The Traveller’s Choice Awards distiguished the 10 best beaches in Portugal, according to the opinions and ratings of TripAdvisor users. More than a thousand user reviews were considered in this decision. Do you agree with the choices?
1. Praia da Falésia, Albufeira
Even though it isn’t very accessible, Falésia Beach garners admirers thanks to its wide sands and the contrast between the colors of the sea, rocks and pines.
Review: “It simply is stunning. The red rocks contrast with the green pines and the dark blue of the sky.”
Praia da Falésia | Credits: Mountain Leon
2. Praia Dona Ana, Lagos
Small and picturesque, Dona Ana beach provides and welcoming environment and, at the same time, an adventure experience with the exploration of the rocks and caves nearby.
Review: “A beach of crystal waters and white sands”
3. Praia de Olhos de Água, Olhos de Água
Very suitable for children, the Olhos de Água beach has small ponds and freshwater springs in its sands.
Review: “Small (but very cosy)”
Best time to visit: April to November
4. Meia Praia, Lagos
Well equipped and very wide, Meia Praia is also sought for the pratice of nautical sports.
Review: “Beach with very special characteristics, a wide clean shore, coldwater, good equipments and bars. In the summer, it is most suited to the long morning walks and, in the afternoon, the nautical sports (windsurf, kite, etc)”
Best time to visit: May to October
5. Praia da Rocha, Portimão
Rocha Beach combines the beautiful scenery, composed of rocks of different shapes and colors, with a fun nightlife during the summer months.
Review: “What a wonderful place Rocha beach is, with its large rock formations making several caverns amidst a stunning blue, with its several caves, result of the coming and going of the waves. What a beautiful coast!”
Best time to visit: April to November
6. Praia do Guincho, Cascais
One of the most popular beaches in Cascais and Sintra, Guincho is sought for its natural beauty, between the city and the mountains, and for the ideal conditions for the practice of surf and windsurf.
Review: “In Cascais, I had lunch in the restaurant Furnas do Guincho. Excellent. The place and the facilities are perfect and the food is delicious. And the best was the fair price, given the quality of the food and service.
Best time to visit: June to September
7. Praia de Tróia, Tróia
Because it is near the capital, but far enough to have warmer water, Troia Beach is a popular destination, with good accesses and equipment.
Review: “Great beach for children: calm sea, soft slope and cleanliness. Neat accesses, though far from puclic transport. But the walk is worth it. There are several activities in the equipments along the beach.
Best time to visit: June to September.
8. Praia da Marinha, Carvoeiro
Surrounded by cliffs, Marinha Beach offers a magnificent scenery that compensates the difficult accesses.
Review: “Undoubtedly the most beautiful beach I have ever visited. Worth spending a day, the scenery is incredible”.
Best time to visit: May to October
9. Praia da Galé, Albufeira
Somewhat far from the expected summer hustle of Algarve, but still near to the urban areas, Galé Beach is perfect for family vacations.
Review: “Without a doubt the best beach in Algarve, it really is a paradise. Excellent for groups of friends and even families. Always very clean”
Best time to visit: April to October
10. Praia de Odeceixe, Aljezur
Representing Alentejo in this list, Odeceixe beach has the peculiarity of having the Seixe stream draining in its waters.
Review: “Wonderful waters, transparent, excellent for water sports, or for a waterfront stroll. The Seixe stream drains at the beach and the coast is beautiful for a walk, and for family vacations, either beach or river vacations. Definitely one of the best beach destinations I’ve been to in Portugal”
Best time to visit: May to October
Photos by TripAdvisor
