Until the construction of the resort nearby, this was a secret and almost always deserted beach. For that reason, it was recommended for nude sunbathing. Now it has its number of daily visitors in the summer, most of them guests of the resort and tourists on boat tours, and there are no naturists.
It’s very small and secluded but worth finding, as it’s quite beautiful. A massive islet stands right in front, about 85 meters (280 feet) from the shore. The main reason to come here is to admire the scenery. Part of the experience is walking over the cliffs around it and admiring the magnificent view. You’ll see a bigger beach to the west (to the right when facing the sea), but it can only be reached by boat. It’s called Praia da Malhada do Baraço (pictured below) and is a very popular stop of tourist boats and kayakers, who often picnic on the sand.
There’s nothing but pristine nature around you. You’ll only hear the sounds of the sea, birds and boat engines, and smell the pine trees on the cliffs. As you walk over the cliff on the eastern side of the beach, you’ll see the open top of a cave. Unfortunately you can’t really see the interior of the cave, as the top is fenced for security reasons. If you follow the trail to the west, you’ll end up at the famous Praia da Marinha.
On most summer days, you can count on calm and crystal-clear waters. You’ll enjoy swimming here, but you should always be careful, even on the calmest days, as there are no lifeguards. There are also no facilities of any kind, so don’t forget water and snacks. You also need to bring an umbrella if you prefer shade.
In winter, on stormy days and when the tide rises a lot, the sand disappears. However, coming here out of season is still worth it, for the views.
Location: Lagoa
Beach for: Couples, Social Media
Lifeguards: No
Bathrooms: No
Rentals: No
Bar or Restaurant: No
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia do Barranquinho
The unmarked path (pictured above) to Praia do Barranquinho starts to the right of the Vila Alba Eco-Resort (see below). That’s where you should park, and then just need to keep walking to the right. To get here, follow the signs to Caramujeira or Praia de Albandeira from road N125. It’s 15 minutes from Armação de Pêra, 20 from Carvoeiro and 30 from Albufeira. There’s no public transportation to this beach.
Beaches by Praia do Barranquinho
You can walk to Praia de Albandeira from the resort by Praia do Barranquinho in about 10 minutes. If you enjoy coastal hikes, you can also go over the cliffs in the opposite direction (to the west) to Praia da Marinha. If you prefer to drive to Marinha, it takes just 7 minutes.
Hotels by Praia do Barranquinho
Vila Alba Eco-Resort
This is the only hotel by Praia do Barranquinho. It also offers direct access to the beach of Albandeira. There are sea views from some of the classically-styles suites, as well as from the restaurant, the swimming pool and the peaceful gardens. Other facilities include a spa and a fitness room.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Vila Alba Eco-Resort