The best beaches in the Algarve

Wherever you situate yourself in the Algarve, there's always a beautiful beach nearby. With 155km of coastline, there are plenty of picturesque sandy beaches to discover, and our charming villas are in prime locations to explore them all. Here are our top picks when visiting.

1. Praia do Burgau

Tried and tested by our Marketing Executive Elinor, this beach is situated in the charming town of Burgau and is a must when visiting the Algarve. With a cornish town feel but warmer weather, this picturesque and quaint town is full of personality and of course, the beach is just as superb. If you are into your watersports, kayaking and canoeing activities can be organised here and if you like fresh lemonade, make sure you stop off at ‘Love Burgau’; they have some lovely outdoor seating where you can sip away and watch the world go by. 

Where to stay

Casa Jacaranda. Situated in Lagos, and in a prime position in the grounds of the famous Penina Golf Course, this villa has a private tennis court in its own gardens and is a very comfortable family villa, a fabulous choice for a sporting holiday. Burgau is only a thirty minute drive away, making this a great option for a day trip. 

2. Praia do ancão

This beach is in the Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago region and is the perfect choice for any holiday maker looking to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach going to and from a beach bar. Accessed by a wooden bridge over the Ria Formosa, this beach is backed by sand dunes and has beautiful white sand. ‘3 moco’ is a must visit, a sophisticated bar where you can enjoy ice cold drinks and snacks whilst listening to the soft sound of the surrounding waves.

Where to stay

Quinta Bella. This villa has two pools, six bedrooms and extensive amounts of land, the perfect summer escape for a large group or family. Even better, Praia do ancão is only a fifteen minute drive away and a handful of other beaches are also nearby to discover. 

3.  Praia da Balbina

If you are into your peace and quiet and prefer having beaches all to yourself, Praia de Balbina is certainly the place to visit. This semi-private beach is only accessible for visitors staying above it on the coastline, leaving it a serene spot for those who can. But luckily for you, we have just the villa in mind. 

Where to stay

Villa Balbina; the clue is in the name. This villa is situated just a stones throw away from the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic, and has its very own pathway leading directly to the Praia da Balbina just below the house. With exceptional standards of comfort and service, and of course, panoramic sea views, this luxury villa has superb facilities and leaves nothing to chance.

4. Praia Grande

Pria Grande has been called Portugal's answer to Bondi beach. With a sea water pool available on the shore and waves great for surfing, visitors can make use of a wide range of activities whilst visiting. Restaurants and bars are also on hand for anyone looking to enjoy some fresh seafood or sangria whilst sitting in the sun. 

Where to stay

We’ve got you sorted on this one. Beach Cottage is just a few steps away from Praia Grande. Perfect for anyone who is looking to have glistening shores on their doorstep, not so much for anyone who is looking to count their steps in on holiday! This former “keeper’s cottage” is now a lovely family villa in Ferragudo with contemporary comforts, simple styling and a stunning setting.

Our Villa Specialists are happy to book a range of experiences for you. If you're feeling inspired by these experiences and would like to speak with one of our Specialists, make an enquiry or browse our Algarve collection today.