Faro Beach, also known as Praia da Ilha de Faro, is a magnificent stretch of golden sand located on a sandbar between the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria Formosa Lagoon. We were charmed by its relaxed atmosphere and stunning ocean views.
In this article, you’ll find our photos and tips for making the most of your visit to Faro Beach.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is Faro Beach worth it?
Yes, this large sandy beach is well worth a visit, and is one of the best beaches around Faro! Located on a barrier island within the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, it offers a serene, unspoilt setting. It’s a pleasant place to spend an entire day, surrounded by numerous restaurants, all amenities and water sports.
Visit the Ria Formosa Natural Park by boat and discover magnificent unspoilt islands with the help of a guide – see activity details here.
Type of beach
Sand or no sand?
The beach floor is made up of fine golden sand. We particularly appreciated its softness, making it an ideal place to spread your towel or build sandcastles.
Swimming conditions and supervision
The slope is relatively gentle, making swimming accessible to all. The beach is supervised by lifeguards who ensure the safety of bathers during the high season.
The best times to enjoy the water are from July to October, with temperatures between 19°C and 22°C. In addition to swimming, we noted that several water sports activities are available.
Installations
We noticed that the beach has many facilities:
- Deckchairs and parasols are available for hire
- Showers to cool off after a swim
- Toilets
- Restaurants and snacks
FUN in the Algarve: activities
Caves and cliffs by boat
Kayak Tours
Dolphin watching
Jeep tour
Faro beach: access
Where Faro Beach is located
Faro Beach is located:
- In the Algarve region of southern Portugal
- On the Ancão peninsula, in the Ria Formosa Natural Park
- 10 km south-west of Faro city center
Here’s a map of the best beaches around Faro, including the Praia de Faro, to help you find your way around:
Access by car and parking
The beach is easily reached by car from Faro, with a journey time of around 15 minutes. Several parking lots are available along the boulevard that runs alongside the beach.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Portugal
- 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)
Public transport access
There are several options for getting to the Praia de Faro by public transport:
- A regular ferry service links Faro to the beach. The journey takes about 20 minutes and a return ticket costs €3.90. See timetables here.
- By bus, the “Praia de Faro” stop serves the beach. See line maps, timetables and plan your route, here.
Special features
Dogs
Dogs are not allowed on the beach.
Reduced mobility access
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.
For your information: we have 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.
With children
This beach is particularly suitable for families. The gentle slope and fine sand make it a safe place for children. We’ve noticed that there’s a play area for the younger ones to enjoy between 2 swims.
Naturism
It is not possible to practice naturism on this beach. The nearest naturist beach is on Ilha Deserta, home to some of Faro’s most beautiful beaches!
Eating out
Restaurants, fast-food outlets and ice-cream stands can be found close to the beach. During our visit, we had lunch at Restaurant Sal’Mare and recommend this establishment! Other fine restaurants are also close by, including Le Sultana and Elementos.
To find out more, read our article on the best restaurants in Faro!
Hotels
You’re close to downtown Faro. Here are our recommendations:
WHERE TO STAY IN Faro
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Best apartment hotel
Amália Boutique Suites & Studios – See prices, photos and availability
Best boutique-hotel
Roots Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
Best luxury hotel
3HB Faro – See prices, photos and availability
