Hidden at the bottom of a cliff, this beach was once considered one of the best in Europe. Although most people would say that there are many others in Algarve even more deserving of that distinction, no one would disagree that it’s indeed wonderful. It offers peace and quiet, as very few people know about it, and it’s mostly frequented by guests of the hotels nearby. It’s also known as Praia do Vilalara, referring to the luxurious resort above it (see below), and as Praia das Gaivotas (“Seagulls Beach”).
Compared to other beaches in the Lagoa region, it’s medium-sized and offers plenty of space. Part of it is covered with parasols and loungers in the summer. In the bathing season there’s also lifeguard supervision.
The cliffs shelter it from the winds and the water is calm most of the time. It’s usually shallow around the big rock formation on the eastern side, making it safe for children, but you’ll find more couples than families here. Like at the other beaches on this coast, never stay too close to the cliffs, as rocks may fall. Also note that the sand here isn’t as soft and is mixed with small shells.
There’s no bathroom or any facilities. Sometimes a small kiosk is placed by the entrance, but it doesn’t return every year, so bring water and snacks. Sunbathing to the sound of the sea and watching the tour boats go by are the main activities, but sometimes you’ll also see people paddleboarding.
There’s no access for the disabled, as you need to go down a long staircase to reach it.
Location: Porches (Lagoa)
Beach for: Couples
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: No
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: No
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia da Cova Redonda
The stairs that lead down to the beach are found on Rua da Cova Redonda, up the road from the Pestana Viking Hotel (see below). There are over 100 steps, but the descent isn’t steep, so it’s relatively easy (many people do need to rest about halfway on the way back up). It’s about 20 minutes from Carvoeiro, 10 minutes from Armação de Pêra, and about 25 minutes from Albufeira. You may park on the side of the road. Vamus buses number 13 and 51, departing from Albufeira, Portimão and Lagos, stop nearby, but they’re so infrequent (especially on weekends), that going by car ends up being the only option.
Beaches by Praia da Cova Redonda
The picturesque beach of Senhora da Rocha is down the road, next to the bigger Praia Nova. The smaller and romantic Praia dos Tremoços and Praia dos Beijinhos are about a 10-minute walk away to the east.
Hotels by Praia da Cova Redonda
Vilalara Thalassa Resort
This luxury resort stands right above Praia da Cova Redonda. There are ocean views from its beautifully-landscaped gardens and four swimming pools, as well as from many of the suites. It has two restaurants and a spa that’s one of the world’s top thalassotherapy centers.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Vilalara Thalassa Resort
Pestana Viking Beach & Spa Resort
Just down the road from the beach, you find this 4-star hotel that’s one of the oldest in the area but has been updated. It stands above a cliff so there are ocean views from many of the rooms (these are the ones worth staying in). It has a large outdoor swimming pool as well as an indoor pool connected to the spa.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Pestana Viking Beach & Spa Resort
Be Live Family Palmeiras Village
A 5-minute walk from this hotel takes you to the stairs that lead down to the beach. It offers an all-inclusive service, which includes three restaurants, swimming pools for adults and children, and a fitness center. It caters to families, so there are many family rooms of different sizes.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Be Live Family Palmeiras Village
Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa
Distinguished as the one of the world’s best spa resorts by Condé Nast Traveler magazine, this luxurious property is a 6-minute walk from Praia da Cova Redonda. In addition to the world-class spa, it offers as many as ten restaurants, one of them with two Michelin stars. The rooms and suites are contemporary, but the architecture is inspired by Moorish Algarve.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa