It is one of the most stunning destinations for European summer. Combining both breathtaking cliffs and waves with beautiful beaches, the Algarve really is a gem on the Portuguese coast. It stretches from the Kap Cabo de São Vicente to the capital Faro in the East and is mostly known for its impressive rock formations. While the Eastern part is more touristy and covered with hotel resorts, the West is known as a surfer hotspots with rough waves and hidden gems. If you want to skip the crowded beaches and enjoy some unique views, here are the 5 most beautiful beaches in the Algarve, Portugal.
Castelejo Beach
The first surfer paradise is the Castelejo Beach. It is located about 30 minutes from Lagos near the surfer town of Sagres. It is hiding between the rough cliffs and appears like a little bay, safe from the wind. You can easily reach the beach via a small path down from the parking lot. The beach is separated into a surfers spot and a swimming spot, even though the waves and the current tend to get quite strong there as well. With a little restaurant and the surfer schools, Castelejo Beach has everything to offer. The more you head towards the Northern end of the beach, the more quiet and remote it gets.
Tip: Castelejo Beach is just next to the Cabo de São Vicente, the most southwesterly point in Europe. Meaning: you can quickly head over to the lighthouse for sunset.
Praia do Amado
A beach where you will feel like walking in a dream – the Praia do Amado is actually not offically a beach in the Algarve. But it is simply too beautiful to not mention it. It is located near the small village of Bodeiro and can also be reached within 30 minutes from Faro. The Praia do Amado is home of the surfers. The wide beach and the mist of the waves create an incredible atmosphere. You can spend your day surfing, tanning or walking along the beach.
The absolute highlight: the sunset. Make sure to stay till the evening to see the magic of the sky over the Atlantic ocean.
Praia das Furnas
You might feel like you´re in the Carribean when you visit the Praia das Furnas. A beach loved by naturists and a bit off the beaten path. You can reach it by following a small gravel road to the coast – but don´t worry it´s safe and you will find enough space to park your car at the end. The Praia das Furnas is one of the most beautiful beaches at the Algarve due to its wide sand and the clear blue water. Here, you will not have to deal with surfers and huge waves. Some parts of the beach are used by nudists, but you can always find your own spot between the rocks.
If you are looking for a relaxing bathing experience, here you will for sure find it!
Praia do Camilo
This beach is directly in Lagos and can easily be reached from the city. It is known for its stunning cliffs and the path with wooden bridges which leads along the coast. You can reach the beach through a tunnel which connects the different beaches in the bays. If you do not make it down the water, make sure to watch the sunset from the cliffs when you are staying in the area.
Ponta Ruiva Beach
Last but not least: one of the wildest beaches in the Algarve. The Ponta Ruiva Beach is located close to Sagres and a secret spot for surfers and nature lovers. The wide sand beach invites for great waves and a beautiful spot between the cliffs of the coast. It is also an amazing place to be for the sunset.
Algarve: home of unique beaches
The Algarve is more than just a touristy area in Portugal. It is a paradise for surfers and lovers of nature and wild beaches. Especially during the end of the season you can experience a quiet and relaxed atmospheres on the beaches. Those beaches are for the travellers who love to get away from the crowded areas and enjoy some real beach time. It is best to drive around in a car to be more flexible and reach the more secluded areas. This allows you to change the beaches and find the best location for surfing, relaxing and watching the sunset.
Can´t get enough of the beaches in Europe? Click here tos see The best beaches in Sardinia and how to get there.
