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10 Best Beaches in the Algarve That You Need to Visit

If you’re heading on holiday soon. you’re sure to want to check out what the local area has to offer. Portugal, and especially the Algarve, is famous for its beautiful beaches, so make sure that you pay at least one a visit on your holiday. Whether you’re into hidden gems, water sports or somewhere where you can relax with a delicious meal, there’s something for everyone!

the Best Beaches in the Algarve

Praia da Falésia – Vilamoura

Every list of the 10 best beaches in the Algarve has this beach on it! With over 6 km of golden sand, Praia da Falési is one of the longest beaches that Portugal has to offer and is accessible via public transport. It is located in one of the more peaceful corners of the Algarve, but is close to golf courses, bars and restaurants should you want to add a little extra something to your day.

Praia de Vale do Lobo – Vale do Lobo

Located in one of the Algarve’s most exclusive resorts, Praia de Vale do Lobo is a long, sandy stretch of beach that’s perfect for a mid-morning walk.  Situated in the “Golden Triangle”, it’s surrounded by high-end golf courses and up-market hotels, so it’s no surprise that Praia de Vale do Lobo has been awarded Blue Flag status every year since 1987.

Praia de Vilamoura  – Vilamoura

A more popular beach, Praia de Vilamoura is close to the larger hotels in the area and is easy to get to. You can hire sun loungers for the day and food and drink is available to buy from the local beach bars. Praia de Vilamoura has good waves for surfers, but the lack of strong currents means that it is perfectly safe for children to paddle in the sea.

Praia dos Pescadores – Albufeira

Located in front of Albufeira’s old town, Praia dos Pescadores can get quite busy in the summer. It’s a beautiful place to catch the sun and is easily accessible. There are some great seafood restaurants located on the beachfront if you fancy trying some fresh fish whilst admiring the view.  

Praia da Garrao – Vilamoura

Praia da Garrao stretches between two exclusive resorts and is home to some of the best beachside restaurants in Portugal. The local area has a wide range of up-market activities on offer, including tennis and horseback riding. No list of the top 10 beaches in the Algarve is complete without mentioning this beach.

Praia da Bordeira – Aljezur

Praia da Bordeira is a popular beach for surfers thanks to the large swells that hit this part of Portugal. If you’re interested in wildlife, then this beach offers sand dunes and a small river, which are home to migrating birds. There is one restaurant which offers some great organic food, so this is the place to be if you fancy a relaxing morning.  

Praia da Rocha Baixinha – Vilamoura

Praia da Rocha Baixinha is perfect if you’re after something more adventurous on your holiday. With beautiful white sand, you can hire a sun lounger and relax, or why not try out jet-skiing, parasailing or even hire a banana boat. There’s something for everyone on this beach, and it’s great for adventure-seeking couples.

Praia da Coelha – Albufeira

A popular spot with locals, the access to Praia da Coelha takes you a short walk through some greenery where you reach the wooden steps down to the beach. It’s relatively quiet during the week and is perfect for families. There are plenty of sun loungers for hire, and there’s a cafe right on the beach – it’s easy to see how this makes the list of the 10 best beaches in the Algarve!

Praia da Marinha – Lagoa

Considered to be one of the top 100 best beaches in the world, Praia da Marinha is a place of spectacular natural beauty. Surrounded by steep cliffs, make sure to check out the natural tunnels and views from the top of the cliffs before you head down the stairs that take you onto the soft golden sand.

Praia do Pinhão – Albufeira

Easily one of the 10 best beaches in the Algarve, Praia do Pinhão is only visible for those who are looking for it. Hidden by cliffs, this beach offers crystal clear waters and intricate rock formations to admire as you head down the stone stairway. There are no facilities here, so it is extremely peaceful.