5 unique beaches in Algarve (local pick)

5 unique beaches in Algarve (local pick)

Rita Neiva
This guide takes you through the 5 beaches that, in my opinion, are the most unique you'll see in Algarve. I'm portuguese and I've traveled a lot through Algarve and these are my absolute favourite ones for a relaxing beach day.
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Meia Praia

This is my personal favourite because it's where I've religiously go to every year since I was born. It's shaped as a half a moon seen from above and is super long so there is no scenario here where you wouldn't find a spot to sit at the beach.

My main tip here is to check where the wind is coming from before going - if the wind is North, I wouldn't advise going to this beach that day or choose to go early and spend the morning and beggining of afternoon.  Later than that it becomes quite unpleasant. If the wind is South you're in for an amazing beach day! 

The water is probably the coldest out of the 5 beaches I've listed but on a warm day it's so refreshing there's nothing like it! (the more left you go to the Algarve the coldest the water will be. As you move to the right it will get warmer)

There's a lot of entrances you can take to this beach, my recommendation is the one near the ´Tivoli Duna beach´ (which is a  great place to have lunch). You can rent the sunloungers there for 18€ a day and there's prices for a half a day too.

Also worth visiting Lagos and stay for a few days there!

Meia Praia
@ritaneiva
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Praia Benagil

Located in a city called Carvoeiro sits the beach that attracts most tourists to the Algarve - and rightfully so!

It's quite a small beach, however the wind won't affect you much here as it's shielded. The water temperature is really nice too.

The differentiating thing aobut this beach is the fact you can take kayak or boat trips to the Benagil cave which is an amazing experience, definitely worth it!

Benagil
@ritaneiva
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Praia da Marinha

The moment I saw this beach for the first time I fell in love with it!

Luckily this beach is quite near the previous one so you might want to visit both in a day. Even though it's definitely worth spending the full day in both.

It's so secluded from everything and the breathtaking view starts from the top. It's not as small as the previous beach I believe it's the ideal size, not oo big not too small. 

There's also a few little hikes you can do around the area as you'll be able to see there's lots of steps taking you different directions which will lead you to beautiful views from the top of the rocks.

Praia da Marinha
@ritaneiva
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Praia da Falésia

Another really long beach but one that shouldn´t be underestimated for its beauty.

Its main characteristic is the red/orange steep slope that shields it and makes the coastline landscape look completely unique and beautiful - it would proably give amazing drone shots.

It's located near Vilamoura which is known for it's nighlife and 5 star hotels.

Praia da Falésia
@ritaneiva
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Praia da Ilha de Tavira

Tavira is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Algarve and it pocesses a little island closeby where this beach is located at.

You can take a boat trip from ´Cais das Quatro Águas´ (1.70€ return ticket) or from ´Cais de Tavira' (2.20€ return ticket).

At the island you'll find cafes, shops, toilets and all amenities necessary for a relaxing beach day.

Praia da Ilha de Tavira
@ritaneiva
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Let me know if you'd like me to plan your trip to the Algarve as I have way more tips for you like restaurant tips, how long to go for, where to stay, etc.

And if you use this guide, send pictures and let me know if you loved these beaches as much as I do! : )

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rita Neiva
From 🌊☀️Portugal, living in📍London Hi : ) I'm portuguese and love planning trips to wonderful places and sharing local tips on visiting the beautiful country I come from, Portugal. Message me if you'd like any tips on something in specific from what portuguese restaurants and cities should you go to, to fully bespoke trips to dreamy locations, including fligths hotels and a guide based on your preferences.
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