There are many others in Algarve more deserving of the name (“Paradise Beach”), but this is still a beach worth discovering. It does require some effort to find, despite its central location in Carvoeiro. It’s small and secluded at the bottom of a cliff, and accessed via a steep staircase hidden by a parking lot.
When the popular Praia do Carvoeiro nearby is just too crowded, this is an alternative. In fact, because it’s often empty and the cliffs protect it from the wind, some people prefer it. However, when the tide rises, most of the sand disappears. At low tide, there are tidal pools and you can explore caves on both ends. On the rare days when there’s not much space on the sand, people sunbathe on the rocks.
It’s mostly frequented by locals, mainly those living in the villas in the vicinity. The quiet and upscale district of Monte Carvoeiro is right above it, so it’s sometimes called Monte Carvoeiro Beach.
You should be careful in the water, because there are rocks along the shore and no lifeguards. This is essentially a beach for relaxation and sunbathing. You’ll want to stay for the sunset view from the top of the cliff.
There are no facilities on the beach, but there’s a restaurant at the top of the stairs, next to the parking lot. Still, you should bring water and snacks. Because the access is via stairs, this is not an accessible beach to those with mobility issues.
Location: Carvoeiro
Beach for: Families, Couples
Lifeguards: No
Bathrooms: No
Rentals: No
Bar or Restaurant: Yes (at the top of the cliff)
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia do Paraíso
From Praia do Carvoeiro in the center of town, walk up the hill on the western side (the right, when facing the sea). It just takes 5 minutes, and you’ll find the stairs by the parking lot. To reach Carvoeiro, you can drive or take an infrequent bus. The bus is number 107, operated by Vamus, which departs from Portimão and stops in Carvoeiro about six times a day on weekdays and four times on weekends. If you’re driving, you can be at this beach in 20 minutes from Portimão or Armação de Pêra, and in a half hour from Albufeira.
Beaches by Praia do Paraíso
In addition to Praia do Carvoeiro, you have Praia de Vale Centeanes within walking distance (it takes 30 minutes, but it’s an easy walk up the main road) or 10 minutes by car. This is one of the beaches where you can join a tour of the famous Benagil Cave. It’s also the starting point of the Seven Hanging Valleys trail that passes by the beaches of Carvalho, Benagil and Marinha.
Hotels by Praia do Paraíso
Hotel Carvoeiro Plaza
This hotel stands behind Praia do Carvoeiro, so it’s a 5-minute walk from Praia do Paraíso. Some of the rooms with balconies face the beach. There’s a swimming pool and a pleasant courtyard where breakfast is served.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Hotel Carvoeiro Plaza
Carvoeiro Hotel
A 20-minute walk up the road from the beach or a 4-minute drive away, this hotel is divided into studios and apartments. They’re all quite spacious and have a balcony facing the garden and the swimming pool. The free private parking is very convenient.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Carvoeiro Hotel
Castelo Guest House
This “castle” faces Praia do Carvoeiro, but it’s just a 4-minute walk from Praia do Paraíso. It offers sunrise and sea views from most of the rooms, which are clean and comfortable. You should book early to guarantee one with a terrace or balcony.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Castelo Guest House
O Quintal Guesthouse
This highly-rated guesthouse is centrally located, just 8 minutes from Praia do Paraíso. A variety of restaurants and shops is also a short walk away. It’s quite a good value and the romantic décor of many of the rooms makes it a good choice for couples.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: O Quintal Guesthouse
Vale d’Oliveiras Quinta Resort & Spa
Just 10 minutes by car to the north of Praia do Paraíso, this 5-star resort is a quiet and relaxing retreat, even in the high season. It consists of dozens of townhouses surrounded by lush gardens, and offers indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, and two restaurants using ingredients from the organic garden.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Vale d’Oliveiras Quinta Resort & Spa