
The Algarve is a top summer destination, renowned for its golden beaches, mouthwatering cuisine, and diverse activities.
Whether you’re exploring the vibrant cities or relaxing in serene coastal villages, this guide covers the top hotels/resorts, must-visit beaches, restaurants, and activities in the Algarve.
Please find the hotels/resorts at the end of the guide.
Best Popular Beaches:

Praia da Marinha
Known for its crystal-clear waters and iconic rock formations, this beach is perfect for sunbathing and snorkeling.
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.
Its remoteness and the fact that you need a car to get there, however, is one of the main reasons, why even during the peak summer season, the area is not as crowded as other Portuguese beaches.

Praia da Falésia, Albufeira
A long stretch of sandy beach backed by striking red cliffs, ideal for families and long walks.
Stretching for 6k of golden sand, from Vilamoura to Olhos de Água, this is one of the longest beaches in Portugal.
The east side of this beach is backed by cliffs and pine trees and access is made by steps.
Facilities: Lifeguard (summer months), car parks, one beach club (belongs to Pine Cliffs Resort), and several restaurants.

Praia de Benagil
Praia de Benagil is a magnificent beach near Lagoa. The beach is most famous for its sensational cave called Algar de Benagil.
This cave has a round hole in the ceiling that frames the beautiful blue sky inside. Benagil and its cave can be found on many lists of ‘places you have to see in your lifetime‘. Without a doubt, this wonder of nature is one of the best things to see in the Algarve.
Famous for its sea cave, you can kayak or take a boat tour to explore this natural wonder.

São Rafael Beach, Albufeira
Praia de São Rafael is an iconic beach in Albufeira. The beach is known for its beautiful rock formations and can get busy in the Summer.
Perfect for snorkelling, kayaking or stand-up paddle, where you can explore the neighbouring coves.
Facilities: Toilets, public showers, lifeguard (summer months), disabled access with boardwalks, beach restaurant.

Oura Beach, Albufeira
Located in front of the resort village of Oura, it is a very lively beach in the summer.
Stretching for 2km, this beach is backed by many restaurants and cafes, and is a great family beach.
Facilities: Lifeguard (summer months), car park, several restaurants, cafes and bars.

Santa Eulália Beach, Albufeira
You can find this beach 4km east of Albufeira center.
Considered an upmarket beach, there are cliffs at either end and rows of palm trees and landscaped gardens.
The sea is very calm and is perfect for snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddle.
Facilities: Lifeguard (summer months), car park, loungers for hire, several restaurants, cafes and bars.
Close to the beach there is the 5 star Grande Real Santa Eulália Resort and Hotel Spa.

Praia dos Alemães, Albufeira
Praia dos Alemães is a medium sized beach, stretching for about 500 metres in length. Alemães is backed by low cliffs along the length of the beach.
However, the cliffs here as not as high as behind the neighbouring beaches to the west.
Praia dos Alemães is part of the stretch of sand that encompasses all of the urban beaches of Albufeira town. It is situated just east of Praia do Inatel and Albufeira town.

OLHOS DE ÁGUA, Albufeira
Praia dos Olhos de Água can be translated as ‘eyes of water‘. Together with Praia de Falesia, this is one of the best beaches in the region of Albufeira.
The beach is thus a good destination for people who would like to be close to a city, but without the big crowds of people. It is also the perfect destination for a day trip.
Behind the beach you can also see some colourful boats and fishermen huts. The fishing boats are still in use and you often see fishermen hanging out around here.

Galé, Albufeira
Praia da Galé is a hidden treasure near the town of Albufeira. This beautiful golden beach is 4 kilometres west of Albufeira, and is located between Albufeira and Armação de Pera.
Although there are many restaurants and facilities nearby, the beach still has a sort of an undeveloped feel. The beach is a pleasant escape from the crowded beaches near Albufeira.

Praia do Vau, Portimão
Praia do Vau is a beach in Portimão. The beach is situated only 2 kilometres west of Praia da Rocha and 3 kilometres from the centre of Portimão.
It is surrounded by impressive red coloured cliffs, giving the visitors of this beach a spectacular view. The cliffs also block a part of the wind, making the beach a bit sheltered.

Alvor Beach, Alvor
Praia de Alvor is a popular beach in the town of Alvor. This former fishing village transformed into a lively tourist destination, with many restaurants and bars.
Near Alvor beach you can find a long boardwalk, that takes you through the beautiful Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve.

D. Ana Beach, Lagos
Praia da Dona Ana is a beautiful beach near Lagos in the Algarve. It is famous for its clear water and spectacular cliffs. Praia da Dona Ana is one of the most photographed beaches in the Algarve.
You can find pictures of the beaches on many postcards and billboards that promote the Algarve.

Camilo Beach, Lagos
Praia do Camilo is a picture perfect beach near Lagos. This secluded and characteristic beach is highly esteemed in the world among locals, tourists and travel experts.
Praia do Camilo is located between the other wonders the region has to offer: Praia da Dona Ana and Ponta da Piedade. The TripAdvisor community named this beach one of the best things to do in Lagos.

Burgau
Located just 10 kilometers from Lagos and an hour’s drive from Faro Airport, Burgau boasts a picturesque setting, with cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and a sandy beach.
The beach at Burgau is a pleasantly wide stretch of golden sand with cliffs rising up at either end. With Lagos only 20 minutes along the coast to the east and Sagres just a little further to the west Burgau is a good base for exploring the western Algarve.

Vilamoura Beach
Praia de Vilamoura is the main beach of the luxury resort town of Vilamoura.
Buzzing and lively, this beach will make you feel alive. It is popular among hotel guests, families and golfers. Moreover, the beach has all the facilities you could ask for.

Tavira Island
Tavira Island beach with golden sands, tranquil waters, and unspoiled landscapes define Tavira’s coastal charm. A haven where nature’s elegance meets the perfect seaside escape.
It is a short, breath-taking 10-minute boat ride from Tavira’s old town. Enjoy the views of the Ria Formosa during the boat trip. When going to Tavira Island, keep your eyes out for flamingos in the background on your right hand. If you are returning, they will be on your left hand.
The Tavira Island stretches 11 km, picturing 11 km of a golden sand beach with restaurants, various water sports, and accommodation.
Tavira Island comprises 3 beaches along the same Island. To the East is Tavira Beach, Praia Estreita ( Narrow Beach), and at the end to the left is the Praia do Barril.

Faro Island Beach
This beach is a long narrow sandy bar that is accessed by a road traversing a lagoon just south of the Faro airport. Being near to the principal town of the Algarve it is usually very busy and there are many water sports faculties and plenty of restaurants.
Access: There is a tarmac road from Faro, heading towards the airport (roughly 8Km away). There is an organised parking area and the beach has various support facilities (restaurants and toilets), as well as being supervised during the bathing season.

Cabanas Beach, Tavira
To the East side of Tavira Island, you will find the Island and Cabanas beaches, a narrow but long strip of land before the last bar across the river estuary to the East.
The beach of Cabanas is situated in front of the village, whose origin goes back to the old days of tuna fishing in this area, and which even today remains a picturesque fishing village. From the waterfront at Cabanas, fishing boats can be seen anchored in the Ria Formosa.
Best Hidden Beaches:

Praia João de Arens, Alvor
This hidden beach sits between Portimão and Alvor.
It is a small beach between the cliffs, that owes its name to a shepherd who lived here.
To get here you may take a boat, go down the cliff or, if there is low water, you find an access through the Barranco de Canas beach.

Ilha Deserta, Faro
“Ilha Deserta” means Desert Island in Portuguese.
And it is indeed desert. Here you won’t find restaurants, toilets or beach clubs, but what you will find is one of the most idyllic sceneries of the Algarve.
Also known as Barreta Island, this sandbar off the coast of Faro has the warmest seas of the Algarve.
It is great for privacy, snorkelling, birdwatching, ocean diving, and idyllic Instagram beach photos.
Just make sure you pack the essentials before you go such as food and water.
To get there, head to Faro’s old town and jump on a speedboat or a slow ferry.

Praia do Barranquinho, Lagoa
Located in Lagoa, is one of many coves.
To get to this retreat, you’ll have to walk down an unsigned, little used path.
This beach has an odd shape because the stretch of sand between its access and the ocean is much larger than the enclosed beachfront, which also gives it an intimate ambience.
The pine trees on the cliff top, bring natural joy to the eyes of those who have ventured here. Nearby at east, there’s a cave complex.
The beach is attended by naturists and by those who prefer a quiet day.

Praia da Murração, Vila do Bispo
Also known as the ‘Jewel of the Vicentine Coast’, Murração is a beach of great natural beauty and mostly desert.
It is one of the few beaches in Algarve where vegetation extends almost all the way to the shore. Thus, the green of the landscape gets mixed with the deep blue of the ocean.
It is possible to access this beach through the EN-120 road, located in the north of Vila do Bispo, next to the wind farm.
Getting there isn’t going to be that easy: it is a dirty and windy road with some difficult sections, so it is only recommended for off-road vehicles. But definitely worth it.

Boneca Beach, Lagos
Boneca is an Oceanic Beach that belongs to Praia do Camilo Beach and has a reduced sand that gets nearly fully immersed during high tide.
Its name (meaning doll beach) comes from a woman shaped rock in front of the beach, according to the locals.
The surrounding cliff that covers all the beach and the huge islet 50 meters away from shore, provide an exceptional protection from the wind.
The access is via sea or, if one’s willing to get wet, by the Camilo beach, during low tide.
The cliffs and rock formations all around completely protect it from the wind. It is a small paradise, worth checking out.

Prainha, Alvor
One of the most romantic beaches in the Algarve, Prainha is a hidden gem fraude by golden cliffs and dramatic rock formations.
Caves, arches, and rugged rock formations, looks like you are inside a postcard. There are no sunbeds or lifeguards here.
Top Restaurants

Caniço, Alvor
Built into a cliff, this hidden gem serves fresh seafood and cocktails with a sunset view.

Maré at Pine Cliffs
Part of the Pine Cliffs Luxury Resort, here you can enjoy lunch and dinner menus featuring light snacks, delicious salads, and refreshing beverages.
The Maré Catch of the day is proven favorite–caught fresh daily and served with lemon, olive oil, herbs and crispy capers.
Location: Praia Da Falésia, Pinhal do Concelho, Albufeira 8200-593 Portugal

Pedras Amarelas Beach Restaurant
Located in Praia da Galé, in Albufeira with a renovated space to provide you with the greatest possible comfort. There’s a restaurant where you can taste the Chef’s various suggestions.
In the lounge you can watch the wonderful sunset while listening to chill-out music with the resident DJ and guest DJs on several days of the week, throughout the summer.
Location: Praia de Galé, 8200-428 Guia – Albufeira

La Cigale
La Cigale restaurant is situated on the sea, on the beach of Olhos de Agua. Fresh Fish, Seafood and a wide variety of meats are served with a heavenly view. An unforgettable experience!
With a wide variety of fresh fish, meats and seafood, we honor our customers with friendly service, unique, on a terrace overlooking the natural Bay of the Sea.
Location: Praia de Olhos d´Agua, Albufeira

Evaristo
The Evaristo Restaurant is located on the beach of the same name where natural features are of rare beauty.
The fish and seafood always fresh grilled to perfection are its specialty: fresh fish, extra clams, tiger shrimp, scarlet shrimp, Squid Evaristo and lobster from the coast.
Location: Praia do Evaristo – Sesmarias, Albufeira

Vila Joya Sea
Cliffside boutique hotel and restaurant Villa Joya – opened in 1982 – basks in the southern Portuguese sunshine near the town of Albufeira. The dining room extends to an open-air terrace overlooking the sea.
French-trained Dieter Koschina adheres to Slow Food principles to create refined, seafood-rich à la carte (lunchtime only) and tasting menus featuring the likes of razor clam with yuzu and crayfish with kohlrabi. The well-stocked wine cellar is an added bonus.
Location: Praia da Galé, Albufeira

A Sardinha
Located in the small Arrife Beach, this is the perfect place to eat the popular Portuguese sardines, together with other fresh fish and huge selection of seafood.
Location: Rua dos Corais nº 117, Albufeira

Atlântico Restaurante-Bar
For those who prefer seaside meals, the Atlântico Restaurante Bar (located in the Grande Real Santa Eulália Hotel), is the ideal place to spend a relaxed moment, for lunch, dinner, a snack in the middle of the day, or simply for having a refreshing drink after a perfect day, while enjoying a fantastic sunset on the terrace of Santa Eulália beach.
The menu is varied and you can enjoy the best snacks, grills, fresh fish and stews.
Location: Praia de Santa Eulália, Albufeira

Gigi’s
A classic restaurant in Quinta do Lago
To find Gigi’s, cross the wooden bridge that overlooks the tidal lagoon. Located on the sand dunes, the wooden house sits on a stretch of white sand and boasts idyllic views of Ria Formosa National Park.
Activities & Experiences
Click on each one to know more and to book:
BEACH CLUBS

Well Beach Club, Vale do Lobo
Situated in the upscale Vale do Lobo area, WELL Beach Club provides daybeds by the sea, Bali beds and jacuzzis by the pool, and a variety of watersports activities. The venue offers a menu featuring sushi and cocktails, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure.

Purobeach Vilamoura
Located in the renowned Vilamoura Marina, Purobeach offers two distinct areas: a beachfront space facing the Atlantic Ocean and a secluded garden with a pool. Guests can enjoy sunbeds, cabanas, and live DJ sets, creating a chic and relaxing environment.

NoSoloÁgua Beach & Pool Club
NoSoloÁgua combines barefoot luxury with a mellow vibe, offering a poolside experience alongside beach access. Guests can enjoy great food, chilled cocktails, and some of the best parties in the region, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Algarve coastline.

Armação Beach Club
Part of the five-star VILA VITA Parc resort, this beach club is open to both hotel guests and the public. Located just steps from the water’s edge, it offers comfortable lounge chairs and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to enjoy the beach.

Edd’s Beach
Edd’s Beach is among the Algarve’s favorite spots, offering a stunning setting for relaxation and fun. With beautiful white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s a perfect place to unwind.

Paradis Plage Portimão
Known for its comfortable sunbeds and attractive natural shades, Paradis Plage offers a pleasant setting on Praia da Rocha. The friendly staff and excellent service make it a great base for a day on the beach.

Blanco Beach Club, Portimão
Blanco Beach Club, located in Praia da Rocha, Portimão, Algarve, is a luxurious beach club offering a blend of relaxation and entertainment. Designed with a chic, white-themed aesthetic, it provides an upscale beach experience.
The club offers various lounging options, including sunbeds, cabanas, and VIP areas, some equipped with private Jacuzzis. These areas are ideal for those seeking privacy and enhanced comfort.
The club hosts live music events and DJ performances, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere.
Amenities include a swimming pool, beach access, and attentive service, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all guests.
ALGARVE HOTELS & RESORTS

Pine Cliffs, a Luxury Collection Resort, Albufeira
Pine Cliffs, a Luxury Collection Resort, is a renowned 5-star resort located in Albufeira, in the Algarve region of Portugal. Nestled within 72 hectares of beautiful pine trees, the resort offers a combination of natural beauty, luxury accommodations, and world-class facilities. It is one of the most exclusive resorts in the Algarve and is perfect for those seeking a relaxing and upscale getaway, with a wide range of amenities and activities to suit all tastes.
The resort is set on a clifftop overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views of the coast. The lush pine tree forests that surround the resort provide a peaceful and private environment. Pine Cliffs is also close to the famous Praia da Falésia beach, known for its golden sands and striking red cliffs.
Pine Cliffs offers a variety of luxurious accommodations, from spacious rooms and suites to elegant private villas.
Current Promotions:
25% off on stays over 4 nights – Click Here

Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort
Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort is a luxurious 5-star resort located in Vilamoura, Algarve, Portugal, offering a blend of refined elegance, contemporary comfort, and exceptional service. This resort is perfect for those seeking a relaxing and upscale getaway in one of the most beautiful regions of Portugal, with a focus on providing an unforgettable experience through world-class amenities, fine dining, and stunning surroundings.
The resort is ideally located near the vibrant Vilamoura Marina, a short drive from the beach and surrounded by the renowned Victoria Golf Course.
Anantara Vilamoura offers a wide range of sophisticated rooms, suites, and apartments designed with contemporary elegance and comfort.

Hotel Pestana, Alvor
Pestana Alvor Praia Beach & Golf Resort is a beautiful 4-star hotel located in Alvor, a charming town on the Algarve’s western coast in Portugal. Set along the stunning cliffs of Praia de Alvor, one of the region’s most famous beaches, the hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort, luxury, and relaxation. With its proximity to the beach, golf courses, and vibrant local culture, it is an ideal destination for families, couples, and golf enthusiasts.
The hotel enjoys a privileged location, perched on the cliffs with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Praia de Alvor beach below.
Pestana Alvor Praia offers a variety of accommodations, including spacious rooms, suites, and apartments, all designed with modern furnishings and a welcoming atmosphere.

Hilton, Vilamoura
Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in Vilamoura, a popular resort town in the Algarve region of Portugal. This hotel is renowned for its upscale amenities, beautiful setting, and world-class service, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-end getaway in southern Portugal. The Hilton Vilamoura is perfect for couples, families, and golfers alike, offering a variety of activities and relaxation options.
The Hilton Vilamoura is located in the heart of Vilamoura, surrounded by lush gardens and only a short distance from the famous Vilamoura Marina.
The Hilton Vilamoura offers spacious and elegantly designed rooms and suites, many of which have private balconies or terraces with scenic views of the gardens, pools, or golf course.
Current Promotions:
Early Bird Offer, up to 30% off – Click Here

EPIC SANA, Albufeira
EPIC SANA Algarve Hotel is a luxurious five-star resort perched atop the stunning Falésia Beach cliffs in Albufeira, Portugal. Nestled between a verdant pine forest and the Atlantic Ocean, the hotel offers direct access to the renowned Praia da Falésia, celebrated for its expansive golden sands and striking red cliffs.
The resort boasts a diverse range of accommodations, including 160 Deluxe Rooms, 26 exclusive Deluxe Suites, and 43 spacious Resort Suites tailored for families, as well as five restaurants and two bars, 5 outdoor pools and the Sayanna wellness center.
Facilities and Services:
- Swimming Pools: Five outdoor pools, including a dedicated children’s pool, set amidst landscaped gardens.
- Kids’ Club: A supervised area offering activities and entertainment for younger guests.
- Event Spaces: Versatile venues suitable for conferences, weddings, and social gatherings.
Current Promotions:
5% Discount Booking Directly – Click Here

Martinhal Sagres Family Resort
Martinhal Sagres Family Resort is a luxurious 5-star resort located in the picturesque town of Sagres, at the southwestern tip of Portugal’s Algarve region. Known for its stunning location amidst nature and close to beautiful beaches, Martinhal Sagres offers a perfect blend of family-friendly amenities, upscale accommodations, and a variety of recreational activities.
This resort is ideal for families, couples, and groups looking for a relaxing yet adventurous vacation in one of the Algarve’s most scenic areas.
The resort is set in a stunning natural environment, surrounded by pine forests and just a short walk from the beautiful Martinhal Beach, a calm sandy beach perfect for families with children.
Martinhal Sagres offers a variety of spacious and stylish accommodations designed to cater to the needs of families, groups, and couples.

Tivolli Carvoeiro Hotel
Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort is a luxurious five-star hotel perched atop the Vale Covo cliffside in Carvoeiro, Portugal.The hotel offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and is renowned for its exceptional hospitality.
The resort features 248 elegantly refurbished rooms and suites, many with private balconies overlooking the ocean.
Situated minutes from Carvoeiro and Vale de Centeanes beaches, the resort provides easy access to golden sands and clear waters. The charming village center of Carvoeiro, with its shops and eateries, is within walking distance. Other nearby attractions include Marinha Beach, known for its stunning cliffs, and various local wineries.
Current Promotions:
Discount Advance Purchase – Click Here
Discount Stay Longer – Click Here

Palmares Beach House Hotel, Adults Only, Lagos
Palmares Beach House Hotel is a sophisticated 5-star property located on the stunning Palmares Beach in Lagos, in the Algarve region of Portugal. This boutique hotel offers an elegant and peaceful retreat with a unique blend of contemporary design, luxury amenities, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding landscapes.
Known for its exceptional service, stunning setting, and proximity to natural beauty, Palmares Beach House Hotel is ideal for those seeking a relaxing and upscale getaway in one of the most picturesque areas of the Algarve.
Tips for Booking Your Summer Stay in the Algarve:
- Book Early: Summer is peak season, and many top hotels fill up months in advance.
- Check Amenities: Whether you’re looking for family-friendly options, romantic retreats, or adventure activities, ensure the hotel matches your preferences.
- Explore Packages: Many resorts offer summer packages that include dining, spa treatments, or activities.