The spectacular coastline of Portugal’s Algarve draws in sunseekers from all over Europe. Discover the natural beauty of Algarve away from the crowds with 15 stunning places to visit along the coast, ranked from west to east.
1. Cabo de São Vicente
Cape St. Vincent is located in Algarve’s westernmost point, where Portugal’s wild West Coast and sunny South Coast meet. The rough waters in the west become almost still when turning the tip. Follow the scenic road all the way up to the lighthouse, a perfect spot to watch the sunset in the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Sagres
Algarve’s surf mecca is Sagres, a small town with a relaxed but lively atmosphere. Our stay at Mareta View Boutique B&B was part of the charm, thanks to the beautiful garden with hot tub overlooking the coast. Make sure to visit the Sagres Fortress, which played an important roll in the Portuguese discoveries.
3. Praia de Porto Mós
Admire the wide, golden-sand beach of Porto Mós from above along the Fishmerman’s Trail. The final stretch of Portugal’s 230 km-long coastal trail from Luz to Lagos runs along impressive cliffs, with birds-eye views of Praia de Porto Mós. You can access this viewpoint along the trail by parking on Rua Fernão de Magalhães.
The Ponta da Piedade area covers a network of boardwalks and trails that lead up to these unique rock formations. The most traversed stretch runs from Lagos to the tip, but the views only get better if you continue west past Ponta de Piedade. You can reach the start of the boardwalk in the west here. There are benches and covered areas that allow for a scenic picnic. Watch golden hour bathe the cliffs in fifty shades of orange from Miradouro da Praia do Canavial.
5. Ponta da Piedade
The Ponta da Piedade boardwalk in the east starts at Praia do Pinhão. After passing many beautiful coves and viewpoints, you reach the lighthouse at the tip of the coast. A steep flight of stairs leads down to the rocky cape that is know as Ponta da Piedade. You can also access from the water by kayak or boat tour. The walk from Praia do Pinhão to Ponta da Piedade takes around an hour one-way at a leisurely pace.
6. Praia dos Estudantes
Praia dos Estudantes is tucked away right before the start of the Ponta da Piedade boardwalk in the east. Walk past Mar Restaurante & Bar down a flight of stairs to reach this hidden beach. On both sides of the beach is a tunnel that leads to a connecting “secret” beach. The Forte do Pinhão bridge connects two cliffs, creating a man-made arch above the adjacent Praia da Caldeira.
7. Lagos
Lagos is easily one of the most charming towns in the Algarve. The streets of the historic center are covered in mosaics, while buildings are adorned with azulejos and street art. There are many restaurants with inviting terraces along Rua 25 de Abril and the beautiful Praça Luis de Camões.
8. Miradouro da Prainha
The Miradouro da Prainha offers views of another spectacular stretch of Algarve coastline, including the Praia dos Três Irmãos. The viewpoint is tucked away behind a holiday apartment complex, but is open to the public. You can reach the beaches below via a winding staircase. A big lawn area behind the viewpoint offers a scenic picnic spot with ocean views.
9. Benagil Cave
The best way to admire the unique Benagil sea cave is by boat, although you can peak in the cave from above on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail (see below). Speed boats cruise along the beautiful coastline between Portimão and Benagil, entering the cave to see sunlight beam through the opening. The best lighting is around late morning-noon, but this is also the most popular time to visit. As of 2024, it is no longer allowed to disembark on the beach in the cave.
10. Ferragudo
Ferragudo is a picturesque fishing village across the river from Portimão. With just a handful of streets, the town can be toured in less than an hour if you are in a hurry. But the charm is in doing exactly the opposite: stroll through the quaint streets, have a drink on a terrace and enjoy some excellent seafood in the small fishing port.
11. Carvoeiro
Despite its status as a popular holiday town in summer, Carvoeiro manages to maintain a relaxed vibe. The whitewashed houses set against sandstone sea cliffs are an iconic Algarve image. A scenic boardwalk starts on the outskirts of town, accessible by walking up the hill east of the main beach.
12. Algar Seco & Boneca Bar
The boardwalk that starts right outside Carvoeiro leads to Algar Seco, a maze of tunnels, caves and windows carved into the cliffs by erosion. Surrounded by this unique landscape is Boneca Bar & Restaurant. This hidden gem offers more than just stunning views, with a seafood-focused menu and large outdoor grill.
13. Marinha Beach
Marinha Beach is the spectacular starting point of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. The beach looks out over impressive limestone cliffs that rise from azure-blue waters, forming an iconic double arch. You can walk on top of the cliffs for breathtaking views of the coastline.
14. Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail runs for 6 kilometers (one-way) along the coast between Praia da Marinha and Praia de Vale de Centeanes. It is rightfully considered one of Europe’s most beautiful coastal trails, with stunning views of the Algarve coast from start to finish. You pass Benagil Cave from above, as well as many beaches and coves. Fuel up at O Stop on Praia de Vale de Centeanes before starting the return hike.
15. Tavira Island
Algarve’s spectacular coastline extends from Sagres in the west to Albufeira in the east. Past Albufeira, the seaside cliffs make way for long, calm beaches. There are six islands right off the Faro coast that make up Ria Formosa Natural Park. Most of them are accessible by a short ferry ride, but Tavira Island can also be accessed by a walkway from the mainland. The barrier island is home to Praia do Barril, a cemetery for anchors in honor of the once thriving tuna fishing industry.
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