Praia do Amado – the complete guide
Praia do Amado is a beach near Carrapateira, on the west coast of the Algarve. The beach is part of the Costa Vicentina natural park. Praia do Amado attracts many surfers because it is known for its amazing waves. However, there is more to this beach than just surfing. After reading this article, you will know why Praia do Amado is such a great beach.
Watch it in HD
If you are wondering what Praia do Amado is like, then watch the short video below.
The beach
Praia do Amado is a relatively big beach. It has a length of about 1 kilometre and stretches along several bays. Basically it is one big stretch of sand. You will notice that the surrounding area is quite wild and rough, which gives the beach its character.
When seen from the air, it becomes apparent how remote this beach is compared to the more touristic areas of the Algarve.
The beach is surrounded by magnificent cliffs. On the northern side of the beach, the rocks have beautiful colours, ranging from red, ochre to pink. These rocks are a marvel of nature. Another advantage is that these cliffs protect the beach from northern winds.
There are several wooden stairways to enter the beach. It feels like descending the stairway to heaven.
The beach is mainly popular with surfers, but you can see some families and nature lovers as well. Especially in the summer and in the weekends, this beach can become relatively crowded. However, it is never as crowded as some of the touristic beaches on the southern coast of the Algarve. Moreover, the beach is quite big so you can easily find a good spot to put your towel.
In the winter, the beach is almost deserted. Occasionally you will encounter some surfers, but most of the time the beach is quite empty in the winter.
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Surfing
Praia do Amado has the perfect conditions for surfing. Due to the big and consistent waves, it is one of the best places for surfing in the Algarve. The beach faces west / northwest and the water here catches a lot of swell. Moreover, the surfing conditions are so good that international surfing tournaments are sometimes held at this beach. The waves in the winter are even bigger than in the summer. This is why you can sometimes see experienced surfers on this beach in the winter. Beginning surfers should avoid this beach during the winter, because the waves can be quite dangerous. The summer is the best period for beginners to surf at this beach. However, due to its popularity among surfers, you probably have to share the waves with quite a lot of surfers.
If you can use some surfing classes, don’t worry. There are a couple of surf schools near Praia do Amado: Amado Surf Camp, Algarve Surf School and Funride Surf School. They also offer surf camp holiday packages. Alternatively, you can just rent your surf equipment from Amado Beach Rentals, which is located right on the beach. If you take surf classes in the area of Sagres, chances are you will be taken to Amado beach to practice your skills. There are several surf schools that take their students here every day to surf.
When surfing here, watch out for hidden rock formations in the sea. These rocks are not always visible, not even during low tide. Just make sure you are aware of where these rocks are, so you can avoid them. If you are taking surf classes here, they will know where to surf and where to avoid.
If you would like to see a preview of how it is to surf here, check out the following video.
Walking trails
On top of the cliffs there are several walking trails to discover the surrounding area. Along these trails there are some beautiful viewpoints over the beach. You can actually even walk from Praia do Amado all the way to Praia da Bordeira. This cliff walk is spectacular and highly recommended.
How to get there
The easiest way to move around in the Algarve is by car. If you don’t have one, make sure to rent a car. Praia do Amado is located south of the village of Carrapateira. The beach is quite easy to get to. Just drive towards Carrapateira and follow the signs. There is a large parking area right above the beach. You will probably also see several campervans standing here, which belong to tourists who drive to this beach often from other countries.
Restaurants
There are some stalls above Praia do Amado where you can get refreshments and snacks. If you want a proper meal, we suggest any of the following restaurants in Carrapateira:
- Sitio do Forno. This restaurant is located on the cliffs between Praia do Amado and Praia da Bordeira and provides amazing views over the sea. They have great fish and meat options.
- Micro Bar. This bar has very good salads and a lot of healthy drink options. The service is great and prices are very reasonable. Recommended if you are in the town of Carrapateira.
Hotels
If you wish to stay near Praia do Amado, we recommend any of the following hotels:
- Casa da Estrela. This guest house offers inexpensive but comfortable accommodation. All rooms have a balcony with views over the surrounding mountains. Highly rated.
- Casa Fajara. This hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and a lovely garden. You can also play games here, such as darts, tennis or table tennis. The views over the surrounding countryside are amazing as well.
After the busy summer season of last year, we recommend to book your hotel now, as it will probably sell out. Below you can find a map with the location of hotels in Carrapateira. By changing the date of your holiday, the map will show you the current prices.
Facilities
Praia do Amado has good facilities. In summer, there are lifeguards overlooking the beach. Moreover, there are some stalls above the beach to get refreshments. You can also rent sunbeds with wind protection.
Facilities in Praia do Amado:
- Restaurant: yes
- Bar/club: no
- Toilet: no
- Shower: no
- Water sports: yes
- Sunbeds: yes
- Parking: yes
- Lifeguards: yes
- Blue flag beach: no
