Looking for an unusual beach on the Portuguese coast? We recommend the Praia do Molhe in Ferragudo, which charmed us with its unique setting. Its long pier extends far out into the water, offering a beautiful view of the ocean. Located at the mouth of the Rivière Arade, it offers superb views of the Atlantic.
In this article, you’ll find our photos and tips on how to make the most of this pleasant waterside interlude.
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 Praia do Molhe worth it?
Absolutely! This charming beach seduced us with its particular configuration, revealing the Rivière Arade on one side and the ocean on the other. Even in the heat, the sea breeze makes for a pleasant stroll along the seawall. During our visit, we observed several experienced surfers lying on their boards, watching for the perfect wave on the ocean side. In our opinion, this is one of Portimão’s most beautiful beaches!
Type of beach
Sand or no sand?
The beach floor is made up of fine golden sand and a few scattered rocks. It also features rock formations that add character to the landscape.
Swimming conditions and supervision
Due to the particular configuration of this beach at the mouth of the Rivière Arade, bathing conditions call for a certain amount of caution. We found that experienced surfers frequent this beach on the ocean side, indicating the presence of potentially strong waves. Access to the water requires descending a steep staircase from the top of the cliffs. The beach is not supervised.
Installations
We didn’t see any showers or toilets on the beach. It retains its natural, untamed character, with no on-site facilities. It’s a good idea to pack everything you’ll need for your visit.
FUN in the Algarve: activities
Caves and Cliffs by Boat
Kayak Tours
Dolphin watching
Jeep Tour
Praia do Molhe in Ferragudo: how to get there
Where’s the beach?
- In the Algarve region
- Near Portimão
- South of the village of Ferragudo
- At the mouth of the Rivière Arade
- 7min drive from Ferragudo
- 15min drive from Portimão
- 40min drive from Lagos
- 1 hour drive from Faro
Access by car and parking
To reach the beach by car, simply follow the Estrada do Molhe, a road that takes you to the top of the cliffs overlooking the beach. Parking is available at the end of this road, right next to Restaurant O Molhe, which also offers a breathtaking view of the sandy expanse below.
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.
Access from the parking lot
From the parking lot at the top of the cliffs, access to the sand is via a concrete staircase. We should point out that this staircase is quite steep and may discourage some visitors, but the effort is quickly rewarded once on the beach. Care should be taken when descending and ascending.
Public transport access
Praia do Molhe is not easily accessible by bus. The nearest stop, “Vale Azinhaga (Pq. Campismo)”, is about a 20-minute walk from the beach, which can be a constraint in the heat. If you’re still interested, visit the official bus network website for more information here. We also noticed a sign indicating a hop-on hop-off tourist bus called “Rota das Falésias”, but we couldn’t find any reliable information about it on site or on the internet.
DISCOVER Portimao
Special features
Dog
We didn’t see any signs about dog access to the beach.
Reduced mobility access
There are no facilities for disabled access. The steep concrete staircase from the top of the cliffs makes access difficult for wheelchair users or those with mobility difficulties. However, there are parking spaces reserved for the disabled in the parking lot, making it possible to contemplate the coastline from the heights.
With children
The beach is not ideal for visiting with children, due to the steep staircase and lack of supervision. Caution is advised, particularly in view of the signs indicating dangerous areas and the risk of falling rocks. The particular conditions of this beach make it more suitable for experienced visitors.
Naturism
It is not possible to practice naturism on this beach.
Other restrictions
Signs are in place to warn of the risk of falling rocks on the ochre cliffs. It is essential to follow these instructions for your own safety.
Eating out
There are no catering options directly on the beach. On the other hand, Restaurant O Molhe, perched atop the cliffs, offers an exceptional view of the ocean. Without claiming to offer gourmet cuisine, the establishment remains a particularly practical and pleasant option for its setting. We recommend traditional dishes and fish, which are often the most successful. For more great places to eat in Ferragudo, don’t miss our article dedicated to the village’s best restaurants (available soon).
Hotels
For your stay near Praia do Molhe, we particularly recommendHôtel Rural Brícia Du Mar, a 15-minute walk away. Equipped with a magnificent outdoor swimming pool, it offers an authentic and peaceful setting. – See photos, photos and availability.
Just a 20-minute walk away, the Caneiros Luxury House & Suites is also an excellent option for those looking for upmarket accommodation. – See prices, photos and availability.
To discover our complete selection of quality accommodation in the region, see our article on the best hotels in Portimão:
WHERE TO STAY IN Portimao
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Best Luxury Hotel –
Bela Vista Hotel & Spa – Check photos and availability
Best 4-star hotel –
Jupiter Marina Hotel – Check photos and availability
Best Hotel for Families –
Vitor’s Plaza Aparthotel – Check photos and availability
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE algarve
- Best of
What to do in the Algarve
The most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful towns and villages
Algarve’s most beautiful beaches
Best excursions
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in the Algarve
How many days?
Itineraries
Where to stay in the Algarve
Lagos, Portimao or Albufeira
Most beautiful hotels
