In Portugal, the Algarve is synonymous with beaches. From those drawing crowds of holiday-makers to others ideal for water sports or almost hidden by cliffs, there is a dream beach for everyone. PDV has selected the 10 best beaches in the Algarve.

Praia da Arrifana

The limited space available on this beach increases the feeling that this is a small treasure to behold, like a fragile gem. Located in the municipality of Aljezur and facing the vastness of the Atlantic, Praia da Arrifana is one of the most popular beaches in the region, much sought after by those who want to escape the crowds of the Algarve’s south coast. Located in front of the small village of Arrifana from which it gets its name, this beach is a popular site for surfers, says Guia da Cidade, because of wave consistency in the summer, according to the experts. The Arrifana fort nearby – the ruins of an ancient Arab fort – is one of the local landmarks to visit, says Guia da Cidade.

Blue flag
Water temperature: 14.5C
Hotels / Snack Bars / Restaurants: Restaurant, snack bars, toilets, camping facilities, surf school
Extras (Loungers / Beach Umbrellas): Beach umbrellas and sunloungers
Lifeguard: Yes

 

Praia dos Pescadores

One of the beaches most featured on local postcards being sent around the world, this beach does deserve kudos. Picturesque in appearance, it is directly opposite Albufeira Old Town with old houses painted white enhancing its beauty. Unfortunately, human intervention has removed some of its charm with the installation of concrete infrastructure and some inadequate enhancements (this beach features escalators – yes, escalators!). This is a pity for what used to be one of the most stunning beaches in the Algarve.

Blue flag
Water temperature: 20C
Hotels / Snack Bars / Restaurants: Restaurant, snack bars, toilets
Extras (Loungers / Beach Umbrellas): Beach umbrellas and sunloungers
Lifeguard: Yes

Praia do Ancão

Favoured by the Portuguese jet-set, this beach is located near the luxury complex of Vale do Lobo, according to Guia da Cidade. Surrounded by dunes, it is considered one of the best beaches in the Algarve as it is sheltered from the crowds that usually invade the region. For those seeking a quiet spot with a clean, wide sandy beach, this is one of the best options. This beach also enjoys particular protection as it makes up the western boundary of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve.

Blue flag
Water temperature: 20C
Hotels / Snack Bars / Restaurants: Restaurant, snack bars, toilets
Extras (Loungers / Beach Umbrellas): Beach umbrellas and sunloungers
Lifeguard: Yes

Praia da Ilha de Tavira

A sandy beach located on a large island very busy with campers under 30. The long coastline is perfect for a stroll and some quieter moments, although a walk along the beach is needed to get away from the crowds that usually congregate in the area near the campsite. Access to the island is by boat (10 minute crossing) or via the footbridge.

Blue flag
Water temperature: 20C
Hotels / Snack Bars / Restaurants: Restaurant, snack bars, toilets, camping facilities
Extras (Loungers / Beach Umbrellas): Beach umbrellas and sunloungers
Lifeguard: Yes

Praia do Vau

Well known among the Portuguese as one of the favourite holiday spots of former President of the Republic and historic figure of European socialism Mário Soares, the Vau is recommended to those who don’t want to fight for towel space on the sand, as is the case on the very popular Praia da Rocha in Portimão.

Blue flag
Water temperature: 15C
Hotels / Snack Bars / Restaurants: Restaurant, snack bars, toilets
Extras (Loungers / Beach Umbrellas etc.): Beach umbrellas and sunloungers, showers
Lifeguard: Yes
Parking available
No pets

Praia do Carvoeiro

In the municipality of Lagoa, Carvoeiro beach is small and surrounded by houses embedded in the surrounding cliffs. Off the Albufeira-Portimão thoroughfare, it offers a quiet environment and the possibility of visiting the cliff caves aboard picturesque fishing boats, says Guia da Cidade.

Blue flag
Water temperature: 15C
Hotels / Snack Bars / Restaurants: Restaurant, snack bars, toilets
Extras (Loungers / Beach Umbrellas, etc.): Beach umbrellas and sunloungers, showers, beach volleyball
Lifeguard: Yes
No pets
Parking available

Praia da Rocha Baixinha

Another beach popular with politicians, actors and other figures of the Portuguese jet-set, according to Guia da Cidade. It is much sought after by water sports enthusiasts, according to Lifecooler’s website, despite not being the first choice for surfers.It is one of the Algarve’s Blue Flag beaches. Despite the space, some areas fill up quickly in the summer.

Blue flag
Water temperature: 23C
Hotels / Snack Bars / Restaurants: Restaurant, snack bars, toilets
Extras (Loungers / Beach Umbrellas, etc.): Beach umbrellas and sunloungers, showers, watersports
Lifeguard: Yes
No pets
Parking available

 

Praia do Barril

Beyond the immediate appeal of the surrounding Ria Formosa Natural Park, Praia do Barril is even more charming thanks to a small train that takes holiday-makers to the beach. Besides being a well-maintained beach, it features a special attraction: the cemetery of anchors, with giant tuna-fishing anchors nestled in the dunes, according to Guia da Cidade. The beach features a clearly designated nudist area.

Blue flag
Water temperature: 22C
Hotels / Snack Bars / Restaurants: Restaurant, snack bars, toilets
Extras (Loungers / Beach Umbrellas, etc.): Beach umbrellas and sunloungers, showers
Lifeguard: Yes
No pets

Praia da Barreta

On this almost deserted island (whose official name is actually ‘Deserta‘, or ‘deserted’), the beach is still “unexplored territory”, says Guia da Cidade. With just some basic beach amenities, Praia da Barreta is perfect for quiet moments away from the crowds. Located inside the Ria Formosa Natural Park, the beach is untouched unlike those on other inhabited islands. It also has a nudist area. Access is by boat.

Blue flag
Water temperature: 24C
Hotels / Snack Bars / Restaurants: Restaurant, snack bars, toilets
Extras (Loungers / Beach Umbrellas, etc.): Beach umbrellas and sunloungers, showers, fishing
Lifeguard: Yes
No pets

Praia da Marinha

Already considered one of the 100 most beautiful beaches in the world, Praia da Marinha is regularly featured in Portugal’s campaigns of Turismo de Portugal as one of the country‘s most beloved gems. Near Lagoa, is well worth a visit. Rocks that separated from the cliffs are dotted in the sea and the area is a snorkeling hot spot. However, please do not seek out shade from the cliffs by putting your towel directly under them as some are very unstable due to erosion, says Lagoa’s City Hall.

Blue flag
Water temperature: 22C
Hotels / Snack Bars / Restaurants: Restaurant, toilets
Extras (Loungers / Beach Umbrellas, etc.): Beach umbrellas and sunloungers, showers, fishing
Lifeguard: Yes
No pets
Parking available

(Photographs: Turismo de Portugal/Cayetano/Toni Castillo/Aires Almeida)