With its towering rock formations and distinguished limestone cliffs, Portugal’s Algarve has some of the most beautiful and instantly recognisable beaches in Europe, perhaps even in the world. Here are just 10 of Algarve’s most enviable shorelines that you’ll want to visit when you come to this lovely part of Portugal’s south coast.
Praia do Amoreira
A huge stretch of golden sand seems to span endlessly in the Algarve’s Praia do Amoreia which is perpetually lapped by the crystal waters of the Atlantic. While the sea’s underflow makes it unsuitable for children to swim in, its rock pools, home to starfish and other sea creatures, make it an endless world of fascination for young and older visitors alike.
Praia de Marinha
The is the quintessential Algarvian beach set against the backdrop of magnificent cliffs of sandy limestone. Exquisite hues are captured in the sun’s rays which bathe the white sands below. It’s the perfect spot from which to base yourself as you snorkel offshore or catch a boat trip to nearby caves.
Praia de Odeceixe
This magnificent beach is rather interesting as it is flanked both by the river Seixe on the one side and the sea on the other. Nature lovers will enjoy spotting that the nearby cliffs are home to storks and circling peregrine falcons that plunge and soar amidst the towering rocks.
Prairo do Armado
Popular with surfers, Prairo do Armado is the perfect place to watch the sun sink into the Atlantic swell. Its characteristic cliff face and undulating sand dunes give it that typical Portuguese charm that perfectly characterises the Algarve.
Praia do Anção,
A band of golden sand dunes stretch off into the distant horizon as turquoise waters gently caress the shores of this blue-flag beach. This golden shoreline is suited to families with plenty of water sports on hand for extra fun.
Praia de Albandeira
A beautiful beach enshrined by towering limestone cliffs is free from the usual trappings of the bigger beaches. Here you’ll escape the water sports crowd and the ensuing shouts and screams of thrill chasers for the more natural sounds of surf.
Praia da Falesia
Dramatic cliffs loom down over golden shores which seem to roll on forever. The beach is ideal for families and its gentle descent into the water make it ideal for children and light swimmers. The cliff top also offers scenic walks with magnificent views across the Atlantic and nearby scenic villages where time has well and truly stood still.
Meia Praia
This vast stretch of golden sands and undulating sand dunes is one of the longest in the Algarve. The sheer expanse of the beach ensures you’ll always find a space here even at the height of the season.
Falésia Beach
With its gentle slope into the water and 6 kilometres of sandy shore, Falésia Beach is ideal for families. Flanked by spectacular cliffs and plenty of space for all and with some beautiful scenery to enjoy along the coastal pathways.
Gale Beach
A popular beach with instantly recognisable rock formations that so characterise Portugal’s south coast replete with fascinating caves and grottoes. The beach is perfectly sheltered from Atlantic winds, and the rock pools unfailingly keep the children happy.
Whichever beach or beaches you choose to visit in Portugal’s sunny Algarve, you’re sure to find the perfect backdrop to your holiday and place in which to relax and recharge your batteries. The Algarve’s distinct coastline and sandy cliffs make for a perfect holiday as you unwind in this much loved shoreline.
