With something like 150 different beaches, no wonder that you quite often come across a road sign that says " Praia ", meaning "beach". It is probably the most used sign in the Algarve. Naming the best one is an impossible task but you will easily find a few to put on your personal favourites list.

On the west coast the water tends to be colder. Because of the winds and waves coming from the ocean it has the best surf beaches. The beaches there have large dunes and are windy, whereas those along the southern coast range from broad endless stretches of sand in the east to smaller more sheltered coves in the western part.

In the summer season, all main beaches have lifeguards. Many offer a wide variety of water and beach sports along with restaurants and bars.

Along the coast there is quite a few free beaches where nudism is allowed.

The beaches of the Algarve are famous all over the world. Click on the name of the region to see a Slideshow of the beaches in Albufeira, Aljezur, Lagoa, Portimão, Lagos or Vila do Bispo