Beaches in the Algarve, an Atlantic paradise
Surrounded by the clear waters and cool breezes of the Atlantic, the more than 200 km of coast extending over the Algarve region of Portugal, have an endless number of beaches. Thus, if what you’re looking for these holidays are pleasant temperatures where you can relax on fine sand and enjoy the sun, then this is the place for you.
Deciding which is the best beach in Algarve is a challenge, in fact impossible, as they are many and varied: small and rocky, long and lined with fine, white sand, and hidden between cliffs and caves…However, we can help you decide which one is the best beach for you.
The South – The most beautiful beaches in the Algarve
The most famous coast in the Algarve is that in the South, to the West of the capital. Located between the lakes and the Portuguese city of Albufeira is a tourist area that has the most facilities. It is a very lively area with a lot going on. Its beaches are long, with calm waters and it gets quite crowded in summer.
Marinha beach, setting for many adverts and photography reports thanks to its unique beauty, is the most iconic in the area. Other striking beaches in the area include Meia Praia which extends over 5 km making it the largest beach in the Algarve, Galé beach with its pleasant promenade, and finally Senhora da Rocha beach with its combination of little hidden beaches and cliffs.
The West – The best beaches to go surfing in the Algarve
The best places to go surfing are on the beaches that lie in the West, where cold water and strong currents, with vigorous winds and large waves dominate. This strip of coast is the least developed area in the Algarve meaning that it has maintained its charm and the natural landscape. The beaches found between Odeceixe and Sagres are wild, small and secluded. Surf fans and other water sport fanatics prefer Martinhal beach. We also recommend a visit to Beliche beach, which, protected from the Atlantic by the Cabo de San Vicente, is full of caves and pretty rock formations.
The East – The quieter beaches in the Algarve
Finally, if what you want is a quiet and relaxed holiday then the small fishing villages of Tavira and Fuzeta, with the typical white houses, are great choices for you. You can also stay in the attractive town of Faro and enjoy its history and rich monumental heritage. All this area, located more towards the East, has maintained its traditional features and has numerous islands just off the coast. Finally, you can cross over to the small island of Tavira, which forms part of the Rio Formosa Nature Reserve, where you can try the fish of the day in the bars lining the large sand dune beaches.
The Algarve is a region with some breathtaking landscape, whose beaches have earned 74 Blue Flags as an indication of their quality.
