Top 4 Best Beaches on the Algarve Coast | Portugal
Southern Portugal was by far my favorite stop for photography and relaxation during this trip. The Algarve Coast is renowned for its picturesque beaches, charming fishing villages, and dramatic cliffs. With its warm climate, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine, the Algarve Coast is a popular destination for tourists seeking sun, adventure, and relaxation. Here are a list of the top beaches Portugal’s Algarve.
Ponta da Piedade - Porto do Mós Beach
If you're going to do just one scenic hike along the Algarve coast, make it this one: Ponta da Piedade. It's an absolute must-visit. The views of the striking orange rock formations, caves, and cliffs are nothing short of impressive. You can explore the area by walking along the cute boardwalk, which offer various viewpoints along the way. If you do the entire route, it’s a three mile out-and-back hike. For a closer look at the ocean, you can also descend a beautiful staircase that leads to the water, perfect for a kayak or boat tour. It was one of my favorite photo spots in all of Portugal. Take your time and descend the stairs to explore the stunning grottos at Ponta da Piedade!
Praia dos Estudantes
Praia dos Estudantes is another beautiful beach along the Algarve coast. You can easily walk to this beach from Lagos. It’s a charming spot, known for its unique caves that you can explore as you stroll along the shore. Then you can explore Lagos the historic town famous for its stunning beaches, including Praia Dona Ana and Meia Praia, as well as its lively nightlife and charming city center. It is a super cute town to explore, shop for local gifts and experience the local dining scene.
Praia do Paraíso
The walk down to this stunning Algarve beach was magical. You follow a beautiful path that leads you to the beach in just minutes, offering breathtaking views and plenty of great photo opportunities. Praia do Paraíso has a parking lot conveniently located right next to the stairs leading down to the beach. It’s a quick stop we made before heading into the town of Carvoeiro. From the same parking lot, we walked into the charming town, which is a super cute coastal spot filled with restaurants, bars, and shops, along with options for hiking and water activities. It’s definitely worth a visit if you're already checking out Praia do Paraíso.
Praia da Marinha
Another stunning spot we explored was Praia da Marinha. One evening, we hiked the cliffs overlooking the beach to watch the sunset. This beach is often ranked among the most beautiful in the world, and it’s easy to see why. We walked to the left side for sunset, and there were hardly any people around. We had the place to ourselves as the sun dipped below the horizon. Plus, since we visited at the end of October, it was the off-season, making the experience even more peaceful and less crowded. Here is the link if you want to check it out Praia da Marinha - Arcos e Algares Naturais - Praia da Morena.
Quinta Dos Santos Vineyard
Okay, okay... I know this isn't an Algarve beach, but it matches the beauty and is definitely worth a visit! If you're planning a trip to the Algarve, don't miss the chance to visit Quinta Dos Santos! We stopped at here for lunch and to sample their wines, and it was one of the most beautiful wineries I've ever visited! The setting was absolutely stunning, and the wines were fantastic. I highly recommend it for anyone looking to experience the charm of the Portugal wine scene.
A visit to one of the region's picturesque wineries is a must. Not only will you get to enjoy the beauty of the vineyards, but you'll also be treated to some of Portugal's finest wines. Be sure to try the famous vinho verde—a refreshing “green” wine that’s a true local specialty. While you're there, you'll also have the chance to taste unique wines made from traditional grapes like Touriga Nacional and Trincadeira. It's the perfect way to sip, savor, and learn about the Algarve’s wine culture!
*Many wineries, especially those in regions like the Algarve, require reservations due to limited availability. Plus, a lot of Portuguese wineries don’t serve food on-site, so if you want to sample their wines, you’ll need to go on a guided tour. This is a legal requirement in many places to ensure a responsible and informative tasting experience.