Located in Portugal’s southernmost region Algarve, Praia da Marinha (translated Navy Beach), is not only one of the most iconic beaches in the country, but it is also ranked as one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in Europe.
Photos of this beach are widely used in advertisements for the Algarve, but you can only see and feel its real beauty by being there in person.
The beach is surrounded by steep cliffs, which gives it a whimsical feeling from the top when you arrive:
From the crystal clear turquoise waters to the unique rock formations surrounding the golden soft sand, Praia da Marinha is a place worth visiting when planning a trip to Portugal.
Getting There
Access to Praia da Marinha is relatively easy overall, but there are a couple of important things to know so you’re not surprised:
Getting there
- Best way: by car (public transport is very limited although you can take a Uber there)
- There’s a free parking area at the top of the cliffs
- In summer, it fills up very early (often in the morning)
Tip: Go early (before 9am in peak season: July and August) or late afternoon.
Access to the beach itself
You can stay at the top enjoying the breathtaking scenery but follow these tips if you wish to reach down to the sand:
- From the parking, you walk a short path to the viewpoint
- Then you go down a long staircase (around 100+ steps)
- The stairs are carved into the cliffs and can feel a bit steep
It’s not difficult if you’re reasonably fit, but:
- Not ideal for people with reduced mobility
- Can be tiring on the way back up (especially in heat)
Overall difficulty
- Easy → Moderate
- Short distance, but:
- Stairs + heat = effort
- No flat/easy access (no boardwalk to sand)
Our honest take (so you can plan well):
Patience for parking in summer
Totally doable and worth it (views are insane 😍)
Just treat it like a mini workout, not a flat beach walk
Bring:
Water
Comfortable shoes (not just flip-flops)
The Beach
Once you dip your toes into the soft sand, you will know that the hike down was totally worth it! Nestled between the massive cliffs, Praia da Marinha usually enjoys calm and sunny days.
As it rarely gets too windy and the waves are never too high or strong, visitors can plan an entire day relaxing and sunbathing on the beach.
The crystal clear waters are so inviting that you will certainly want to go for a swim or try some snorkeling. Make sure to bring your own gear to dive into the refreshing waters and explore the colorful marine species.
When the tide is low you can walk along the beach and visit the amazingly famous rock structure that looks like the letter M.
There is actually one part on the cliffs where the rocks and the M rock form a heart shape:
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Activities
Besides water activities, such as swimming and snorkeling, you should also visit the unique rock formations surrounding the beach:
If you are looking forward to embarking on a small adventure of your own and getting a close look at the fantastic cliffs rising high above the waters, you should plan to visit during low tides.
Numerous small caves and grottos can be found beneath the rocks waiting to be explored.
The best way to immerse yourself into the peace and quiet of the area and enjoy the truly spectacular rock formations, though, is by joining a boat trip.
Some of them will even take you to the truly outstanding Benagil Cave:
Top 10 Things to Do in The Algarve, Portugal
The Hike
If you are more of a hiker and would like to soak up the beauty of Praia da Marinha from the top, you can choose the hike along the cliffs.
Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos, also known as the Seven Hanging Valleys trail is a fantastic hike, which expands all the way from Praia da Marinha to Praia de Vale Centeanes:
As the most stunning hiking route in the entire Algarve area, the trail will take you along the rugged coastline, presenting you truly spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Facilities
Before heading to Praia da Marinha you should have in mind that the facilities are extremely limited. For example, you will not be able to find any lifeguards, showers, restrooms or even shops.
There is only one restaurant. A good idea is to bring your own food, as well as, anything that you would need for a great beach day. Do not forget some sunscreen and sunglasses!
And if you want to stay and watch the sunset, it is one f the best spots in the Algarve:
Are you ready to pack your bags and pay a visit to one of the most stunning beaches in the world – Praia da Marinha?
Discover More Amazing Places in the Algarve
If you’re dreaming of discovering even more breathtaking iconic and hidden beaches and also other stunning locations in the Algarve like best restaurants, beach clubs, family attractions, markets, etc, we’ve a created a very useful map for you.
The Algarve Insider Google Map is filled with handpicked locations, hidden gems, and dreamy views to help you experience the very best of this magical region at the palm of your hand.
