This is your ultimate guide to the best beaches in Western Algarve along Portugal’s West Coast. I’ve visited here on two separate occasions now, and I’m here to tell you that the beaches in this area of Portugal are something else.
Whether you’re a surfer looking for the best waves, a traveler who prefers less touristy beaches, or an adventurer trying to get off-the-beaten path, you’ll find it all on the West Coast of the Algarve.
With dramatic, sweeping coastline characterized by rugged cliffs and wide sandy beaches, the Algarve’s west coast provides a very different experience to the more “quintessentially European” beaches along the southern side.
Keep reading for a complete guide to the most beautiful West Algarve beaches, and make sure to scroll to the bottom of the post for FAQs and a handy map that will help you navigate easily to all of them!
Planning your trip to the Algarve’s West Coast? Here are my top picks for areas to stay and the best hotels:
- Surf Shanti – Located in Aljezur, this luxury villa is close to Monte Clérigo beach and has stunning ocean views.
- Monte da Vilarinha – A rural farm stay located just 10 minute’s drive from Bordeira Beach.
- Hortas do Rio – Chic design stay close to Carrapateira town.
- Muxima – An absolutely stunning private estate close to Aljezur town.
Important Travel Tip
Renting a car is the best way to explore Portugal’s West Algarve. We use Discover Cars when renting cars abroad and in Europe as they allow you to compare cars from global and local agencies, making it easy to find the best deals. For the best experience, make sure to select full coverage insurance and choose a reputable rental company when booking.
Book your rental car with Discover Cars here
Best Beaches in Western Algarve Along the West Coast
Praia da Bordeira
Also known as Bordeira Beach, Praia da Bordeira, is located close to the towns of Carrapateira and Bordeira.
This beach is most known for its expansive stretch of golden sand that stretches three kilometres along the Western Algarve’s West Coast, and it’s a favorite among surfers due to its powerful waves and consistent swells.
Good to note is that the walk to the beach from the parking can be a little taxing as you must walk across wide sand dunes. However, I find that to be a bonus as the beach deters some people who aren’t in for the adventure. The soft, sandy beach beyond the dunes is worth the hike!
Praia da Bordeira is located within Costa Vicentina natural park — just another reason to visit here. And don’t miss the wooden boardwalk trails here that makes for great photos looking out over the beach.
Key Things to Know About Praia da Bordeira:
- There is a surf school here available for lessons and board rentals
- It’s one of the longest beaches in Western Algarve making it ideal for laying out as there is plenty of space
- Currents are strong, so use caution when swimming
- This is one of Western Algarve’s unofficial nude beaches, so don’t be shocked if you see a few people stripping down.
- Don’t miss the Pontal da Carrapateira viewpoint on the southern end of the beach
- For families with kids, check out the lagoon on the southern side of the beach for calmer waters
Praia de Arrifana
Arrifana Beach is set in a picturesque bay flanked by steep cliffs, but there’s a nice road and set of stairs to get down to the beach, which makes it relatively easy to reach.
This is one of my personal favorite West Algarve beaches as it’s one of the few west coast beaches right next to a small village. That makes it easier to enjoy a full beach day here with all the amenities that you need including restaurants and cafes.
We spent a beautiful afternoon here sunbathing and then finished with a late seafood lunch at CAL Arrifana at the top of the cliff, which ended up being one of our favorite meals of our entire trip.
The beach is popular among surfers of all levels, thanks to its reliable waves and surf school. If you’re into the history of the region, definitely check out the Arrifana fortress ruins perched atop the cliffs that date back to the 1600s—it’s the only Moorish fortress in all of Portugal!
Key Things to Know About Praia de Arrifana:
- Parking is pretty limited at the top of the beach, so aim to arrive early to snag a spot
- The stretch of sand here is a bit narrow, so it can get overcrowded in peak summer
- This beach is great for beginner surfers with a surf school and board rentals
- Don’t miss the epic views of the beach below from the top of the cliff and a visit to the ruins of Arrifana Fortress
- Lunch or coffee at CAL Arrifana after a beach day here is a must
Praia de Amoreira
Located within the area of Aljezur, Praia de Amoreira is unique for its mix of river and sea, where the Aljezur River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can swim in both, with the river typically providing warmer water to enjoy and some chances for bird sightings.
From the parking area, you’ll get a great view looking down onto the picturesque beach which features a wide stretch of sand and rugged, steep rock faces on the northern side, which look like a giant laying down (with a pointy nose and big belly) as the legend goes.
Despite this beach’s stunning landscape, it tends to get less busy than the others making it perfect for those that want a peaceful and secluded beach experience.
Like most West Algarve beaches, this one is great for surfing especially at high tide, and there’s a surf school to assist beginners. The beach’s wide, sandy expanse also makes it ideal for sunbathing and picnics.
Key Things to Know About Praia de Amoreira:
- During low tide, much of the beach becomes a shallow lagoon which makes it great for small children
- It’s more quiet here, making it easier to escape the crowds
- This beach is great for surfing (especially at high tide) and there is a surf school on the beach
- The beach is a short distance from the town of Aljezur, but you’ll still need a car to reach it
Praia do Amado
Amado Beach is one of the best beaches in Western Algarve, but it’s also one of the most remote. However, the drive to get here is well worth it.
Renowned for its wild beauty and strong surf, this is a hotspot for surfers from around the world and they’ve even hosted international surf competitions here.
There are a few different areas to explore here, including the busier southern section where you’ll find beach umbrellas and a wide stretch of sand, as well as most surfers.
On the northern side beyond the surf schools are some additional boardwalks that provide varying viewpoints leading out to a more narrow and quieter beach.
There are also some walking trails in the area that can take you all the way to Bordeira Beach if you’re looking to get your steps in.
Key Things to Know About Praia do Amado:
- Praia do Amado has some of the best surf conditions in the West Algarve, with large, consistent waves
- For beginner surfers, there are three different surf schools to choose from
- Though a bit remote to get to, there are decent facilities at the beach including a couple different snack bars, surf schools, and ample parking
Praia de Monte Clérigo
Monte Clérigo Beach is nestled between a small coastal village and breathtaking coastline characterized by rugged cliffs.
Looking out towards the southern coastline at Monte Clérigo on a gloomy day honestly reminded me of landscapes you’d find somewhere in England or Ireland. Super dramatic!
It’s also quite unique in the fact that the village sits right on the hill overlooking the beach, making it feel especially picturesque and quaint compared to other beaches along the coast of the Algarve.
The beach here is quite expansive with some sand dunes that slope down to the waterfront and soft sand for laying on. This beach also attracts a decent amount of surfers and there are a couple of surf schools for newbies to the sport.
After a day at the beach, visitors can relax at the nearby cafés and restaurants, savoring local cuisine while watching the sunset over the ocean.
Key Things to Know About Praia de Monte Clérigo:
- Don’t miss the boardwalk and road that winds around the northern side of the beach and provides the prettiest views overlooking Monte Clérigo
- You can pair a beach day here with a visit to Praia de Amoreira, which is not too far away on foot or by car
- For good eats nearby, check out O Sargo (reservations recommended) which offers coastal dining
- Families with kids are suggested to go at low tide when it’s possible to see some rock pools and small, shallow lagoons
Praia da Pipa
If you’re up for an off-the-beaten path adventure then Praia da Pipa might be right down your alley. We found this stunning area by accident after aimlessly driving south along the coast from Monte Clérigo.
Beach access here is a bit difficult and best reached at lower tides, but the wild beauty of this beach is worth the challenges it presents. There is a small parking area above the cliffs of the beach from which a rugged trail leads down to the sand.
At low tide there are some really cool rock formations and tide pools that form and I even spotted a surfer climbing up the trail after a session, although it’s a bit difficult to find lengthy information online about surfing here.
If you choose to visit here, exercise caution and make sure you feel comfortable with trail conditions before continuing on.
Key Things to Know About Praia da Pipa:
- Exercise caution when visiting here as access can be a little treacherous
- Suitable footwear is needed to walk down the rugged trail featuring loose rocks
- Come here for unspoiled beauty and little to no tourists
More Beautiful Beaches in Western Algarve to Add to Your Itinerary
Still want more ideas for beautiful beaches you can visit in the West Algarve? Here’s an additional list of ones worth checking out!
- Praia da Carriagem
- Praia da Cardoama
- Praia do Vale dos Homens
- Praia da Ponta Ruiva
- Praia das Adegas
- Praia de Odeceixe
- Praia do Castelejo
FAQ: Best Beaches in Western Algarve
What’s the difference between the beaches along the West Coast vs. Southern coast?
The Algarve’s West Coast beaches tend to have a more dramatic and rugged off-the-beaten-path feel with stronger waves that are great for surfing. In opposition, the Algarve’s beaches on the southern side are characterized by calmer water and beautiful golden rock formations.
What is the best way to get around to the best beaches in Western Algarve?
You absolutely need a car in order to get around to the beaches in West Algarve as they are spread out and many are a bit off-the-beaten path. I always recommend renting with Discover Cars which makes it easy to find the best deals and offers affordable full coverage insurance.
What is the least touristy part of Algarve?
The West Coast of the Algarve and the beaches there are definitely less touristy than the beaches along the southern side.
Which part of the Algarve has the best beaches?
It depends what you’re looking for. If you’re interested in surfing and appreciate beaches with expansive, rugged landscapes and plenty of space to stretch out, then you’ll love the beaches in the Western Algarve’s West Coast. If you prefer the quintessential European summer feel and want more turquoise water, then you’ll probably prefer the beaches in Southern Algarve (although they get much busier).
Where is the best place to base yourself when visiting West Algarve beaches?
On the West Coast, I would suggest staying in either Aljezur or Carrapateira for the best access to some of West Algarve’s most beautiful beaches.
Does it cost money to park at the beaches in West Algarve?
No, typically parking is free everywhere along the West Coast. We never had to pay for any parking during our visits to the beaches in West Algarve.
What other destinations in Portugal are easy to pair with a trip to the Algarve West Coast?
You can easily reach the West Algarve from Lisbon within a few hours drive. Make sure to check out my Lisbon first timer’s guide. You’ll also want to explore parts of the southern coast like the Benagil Cave. Other destinations to consider are the Comporta, Setúbal and Sintra.
Map of the Best Beaches in Western Algarve
Pin it for Later
Planning a trip right now? Make your life easier with this checklist of my favorite travel resources.
Booking Accommodations:
Over the last decade of travel, Booking.com has consistently been my favorite site for finding great deals on hotels, boutique inns, home rentals and more. Plus, they have an amazing filtering system making it super easy to find the best accommodation that fits your needs.
Booking Flights:
Skyscanner is always the first place I look to compare and contrast routes and find the best flight deals.
Find the Best Tours and Experiences:
Viator is always my go-to when searching for the best experiences around the globe. They have everything from group tours and private experiences, to airport transfers and much more.
Book Car Rentals:
Rentalcars.com and Discover Cars are my two favorite sites for booking easy and affordable car rentals in any country I visit. They make the process super simple and transparent, so you know you’re getting the best price.
Stay Connected:
The days of purchasing physical sim cards are over. Airalo is the best and easiest way to stay connected around the globe with the best international eSim plans. Take 10% off your plan with code MICHELLE10.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance:
World Nomads has personally saved me thousands with their flexible travel insurance. Don’t leave for an international trip without this one!
Lastly, wherever you go. Don’t forget to check visa requirements, make sure your passport is up to date and purchase any travel adapters you might need on the ground!
No Comments