snorkeling, and recharging in nature. Whether you’re here for a quiet escape, a coastal hike, or a scenic lunch by the sea, Praia da Ingrina delivers the kind of authentic Algarve experience that’s getting harder to find.
In this article you will find:
- What makes Praia da Ingrina 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 Ingrina
- Sheltered cove setting – Praia da Ingrina sits in a natural shell-shaped bay, offering calm waters and protection from strong winds.
- Clear, shallow water – ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with excellent visibility and few waves even in summer.
- Authentic atmosphere – it is part of the Costa Vicentina Natural Park, so the beach feels far removed from the tourist trail.
- Great for active travellers – cliffside hikes, nearby historical ruins, and diving spots make it a top choice for explorers.
- Good facilities, low crowds – with a beachside restaurant, lifeguards in season, and sunbeds for rent, it’s well-equipped but rarely crowded.
Praia da Ingrina is a wonderful beach. Would you like to see this for yourself? Then check out the following video.
What to expect at the beach
Praia da Ingrina is a small beach of about 100 metres long. The beach is located in a small cove, which has the shape of a seashell. It has beautiful white sand. In 2014 a large storm actually removed most of the sand on the beach. Fortunately, the beach restored itself by the following year, so you can enjoy it to the fullest.
The east side of Praia da Ingrina is backed by low cliffs. On the west side, there is an area of pebbles and stones that extends into the sea for about 200 metres. This characterizes the beach, since this sort of natural pier is quite unique in the Algarve.
Furthermore, there are some rocks all around the beach. The more you go towards the water, the more rocks you will see.
The water at Praia da Ingrina is calm and exceptionally clear. Moreover, there is an area of underwater rock formations here. That is why Praia da Ingrina is an amazing beach for diving and snorkelling. You will love to discover it.
In addition, Praia da Ingrina is also good for swimming. Just watch out for some rocks in the sea, which can be found on both the western and eastern sides of the beach. It can be easy to hurt yourself here.
Praia da Ingrina is a peaceful and tranquil beach. In summer it can be popular, but not too crowded. Outside the summer months the beach is usually empty.
Praia da Ingrina is east of Praia do Barranco and west of the surf beach Praia do Zavial. The beach of Ingrina is less known than Praia do Zavial and thus more quiet.
Beware that there is no shade on the beach, which makes the sun hit extra hard. At the same time, there is usually some wind on the beach, which neutralizes the feeling of getting sunburned.
Megalithic monuments
In the area near Raposeira you can actually find some megalithic monuments. You can see some of them on the road from Raposeira towards Praia da Ingrina. If you would like to see more of these monuments, check out the following video.
Cliff walks
We recommend to take a walk along the cliffs in the area. The best walk is towards the east, in the direction of Praia do Zavial. On the cliffs east of the beach, between Praia da Ingrina and Praia do Zavial, you can find the ruins of a small 18th century fort called Bateria do Zavial. This fort once protected this part of the coast of the Algarve. If you walk further, you can see the beach of Praia do Zavial. It is a fabulous sight from the cliffs. If you would like to hike even more, we suggest to walk further east towards Praia das Furnas. This 2 hour hike provides amazing views of the coast.
Our tips
Want to experience Praia da Ingrina like a local, not a tourist? These are the tips we would give our best friends:
- Arrive before 10 AM for the best parking and lighting. Most visitors arrive late morning. If you’re here by 9:30, you’ll have your pick of shaded spots, near-empty sand, and soft light perfect for photos. It’s the quietest time of the day.
- Snorkel just west of the rocky finger. Everyone snorkels near the center, but the real underwater magic starts west of the pebble reef. You’ll find clear visibility, schools of fish, and fewer people disturbing the water.
- Explore the ruined fortress before sunset. Walk east along the cliffs to Bateria do Zavial. You’ll see dramatic coastline and often spot kestrels or ospreys. Aim to arrive 30 minutes before golden hour. It’s a cinematic view no guidebook mentions.
- Walk to Praia do Zavial through the cliffs, not the road. Most visitors miss the hidden trail that hugs the cliff. It takes about 20 minutes, with postcard views the entire way. You’ll arrive with better photos than anyone else.
- Combine your visit with a stop at the megalithic monuments. These ancient stones near Raposeira are barely visited, but they’re older than the pyramids and just a short detour away. Bring a picnic and you’ve got a full cultural + beach day in one.
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 N125, exit at Raposeira. From here you can follow the signs to the beach. The landscape on the way to the beach is very green, which is wonderful. Along the way you can see cereal fields, as well as some megalithic monuments. You can park your car in the car park near the restaurant.
Best restaurant near the beach
There is a restaurant right behind the beach, called Restaurante do Sebastião. It has an amazing view over Praia da Ingrina. Outside, there is a terrace under the palm trees, which provides a special atmosphere. The restaurant itself focuses on fresh fish and seafood. If you are enjoying a day on the beach of Ingrina, make sure to try this restaurant as well.
Best hotels near the beach
Looking for a great place to stay near Praia da Ingrina? 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:
- Hostel on the Hill. Just as the name says, this is a hostel located in the hills. They offer single beds in mixed dormitory rooms, as well as private double rooms. Peaceful and quiet. It is actually the closest accommodation to Praia da Ingrina.
- Pure Fonte Velha B&B. This bed & breakfast in the village of Vila do Bispo offers modern rooms, some of which have a balcony. There is a nice shared lounge area and a terrace. Overall just a great atmosphere. Very highly rated as well.
- Pure Flor de Esteva – Bed & Breakfast. This bed & breakfast provides a nice experience. The staff is very nice and will do their best to make you feel at home. Furthermore, the rooms are clean and there is a welcoming outdoor terrace. Very good breakfast as well.
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
Absolutely ready to see the best of the Algarve? The smartest way is with a handpicked excursion. It’s the easiest, most rewarding way to experience the hidden gems, secret spots, and dramatic coastlines you’d likely miss on your own. Booking online now means no stress later. Just confirmed plans, local insight, and memories you won’t forget. Here are our top recommendations.
FAQ
Yes, the beach is great for swimming thanks to its calm and clear waters. The bay provides shelter from large waves, especially compared to other west coast beaches. Just be mindful of rocks near the edges of the bay.
Absolutely. The water is incredibly clear and there are several underwater rock formations to explore. Snorkelers often spot small fish and marine life near the rocky areas.
Praia da Ingrina is relatively safe for kids due to its calm waters. However, the beach has rocky sections, so supervision is recommended. Lifeguards are usually present in summer.
The beach remains relatively peaceful, even in summer. It attracts locals and nature lovers rather than large tourist crowds.
Yes, kayaking and paddleboarding are possible, with rentals often provided by Kayak Centre Lagos during summer. Diving and snorkeling are popular too.
Late spring to early autumn is the best time to enjoy Praia da Ingrina. The weather is warm, the sea is swimmable, and the beach is fully serviced during this period.
Yes, it’s within the Costa Vicentina Natural Park, a protected coastal area known for its biodiversity and natural beauty.
Yes, there are beautiful cliff-top walks heading east toward Praia do Zavial and further toward Praia das Furnas. You can also visit the ruins of Bateria do Zavial on the way.
Yes, the beach faces southwest and offers beautiful sunset views, especially in spring and late summer.
No, it’s not a typical surfing beach due to the calm waters. However, nearby Praia do Zavial is popular with surfers and just a short walk away.
Beach facilities
Praia da Ingrina is a Blue Flag beach, which means that the beach complies with certain standards related to safety and quality. It has good facilities. For example, there is a restaurant, where you can also find toilets. Lifeguards overlook the beach in summer and if you didn’t bring your sun umbrella you can rent a sunbed on the beach. In addition, there are several water sports available on the beach, such as kayaking and paddle boarding. You can book these water sports at the kiosk of Kayak Centre Lagos on the beach. Otherwise you can always book with your hotel and they will arrange it.
Facilities in Praia da Ingrina:
- Restaurant: yes
- Bar/club: no
- Toilet: yes
- Shower: yes
- Water sports: yes
- Sunbeds: yes
- Parking: yes
- Lifeguards: yes
- Blue Flag beach: yes
1 comment
Nice