Algarve beaches: the 17 most beautiful and where to stay

Q: Which are the best beaches in the Algarve?

Among the most popular are the Praia da Marinha and Benagil (Lagoa), the Praia de Dona Ana and Camilo (Lagos), the Praia da Rocha (Portimão) and the Praia da Falésia (Albufeira). Each has its own character — cliffs, urban sands or wild beaches. See the profile of each one to choose by the sand, the access and the atmosphere.

Q: What is the difference between the Barlavento and Sotavento beaches?

In the Barlavento (west), golden cliffs and hidden coves dominate; in the Sotavento (east), the sands are wider and flatter and the sea warmer, with the islands of the Ria Formosa. The centre combines both styles. The choice depends on whether you prefer scenic cliffs or long sands and warm water.

Q: Which Algarve beaches have a Blue Flag?

Dozens of Algarve beaches hold the Blue Flag, the international award that certifies water quality, safety and services. Beaches such as Dona Ana, Falésia, Rocha, Marinha and Monte Gordo are among those awarded. The list is updated every year.

Q: Where is the Benagil sea cave and how do I visit?

The cave is at Praia de Benagil, in the municipality of Lagoa, and is visited by kayak, stand-up paddle or on boat trips from Benagil, Carvoeiro or Portimão. In summer it is wise to book the trip in advance. See our Benagil guide.

Q: Which beach should I choose for children?

For families, look for wide sands and calm sea: Praia da Luz, Meia Praia and Monte Gordo are good options for the sand and the gentler water. See also our guide to the best areas for families.

The Algarve has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe — from the golden cliffs of the Praia da Marinha and the Benagil sea cave in the centre, to the wild sands of the Costa Vicentina in the west, and the islands of the Ria Formosa in the east.

We have gathered 17 standout beaches, with a profile of each one and the town to stay in nearby. Choose a beach and see the accommodation in the area, with direct booking on Homing.

All the Algarve beaches

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Frequently asked questions

Which are the best beaches in the Algarve?

Among the most popular are the Praia da Marinha and Benagil (Lagoa), the Praia de Dona Ana and Camilo (Lagos), the Praia da Rocha (Portimão) and the Praia da Falésia (Albufeira). Each has its own character — cliffs, urban sands or wild beaches. See the profile of each one to choose by the sand, the access and the atmosphere.

What is the difference between the Barlavento and Sotavento beaches?

In the Barlavento (west), golden cliffs and hidden coves dominate; in the Sotavento (east), the sands are wider and flatter and the sea warmer, with the islands of the Ria Formosa. The centre combines both styles. The choice depends on whether you prefer scenic cliffs or long sands and warm water.

Which Algarve beaches have a Blue Flag?

Dozens of Algarve beaches hold the Blue Flag, the international award that certifies water quality, safety and services. Beaches such as Dona Ana, Falésia, Rocha, Marinha and Monte Gordo are among those awarded. The list is updated every year.

Where is the Benagil sea cave and how do I visit?

The cave is at Praia de Benagil, in the municipality of Lagoa, and is visited by kayak, stand-up paddle or on boat trips from Benagil, Carvoeiro or Portimão. In summer it is wise to book the trip in advance. See our Benagil guide.

Which beach should I choose for children?

For families, look for wide sands and calm sea: Praia da Luz, Meia Praia and Monte Gordo are good options for the sand and the gentler water. See also our guide to the best areas for families.

Where to stay near the best beaches in the Algarve?

It depends on the beach: for the Marinha and Benagil, stay in Carvoeiro or Lagoa; for Dona Ana, in Lagos; for the Falésia, in Albufeira or Vilamoura. Open the beach you're interested in to see the accommodation in the area, or see where to stay in the Algarve.