Praia das Cabanas Velhas: the #1 guide
Praia das Cabanas Velhas is one of the Algarve’s quietest and most underrated beaches. Located between Burgau and Boca do Rio, it offers a raw, unfiltered experience. The beach has steep cliffs, coarse sand, and a remote feel that keeps crowds away. It’s not ideal for swimming, but perfect for those who value solitude, scenery, and coastal walks with dramatic views. This is the kind of beach that rewards curiosity. Dive into our guide to make the most of your visit.
In this article you will find:
- What makes Praia das Cabanas Velhas 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 das Cabanas Velhas
- Hidden gem atmosphere – tucked between steep cliffs and rugged terrain, this beach stays off the tourist radar, offering rare peace and quiet even in peak season
- Striking natural beauty – eroded cliffs, unusual rock formations, and coastal views make it one of the Algarve’s most scenic stretches
- Great for hiking – access the cliffs above for panoramic trails to Fort of Almádena or Praia da Boca do Rio
- Ideal for disconnecting – no crowds, no noise, just sea breeze and space to breathe
- Local fishing culture – watch fishermen casting lines from the eastern rocks, adding an authentic feel to your day by the water
Would you like to see more of Praia das Cabanas Velhas? Then check out the short video below.
What to expect at the beach
Praia das Cabanas Velhas is a medium-sized beach, stretching for about 500 metres in length. It is also known as Praia de Almádena. The beach is backed by eroded cliffs. At high tide, the beach is long and narrow. During low tide, the beach is wider. Furthermore, there are peculiar rock formations on both ends of the beach. Praia das Cabanas Velhas is located west of Praia do Burgau and east of Praia da Boca do Rio.
The sand on Praia das Cabanas Velhas is mixed with pebbles, which is not so nice to walk on. There are many small rocks on the beach.
The sea is quite cold and gets deep quickly. In addition, there are many rocks in the water as well, which are often not visible. This makes Praia das Cabanas Velhas not a great place for swimming.
If you do decide to swim, make sure to wear swimming shoes. On the east side of the beach you can often see fishermen. In fact, fishing is more popular on this beach than swimming.
Praia das Cabanas Velhas is located just east of the Fort of Almádena. Between the beach and the fort there are many small rocks at the base of the cliffs.
There is actually a hiking path on top of the cliffs. You can for example walk to the fort or to Praia da Boca do Rio. During this cliff walk you also have a wonderful view over this part of the coastline.
There are usually only a handful of people on Praia das Cabanas Velhas, even in the peak of summer. It is a good place to find some peace and quiet. Partly this is because the beach is hard to get to. It is quite isolated.
Another reason is that it can be quite windy on this beach. Because of these factors, the beach attracts people who love nature. In the area you can see some people camping with their campervan. In addition, you can sometimes see naturists on the beach.
Fort of Almádena
On the cliffs to the west of the beach you can find the ruins of Fort of Almádena. In Portuguese this fort is also known as Forte de São Luís de Almádena or Forte da Boca do Rio. The fort was built in 1632 and its purpose was to protect the area against attacks from pirates. Nowdays there are only some ruins left.
Our tips
Want to experience Praia das Cabanas Velhas like a local, not a tourist? These are the tips we would give our best friends:
- Arrive before 10:00 AM for total solitude. This beach sees very few visitors, but even fewer come early. You’ll get untouched sand, the soft sound of the waves, and the cliffs all to yourself, like your own private Algarve.
- Plan your cliff walk westward, not east. Most people head toward Boca do Rio, but the cliffs west of the Fort of Almádena offer steeper views and zero foot traffic. Bring binoculars. You might spot dolphins or rare birds from the high vantage points.
- Hike up to the Fort of Almádena around golden hour. The trail isn’t marked, but easy to follow. The reward? Panoramic views over the cliffs and ocean, with light that turns everything gold. It’s one of the best photo ops in this part of Portugal, and almost nobody knows about it.
- Bring your own snacks and water, even if you’re visiting the beach restaurant. The restaurant is seasonal and may close unexpectedly. If it’s open, great, you’ve got a bonus. If not, you’re still covered and can stay longer.
- Find the hidden rock arch on the east side. It’s not marked on maps, and most people walk right past it. At low tide, you can climb carefully onto the rocks for an incredible shot framed by the arch and sea beyond. One of the most Instagrammable spots you’ll have entirely to yourself.
Best restaurant near the beach
There is a restaurant right behind the beach, called Cabanas Beach Restaurant. It is the only restaurant near the beach and is only open during the summer months. The restaurant offers good quality food, mainly focusing on Portuguese dishes. Prices are a bit more expensive than other restaurants in this part of the Algarve. Still, a visit to this restaurant is recommended.
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. Take the EN125 national road in the direction of Sagres. Take the exit near Espiche (after Lagos) and continue on the M537-1 in the direction of Burgau. Continue past Burgau and you will see a sign for the Cabanas Beach Restaurant. The road here is quite rough. You should drive carefully in order not to wreck the undercarriage of your car. Near Praia das Cabanas Velhas there is a medium-sized parking area. Parking is free of course.
Best hotels near the beach
Praia das Cabanas Velhas is relatively close to Praia do Burgau. Thus we recommend the same hotels as you can find in the article about Praia do Burgau.
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
The Algarve is packed with incredible sights, and one trip is never enough to experience it all. That’s why the smartest way to explore is through a guided excursion that takes you straight to the region’s highlights without wasting a moment. From jaw-dropping cliffs at Ponta da Piedade to unforgettable dolphin watching near Lagos, these tours show you the Algarve at its absolute best. Below are the excursions we personally recommend. Book early to lock in your spot.
FAQ
Swimming is possible, but not ideal. The beach has many rocks both onshore and in the water, which can make entry challenging. It’s recommended to wear swimming shoes and be cautious due to submerged stones and the quick depth drop.
While the beach is peaceful, it’s not particularly child-friendly due to the rocky terrain and limited facilities. However, older children who enjoy nature and exploration may still enjoy a visit.
Not at all. Praia das Cabanas Velhas remains quiet even during peak season. Its remote access and lack of mass tourism make it ideal for those seeking solitude.
The sand is coarse and mixed with small pebbles. It’s not the softest beach for lounging barefoot, so bring suitable footwear or a beach mat for comfort.
Visit during spring or autumn for mild temperatures and fewer people. Summer is also nice but can be hot and windy.
Some areas near the rocks can offer basic snorkeling opportunities. The visibility can vary, and due to underwater rocks, it’s better suited for experienced snorkelers.
Not really. The beach is sheltered and doesn’t get the large swells needed for surfing. Nearby beaches like Praia do Amado are better for surfing.
Yes, the surrounding cliffs, fort ruins, and rugged scenery offer great photo opportunities. Sunset is particularly beautiful here.
Expect seabirds, small reptiles, and coastal vegetation. Dolphins are occasionally spotted further out at sea.
Yes, the Fort of Almádena is right above the beach. Built in the 17th century, its ruins are open and offer panoramic views.
Beach facilities
Praia das Cabanas Velhas is a Blue Flag beach, which means that it adheres to certain quality and environmental standards. There are lifeguards supervising the beach and there is a restaurant on-site. You can also rent sunbeds here, just in front of the restaurant.
Facilities in Praia das Cabanas Velhas:
- Restaurant: yes
- Bar/club: no
- Toilet: yes
- Shower: yes
- Water sports: no
- Sunbeds: yes
- Parking: yes
- Lifeguards: yes
- Blue Flag beach: yes
