Praia do Burgau – the #1 guide
Praia do Burgau is where the Algarve’s natural beauty meets the laid-back charm of a traditional fishing village. Set on the edge of the Costa Vicentina natural park, this beach offers golden sand, clear Atlantic water, and a relaxed, authentic atmosphere. Whether you’re coming for a peaceful day by the sea or to explore the rugged coastline above, Burgau strikes the perfect balance between local life and scenic escape. Dive into our guide to make the most of your visit.
In this article you will find:
- What makes Praia do Burgau 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 Burgau
- Authentic village charm – backed by a whitewashed fishing village, the beach offers a rare glimpse of local life in the Algarve, with colorful boats and traditional streets just steps away.
- Sheltered and scenic – nestled between rugged cliffs, Praia do Burgau feels enclosed and peaceful, with great protection from northern winds.
- Ideal for families – with soft sand, gentle slopes into the water, and lifeguards in summer, it’s a safe spot for kids to play and swim.
- Tide pool exploring – at low tide, natural rock pools appear, perfect for curious kids (and adults) to spot crabs, starfish, and tiny fish.
- Great facilities – from beachside dining to sunbed rentals and easy parking, the beach is well-equipped for a full day of relaxation or adventure.
If you would like to see the beach and its surroundings, then watch the short video below.
What to expect at the beach
Praia do Burgau is a medium-sized beach, with a length of about 350 metres and a width of about 30 metres. The beach is surrounded by high cliffs and forms a small cove.
This protects the beach from the northern winds. The beach is actually located at the bottom of a steep hill. The surroundings of the beach are very beautiful.
Praia do Burgau has nice and soft sand. The sand slopes gently into the water, which is good if you are visiting with children. The water of the Atlantic Ocean here is deep blue and very clear. However, the water here is very cold though. Usually the water is quite calm.
On the western side of the beach there are some waves. Here you can see people enjoying several watersports, such as bodyboarding. You can also hire kayaks and pedal boats from the beach.
At low tide, you can see small pools between the rocks, especially on the eastern side of the beach. Here you can find crabs, starfish and other small fishes. Kids love to explore these pools. During high tide, the beach becomes very small and almost vanishes completely. That is why it is best to visit this beach during low tide.
During high season, Praia do Burgau can be quite crowded. Since it is not a very big beach, it also feels crowded quite quickly. The beach is popular with tourists and families. On the other hand, outside the summer months, the beach is almost deserted.
On the back of the beach, in front of the cliffs, you can see many rocks. In some parts you can also find clay. The clay near the rocks is known for its healing properties. Some people put the clay on their body and face, because they believe it is good for the skin.
The village of Burgau used to be a small fishermen village. Nowadays, Burgau has turned to tourism. You can see several holiday houses, restaurants and hotels nearby. However, the fishing roots of the village are still visible. On the east side of the beach you can see several colourful fishing boats. If you are lucky, you can see fishing boats returning with the catch of the day.
Praia do Burgau is located east of Praia das Cabanas Velhas and west of Praia da Luz. It is actually possible to walk to either Salema or Luz. There are walking paths on top of the cliffs.
During the walk you will have a beautiful view over the sea and the area. There is also another small beach west of Praia do Burgau, but you can only access it by boat or canoe.
Fort of Almádena
About 3,5 kilometres west of Praia do Burgau, you can find a small fort. It is just east of Praia da Boca do Rio. This fort is formally known as Forte de São Luís de Almádena or Forte da Boca do Rio, but is often simply called Fort of Almádena. It was built in 1632, but was damaged by the earthquake of 1755 and completely abandoned in 1849. The fort is pretty much in ruins. Nearby you can also find the ruins of a tower from the 16th century.
Our tips
Want to experience Praia do Burgau like a local, not a tourist? These are the tips we would give our best friends:
- Walk to the hidden viewpoint above the beach. Behind the village, there’s a narrow path leading to an elevated lookout with panoramic views over the cove. No crowds, just incredible photo opportunities.
- Explore the cliff trail to Praia da Luz. Few tourists realize you can hike along the coast for stunning views and end up at another beach. Start early and bring water. The route is exposed but unforgettable.
- Use the west end for more space. Most visitors stick to the middle section. Walk west and you’ll usually find more room, even on busy days. It also offers a slightly better angle for sun in late afternoon.
- Combine your beach day with a visit to Fort of Almádena. It’s close by and adds a cultural / historical angle to your beach day. Few tourists make the stop, but it’s worth it for the clifftop views alone.
- Don’t miss the clay near the cliff base. This natural grey clay is said to be great for your skin. Locals mix it with seawater for a DIY face mask. It is a free spa treatment.
Beach bar
There is a restaurant / bar right on the beach, called Beach Bar Burgau. This restaurant is open from 10 AM until 6 PM. On Mondays, they are closed. The food here is very good, and prices are reasonable. They have fresh fish and seafood. In addition, they have great cocktails. Staff is friendly as well. From the restaurant you have a beautiful view over the beach. If you are in the area, this restaurant is definitely worth a visit. During peak times it is best to make a reservation in advance.
Best hotels near the beach
Looking for a great place to stay near Praia do Burgau? 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 Praia do Burgau are:
- Casa Lua Guesthouse. This guest house offers a terrace, kitchen and shared lounge. From some of the rooms you have a view over the surrounding mountains. Great value for money.
- Casa Afonso Henriques. This apartment in Burgau is less than 1 kilometre from the beach. The apartment has a balcony, a kitchen, an outdoor swimming pool and basically everything you need for a great holiday in the Algarve.
- AlmaVerde Village & Spa Resort. This four star resort offers villas with a kitchen, a terrace and an outdoor swimming pool. There are spa facilities, beauty treatments as well as several tennis courts. Great choice for families or couples.
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.
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. It is quite easy to reach. When coming from Lagos, drive on the N125 towards Sagres. Take the M537 to Rua 25 de Abril and follow the road all the way to the beach. There is a car park near the beach, but it is usually quite full. You can always park your car a bit further up and walk towards the beach. Parking in this area is free. Since the beach is located at the bottom of a steep hill, you just have to walk down the street to reach the beach.
Top excursions nearby
Don’t leave the Algarve without seeing more of what makes it unforgettable. While Praia do Burgau is stunning, the real magic happens when you explore beyond it. Join a local guide on a dolphin watching trip or cruise along hidden caves and golden cliffs. Experiences you simply wouldn’t find on your own. These handpicked excursions turn your holiday into something truly extraordinary. Discover our favorite tours below and secure your spot today.
FAQ
Its sheltered location, beautiful natural surroundings, and the authentic feel of the village make it stand out. It’s a peaceful, less commercialized alternative to the bigger Algarve beaches. The combination of nature, charm, and clear water gives it a special atmosphere.
Yes, it’s a great choice for families. The gentle slope of the beach and calm waters at low tide make it safe for kids to play. Just be aware that during high tide, the sand space becomes very limited, so it’s best to visit earlier in the day.
Praia do Burgau can get quite crowded in July and August. Because it’s not a large beach, it can feel full quickly. Off-season visits offer a much quieter experience.
The best time is during low tide and earlier in the day, especially in summer. Praia do Burgau all but disappears at high tide. Spring and early autumn are also great for avoiding crowds while still enjoying good weather.
Yes, swimming is possible and enjoyable here. The water is generally calm on most days, though it can be cold. Always be mindful of changing tides and occasional stronger waves near the western side.
Yes, you can enjoy kayaking, bodyboarding, and paddle boating. Equipment is available for rent on the beach in summer. The calm conditions on the eastern side make it beginner-friendly.
The sand is soft and golden, with a gentle incline into the sea. It’s comfortable for walking barefoot and building sandcastles. Some areas near the cliffs have clay deposits as well.
Yes, snorkeling is possible around the rocky edges of the beach. The clear water allows good visibility to spot small fish and marine life. Bring your own gear, as rentals may be limited.
Yes, Praia do Burgau offers lovely views as the sun sets behind the cliffs. The beach faces southwest, making it a scenic spot for golden hour. The cliffs also add dramatic lighting to the scene.
Yes, there are walking trails on top of the cliffs connecting to Praia da Luz and Praia das Cabanas Velhas. These hikes offer great coastal views. Just wear good footwear and bring water.
Beach facilities
Praia do Burgau has the most important facilities you need. There are lifeguards overlooking the beach and there are sunbeds for rent. There is a restaurant/bar right on the beach, and more restaurants in the village. Moreover, Praia do Burgau is a Blue Flag beach.
Facilities in Praia do Burgau:
- Restaurant: yes
- Bar/club: no
- Toilet: yes
- Shower: yes
- Water sports: yes
- Sunbeds: yes
- Parking: yes
- Lifeguards: yes
- Blue Flag beach: yes
