Algarve: Which beautiful beaches you must see

The Algarve in southern Portugal has a lot to offer: picturesque sandy beaches, deep blue water, and meter-high, almost golden cliffs. Choosing where to relax, sunbathe, and swim isn't easy. That's why we've selected the seven most beautiful beaches for you – from surfing paradises to postcard-perfect scenery.

Praia Marinha is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve, not least because of its impressive rock formations, and is at the top of many vacationers' lists. The cliffs are up to 30 meters high and protect the beach. Visitors can swim and explore the large rock arches and grottos. While snorkeling, there's a good chance they'll spot a few seahorses.

Anyone on holiday in the Algarve must see a sunset over Praia Marinha.

Source: imago images/POP-EYE

Praia Odeceixe is especially popular with families with children. The neighboring Seixe River brings freshwater and alluvial sand to the beach. The sand creates a large headland that protects against the otherwise violent surf of the Western Algarve, even at low tide.

Surfers also feel at home at Praia Odeceixe, where great waves await further out. Just a ten-minute walk away is Praia das Adegas, one of Portugal's few nudist beaches.

Praia Odeceixe is known as a family beach. You can also swim in freshwater here.

Source: imago images/POP-EYE

Anyone who wants to visit Praia do Carvalho, east of Carvoeiro, will have to embark on a bit of an adventure. The small beach is only accessible via a steep stairway, but the effort is worth it.

Fearless cliff divers plunge into the water from heights of up to twelve meters – a real spectacle, even if you prefer to just watch.

Praia do Carvalho is a rather small but no less beautiful beach.

Source: imago images/Hans Lucas

The 20-meter-high rock formations give Ponta da Piedade an incomparable beach setting. The numerous arches, grottos, and caves make the beach one of the most popular in the Algarve.

Action is part of a beach visit here, as the adjacent Praia da Boneca bay is only accessible on foot via a steep path and can only be entered at low tide. It's easier by boat, but be careful: the steep cliffs are prone to falling rocks!

At Ponta da Piedade you will find hidden beaches and coves.

Source: imago images/Cavan Images

Just one kilometer from Ponta da Piedade, tourists will find Praia do Camilo. Above the beach is a lovely restaurant, from which a wooden staircase leads to two small bathing coves.

The highlight: The two bays are connected by a man-made tunnel. Because the beach is easily accessible, it can sometimes get a bit crowded. It's best to come here in the morning.

Praia do Camilo in the Algarve: only 100 steps until you reach the dream beach.

Source: imago images/Joana Kruse

If you're looking to buy a postcard from the Algarve, there's one thing you can't miss: the huge rock cave on Benagil Beach in Lagoa. At low tide, you can reach it by swimming or by boat. The tranquil coastline is also perfect for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking.

Hiking enthusiasts will also get their money's worth: There's a two-hour coastal hiking trail between Benagil and Praia Marinha. The landscape offers photo-worthy panoramic views.

You can see probably the most popular postcard motif in the Algarve with your own eyes at Praia de Benagil.

Source: imago images/POP-EYE

Green hills and red cliffs: Praia do Amado is the country's most popular surfing spot, thanks to its high waves year-round. Numerous surf schools teach beginners and advanced surfers here. International competitions are also regularly held on the long, stretching beach, attracting many visitors during the peak season.

At Praia do Amado, the best surfers from all over the world compete in exciting competitions.

Source: imago images/Joana Kruse

The journey is convenient, with parking available not far from the beach. Once at Praia do Amado, guests can enjoy cold drinks at the beach bar.

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