The Best Beach Towns in the Algarve

There’s something special about the Algarve. Its golden beaches, the scent of salt air along the coast, and the aroma of fresh Mediterranean dishes. But beyond the iconic image of golden sands and turquoise waters lies a diverse collection of beach towns, each with its own unique character and charm. 

Whether you crave the vibrant energy of a bustling resort or the tranquil escape of a hidden gem, the Algarve has a beach town perfect for you. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the best beach towns the Algarve has to offer!

 

Beach towns in the Algarve

With a coastline stretching over 150km, the Algarve boasts an impressive array of beach towns, each offering something unique for visitors. Here are a few of our favourites:

Albufeira

Albufeira is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Algarve. Its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and wide range of activities make it a great choice for families and couples alike. Albufeira is also a great base for exploring the rest of the Algarve, as it is located within easy reach of many other popular towns and attractions.

If you’re looking for a lively town with plenty to see and do, Albufeira is the perfect choice for you.

Beaches in Albufeira

• Praia dos Pescadores: This beach is located in the heart of Albufeira’s old town and is a great place to soak up the sun and enjoy the lively atmosphere. You can get to Praia dos Pescadores by walking from the old town, or by taking a short bus ride.
• Praia da Oura: This beach is known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. It’s also a great place to go for a swim or try your hand at some water sports. Praia da Oura is located a short walk from Albufeira’s main strip, or you can get there by bus.
• Praia de São Rafael: This beach is a hidden gem located just a short drive from Albufeira. It’s known for its dramatic cliffs and secluded coves. Praia de São Rafael can be reached by car or by taking a boat trip from Albufeira.

Things to do in Albufeira

• Explore the Old Town: Lose yourself in the streets of Albufeira’s Old Town, where whitewashed houses with colourful accents create a picture-perfect scene. Discover hidden squares, charming shops, and historic churches as you wander through this lovely area.
• Indulge in the Albufeira nightlife: When the sun sets, Albufeira comes alive. Experience the vibrant energy of the Strip, where many bars and clubs offer entertainment for all tastes. Dance the night away, enjoy live music, or simply relax with a cocktail and soak up the atmosphere.
• Discover the Algarve’s history: Delve into the Algarve’s fascinating past with a visit to the Museu Municipal de Arqueologia. This museum houses a collection of artefacts that tell the story of the region, from its Roman origins to the present day.
• Experience thrills at Zoomarine Algarve: For a day of family fun, head to Zoomarine Algarve. This popular water park offers a wide range of attractions, including exhilarating water slides, dolphin shows, and a 4D cinema.

Check out our blog on things to do in Albufeira for even more ideas!

 

Lagos

Lagos is a historic town with a charming old town and a lively marina. Its stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and fascinating caves make it a popular choice for visitors to the Algarve. Lagos is also a great base for exploring the western Algarve, as it is located within easy reach of many other popular towns and attractions.

If you’re looking for a town with a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, Lagos is the perfect choice for you.

Beaches in Lagos

• Praia Dona Ana: This beach is known for its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. It’s also a great place to go for a swim or try your hand at some water sports. Praia Dona Ana is located a short walk from Lagos town centre, or you can get there by bus or taxi.
• Praia do Camilo: This beach is a hidden gem located just a short walk from Praia Dona Ana. It’s known for its secluded cove and stunning views. Praia do Camilo can be reached by walking down a set of stairs from the cliffs above.
• Meia Praia: This beach is the longest in Lagos and is a great place to go for a walk or relax on the sand. Meia Praia is located a short drive from Lagos town centre, or you can get there by bus or taxi.

Things to do in Lagos

• Explore the historic centre: Wander through the charming streets of Lagos’ historic centre, where you’ll discover architectural gems like the Igreja de Santo António, a Baroque church with a stunning gilded interior. Don’t miss the Mercado Municipal, a vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs.
• Hike the Ponta da Piedade trail: Embark on a scenic hike along the Ponta da Piedade trail, which offers breathtaking views of the dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, and hidden grottoes that make this headland so iconic.
• Discover marine life at the Lagos Zoo: Get up close and personal with a variety of animals at the Lagos Zoo. This small zoo is home to species from around the world, including playful monkeys, colourful birds, and fascinating reptiles.

 

Tavira

Tavira is a charming town located on the eastern side of the Algarve. Its beautiful beaches, historic old town, and laid-back atmosphere make it a popular choice for visitors looking for a more relaxed holiday. Tavira is also a great base for exploring the eastern Algarve, as it is located within easy reach of many other popular towns and attractions.

If you’re looking for a town with a more authentic Portuguese feel, Tavira is the perfect choice for you.

Beaches in Tavira

• Praia do Barril: This beach is located on the island of Tavira and is known for its long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. You can get to Praia do Barril by taking a ferry from Tavira.
• Praia da Ilha de Tavira: This beach is also located on the island of Tavira and is a great place to go for a swim or try your hand at some water sports. Praia da Ilha de Tavira can be reached by taking a ferry from Tavira.
• Praia da Terra Estreita: This beach is located on the mainland and is a great place to relax and soak up the sun. Praia da Terra Estreita can be reached by car or by taking a bus from Tavira.

Things to do in Tavira

• Tavira Castle: Explore the ruins of Tavira Castle, a 13th-century fortress that offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside.
• Discover the Ria Formosa Natural Park: Embark on a kayaking adventure through the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a coastal lagoon teeming with wildlife. Spot flamingos, dolphins, and a variety of birds as you paddle through this serene environment.
• Immerse yourself in local life at Tavira Market: Experience the hustle and bustle of Tavira Market, where locals gather to buy and sell fresh produce, seafood, and crafts. It’s a feast for the senses, with colourful displays and the aroma of freshly baked bread filling the air.
• Enjoy a traditional Fado performance: In the evening, immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of Fado, a traditional Portuguese music genre. Several venues in Tavira host Fado performances, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of Portuguese culture.

 

Vilamoura

Vilamoura is a purpose-built resort town known for its luxury hotels, world-class golf courses, and beautiful marina. Its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and wide range of activities make it a popular choice for families and couples alike. Vilamoura is also a great base for exploring the rest of the Algarve, as it is located within easy reach of many other popular towns and attractions.

If you’re looking for a town with a more upmarket feel, Vilamoura is the perfect choice for you.

Beaches in Vilamoura

• Praia da Marina: This beach is located next to Vilamoura’s marina and is a great place to soak up the sun and enjoy the lively atmosphere. You can get to Praia da Marina by walking from the marina, or by taking a short bus ride.
• Praia da Falésia: This beach is known for its long stretch of golden sand and dramatic cliffs. It’s also a great place to go for a swim or try your hand at some water sports. Praia da Falésia is located a short drive from Vilamoura, or you can get there by bus or taxi.
• Praia do Quarteira: This beach is located a short distance from Vilamoura and is a great place to relax and soak up the sun. Praia do Quarteira can be reached by car or by taking a bus from Vilamoura.

Things to do in Vilamoura

• Experience the glamour of the marina: Stroll along the Vilamoura Marina, a haven for luxury yachts and a hub of activity. Enjoy a delicious meal at a waterfront restaurant, sip cocktails at a stylish bar, or simply soak up the glamorous atmosphere. There are so many bars and restaurants to visit at Vilamoura Marina — you’re spoilt for choice!
• Tee off on world-class golf courses: Vilamoura is a golfer’s paradise, with several championship courses designed by renowned architects. Challenge yourself on some of the best golf courses in Vilamoura, playing the greens, surrounded by stunning scenery, and enjoy a truly memorable golfing experience. 
• Explore the Roman ruins of Cerro da Vila: Step back in time with a visit to the Roman ruins of Cerro da Vila. This archaeological site offers a glimpse into the Algarve’s history and its Roman past, with well-preserved mosaics and the remains of a luxurious villa.

See our blog for even more things to do in Vilamoura!

 

Other notable beach towns in the Algarve

• Alvor: A charming town with a beautiful beach, a lively atmosphere, and a great selection of restaurants and bars.
• Carvoeiro: A picturesque town with stunning cliffs, hidden coves, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Ferragudo: A traditional fishing village with a charming harbour, fresh seafood, and a laid-back atmosphere.
• Olhos de Água: A small town with a beautiful beach, lively nightlife, and a wide range of restaurants.
• Sagres: A historic town with dramatic cliffs, stunning scenery, and world-class surfing waves.
• Silves: A town with an impressive castle, a charming old town, and a traditional Portuguese atmosphere.

 

Book your dream Algarve stay

Browse our exquisite collection of luxury Algarve villas and find your perfect haven in one of these stunning beach towns. You can book a couple’s getaway or a family holiday in many Algarve towns with The Real Algarve, including Vale do Lobo, Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, Loule and Western Algarve.

Contact us today to chat with a member of our team!