With its fishing boats on the sand and white houses perched on the cliff, Praia do Carvoeiro is one of Algarve's most picturesque beaches.
It's a great place to relax after a day around the coast.
It's also a great base for exploring the many caves in the area. You can book a boat tour to visit them with a local guide.
1. Praia do Carvoeiro
Carvoeiro is a popular resort town that attracts families and retirees to its picture-perfect Algarve beach. Located less than an hour from Faro, this traditional Portuguese town boasts spectacular natural scenery and dramatic cliffs that make it a popular destination for those looking for a relaxed holiday.
The town’s central beach, Praia do Carvoeiro, is a small sweep of golden sand that is well sheltered by high cliffs. It is surrounded by restaurants and bars, public showers and toilets, and water sports facilities.
This beach is also a popular spot for shell collecting and has gentle waves making it a lovely family-friendly place to spend the day. It is also home to Slide & Splash and Aqualand, water parks with slides and pools for the kids.
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, try one of the many hiking trails that take in the stunning coastline. The best hike in Carvoeiro is the Sete Vales (Seven Hanging Valleys) trail that winds along the cliff tops from Algar Seco to Marinha Beach, passing Benagil Cave on the way.
2. Vale de Covo
Located in the village, this stunning secluded beach is backed by a high cliff and accessible via a staircase. Its clear and calm seas make it excellent for diving.
Vale de Covo is popular with visitors who prefer a quieter setting than Carvoeiro's main beach, but it does get very crowded during the summer. The sheltered spot is accessible at low tide, and the sand is very soft and smooth.
It's also worth visiting the town of Ferragudo, which has a more traditional atmosphere than Carvoeiro and is just a 15-minute drive away. Its whitewashed fishermen's houses, Praca Rainha Dona Leonor Square and Sao Joao do Arade Fort are must-sees.
Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort is a secluded beachside hotel with an extensive array of facilities, including an outdoor and indoor pool, sauna and steam room, tennis courts and Portuguese restaurant. It draws a mix of holidaymakers and families.
3. Algar Seco
Algar Seco is a spectacular natural site that offers some of the most unique sea caves and blowholes in the region. It's a short walk away from Praia do Carvoeiro and is one of the top things to do in Carvoeiro.
It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike as ocean waves have carved out grottoes, water-spouts and rock formations. This beautiful natural area is a must see and can be visited all year round.
You can explore the cliffs and rock formations, walk through tunnels and get lost in the awe-inspiring natural landscape. It's a great activity for families with kids.
The best time to visit Algar Seco is early in the morning or during the evening when you can escape the crowds and enjoy a stunning view. The views are also better in the winter months when the sun sets earlier and it's cooler.
Whether you choose to stay in an apartment, villa, suite or bungalow, you'll be surrounded by stunning ocean views from your private balcony and have a variety of swimming pools and landscaped gardens to enjoy. With a rooftop bar, restaurant and spa, this resort is an excellent option for anyone looking to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Algarve.
4. Vila Real de Santo António
One of the best hidden gems in the Algarve, Vila Real de Santo António is an enchanting historic town with unique architecture. It's situated alongside the Guadiana River that borders Spain and is close to extensive sandy beaches.
- This town is not as busy as other Algarve resorts, which is why it's an ideal place to escape the crowds and relax in a peaceful setting. It is also a great base to visit other towns in the Eastern Algarve, including the beautiful Monte Gordo.
- There's a wide range of things to do in Vila Real, from taking a cruise down the Guadiana River to visiting Spain across the river or visiting the salt marshes of Castro Marim and Reserva do Sapal. If you're looking to get away from it all, late spring or early autumn is the perfect time to visit.
- Vila Real is also renowned for its restaurants and eateries, serving up traditional Portuguese dishes at sensible prices. Some of the top places to eat include Grand Beach Club and Taberna Moleiro.
