What makes Algarve beaches so special is the huge variety on offer, from cove beaches only accessible by the sea, to enormous stretches that go on for miles, to white sands on the Algarve islands and the dramatic rock formations and cliffs along others.

How to get there

The Algarve can be easily reached from anywhere in continental Europe. Air travel is certainly the most comfortable and fastest way to get. Faro airport is only 3 hours from most European destinations, such as London, Paris, Eindhoven, Amsterdam. The only intercontinental flights operating from Faro Airport (FAO) are between Faro and Canada (operated by Air Transat). The best way to get to Faro from US is flying to Lisbon or London and from there direct flight to Faro.

Where to stay in Algarve

You probably know what style of holiday you are seeking, and the following section provides a quick summary of the best locations for each holiday type.

Here is quick summary:


Best overall destination – Lagos, Albufeira or Tavira; for families with young children – Carvoeiro, Praia da Luz or Alvor; for history and culture – Lagos, Tavira, Faro; for party lovers – Albufeira, Praia da Rocha and Lagos; for a relaxing holiday – Tavira, Alvor or Carvoeiro. A small village setting – Burgau, Cabanas and Praia da Luz; golfing holiday – Vilamoura, Albufeira or Quarteira; somewhere different – Faro, Tavira or Alvor; surfing holiday – Sagres.

Best beaches in region

Ponta da Piedade. The tortured limestone stacks and cliffs have a reddish tone and are honeycombed with natural arches and caves.


Praia do Camilo. Cliffs and rock formations surround the beach, making this one of the smallest beaches on this list.


Praia Dona Ana, like all beaches in Lagos, is incredibly beautiful. The bizarre cliffs and rocks that surround this beach offer fantastic landscapes.


Praia da Falésia. Pushing on for almost seven kilometres is a golden sandy beach traced by cliffs.


Praia da Rocha. Another awesome beach, combines the Algarve’s craggy coastal scenery with its pristine sands.


Tavira Island. This is a long, narrow barrier island a few hundred metres off the city of Tavira.


Praia do Barril is located on the island of Tavira and is undoubtedly one of the most relaxing beaches.


Praia do Farol. This beach can be found on Ilha do Farol named because of Cabo de Santa Maria’s Lighthouse which was built on the island in 1851, is one of the quietest beaches in the Algarve.


Marinha beach is considered to be not only one of the top 10 most beautiful beaches in Europe but also as one of the 100 best in the world! This beach is one of the gems of the Algarve boasts golden sands and clear blue waters.

For more Portugal travel/hotel stay inspiration check out my posts here: https://travelwithanny.com/category/destinations/portugal/

Yours sincerely,

Anny