Top 10 beaches of the Algarve
The Algarve is world-famous for its golden cliffs, turquoise waters, and endless stretches of sand. From lively hotspots full of restaurants and beach bars to peaceful coves only accessible by boat, every beach has its own character. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly bay, perfect surfing waves, or a picture-perfect viewpoint for your holiday photos, the Algarve has it all. In this guide, we share our top 10 beaches in the Algarve. This is a handpicked list of must-visit spots that showcase the very best of the region’s coastline.
Quick overview
| Beach | Location | Best for | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Praia dos Três Irmãos | Alvor | Families, photographers | Caves, rock arches |
| Praia da Bordeira | Carrapateira | Surfers, nature lovers | Dunes, Atlantic swells |
| Praia do Carvoeiro | Carvoeiro | Families, village vibe | Colorful houses, boardwalk |
| Praia da Rocha | Portimão | All-day facilities | Wide sand, fortress view |
| Praia da Dona Ana | Lagos | Calm water, photos | Cliffs, snorkeling |
| Ilha Deserta | Faro | Peace & nature | Boat access, Ria Formosa |
| Praia do Carvalho | Lagoa | Adventure, couples | Tunnel access, cliff jumps |
| Praia da Falésia | Albufeira–Vilamoura | Long walks, families | Red/orange cliffs |
| Ilha de Tavira | Tavira | Families | Calm water, beach bars |
| Praia da Marinha | Lagoa | Iconic views | Double arch, caves |
| Praia de Cacela Velha (Bonus) | Cacela Velha | Quiet escapes, photographers | Sandbanks, lagoon views |
10: Praia dos Três Irmãos (Alvor)
What makes it special: Praia dos Três Irmãos is one of the Algarve’s most scenic beaches, famous for its three dramatic rock formations and a series of caves and arches carved by the sea. The golden sand contrasts beautifully with the turquoise water, creating a postcard-perfect setting.
Who it’s best for: This beach is ideal for families, as children love exploring the caves and shallow rock pools. It’s also a great spot for photographers and couples looking for a romantic backdrop.
Our tip: Visit at low tide when more caves and rock formations are accessible. For a quieter experience, walk further along the beach towards the eastern side where it feels more secluded.
9: Praia da Bordeira (Carrapateira)
What makes it special: Praia da Bordeira, near Carrapateira, is one of the wildest and most unspoiled beaches in the Algarve. With its vast stretch of golden sand, rolling dunes, and powerful Atlantic waves, it feels completely different from the more sheltered southern beaches. A wooden boardwalk leads across the dunes, offering incredible views of the coastline.
Who it’s best for: Perfect for surfers chasing strong waves, nature lovers who enjoy wide-open landscapes, and photographers looking for dramatic scenery. Families will also love the shallow lagoon that forms behind the beach, which is safer for children to splash around.
Our tip: Head up to the cliffs on either side of the beach for panoramic views and stunning sunset photos. If you’re visiting in summer, bring water and snacks, as facilities are limited compared to other Algarve beaches.
8: Praia do Carvoeiro (Carvoeiro)
What makes it special: Praia do Carvoeiro is a charming beach right in the heart of the village of Carvoeiro. Surrounded by colorful houses, restaurants, and dramatic cliffs, it combines the feel of a traditional fishing town with the beauty of a sheltered sandy bay. The lively atmosphere makes it one of the Algarve’s most photographed spots.
Who it’s best for: A great choice for families who want easy access to cafés and facilities, couples looking for a romantic village setting, and travelers who enjoy combining beach time with exploring local streets and viewpoints.
Our tip: Climb up to the nearby Algar Seco cliffs or the Carvoeiro boardwalk for breathtaking views over the coastline. In the evenings, stay for dinner in the village to enjoy fresh seafood with a view of the beach.
7: Praia da Rocha (Portimão)
What makes it special: Praia da Rocha in Portimão is one of the Algarve’s most famous beaches, known for its wide stretch of golden sand and dramatic cliffs. Despite being very popular, the beach never feels too crowded thanks to its size. The lively promenade above is filled with restaurants, cafés, and bars, making it a great spot to spend the whole day and evening.
Who it’s best for: Ideal for travelers who enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of facilities, families who appreciate easy access, and walkers who love long strolls by the sea. Nightlife lovers will also enjoy the energy of Portimão after sunset.
Our tip: For a quieter experience, head to the far western or eastern ends of the beach. Don’t miss the Santa Catarina Fortress, located right above the beach, for a unique viewpoint over the coastline.
6: Praia da Dona Ana (Lagos)
What makes it special: Praia da Dona Ana, in Lagos, is one of the Algarve’s most iconic beaches. Enclosed by dramatic limestone cliffs and dotted with striking rock formations, it offers a sheltered bay with calm, clear waters. The unique scenery makes it a favorite for photographers and one of the most recognizable beaches in Portugal.
Who it’s best for: Great for families who prefer calm swimming conditions, couples who want a romantic setting, and photographers drawn to the contrast of golden cliffs and turquoise sea. Snorkelers will also enjoy exploring the rocks and underwater life close to shore.
Our tip: Arrive early during summer, as space is limited and it fills up quickly. For the best views, walk up to the clifftop viewpoint above the beach—it’s especially stunning at sunrise.
5: Ilha Deserta (Faro)
What makes it special: Ilha Deserta, also known as Barreta Island, is a pristine island just off the coast of Faro. With no permanent residents, no cars, and only one small restaurant, it offers pure tranquility. The long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear water make it one of the most untouched beaches in the Algarve.
Who it’s best for: Perfect for travelers seeking peace and quiet, couples looking for a romantic escape, and nature lovers who enjoy unspoiled landscapes. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the island’s location within the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
Our tip: Take the ferry or a water taxi from Faro, and bring everything you need for the day, as facilities are minimal. Walk about 10 minutes away from the pier to find stretches of beach where you’ll feel like you have the island to yourself.
4: Praia do Carvalho (Lagoa)
What makes it special: Praia do Carvalho is a small but breathtaking cove near Lagoa, surrounded by steep limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. The beach feels like a hidden treasure, as you reach it through a tunnel carved into the rock. Its clear water and dramatic setting make it one of the Algarve’s most memorable spots.
Who it’s best for: Great for adventurous travelers who enjoy cliffside landscapes, couples seeking a romantic escape, and swimmers looking for calm, transparent water. Thrill-seekers also love the opportunity to jump from the cliffs into the sea.
Our tip: Arrive early, especially in summer, as space on the sand is limited. Bring snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world close to the rocks, and don’t miss the fun of entering through the rock tunnel.
3: Praia da Falésia (Albufeira)
What makes it special: Praia da Falésia stretches for over 6 kilometers between Albufeira and Vilamoura, making it one of the longest beaches in the Algarve. Its towering red and orange cliffs create a stunning backdrop, especially at sunrise and sunset. The combination of wide golden sand and shallow water makes it both scenic and accessible.
Who it’s best for: Perfect for long beach walks, families with children who prefer shallow swimming areas, and photographers drawn to the colorful cliffs. Active travelers will also enjoy running or beach sports along the vast stretch of sand.
Our tip: Start your visit from the Albufeira side to see the most impressive cliffs, then walk towards Vilamoura for calmer stretches of beach. For the best photos, come late in the day when the cliffs glow under the evening light.
2: Ilha de Tavira (Tavira)
What makes it special: Ilha de Tavira is a beautiful island just off the coast of Tavira, known for its soft golden sand and clear, calm waters. Accessible only by ferry, it offers a relaxed, car-free escape with a laid-back holiday vibe. The beach is long and spacious, with plenty of room to spread out, and there are beach bars and restaurants nearby for added convenience.
Who it’s best for: Ideal for families thanks to the calm water and good facilities, couples looking for a peaceful getaway, and travelers who enjoy combining a beach day with a short boat ride adventure.
Our tip: Take the ferry from Tavira in the morning and spend the whole day on the island. If you walk a little further from the main area, you’ll quickly find quieter spots with fewer people.
1: Praia da Marinha (Lagoa)
What makes it special: Praia da Marinha, near Lagoa, is often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world. Famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise water, and the iconic double-arched rock formation, it’s a true postcard of the Algarve. The combination of stunning scenery and crystal-clear sea makes it a must-visit for any trip to the region.
Who it’s best for: Perfect for photographers looking for iconic Algarve shots, couples seeking a breathtakingly romantic setting, and travelers who want to experience one of Portugal’s most celebrated natural wonders. Snorkeling enthusiasts will also love exploring the rocky areas.
Our tip: Arrive early to enjoy the beach before it gets busy, and don’t miss the clifftop viewpoint above for the classic panoramic view of the double arch. For the ultimate experience, book a boat or kayak tour to explore the caves and coastline from the water.
Bonus: Praia de Cacela Velha
What makes it special: Praia de Cacela Velha, between Tavira and Vila Real de Santo António, is often called one of the Algarve’s most unspoiled beaches. It sits at the edge of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, where sandbanks meet turquoise water. The beach offers breathtaking views of the lagoon and feels far removed from the busier tourist areas.
Who it’s best for: Perfect for travelers who love untouched, natural landscapes and don’t mind a little extra effort to get there. Couples and photographers will find the scenery especially rewarding. It’s also a good choice for anyone looking to escape the crowds.
Our tip: At low tide, you can reach the beach on foot across the lagoon, but many visitors prefer taking a small boat from the village of Cacela Velha. Bring everything you need, as facilities are limited. Sunset here is particularly stunning, with golden light reflecting over the sandbanks and lagoon.
FAQ
Praia do Carvoeiro, Praia da Dona Ana, and Ilha de Tavira are great choices for families. They offer calm water, lifeguards in summer, and easy access to restaurants and facilities. Children love exploring the rock pools and shallow bays.
Praia da Bordeira on the west coast is one of the most popular surfing beaches. Its powerful Atlantic waves attract surfers of all levels, and surf schools often operate here. Other good surfing spots nearby include Praia da Arrifana and Praia do Amado beaches.
Yes, most Algarve beaches are safe for swimming, especially the sheltered ones along the southern coast. Lifeguards are on duty at many beaches during the summer season. Always follow the flag system, as conditions can change quickly.
Praia da Marinha, near Lagoa, is known worldwide for its stunning double-arched rock formation. It’s one of the most photographed landmarks in Portugal and appears on many postcards. The view from the clifftop is especially impressive.
Ilha Deserta is one of the quietest beaches in the Algarve. With no cars, no permanent residents, and minimal facilities, it offers a truly peaceful atmosphere. Walk a little away from the pier, and you may have a large stretch of sand to yourself.
Praia da Falésia and Praia da Rocha are ideal for long walks. Both beaches stretch for several kilometers with wide sandy areas, making them perfect for exercise or leisurely strolls. At sunset, the cliffs create a beautiful backdrop.
Praia da Marinha is the most photographed beach in the Algarve. Its dramatic cliffs, turquoise water, and double arch rock make it a natural highlight. The clifftop viewpoint is especially popular with photographers.
The best months are May, June, September, and October. The weather is warm, the sea is pleasant, and crowds are smaller compared to July and August. Winter is quieter but still mild enough for walks along the shore.
Praia da Falésia is famous for its towering red and orange cliffs. Praia da Marinha and Praia da Dona Ana also feature dramatic limestone formations. These cliffs make the Algarve coastline unique and breathtaking.
Yes, it’s possible to visit several beaches in a single day, especially in the Lagoa and Lagos areas where they are close together. Many travelers combine Praia da Marinha, Praia do Carvalho, and Benagil Cave. Renting a car makes beach-hopping easier.
Yes, Algarve beaches are beautiful year-round. Winter offers mild weather, dramatic waves, and empty sands, perfect for long walks and photography. While swimming is less common, the scenery is still breathtaking.
Praia do Carvalho and Ilha Deserta are less crowded compared to major hotspots. Praia da Bordeira also feels wilder and less developed. Visiting outside of peak summer also gives a quieter experience.