The 17 places the travel guides we read name most, what they say about each, and fares from your city.
From the 7 guides that rank for "best beaches in the algarve"
Named by 4 of 71. Praia da MarinhaCliffs, clear water and rock formations make it one of the most photographed Algarve beaches.It is the start or end of the Seven Hanging Valleys coastal hiking trail.
Named by 4 of 72. Praia de BenagilIt is two beaches in one: the main beach and a hidden beach inside the Benagil cave, reached only by boat.Swimming to the cave is not recommended because of strong currents; kayaks and boat tours are the alternative.
Named by 3 of 73. Praia da FalésiaA long beach below red cliffs that rarely feels crowded because of its size.It is quiet in May and has showers, toilets and surfboard rental.
Named by 2 of 74. Praia do CamiloA small beach reached by a long wooden staircase with views over the bay.Crowded in summer, but in winter you might have it nearly to yourself.
Named by 2 of 75. Praia Dona AnaSoft sand among golden rock formations, a short walk from central Lagos.A gap in the rocks on the south side leads to a small hidden beach.
Named by 2 of 76. Praia do CarvalhoThe beach sits between high cliffs and is reached only through a tunnel cut in the rock.Its sheltered spot stays peaceful even in winter.
Named by 2 of 77. Praia do BarrilA tiny train over a 1.5 km bridge takes visitors from the mainland to the beach.The wide white sand beach has an old fishing settlement with restaurants and shops.
Named by 2 of 78. Alvor BeachBrava Properties lists it for its family atmosphere, long sand and sunsets.Prainha sits at its eastern end.
Named by 2 of 79. Ilha de TaviraTavira's island beaches are reached by ferry from the town centre.The islands offer soft sand and calm water with more quiet than the mainland.
10. Prainha (Praia do Caniço)Limestone cliffs divide the beach into small coves with arches, stacks and caves.It is a Blue Flag beach with restaurants, toilets and seasonal lifeguards, and suits families.
11. Ponta da PiedadeA shoreline of rock arches, caves and cliffs about 3 km from Lagos city centre.A boardwalk and 182 steps lead down to the water.
12. Praia da Fuseta RiaA lagoon beach with calm, warm water that works well for children, with a lifeguard.You can drive close and park nearby, with no boat needed.
13. CulatraA car-free island reached by boat from Olhão, with a long untouched shoreline.A 3 km shoreline walk leads to the village of Farol and its lighthouse.
14. Praia da SecretaA hidden beach near Albufeira.
15. Praia do Ninho de AndorinhaListed as a romantic cove in Albufeira.
16. Praia do SubmarinoRocks near Alvor that can only be reached at low tide.
17. ArmonaA car-free island near Olhão, reached by boat.Live fares. Watch them and we alert you when they drop.
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Travel guides most often name May to June and September to October as the best time to visit Algarve.