The Algarve is an excellent holiday destination for beach lovers, with miles of sandy beaches to soak up the sun on and warm, clear waters to swim in. The beaches vary from small sheltered coves ideal for families to vast acres of sun-drenched sand, complete with beach-bars, water sports and plenty of activities to keep all ages happy!

Swimming is safe in a lot of places, but care does need to be taken, due to dangerous rips and currents in some places. All main beaches have lifeguards during the summer months, and safe areas for swimming will be marked with flags. Many Algarve beaches hold the blue flag award for cleanliness, safety, and adequate facilities. Plenty others hold the Gold Award for good water quality. In general you will find that Algarve beaches are well maintained and are an enjoyable place to relax and unwind.

Good Family Beaches

Praia Verde

Praia Verde in Eastern Algarve is ideal for families with children. It takes its name from pine tree forest that borders the sand dunes and offers a relaxed day out. Facilities include a couple of beach bars and a restaurant.

Praia da Arrifana

Near to Aljezur, this beach offers reasonably safe swimming and fantastic views.

 

Praia da Luz

Praia da Luz is a half-mile long sheltered sandy beach, near to Luz and Lagos and is well suited to families with children. You will find here various water sports and diving on offer.

Meia Praia

Meia Praia beach is situated near to Lagos in the West of the Algarve and offers miles of uninterrupted golden sand as well as plenty of activities to keep your children occupied. Water sports, beach bars and sun beds are all here making this an ideal destination for all ages.

Praia da Galé

Praia da Galé, near Albufeira is a quiet, tranquil beach, offering safe swimming and water sports. It is a good all-round choice with easy parking, a good atmosphere and plenty of places to eat. The beach is long and therefore rarely feels overcrowded.

Praia do Vau – Alvor

 

This sandy beach in a sheltered bay is an excellent choice for families, offering safe swimming, a variety of places to eat, and plenty of peace and quiet!

Quiet Secluded / Romantic Beaches

Praia da Ingrina

Praia da Ingrina near vila do Bispo offers beautiful swimming away from the tourists and a nice beach restaurant.

Praia de São Rafael – Albufeira

This beach is located 5km from Albufeira> and is blessed with turquoise blue water, golden sand, and interesting sand stone formations offering excellent photograph opportunities.

Praia do Barranco – Raposeira

This beach offers calm waters and basic facilities for visitors.

Praia Figueiras – Figueiras

Whilst this beach offers no facilities, it is ideal at all times of the year if you are looking for peace and quiet and to get away from the crowds. The only drawback is that the nearest car parking is fifteen minutes walk from the beach – which is most probably why this beautiful spot remains for the most part unvisited.