For many people, this is not a separate beach, but an extension of Praia dos Três Irmãos. However, these two beaches are separated by a cliff and rocks. This one can be reached by an elevator or steps hidden at the top of the cliff, but the access from Praia dos Três Irmãos is easier (except for those with mobility issues, for whom the only option is the elevator). The elevator leads directly to a restaurant facing the sea, specializing in fresh fish. The restaurant is the only facility at this beach. There are no parasols or loungers for rent, or even lifeguards on duty.
Even if you access this beach from Praia dos Três Irmãos, don’t miss the views from the clifftop. It’s found at the end of Rua Praia da Prainha, which goes through the Aldeamento Prainha Clube resort (see accommodation listings below). The views over the beach and the coast from here are breathtaking.
This is a sizable beach when the tide is low, but it nearly disappears at high tide. It has a series of caves and coves, which may not be possible to reach when the water rises. However, in the summer, there’s usually enough space for the large crowds to spread their towels and even play sports.
When the water is calm, it’s great for swimming. About 3 kilometers offshore is the Algarve’s main diving site, the Parque Subaquático Ocean Revival, with four sunken ships.
Although there are families and people of all ages at this beach, the relatively difficult access and the romantic scenery makes it a beach for young couples. As you explore the caves, you’ll see love messages carved on the walls.
The shell-shaped coves and the arches and other rock formations sculpted by the wind are perfect backdrops for selfies. However, due to the risk of rockfall, you should keep a safe distance from the rocks and caves. If you prefer shade, you need to bring an umbrella.
Location: Alvor
Beach for: Couples, Social Media
Lifeguards: No
Bathrooms: Yes
Rentals: No
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: Yes
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Prainha
Prainha is just 5 minutes by car from the center of Alvor and 15 minutes from Portimão. There’s limited parking in the resort, accessed via Rua Praia da Prainha, close to the clifftop and the elevator that leads down to the restaurant and the beach. Alternatively, leave your car in the parking lot behind Praia dos Três Irmãos. You just have to arrive early to find a spot. There’s also a bus that stops nearby. That’s bus 14 of the local "Vai e Vem" network, which departs every half hour from Alvor (from a stop by a roundabout on Rua do Rossio de São Pedro) and Portimão (Largo do Dique). However, it only operates from Monday to Friday. On weekends there’s bus 1P, which covers the same route, but only departs about once per hour (in the months of July and August, the frequency increases to every 30 minutes). The stop closest to this beach is on Rua da Torralta, and from there you need to walk for about 5 minutes to Praia dos Três Irmãos and go over the rocks (pictured above) to Prainha.
Beaches by Prainha
In addition to Praia dos Três Irmãos, you can walk to Praia de Alvor to the west, or to the “secret” nude beaches of João de Arens and Submarino to the east.
Hotels by Prainha
Prainha Clube
The location is perfect for a beach holiday. Surrounded by gardens, overlooking Prainha and the neighboring beaches, this property has contemporary studios and 1- and 2-bedroom apartments. It caters to families as well as to couples, with two swimming pools, four restaurants, a supermarket, a spa, a multi-sport court and two tennis courts.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Prainha Clube
Aldeamento Turístico Prainha
This 3-star resort is a more affordable alternative to Prainha Club, which it shares some facilities with (restaurants, pools, and supermarket). Here you have the option of apartments and villas, some with their own private pool. There’s direct access to the beach.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Aldeamento Turístico Prainha
Pestana Alvor Park Hotel
Just a 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from Prainha, this hotel features spacious studios and apartments with balconies, a sauna, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and an outdoor pool. The center of Alvor, with its many restaurants, is also within walking distance. It can be a good value.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Pestana Alvor Park Hotel