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Our Favourite Places to Share

We've called this part of the Algarve home for many years, and we're always happy to share our favourite places. From peaceful beaches and coastal walks to family-friendly days out and local restaurants, our guides will help you discover the region at your own pace.

Beach guideWalks & hikes

Sunset over the cliffs from a beach in the Algarve

Beach guide

The beaches around Lagos are among the most beautiful in the Algarve.

Our coastline is known as the Costa d’Oiro — the Golden Coast — named after the warm golden colour of its cliffs. From long stretches of sand to small coves tucked between the rocks, there is a beach for every kind of day.

Meia Praia

Meia Praia

Lagos · Around 5 km long

One of the longest beaches in the Lagos area, Meia Praia stretches for almost 5 km of fine golden sand, with small dunes behind it and no rocks in the water. Along the beach you'll find several beach bars and plenty of space for water sports, including kitesurfing, windsurfing and sailing.

Despite its size, it can get busier during the summer, particularly around the main parking areas. But there's a simple way to find a quieter spot.

Getting there

  • Ferry: Take the small ferry from the main promenade across the river.
  • Walking: Cross the drawbridge near the marina and follow the path towards the beach.
  • Bus: Regular local bus connections are available.
  • Car: Several parking areas are available along the beach.
Praia da Batata

Praia da Batata

Lagos · Sheltered beaches close to the centre

Just a short walk from the centre of Lagos, Praia da Batata is one of the most convenient beaches if you're staying in town. From here, a series of smaller coves can be reached along the cliffs, including Praia dos Estudantes and Praia do Pinhão.

Sheltered by the surrounding cliffs, these beaches can be a great choice on windy days when the more exposed beaches are less comfortable. The combination of golden sand, clear water and the old town just above the cliffs makes this one of the most characteristic stretches of coastline around Lagos.

Getting there

  • Walking: Easily reached on foot from the centre of Lagos.
  • Car: Parking is available nearby, although spaces can be limited during the summer.
  • Bus: Local bus connections are available.
Praia Dona Ana

Praia Dona Ana

Lagos · Sheltered, scenic and close to the centre

One of the most recognisable beaches in the Algarve, Praia Dona Ana is surrounded by golden cliffs and striking rock formations. Its clear, usually calm waters make it a lovely choice for swimming, while the sheltered setting makes it particularly pleasant on days when the wind picks up.

It's also close enough to Lagos to walk from the town centre, making it an easy beach to combine with a stroll through the old town or lunch in one of the nearby restaurants.

Getting there

  • Walking: Around 25 minutes from the centre of Lagos.
  • Car: Parking is available nearby, although spaces can be harder to find during the summer.
  • Bus: Local bus connections are available.
Praia do Camilo

Praia do Camilo

Lagos · A small beach surrounded by cliffs

Tucked between beautifully sculpted cliffs, Praia do Camilo is one of the most picturesque little beaches around Lagos. Its golden sand, clear water and dramatic rock formations make it a favourite for those looking for a more intimate beach setting.

The beach is reached by a long staircase of around 200 steps, so the walk down—and especially the climb back up—is something to keep in mind. But the view from the top is spectacular and well worth stopping to enjoy before heading down.

Getting there

  • Car: There is parking near the top of the access road.
  • Walking: You can reach the area on foot from Lagos, following the coastal road towards Ponta da Piedade.
Porto de Mós

Porto de Mós

Lagos · Sheltered and easy to reach

Located around 3 km from the centre of Lagos, Porto de Mós is surrounded by beautiful golden cliffs that provide some shelter on windy days. The beach has two restaurants, a large free car park and plenty of space to find a quieter spot.

A little further... Just before Porto de Mós, you'll find Praia do Canavial, a small and very sheltered beach that tends to be much quieter. The access has become quite difficult over the years due to erosion, but if you're comfortable with the path, it can be well worth the effort.

Getting there

  • Car: Large free parking area.
  • Bus: Local bus connections are available.
  • Walking: Around 40–45 minutes from Lagos centre.
Praia da Luz

Praia da Luz

Praia da Luz · A traditional village with a beautiful beach

Once a small fishing village, Praia da Luz has grown into a popular holiday destination while still keeping much of its original charm. The beach sits below the village and is framed on one side by the striking Rocha Negra (Black Rock), a dark volcanic formation that dates back millions of years.

The beach is also a great place for water activities, with local centres offering scuba diving, boat trips, water skiing and other activities.

Getting there

  • Car: Parking is available around the village.
  • Walking: Easily reached from the centre of Praia da Luz.
  • Bus: Local bus connections are available.

Walks & hikes

Praia Dona Ana – Ponta da Piedade – Praia do Canavial

Praia Dona Ana – Ponta da Piedade – Praia do Canavial

Boardwalk & coastal paths · 5 km · Easy to moderate

A beautiful coastal route following the cliffs from Praia Dona Ana towards Ponta da Piedade and beyond. Along the way, you'll pass Praia do Camilo, dramatic rock formations and several viewpoints overlooking the clear waters and small coves.

The boardwalk continues along the coast towards Praia do Canavial, so you can make the walk as short or as long as you like.

Want to keep walking? From Porto de Mós, the coastline changes character, with higher cliffs and more rugged scenery all the way to Praia da Luz.

Porto de Mós – Praia da Luz
© Marty B · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 2.0

Porto de Mós – Praia da Luz

Coastal trail · 5 km · Moderate

This beautiful coastal trail follows the cliffs from Porto de Mós towards Praia da Luz, with spectacular views over the Atlantic and some of the more rugged coastline of the western Algarve. The landscape changes as you walk, with golden cliffs, small coves and open views across the sea.

The trail has some ups and downs and uneven sections, but it's a rewarding walk and a great way to experience the coast away from the busier beaches.

Praia da Luz – Burgau

Praia da Luz – Burgau

Coastal trail · 6 km · Moderate

A beautiful coastal trail connecting Praia da Luz with the charming village of Burgau. The route follows the cliffs, with lovely views over the Atlantic, rugged coastline and small secluded beaches along the way.

The trail is more natural and uneven than the boardwalks around Lagos, with some climbs and descents. The small beaches you see along the way are generally not accessible, but they add to the beauty of the route and make for some great viewpoints.

Meia Praia Boardwalk

Meia Praia Boardwalk

Lagos · Around 3 km · Easy

A relaxing route along the dunes of Meia Praia, following the wooden boardwalk with beautiful views over the beach and the bay. The route is mostly flat and easy to follow, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll at any time of day.

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