Mainly located on the Costa Vicentina, these beaches are the perfect place for finding the perfect wave that will give every surfer the adrenaline required to surf it. Whether in Sagres, Aljezur, or Vila do Bispo, these beaches are also located in great Algarve locations that offer so much more away from the lure of the ocean.
Praia da Arrifana
Located 10 kilometres away from Aljezur centre, Praia da Arrifana is one of the most famous beaches for surfers in the Algarve. With strong and consistent waves, especially during the winter, this beach is perfect for the most experienced surfers.
The access to the beach is simple, with the possibility of arriving there by public transports, or even by car, where a free parking lot is made available for everyone.
Nearby, there are various shops that sell surf products, as well as restaurants and bars by the beach to appreciate a meal or a drink after catching the greatest wave ever.
Praia da Cordoama
Also located in the municipality of Vila do Bispo, this beach is usually less crowded, when compared to other beaches.
The reason behind the beach being so quiet, might be because of the big waves that are formed there, regardless of the year’s season. However, during the winter, as usual, the waves may intensify, which make it the perfect place for surfing the wave.
To access the beach, it is easier to drive until the destination, where a parking lot is available. There are also bars and restaurants. Lifeguards will be on the beach during the summertime.
Praia do Martinhal
Located in the Sagres peninsula, this beach has the perfect waves for the beginners, who should start in calmer waves.
Surrounded by amazing cliffs, this beach is a great place to take the opportunity to help kids get the taste for surf or bodyboard. During summertime safety is guaranteed by the lifeguards working on the shore. There are also restaurants and bars in the area, as well as easy accessibility for people with reduced mobility.
With easy accesses, mainly by car, at this beach, besides the parking lot, there are also tourist accommodation options suited for everyone, from luxury hotels to simpler guesthouses.
Praia do Amado
In Carrapateira, the Praia do Amado is 30 kilometres away from Lagos, but the trip is always well worth it thanks to the beauty of this beach.
Usually, this beach is sought-after by more experienced surfers, due to the big waves, especially during the winter months. It is also here that some surf competitions take place, highlighting the challenging experience is to surf the right wave on this beach.
There are bars and restaurants available in the area, as well as a parking lot, as driving is the easiest way to arrive at this destination. During the bathing season, there is the presence of lifeguards on a beach where waves can be surfed the whole year.
Praia da Rocha
Probably one of the most famous beaches in the Algarve, it is also the perfect spot for starting a hobby, or even a career, as a surfer.
It is usually more crowded during the summertime, due to the Portuguese and foreign tourists that choose this place to spend their holidays. However, there are various surf schools that will give anyone the chance to literally dip a toe (and much more) into the water.
By the beach there are plenty of restaurants and bars, and plenty of parking lots around. After catching some waves, Praia da Rocha is also the perfect place to enjoy a night out in one of the bars in the area.
Praia da Galé
In the municipality of Albufeira, this beach is also a tourist hotspot, but during the winter months, it can become a surf haven. Easily accessed by car, this beach also has a bus station, giving people the opportunity to choose their preferred means of transportation.
This beach is in the ranking as one of the best beaches to surf in Portugal, and it is also one of the most popular to surf. The waves, on swell days, may reach three metres high, on a beach that also offers a variety of surf school services either for beginners or for more experienced surfers.
Catch the wave
Once you have chosen your favourite beach, all you have to do is pick up your surfboard and feel the adrenaline of each wave. While fun is at the top of the agenda, always make sure that the required safety measures are taken, especially during the winter when, usually, there are no lifeguards around.
Being located in natural places, it is also important to respect the environment and keep the space clean, not only for other people, but also for the species that live and also enjoy the tranquillity of these beaches.