On Portugal ‘s southern coast , Albufeira ‘s beaches with their turquoise waters and sun-drenched ochre cliffs are a delight. Between secluded coves accessible on foot and wide stretches of fine sand bustling with summer life, the town offers a palette of seascapes typical of theAlgarve. We loved exploring Portugal’s southern coast, where you can enjoy the sea, relax in the sun, indulge in water sports or admire the coastline sculpted by time and tides.
Here’s our selection of the most beautiful beaches in and around Albufeira, with our helpful tips in pictures!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Albufeira’s best beaches – map
Albufeira’s magnificent beaches are well worth a visit. They’re definitely one of this coastal town’s top attractions!
Our map of the beaches listed in this article will help you find your way around:
Where to go in Albufeira for the best beaches?
Along the coast, you’ll discover a succession of beaches with golden cliffs, typical of the Algarve, which give Albufeira its charm. Sheltered coves such as Praia da Coelha or Praia dos Arrifes offer a more intimate setting, while large stretches such as Praia da Oura or Praia dos Pescadores are seductive for their liveliness and numerous activities. Praia da Falésia, meanwhile, is one of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches, renowned throughout the region for its breathtaking scenery. We particularly enjoyed the variety of landscapes, with their turquoise waters, erosion-sculpted rocks and enchanting summer atmosphere.
For your information: we have learned that in Portugal, 244 seaside areas are accessible to people with reduced mobility. These beaches are identified by a white flag bearing the “Plage accessible” symbol in blue and yellow. They feature reserved parking spaces, adapted pedestrian access, walkways over the sand and accessible toilets. Find out more here.
1. Praia do Túnel or Peneco
Why we love it
Praia do Peneco, often called Praia do Túnel, is Albufeira’s emblematic beach: it embodies both the charm of white villages clinging to cliffs and the friendliness of a highly accessible urban beach. We liked its location at the foot of the old town. You’ll feel the liveliness of the narrow streets, while being able to reach a wide stretch of golden sand in just a few minutes. The photogenic nature of the beach (cliffs, panoramic elevator and pedestrian tunnel) makes it an almost obligatory stop, especially at sunset when the light gilds the façades and rocks. It’s also a practical beach (lifeguard, parasols, shops and restaurants nearby…), making it ideal for a day out with no logistical constraints.
Access
- In the heart of Albufeira’s old town (under the historic cliff)
- Pedestrian tunnel (~20 m) and public elevator accessible from Rua 5 de Outubro
- Very easy on foot from the pedestrian streets: just a few minutes from the historic center
- By car: the beach is not directly accessible by car. You’ll need to park in one of the downtown parking lots and walk to the beach.
Practical information
- Type of sand: fine golden sand.
- Water entry: gentle slope
- Surveillance: yes in season (aid station).
- Toilets/showers: yes
- Activities: sunbeds, parasols and water sports equipment available for hire.
- Accessibility: easy elevator access and wooden beach mat.
- Parking: limited parking in town center (pay parking, often full in summer).
- Eating and drinking: bars and restaurants in the town center, in the immediate vicinity.
WHERE TO STAY IN Albufeira
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Best historic hotel
Boutique Hotel Vila Origens – See prices, photos and availability
Best hotel on the beach
Hotel Sol e Mar – See prices, photos and availability
Best luxury hotel
Pine Cliff Ocean Suites Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
2. Praia dos Pescadores
Why we love it
The Praia dos Pescadores offers a pleasant and practical setting: fine sand, Claire water, lifeguard posts, showers, toilets and easy access from the old town. It’s a lively beach, ideal for a break between 2 visits to Albufeira’s attractions or for spending a whole day with your feet in the sand.
We enjoyed its lively yet peaceful atmosphere. Beachside bars and restaurants offer food and drink with a view. On the other hand, if you prefer wilder, quieter spots, it may not be your first choice, so we recommend you choose one of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches. Indeed, Praia dos Pescadores remains a very busy urban beach, especially in high season.
Access
- In the town of Albufeira
- A 5-minute walk from the historic district
- The beach adjoins the town’s other main beach, Praia do Túnel.
- The Plage dos Pescadores is just a short walk from the center of Albufeira. It’s easy to get there thanks to the flat cobblestones that line it.
Practical information
- Type of sand: fine golden sand.
- Water entry: gentle slope
- Surveillance: yes in season (aid station).
- Toilets/showers: yes
- Activities: sunbeds, parasols and water sports equipment available for hire.
- Accessibility: The beach is accessible to people with reduced mobility. We saw an access ramp and a wooden path on the sand to facilitate movement, as well as a special wheelchair for people with disabilities.
- Parking: limited parking in town center (pay parking, often full in summer).
- Eating and drinking: bars and restaurants in the town center, in the immediate vicinity.
3. Praia dos Alemães
Why we love it
If you’re looking for a beach that’s central to Albufeira, but a little quieter than those in the heart of the old town, Praia dos Alemães (sometimes called Praia de Albufeira) is perfect. It seduced us with its wide expanse of sand, its family atmosphere and its landscapes.
We also appreciated its relaxed atmosphere, without being totally isolated. The beach has deckchairs, parasols, showers and a restaurant. It’s easily accessible from the center, on foot or by car, with parking spaces nearby.
Its main asset? A good balance between accessibility, relative calm and pleasant natural surroundings, without having to leave Albufeira. If you prefer to avoid crowded beaches while staying close to the hustle and bustle, this is a smart choice.
Access
- In the town of Albufeira, west of the city center
- 30min walk or 10min drive from historic Albufeira
- Access by car is easy via well-maintained roads. You can park along the road not far from the beach.
Practical information
- Type of sand: fine golden sand.
- Water entry: gentle slope
- Surveillance: yes in season (aid station).
- Toilets/showers: yes
- Activities: sunbeds, parasols and water sports equipment available for hire.
- Accessibility: The beach is accessible to people with reduced mobility. We saw an access ramp and a wooden path on the sand to facilitate movement, as well as a special wheelchair for people with disabilities.
- Parking: street parking, may be limited in high season.
- Eating out: there are a number of restaurants, fast-food outlets and ice-cream stands close to the beach.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN THE Algarve
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
4. Praia Da Falésia
Why we love it
Praia Da Falésia is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve. You’re sure to be charmed by this long, continuous stretch of almost 6km, bordered by ochre cliffs and a wooded backdrop that offers stunning panoramic views. There’s also plenty of space to walk or run along the seafront. We liked this beach for its “open” feel: unlike the small, enclosed coves, Falésia gives the impression of a vast, untamed coastline, while remaining well-equipped in places. Its length makes it easy to find a less crowded spot, even at the height of the season. We recommend a long walk at sunrise or sunset.
Access
- In the middle of the south coast, east of Albufeira
- 20min drive from Albufeira
- 45min drive from Portimao and Faro
- Several parking lots at different locations along the beach
Practical information
- Type of sand: fine golden sand.
- Water entry: gentle slope
- Surveillance: yes in season (aid station).
- Toilets/showers: yes
- Accessibility: access to the beach via stairs. Difficult access for PRMs
- Parking: street parking, may be limited in high season.
- Catering: several food outlets on the beach and at the top of the cliffs
5. Praia da Oura
Why we love it
Praia da Oura is one of Albufeira’s most dynamic beaches. We loved its golden sands, framed by warmly hued cliffs. The beach attracts families and groups of friends alike, who come to enjoy the lively summer atmosphere. Nearby bars and restaurants create a lively atmosphere, ideal if you like to alternate between swimming and socializing. Despite the crowds, the beach retains a certain charm thanks to its rows of palm trees and its grandiose setting.
Access
- East of Albufeira
- 10 min. drive from downtown
- 45 min from Faro
- Limited parking nearby (on street)
- Pedestrian descent from the main avenue
Practical information
- Type of sand: fine golden sand.
- Water entry: gentle slope
- Surveillance: yes in season (aid station).
- Toilets/showers: yes
- Activities: sunbeds, parasols and water sports equipment available for hire.
- Accessibility: The beach is accessible to people with reduced mobility. We saw an access ramp and a wooden path on the sand to make it easier to get around.
- Parking: street parking, may be limited in high season.
- Eating out: there are several restaurants, fast-food outlets and ice-cream stands close to the beach.
A LITTLE MORE patience
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6. Praia dos Aveiros
Why we love it
Aveiros Cove is well worth a visit! Also known as Praia dos Aveiros, this cove isone of Albufeira’s most secret and charmingbeaches. Nestled between golden cliffs, it offers an intimate, unspoilt setting, far from the hustle and bustle of main beaches like Praia dos Pescadores. Its crystal-clear water and fine sand make it an ideal place to relax or explore the small caves and rocky nooks and crannies at low tide.
Its peaceful atmosphere makes it a real little corner of paradise, which we really enjoyed. But beware: access can be a little tricky (see our practical tips below), which also contributes to its discreet charm. If you love secluded coves and wild coastal landscapes, Praia dos Aveiros is well worth a visit!
Access
- In the town of Albufeira
- Less than a 10-minute drive from the historic district
- Near Praia dos Alemães and Praia da Oura
- Access by car is easy via well-maintained roads. You can park along the road not far from the beach. In high season, however, it may be more difficult to find a parking space.
Warning: the beach can be difficult to locate. Don’t rely solely on your GPS (Google Maps or Waze), which may direct you to the wrong place (we’ve been there). Good access is via Rue Bécon Vasca da Gama, close to theAuramar Hotel. Follow these instructions to avoid unnecessary detours. Disregard any prohibitions of passage that only concern access to residences. No beach in Portugal is private.
(Here are the Google Maps coordinates of the road entrance: 37.085205, -8.232206)
Practical information
- Type of sand: fine golden sand.
- Water entry: gentle slope
- Surveillance: yes in season (aid station).
- Toilets/showers: yes
- Accessibility: access to the beach via stairs. Difficult access for PRMs
- Parking: street parking, may be limited in high season.
- Eating & Drinking: On-site dining at Restaurant Aveiros, with its panoramic view of the beach.
7. Praia da Santa Eulalia
Why we love it
Located away from the tourist hotspot, Santa Eulalia Beach won us over with its surprisingly unspoilt natural setting. Surrounded by beautiful pine forests and ochre limestone and clay cliffs, it offers a more peaceful atmosphere than some of the resort’s other beaches.
It’s a far cry from the hustle and bustle of downtown Albufeira, often compared to a mini Las Vegas with its gaudy neon lights and lively bars. Santa Eulália offers a more elegant, more natural alternative, while remaining well-equipped: well-maintained wooden facilities, beachside restaurants, easy access and surveillance. It’s a beach we particularly recommend for couples or families looking for a pleasant spot, without being totally isolated.
Access
- In the town of Albufeira
- About a 10-minute drive from the historic district
- Close to Praia dos Aveiros and Praia da Oura
- Access by car is easy via well-maintained roads. Free parking is available not far from the beach.
Practical information
- Type of sand: fine golden sand.
- Water entry: gentle slope
- Surveillance: yes in season (aid station).
- Toilets/showers: yes
- Activities: sunbeds, parasols and water sports equipment available for hire.
- Accessibility: The beach is accessible to people with reduced mobility. We saw an access ramp and a wooden path on the sand to make it easier for people with reduced mobility to get around.
- Parking: dedicated parking lot near the beach
- Food & beverage: There’s a fast-food stand right on the beach, as well as a number of restaurants overlooking it.
FUN in the Algarve: activities
Caves and cliffs by boat
Kayak Tours
Dolphin watching
Jeep tour
8. Praia dos Arrifes
Why we love it
We really liked Praia Dos Arrifes, famous for its 3 large rock formations! It’s a stunning little cove to explore, recognizable by the 3 rock formations that surround it. The beach is also known as Praia Dos Tres Penecos, Portuguese for “Three Rocks”, because of its three imposing pinnacles. Enjoy the scenery, but also the comfort of deckchairs and relax under a straw parasol with your feet almost in the water!
Access
- 15min from downtown Albufeira
- On-site parking
- Access via a small staircase
Practical information
- Type of sand: mix of golden sand and pebbles.
- Water entry: gentle slope
- Monitoring: no
- Toilets/showers: yes
- Activities: deckchairs and parasols for hire. We recommend exploring at low tide to gain access to all the rocks.
- Accessibility: The beach is not easily accessible to people with reduced mobility.
- Parking: dedicated parking lot near the beach
- Catering: There’s a panoramic restaurant right on the beach.
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9. Praia da Coelha
Why we love it
Praia da Coelha is a rather discreet, protected cove bordered by cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation, giving it an intimate, relaxing setting. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with the family or prefer less crowded beaches. We liked its more confidential ambience, since access involves a short walk, which naturally filters out the crowds. The smaller size of the beach creates a cosy atmosphere, with conditions often favorable for snorkeling and discovering the small rocky coves nearby. You’re likely to be seduced by the arrival via a shaded path and wooden staircases that contribute to the charm of the place and its preservation.
Access
- In the town of Albufeira
- About a 15-minute drive from the historic district
- Less than 5min walk from the parking lot to the beach
- Access by car is easy via well-maintained roads. Free parking is available not far from the beach.
Practical information
- Type of sand: fine golden sand.
- Water entry: gentle slope
- Surveillance: yes in season (aid station).
- Toilets/showers: no
- Activities: sunbeds, parasols and water sports equipment available for hire.
- Accessibility: The beach is not easily accessible to people with reduced mobility.
- Parking: dedicated parking lot near the beach
- Catering: There’s a restaurant right on the beach.
DISCOVER Albufeira
- Attractions in Albufeira
- Best hotels
- Best restaurants (coming soon)
- Albufeira in winter
Other beaches around Albufeira
Beyond the best-known beaches in the city center, the Algarve has some real nuggets just a few minutes from Albufeira. Here are our 3 must-see favorites:
Praia da Paradinha: a small, intimate cove surrounded by golden rocks, ideal for snorkeling and quiet swimming.
Praia do Castelo: bordered by high cliffs and turquoise waters, this unspoilt beach offers a spectacular natural setting.
Praia da Vigia: wilder and less crowded, it seduces with its peaceful atmosphere and picture-postcard panoramas.
Praia da Ponta Grande: This secluded beach is nestled in a large oval cove and protected by towering cliffs.
Frequently asked questions
When to swim in Albufeira?
The water temperature is particularly pleasant from May to the end of September. This period also benefits from increased surveillance by lifeguards, present daily on most beaches to ensure your safety. We particularly recommend the months of June and September for warm water, while avoiding the crowds of July and August. Even in winter, the Algarve’s mild climate makes for great walks along the beaches, although swimming is reserved for the more adventurous.
Are the Algarve’s beaches suitable for people with reduced mobility?
Yes, some of them are. We have also learned that 244 seaside areas in Portugal are accessible to people with reduced mobility. These beaches are identified by a white flag bearing the “Plage accessible” symbol in blue and yellow. They feature reserved parking spaces, adapted pedestrian access, walkways over the sand and accessible toilets. Find out more here.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE algarve
- Best of
Things to do in the Algarve
Most beautiful landscapes (coming soon)
Most beautiful towns and villages
Algarve’s most beautiful beaches
- Practical advice
When to go? (coming soon)
How to rent a car in the Algarve (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
How many days?
Itineraries (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Ponta da Piedade (coming soon)
Benagil cave (coming soon)
Praia da Marinha
Dolphin watching (coming soon)
What to do in Lagos
What to do in Portimao
What to do in Albufeira
What to do in Faro
