Whether you are looking for water sports, fantastic restaurants, caves and coves or simply want a place to lay your towel in peace while lapping up the sounds of the waves – you are sure to be able to find it in the Algarve.
Odeiceixe beach – Aljezur
Here the river meets the ocean, providing a choice of inland or sea options making it an ideal choice for those who are looking to take on the waves with a surfboard or instead looking for a gentle paddle on a warm day. The beach itself is truly stunning and is located in a Vicentine Coast Natural Park – so don’t forget to take plenty of pictures while you are there.
Praia Grande – Lagoa
Big by name and big by nature, Praia Grande never feels full, even in the height of summer. The calm water here makes it perfect for some swimming or to take out a pedal boat (don’t forget to make use of the slides on the back!). There is a playground on the beach for smaller children, along with a great selection of beach restaurants which not only serve up great food but also live music.
Oura beach – Albufeira
Set in the central Algarve and close to the hustle and bustle of Albufeira, this beach is not only very pretty, it is also the ideal spot for thrill looking for an adrenaline rush! During the summer months, take your pick from a choice of parasailing, jet skis, banana boats, wakeboarding and various terrifying-looking inflatables that bounce you across the ocean at high speed!
Praia do Barril - Tavira
It is perhaps the journey itself to this beach that makes it one of the standouts along the coast. To reach the beach you can choose to board a little train that take you down to the beach on a single track – a big favourite with visitors of all ages! When you get there then look out for the impressive “anchor graveyard” as well as the places to eat and drink between sunbathing and swimming.
Voted as one of the best beaches in Europe, this pretty cove beach is a great place to watch the world go by as it is located right in the centre of the village. Easy access, no steps, a selection of beachfront restaurants and even a chance for some rock pooling make this a firm favourite in the region. This is also a great spot to hop on a local boat and discover the local caves, coves and inaccessible beaches.
Praia da Rocha – Portimão
This enormous beach is home to sports areas, surf lessons, a great choice of beach bars and restaurants and even a large play area on the sand. The beach stretches out below the cliffs with gorgeous rock formations making up the backdrop. In the summer this is where you can party until dawn at pop-up clubs, while it is also home to the international music festivals of Afro Nation, Secret Project and Rolling Loud.
