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How can one not dream of a holiday in the Algarve? Spending days exploring the best beaches in the Western Algarve is a popular plan for many visitors to the region. In this article, we have curated a must-visit beach list: hidden paradises, family-friendly beaches, and Blue Flag beaches. In the summer of 2024, discover the beaches of the Western Algarve and stay in strategically located spots in the Algarve to enjoy the sun and sand.
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Photo by Chen Mizrach – Unsplash
Family-friendly beaches – Western Algarve
One of the highlights of summer is enjoying quality time with family, as it’s one of the rare times of the year when everyone can gather and make the most of the pleasant days. For a perfect day at the beach, choose one that suits all ages, especially if there are children in the family. As we know, the little ones can't resist a dip in the sea. Therefore, we have compiled a list of calm beaches in the Western Algarve, perfect for all ages.
Photo by Garrett Patz – Unsplash
- Praia de Odeceixe
Praia de Odeceixe is part of the Costa Vicentina and is considered one of the most beautiful in the region. It is located at the northernmost point of the Aljezur municipality, bordered by a stream on one side and the sea on the other. The Seixe Stream forms the natural border between the Alentejo and the Algarve, making it an excellent choice for a family beach in the Western Algarve.
Praia de Odeceixe is set in an idyllic landscape surrounded by mountains. Its calm waters in the river area contrast with the more turbulent waters in the maritime bathing area, where surfers often enjoy the waves.
About three kilometres away is the village of Odeceixe, with restaurants, shops, and supermarkets. A tourist train connects the beach to the village, making it easier for visitors to access, especially due to the limited parking near the beach. The ticket for the train costs approximately 2 euros and is valid for two journeys (round trip). For children up to 12 years old, the ticket is free. Tickets can be purchased on the train or at the Odeceixe Parish Council office on weekdays from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm.
- Praia da Salema
Praia da Salema, located near Vila do Bispo, is a true gem that has been highlighted in both national and international newspapers for its beauty. For instance, The Guardian named it one of the 10 best-hidden beaches in Portugal. While words can hardly capture the beauty of this beach, we’ll do our best to do it justice.
The fishing heritage is still very much alive at Praia da Salema. Boats and fishing gear are common sight, with fishermen heading out to sea and returning with their catches. Several restaurants along the beach serve fresh fish straight from the ocean. We recommend Boia restaurant, a family-run establishment now in its third generation, perfect for dinner after a day on the beach.
The beach boasts a long stretch of sand, ideal for lounging on sunbeds, playing with children, or renting a stand-up paddleboard. One of the most fascinating activities here is observing dinosaur footprints. At Praia da Salema, there are two sites with footprints, and a third can be found at Praia da Santa, accessible via a trail connecting these two adjacent beaches.
The classic beaches – Western Algarve
Those who holiday in the Algarve often end up adopting a favourite beach. It's the beach where they spend most of their time, make friends, and find the best spot to lay their towels. If you haven't found your favourite beach yet, we suggest a few of the most popular ones during the summer.
- Praia Dona Ana
Situated right next to the iconic Ponta da Piedade, Praia Dona Ana is one of the most beautiful beaches in Lagos. Before setting up your beach umbrella on the sand, take a moment at the top of the access stairs to admire the view. From there, enjoy the distinctive rock formations of this part of the Algarve, the turquoise blue of the sea, and the pure sea breeze. Once on the sand, relax peacefully; the high cliffs block the wind, and the sea is generally calm.
For maximum comfort, sunbeds and umbrellas are available for hire. When you're feeling hungry, Marisol restaurant is the perfect choice because it offers a sea view. Next to the restaurant are public toilets and showers. You can reach this beach with a 20-minute walk from the centre of Lagos, take the tourist train, or park in the free car park.
It's worth noting that in 2013, Praia Dona Ana was recognised by Condé Nast Traveller as the best beach in the world and the most beautiful in the country. Two years later, TripAdvisor also recognised it as the best Portuguese beach.
- Praia de Alvor
Praia de Alvor remains one of the most popular beaches in the summer. With its expansive sandy beach, the location provides an authentic connection with nature, attracting numerous holidaymakers. To the west, dunes separate the beach from the lagoon, and a wooden boardwalk allows visitors to explore the area from a different perspective. Here, bathers share the space with kitesurfers and stand-up paddleboarders.
As with other beaches suggested in this article, you can hire sunbeds and umbrellas or even enjoy a Thai massage. There are also places where you can rent SUP boards and dinghies, small non-motorised boats. A pleasant surprise is the street vendor selling Berliners, cream-filled pastries that take on a special flavour on the beach.
On the west side of Praia de Alvor, you'll find several restaurants, such as Restinga and Atlântida, which specialise in fresh fish. These establishments feature terraces with sea views, offering a unique dining experience.
Stay just minutes from Praia Dona Ana or Praia de Alvor with Casas do Barlavento. You can stay in the city centre in Lagos, just 4 minutes from Praia Dona Ana at the Praça das Armas II apartment. The Casa Madalena apartment in Alvor is an 8-minute walk from the beach.
Secret beaches in the Western Algarve
Some beaches deserve to remain anonymous, like true hidden gems. They are precious and often surrounded by nature, with access suitable only for the most adventurous. Do you know any of the secret beaches in the Western Algarve?
Photo by Artem Zhukov – Unsplash
- Barranco do Martinho
A small, wild beach – that’s how we can describe Barranco do Martinho. Access to this secret beach is challenging and may not be suitable for everyone! The path there involves a winding trail carved into the rocks, leading to a narrow cement path that takes you to the sandy area. It is extremely important to check the tides to ensure it is safe to reach the beach.
This is the perfect spot for divers who love exploring the underwater world. You don’t need much equipment to observe various fish and shellfish species – just some goggles and a snorkel. Naturism is practised at this beach, right next to Ponta da Piedade, and pets are welcome.
- João d’Arens
Praia João d'Arens is known as “the last window to the sea” in Portimão. At the top of this beach, there is a densely wooded area where you can stroll both in summer and winter. The descent to the beach starts from the rocks and dirt paths in this rural area. The route is not easy, but with some care and determination, you can reach the sandy stretch. The safest way to access this beach, which we recommend, is by stand-up paddleboard or dinghy, both available for hire at Praia do Vau, adjacent to Praia João d'Arens.
On the cliffs of the beach, in the wooded area, you’ll find several fishermen trying their luck from the top of the cliffs. Watch closely and you’ll be amazed by the techniques of these fearless fishermen at João d'Arens. As with Barranco do Martinho beach, naturism is permitted here.
For travellers who enjoy exploring new beaches in the Western Algarve, we recommend a holiday home. Located just a few minutes’ drive from these two beaches, it offers a secluded spot with a pool. Discover Vila Formosa, near the parish of Alvor.
Blue Flag Beaches in the Western Algarve
The Blue Flag is a symbol of quality awarded to beaches and marinas that meet environmental and safety criteria, as well as promote environmental awareness among users. In 2024, the Algarve proudly flies a total of 92 Blue Flags spread across 86 beaches, 4 marinas, and 2 ecotourism vessels. In addition to environmental criteria, the Blue Flag signifies that the beaches have good accessibility and ensure safety for visitors.
To find out which beaches in the Algarve have been awarded the Blue Flag, visit the official Blue Flag website.
- Meia Praia
Meia Praia is one of the many Blue Flag beaches and is the largest in the Lagos municipality. It stretches over 5 kilometres of sand, from the Bensafrim Stream jetty to the Alvor Estuary jetty, along the wide bay of Lagos. Several wooden walkways provide access to the beach, helping to preserve the dunes. It is one of the few beaches without rocks along the shore, making it ideal for water sports.
Amid the sandy expanse, there is a school that provides instruction in windsurfing, kitesurfing, surfing, and other activities, which can be easily practised in the tranquil waters of Meia Praia. The beach features several restaurants, changing rooms, and ample free parking along the sand.
- Praia Porto Mós
Before you even reach the sands of Praia Porto de Mós, take in the view of the coastline to Sagres from the Atalaia viewpoint. You'll enjoy the scenery and make lasting memories! Praia Porto de Mós is sheltered from the wind by the rocks, and the spacious beach is perfect for family games and activities. Outside the beach, there is a free car park and wooden walkways. Prepare to spend the day at the beach and enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants: Restaurante António or Restaurante Campimar. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for hire in the restaurant area.
Looking for a holiday home near Blue Flag beaches? Stay at the three-bedroom Apt. Al-Gharb, just 150 metres from Meia Praia, or at Villa Praia de Branson with stunning sea views of Praia Porto de Mós.
Popular beaches in the Western Algarve
We could list all the beaches in the Western Algarve, as each has a unique beauty that sets it apart from other beaches in the country. The beaches in this region of the Algarve are distinguished by the ochre tones of the rocks and the crystal-clear turquoise waters. If you haven’t yet had the chance to visit at least one of the beaches we’ve mentioned, we invite you to do so in the summer of 2024. You might start by exploring one of the most popular beaches in the Western Algarve.
Photo by kiwihug – Unsplash
- Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha boasts unparalleled beauty. It has been ranked as one of the 100 best beaches in the world by the Michelin Guide. The high, sculpted cliffs surround the beach and should be the starting point of your visit. The beauty of the 7 Hanging Valleys, a trail that runs along the coast of Lagoa, is highly significant for those who love discovering the beaches of the Algarve. The golden-toned rocks and the turquoise-blue sea stand out from a distance.
The wooden staircase leading down to the sand may deter some visitors due to its length, but we assure you it will be worth the effort. It’s no coincidence that this beach has received the Golden Beach Award from the Ministry of the Environment.
- Praia da Rocha
One of the most iconic beaches in the Algarve, Praia da Rocha stretches over 1 kilometre of sand and attracts more visitors. A wooden boardwalk runs along the beach, providing access to various spots, including the sports area. Besides swimming in the sea, you can play basketball, volleyball, or football. The sandy expanse of Praia da Rocha hosts several summer events that draw people of all ages annually.
At either end of the beach, there are two viewpoints from which you can observe the beach and the ships arriving and departing from Portimão harbour. At the Santa Catarina fortress, the panoramic view of the Arade River blends with the numerous beaches along the Portimão coastline. There are also several restaurants on the beach where you can enjoy local cuisine.
Spend your holiday just a short walk from Praia da Rocha and a few minutes’ drive from Praia da Marinha in Lagoa, at Apt. Bonheur.
Now that you know the top 10 beaches in the Western Algarve for 2024, start planning your stay in a holiday home in the Algarve. Choose the town where you want to spend your holiday and search for your holiday home with Casas do Barlavento. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch.