The Algarve, in southern Portugal, is a region that inspires dreams. Golden cliffs, turquoise waters, hidden coves, and endless soft sands — its coastline is simply one of the most stunning in Europe. For vacationers, residents, or future investors, the beaches of the Algarve offer an exceptional lifestyle, combining unspoiled nature with a relaxed pace of life.
In this article, we take you on a journey to discover the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches, along with some tips for visiting… or settling down there.
The Top 10 Must-See Beaches in the Algarves
Here’s a selection of 10 iconic beaches along the Algarve’s south and west coasts. Some are famous, others more hidden, but each has its own unique charm.
- 🌊 Praia da Marinha (Lagoa)
Probably the most famous beach in Portugal. Ranked among Europe’s most beautiful, it captivates with crystal-clear waters, time-carved cliffs, and spectacular natural arches. At low tide, natural pools appear — perfect for children. - 🏝️ Praia de Benagil and its cave
The beach itself is lovely, but the star attraction is the nearby Benagil Cave. Accessible by kayak, paddleboard, or swimming, this open-roof sea cave is one of Portugal’s most photographed spots. - 🧡 Praia da Falésia (between Vilamoura and Albufeira)
A vast sandy beach framed by dramatic red-orange cliffs stretching for kilometers. Easily accessible, it’s ideal for families, long walks, or yoga sessions facing the ocean. - 💎 Praia do Camilo (Lagos)
A small, paradisiacal cove tucked beneath cliffs, accessed via a spectacular staircase. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. The intimate setting makes it a favorite for couples and photographers. - 🌿 Praia de Odeceixe (Costa Vicentina)
Located at the border of the Algarve and Alentejo, this unique beach combines river and sea. Perfect for lovers of unspoiled nature, surfing, and tranquility. The vibe here is more alternative than touristy. - 🕳️ Praia do Carvalho (Carvoeiro)
A small beach hidden behind a tunnel dug into the cliffs. Its unusual access makes it a magical, secret spot, well known among locals. - 🛥️ Ilha de Tavira
Reachable by boat from Tavira, this island offers vast, unspoiled beaches. Perfect for a day escape far from the crowds — ideal for family picnics. - 🧭 Praia dos Estudantes (Lagos)
A quaint cove, famous for its stone Roman-style bridge connecting two cliffs. A romantic, peaceful beach just minutes from the town center. - 🏄 Praia do Amado (Carrapateira)
Heading west! One of Europe’s best surf spots. Powerful waves, laid-back atmosphere, food trucks, and surf schools. Come for the sport, stay for the spectacular ocean scenery. - 🕊️ Praia de Cacela Velha
Located in eastern Algarve, this serene beach offers a landscape of lagoons and white sandbanks. The nearby village, Cacela Velha, overlooks the ocean with breathtaking views from its church.
Which beach should you choose?
The Algarve’s rare gift is its diversity: beaches for every mood, profile, and season. Whether you’re a family, an avid surfer, a photographer hunting for unique spots, or simply someone seeking peace and quiet, you’ll find your paradise here.
👉 For families: safe access, calm waters, and space to play. Praia da Falésia is a safe bet with its long stretch of sand and amenities. Around Tavira, the island beaches are perfect for children — shallow waters, lots of space, and a relaxed vibe.
👉 For nature and calm seekers: head west! Praia de Odeceixe and Cacela Velha offer preserved settings with little development. Here, you feel the wild soul of authentic Algarve.
👉 For Instagram lovers: Praia do Camilo and Praia da Marinha are must-sees. Their staircases, golden cliffs, and translucent waters are natural backdrops for unforgettable photos.
👉 For surfers: the west coast is the place to be. Praia do Amado or Arrifana deliver year-round waves and a relaxed surf culture, with surf camps, vans overlooking the Atlantic, and sunset bars.
👉 For hidden gems: Praia do Carvalho is a rare treasure. To get there, you walk through a rock tunnel — the arrival feels magical, as if you’ve stumbled upon a secret paradise.
Living by the sea in the Algarve: a way of life
The Algarve’s beaches aren’t just vacation scenery — for many residents, they are part of daily life. Morning walks at sunrise, coffee on a terrace facing the ocean, paddleboarding between cliffs… here, the sea is a lifestyle.
The Algarve attracts thanks to:
- Year-round sunshine and mild climate
- Safety and reliable infrastructure
- A vibrant international community
- Local gastronomy blending sea and land
Buying or renting near the best beaches
Investing in the Algarve also means choosing prime locations. Properties near the beaches are highly sought after, both for living and seasonal rentals.
High-potential areas:
- Lagos: authenticity, dynamism, and spectacular beaches
- Carvoeiro / Lagoa: close to Marinha, Benagil, and Carvalho
- Tavira: discreet charm, boat-accessible beaches
- Albufeira: more touristy, but well connected
- Vilamoura: marina, golf, beaches, and international prestige
Property types available:
- Sea-view apartments with terraces
- Villas with pools near the beaches
- Character homes in coastal villages
At Hardy & Hardy, we help you buy, rent, or invest in seasonal rentals by selecting properties near the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches.
Practical tips for enjoying the beaches
- Best time to visit: May–June and September–October (fewer crowds, warm sea)
- Access: some beaches are only reachable on foot, by boat, or via staircases
- Preservation: respect nature, take your trash, no wildfires
Conclusion: a dream coastline to discover… or adopt
The Algarve offers far more than postcard views: it invites you to a serene lifestyle, deeply connected to the sea and nature. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning to move, every beach tells its own unique, unforgettable story.
Ready to make this landscape your everyday life? 🏡
📍 Explore our properties just minutes from the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches
📞 Book an appointment with a Hardy & Hardy advisor
🧭 Let us guide you toward a life project between sea and serenity
Contact a Hardy & Hardy advisor for a free and confidential consultation.