Best Beaches Near Albufeira

March 2, 2023

Albufeira is well known for its stunning beaches and warm climate, making it a top destination for those seeking sun, sea and sand.  There is a wealth of water sports, seaside restaurants and beach facilities in this popular area making this an excellent choice for families.

Here are some of the best beaches near Albufeira.

Praia dos Pescadores

This is the main beach in Albufeira and is known for its golden sand and calm waters. It is located in the heart of the town and is surrounded by restaurants, bars, and shops.  This is a very accessible beach with a lift and a tunnel through the cliffs. Parking can be tricky in the height of the season so we suggest using public transport and settling in for the day.  With so many restaurants, ice cream parlours and bars to choose from, it makes for a fabulous day out.

Praia da Oura

Located to the east of Albufeira, Praia da Oura is popular with young people and families. It has a lively atmosphere and is lined with bars, restaurants, and water sports facilities including jet skiing, parasailing and a banana boat ride for the ultimate adrenaline rush!  It has been awarded a Blue Flag by the EU for cleanliness and safety and, whilst it can get busy in the summer, it is a good choice for those wanting to be close to facilities and nightlife when the sun goes down.  The east side of the beach, Praia da Oura Leste, is somewhat quieter with some relaxed beach cafes and restaurants serving fresh fish and simple menus.  We have two sensational properties overlooking this beach with a private path leading directly down to the sand!  Borromeo and Villa da Mare.

Praia da Falesia

Translated to ‘beach of cliffs’, Praia da Falesia is located to the west of Albufeira and is known for its spectacular red cliffs and stunning views. It is a long stretch of sand that reaches as far as Vilamoura which means it is always possible to find a quiet spot, away from the crowds, to relax and soak up the sun.  There are water sports here including paragliding, diving and a surf school.  It is also perfect for long beach walks, especially outside the summer months when the seemingly endless sand stretches for 6km!

Praia de Sao Rafael

Known for its clear waters and rock formations, this beach is located to the west of Albufeira and is a popular spot for snorkelling and diving.  It is fairly sheltered which makes it a great choice for families.  As it is further from the main town, it is more peaceful than some of the other beaches.  There are car parks here but they do get full quickly so we suggest getting there early.  It is possible to rent kayaks and paddle boards here and there is a restaurant on the beach, Restaurant Sao Rafael, and on top of the cliff there is Praia Grande, both with a varied menu and ocean views.

Praia da Gale

Set to the west of Albufeira and well known for its long stretch of golden sand and soft surf, this is a popular spot for families and water sports enthusiasts alike.  The beach stretches all the way to Armacao de Pera and is another great choice for long beach walks.  It is also quite accessible as there are no cliffs or steep drops to negotiate.  There are some fabulous restaurants nearby, from affordable to fine dining and, of course, plenty of fresh fish and seafood. For example, Praia da Gale with enviable views and fresh produce from the sea, and Vila Joya with 2 Michelin stars for an exquisite dining experience.

Praia da Santa Eulalia

A lovely, sandy beach which is hugely popular with families.  Located between Albufeira and Olhos De Água, this glorious stretch of sand has been awarded a Blue Flag making it perfect for swimming and snorkelling.  It is fairly sheltered by the ochre cliffs at either end and there is a restaurant, Restaurante Atlantico serving Portuguese flavours with a privileged view of the beach.  It is also possible to hire jet skis from the Water Sports Centre for the ultimate thrill!

Praia dos Olhos De Água

Originally a quiet fishing village, Olhos de Água has become more popular over the years as visitors are charmed by its natural beauty.  It is much smaller than some of the other beaches in Albufeira and a bit further away from the nightlife so it remains calm.  The water is crystal clear but it does get deep quite quickly and there are some rocks to the right side so care should be taken with little ones. Olhos De Água is famous for its natural, fresh water springs, which resemble eyes and give the beach its name, translated to ‘Eyes of the Water’.  When the tide is low, the springs appear on the eastern side of the beach creating mesmerising circles in the sand and produce fresh, cold drinking water.

Praia da Coelha

Also known as ‘Rabbit Beach’, this is a hidden gem.  A tiny cove with a perfectly shaped bay, making it exceptionally sheltered.  On the west side of the beach there is a unique natural arch in the rocks which has become quite iconic.  There is a good restaurant here, Praia da Coelha, but, as it is the only one, we recommend booking ahead!

Overall, Albufeira is a great place to visit for anyone in search of a beach holiday, with so many beaches to choose from with excellent facilities for all ages.

We have lots of villas close to the beaches in Albufeira so just let us know your wish list and we will help you find your personal paradise in this sensational area.