If you're a beach lover, the Algarve should be at the top of your bucket list. With its stunning natural beauty, picturesque golden cliffs, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, the region boasts some of the world's most gorgeous beaches. From tranquil coves to bustling beaches with beach bars and places to hang out, the Algarve has something for everyone. As a seasoned beach explorer, I've curated a list of the top 10 must-visit beaches in the Algarve that will leave you in awe. Whether you're in search of hidden gems or iconic stretches of sand, each of these beaches is unique in its own right. So, sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the most stunning beaches in the Algarve, as you start planning your next beach vacation.
I've included Google Maps links 📍for each beach location at the bottom of the page for your convenience.
1. Praia dos Três Castelos
Central Algarve
Looking for a secret spot to get away from the crowds in the Algarve? Look no further than this hidden gem - my number one pick for the most beautiful beach in the region. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, it's a paradise waiting to be discovered.
But be warned - it's not for the faint of heart! Accessible only by a long, wooden ladder down the cliff, this secluded beach requires a bit of an adventure to get to. But trust me, it's worth it. And since it's so difficult to find and inaccessible by car, you're likely to have the entire beach to yourself.
So if you're up for a challenge and looking for a unique destination for your next cliff hike near Carvoeiro, make sure to add this hidden gem to your list.
Beach accessibility | Very difficult |
Beach bars and restaurants | None |
Crowds | Also none 😉 |
2. Praia dos Três Irmãos
Central/ western Algarve
If you love golden cliffs and sea caves this is your next memory! This beach is not too crowded and has amazing views. Definitely worth checking out is the Canico cafe that is situated in the rocky cliff. Because this beautiful beach is sheltered from the wind, it's the one of my favorite beaches to hang out in moths like April or November when temperatures are milder.
Beach accessibility | Medium difficult |
Beach bars and restaurants | A bar in the cliff and a few restaurants slightly west |
Crowds | Not too many people especially in low and mid season |
3. Praia do Amado
Western Algarve
This is such a special place! This beautiful beach is located on the west coast of the Algarve where nature is wild and unspoiled. Down at the beach you'll find two cafes, a few surf schools and nothing else! Watch the surfers catching waves with the most beautiful sunset you've ever seen whilst enjoying a beer at the main bar. A true piece of surfers paradise!
Beach accessibility | Easy |
Beach bars and restaurants | 2 small bars |
Crowds | No big crowns especially in low and mid season |
4. Praia da Marinha
Central Algarve
Praia da Marhinha is one of my favorite beaches. It’s also one of the most iconic beaches of Portugal and is located on the Atlantic coast in the town of Caramujeira. It's considered one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in Europe and as one of the 100 most beautiful beaches in the world. 😍 I totally agree! This is a must-see when staying in the Algarve.
Beach accessibility | Easy but quiet a walk down the cliff |
Beach bars and restaurants | One small restaurant |
Crowds | Can be very crowded especially in high season. |
5. Praia do Carvoeiro
Central Algarve
Praia do Carvoeiro is the main beach in the town of (obviously 😉) Carvoeiro. With many restaurants and bars near the beach, this place is perfect for a beach day and just hanging out, enjoying a drink and some shopping. The white washed houses and cute little bay with its beautiful cliffs, create the typical Algarve picture.
Beach accessibility | Very easy |
Beach bars and restaurants | |
Crowds | Can be very crowded in high season. |
6. Praia da Cordoama
Western Algarve
On wild west coast of the Algarve you will find a the stunning and breathtaking beach of praia da Cordoama. The drive down to this beach is already absolutely worth the trip! If you love untouched and wild nature with big waves, this is a must-visit for you.
Beach accessibility | Easy all though a bit of a drive |
Beach bars and restaurants | 1 - not always open |
Crowds | Not crowded |
7. Benagil cave and beach
Central Algarve
Another iconic beach on the list and for a good reason. This place has been in the spotlight a lot and can be crowded in high season, however crowds can be easily avoided. Just beat the crowds by visiting at breakfast time or choose the shoulder season for your holidays. The tiny fisherman's town of Benagil looks idyllic with its white washed houses on the cliff. It has a beautiful sandy beach where you can watch all the fishing boats leave early in the morning. Adding to the typical Portugese atmosphere, Benagil beach is most famous for its iconic cave. Take a swim or a sup to these amazing caves and have a look for yourself! ♥
*Always make sure you have professional advise on tides and currents when swimming or supping into the caves.
Beach accessibility | Difficult |
Beach bars and restaurants | A few options. Definitely check out Casa Velha Do Pescador. |
Crowds | Can be very crowded in high season |
8. Praia do Beliche, Sagres
Western Algarve
Protected from the winds and the powerful Atlantic ocean, Beliche (Sagres) beach is one of my all time favorites. Sublime cliffs, no big crowds and clear blue water make this beach ideal to spend an amazing day of chilling and surfing. There is a little typical Portuguese beach bar on the beach and Terra Restaurant is located just on top off the stairs. A great place to go for avocado toast and good coffees.
Beach accessibility | Easy but many steps down the cliff |
Beach bars and restaurants | One beach bar and a restaurant on top of the cliff |
Crowds | Not crowded |
9. Praia da Arrifana
Western Algarve
The sand on Praia da Arrifana is of pale golden fine sand and is about 500 meters long. The beach is backed by tall dark colored cliffs which provide the beach some protection from the of the Atlantic Ocean and wind. There is a cute beach bar at the bottom of the long winding road down the cliffs where you can enjoy a nice coffee or even better, glass of wine watching one of the most beautiful sunsets ever! A must see on your Algarve trip!
Beach accessibility | Easy but a long walk down the windy road down the cliff |
Beach bars and restaurants | There is a cute restaurant down at the beach |
Crowds | Never too crowded |
10. Praia do Paraiso
Central Algarve
Next to the main beach of the lovely town of Carvoeiro, you'll find an equally beautiful and more quiet beach with bright blue waters and large golden cliffs. The long white stairs down to the beach creates a unique picture from above. There are no facilities here so you will have to bring your own towel and drinks to enjoy this beautiful little beach.
Beach accessibility | Easy but many steps downs the cliff |
Beach bars and restaurants | None |
Crowds | Never too crowded |
Locations
There are so many beautiful beaches in the Algarve it's hard to choose the most beautiful one. Hopefully you'll get to explore are few of them! If you discover a beach that you think should be on this list, don't hesitate to contact me!
Down below I've listed all the locations (including Google maps links) for you!
1. Praia dos Três Castelos | 📍 You'll find this beach close to Carvoeiro. Check out the beach location here. |
2. Praia dos Três Irmãos | 📍 You'll find this beach close to Alvor. Check out the beach location here. |
3. Praia do Amado | 📍 The closest town to this beach is Bordeira. Check out the beach location here. |
4. Praia da Marinha | 📍 You'll find this beach close to Caramujeira. Check out the beach location here. |
5. Praia do Carvoeiro | 📍 You'll find this beach in the towns centre of Carvoeiro. Check out the beach location here. |
6. Praia da Cordoama | |
7. Benagil cave and beach | 📍 You'll find this beach in the town of Benagil. Check out the beach location here. |
8. Praia do Beliche, Sagres | 📍You'll find this beach close to Sagres. Check out the beach location here. |
9. Praia da Arrifana | 📍You'll find this beach close to Aljezur. Check out the beach location here. |
10. Praia do Paraiso | 📍You'll find this beach close to Carvoeiro. Check out the beach location here. |
Trying to figure out in which beach town you want to spend your holiday? Check out my blogpost about the most beautiful beach towns in the Algarve.
Tips!
Have you discover a beach that you think should be on the list of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve? Don't hesitate to contact me by email or send a DM on Instagram!