When most people think of Albufeira, they picture a place over-run with stag parties, hen-do’s and worse. Although it’s true that the resort has much to offer the party crowd, it would be a mistake to think that Albufeira wasn’t a good destination for a family-orientated holiday. There’s so much here to keep young children and even the sulkiest of teenagers entertained. The wide, sandy beaches boast good facilities and crystal clear water and there are loads of child-centred activities to be enjoyed nearby. It is possible to stay here without being bothered at...
Luc.T | BY-SA
The aesthetically pleasing, whitewashed church of São Sebastião (Saint Sebastian) on Praça Miguel Bombarda is thought to date back to the early 18th century, having been re-built on the site of a 16th century church.
It features a mix of architectural styles, including a dome and a multi-coloured wooden altarpiece. The main doorway is of the Baroque style and there is a Manueline side door. The inside of the church contains a number of interesting statues, including an image of Nossa Senhora da Piedade (Our Lady of Piety), thought to date from the 16th century....
Albufeira
Located just to the east of Albufeira old town is Praia do Inatel - a lovely, wide stretch of golden sand. This is the next beach along after the town's main beach (Praia dos Pescadores) and is around a 10 minute walk from Albufeira. Whilst not quite as busy, Praia do Inatel is rather popular during the summer months.
The name of the beach comes from the Inatel Albufeira Hotel which somewhat dominates the backdrop as well as providing a pleasant spot for a coffee. This is set in...
Albufeira
stavros1 | BY-SA
The Praia de Santa Eulália is located a little over 4 km to the east of Albufeira. It is something of an upmarket resort beach as the meticulously landscaped gardens to the rear of the beach will tell you. You will find rows of palm trees interspersed with aloes and other exotic plants along with areas of neatly trimmed grassy lawn.
The beach itself is a good-sized stretch of golden Algarvian sand flanked by low, pine-covered ochre cliffs at either end. The water is the typical clear...
Albufeira
Beeston | BY-SA
Located on the lovely stretch of coast between Albufeira and Armação de Pera is the charming little Praia da Coelha. Translated this means "Rabbit beach" although the only rabbit of any note here is the one on the sign.
To get to the beach involves a short walk along a footpath through assorted greenery. There are olive trees, bamboo groves and ancient carob trees which all lead you towards the wooden stairs down to the beach. Once on the beach you won't be disappointed; there are the...
Armação de Pêra
Filipe Rocha | BY-SA
Set around a kilometre east of the resort of Armação de Pêra is the Praia dos Salgados. It is really just one section of a massive crescent of beach that stretches from the resort, halfway to Albufeira.
Unlike the coast further east, towards Albufeira, with its cliffs and rock formations, Praia dos Salgados is backed by low sand dunes. These are criss-crossed with wooden boardwalks to keep this important conservation area intact.
Beyond the sand dunes lies the Salgados Lagoon...
Albufeira
Beeston | BY-SA
The small beach of Praia do Castelo is located on the wonderful stretch of coast between Albufeira and Armação de Pêra (about 6km from the former). There are a number of small bays along the several kilometres of coast here, all of which have the same ochre coloured sandstone cliffs eroded into various rock formations; some more fantastical than others.
Whilst Praia do Castelo cannot boast any rock arches or sea stacks it is all the same a very pleasant spot offering everything an...
Albufeira
The crystal clear, shallow waters and silky soft golden sand make Praia de São Rafael one of the most popular beaches in the Albufeira area. The beach is just far enough away from the resort town to not be overrun, but close enough to be within easy reach (2 km to be precise).
Set in a pretty bay, flanked by tall ochre coloured limestone cliffs São Rafael is reminiscent of many of the beaches along this stretch of Algarve coast. The beach is home to an array of wonderful rock...
Albufeira
stavros1 | BY-SA
Praia do Evaristo is far enough outside of the resort madness of Albufeira to retain an air of charm and remain civilised even in the summer! Backed by low, sloping ochre cliffs this pleasant sandy beach is dotted with large rock formations which are great for exploring and give it a slightly cosy feel.
As a Blue Flag beach you can be sure of clean water and a good standard of amenities. Praia do Evaristo has a lifeguard service during the summer months along with lounger, parasol and...
Albufeira
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Praia dos Pescadores (Fisherman's beach) is situated right in front of Albufeira's old town. It is one of the resort's main beaches along with neighbouring Praia do Túnel and as such can get pretty busy in the summer months. Of course there are advantages; it is easily accessible from the Old Town - there is even an escalator down to beach level from the cliffs behind.
The name of the beach comes from it once being where the town's fishermen would launch their boats from. There are...