Praia da Marinha is widely considered the best beach in Algarve and some say it’s the must-see beach in all of Portugal. International publications even rank it among the most beautiful in the world. In addition to a turquoise sea, it has a series of intriguing rock formations sculpted by nature, including a very famous one with two arches, which forms the shape of a heart when seen from the perfect angle at the top of the cliff behind it. For this reason, it’s used in advertisements and often illustrates tourism brochures, but is even more impressive in person.
There are breathtaking views from above, and the more adventurous can follow a trail over the steep cliffs to other beaches. This is the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, which is one of the top experiences for hikers and nature lovers in Algarve.
At the bottom of the long staircase that leads to the sand is a restaurant with a bathroom, but this remains a rather wild beach. You should be careful when going over the rocks on the western end. Everyone wants to go there for a closer look at the double-arched rock (which is often referred to as “M rock” or “the cathedral”). However, this side of the beach is not accessible at high tide. When the tide is low, you should make the effort to go, as it ends up being the highlight in an already stunning beach.
The golden sand is clean, but a large part of it disappears when the tide rises, so how much space there is between sunbathers varies every day and even throughout the day. The water is clear and usually calm, and there’s an underwater world (seahorses, starfish, sea urchins, etc.) to explore by divers and snorkelers.
It’s never too windy, as it’s sheltered by the surrounding cliffs. If you want shade, bring an umbrella. There are none for rent here, and you shouldn’t count on the shade provided by the cliffs, as the risk of rockfall means you should keep a safe distance.
It can get a bit crowded in July and August, so there’s no space for sports or for children to run around. The rocks and the access via the long staircase (it has a total of 115 steps) doesn’t make it the best beach for kids, and there is no access for those with mobility issues. For this reason, most people here are young tourists, who spend much of their time taking selfies and photographing the views from the rocks and the sea. It’s very tempting to stay here the entire day, so you might want to bring snacks and enough water. The restaurant serves food and drinks throughout the day, but it’s not always easy getting a table, and prices are a little high.
Location: Lagoa
Beach for: Couples, Social Media
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Rentals: No
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia da Marinha
It’s not impossible to reach this beach by public transportation, but it’s very inconvenient. Bus 77, operated by Vamus, departs from the city of Lagoa only on weekdays and just twice a day (early in the morning and in the early afternoon) between November and April and three times a day from May to October. The journey takes 15 minutes. Bus 52 is a little more frequent, departing five times a day, including weekends, every two hours between 9am and 5pm. It goes between the towns of Alvor and Armação de Pêra, stopping at Praia da Rocha (Portimão), Ferragudo, Carvoeiro, and Praia da Marinha. The alternative to the buses is a taxi or Uber. Uber is more recommended, as it’s generally cheaper than a taxi and it’s easier to call one for your return. If you have a car, the beach is about 15 minutes from Carvoeiro and Armação de Pêra, 25 minutes from Portimão and Alvor, and 30 minutes from Albufeira (taking highway A22 and then road N125). You should follow the signs to Lagoa and then the beach. There’s a parking lot right above it, but you’ll likely find it full if you arrive any time after mid-morning.
Beaches by Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha is very close to another highlight of the Algarve - the Benagil cave, accessed from Benagil Beach. You can actually walk there in about a half hour, and by car it’s just 10 minutes. Alternatively, join this highly-rated tour: Benagil Caves Kayak Tour from Marinha Beach
If you follow the walking trail above Praia da Marinha to the west, you also reach Praia do Carvalho and Praia de Vale Centeanes. To the east you can go all the way to Praia da Senhora da Rocha, passing by Praia do Barranquinho, Praia de Albandeira, and Praia Nova on the way. If you choose to follow this trail, you should bring enough water and comfortable shoes. Although it’s not a difficult trail, it stretches for several kilometers.
Hotels by Praia da Marinha
Vila Alba Eco-Resort
The closest beaches (within walking distance) are Albandeira and Barranquinho, but Praia da Marinha is less than 10 minutes away by car. It used to be named Suites Alba Resort, but only the name has changed -- it remains a high-end country-style resort, with a large swimming pool, a restaurant with sea views, and a spa.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Vila Alba Eco-Resort
Tivoli Carvoeiro
Less than 15 minutes by car from Praia da Marinha, this is the best hotel to stay in Carvoeiro. It stands above the ocean, so you can expect incredible views together with a superb 5-star service. That includes two restaurants, a swimming pool, a rooftop bar, and a spa.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Tivoli Carvoeiro
Montinho Boutique Suites
This highly-rated bed-and-breakfast is just a 5-minute drive from Praia da Marinha (walking would take you about 25 minutes, down roads with very little space for pedestrians). It has suites and studios, each with their individual classic style. It’s perfect for a romantic holiday, with a peaceful garden and outdoor swimming pool.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Montinho Boutique Suites
Quinta Nova Vale Del Rey
This good-value bed-and-breakfast is 5 minutes by car from Praia da Marinha. Found in a quiet location, it has double rooms, a suite and a studio. Outside is a heated swimming pool with a lovely seating area.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Quinta Nova Vale Del Rey
Vale d'El Rei Hotel & Villas
It’s in a peaceful country setting yet within easy reach of Praia da Marinha (less than 10 minutes by car). It has double or twin rooms, suites, and villas with two or three bedrooms. The villas and kid-friendly pools attract families, but it’s also great for couples. The adults can relax at the spa and burn calories on the tennis court, and everyone can enjoy Mediterranean meals at the restaurant.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Vale d'El Rei Hotel & Villas