Praia de Boião is really the western end of Praia do Alemão, and there’s nothing indicating where one ends and the other begins. It was given a different name because when the tide is high it’s separated from Praia do Alemão by a cliff ledge. When the tide is low, you can explore a number of coves and caves that are usually only accessible by boat. These are among the most beautiful in Algarve, but remain a secret! If you can make it to one of the three coves, you’ll most likely have it all to yourself or will find a naturist or two enjoying the seclusion.
When the water is calm, it’s crystal-clear and perfect for snorkeling. In the shallow areas, it’s safe for children. However, there are no lifeguards at this beach (but they’re nearby, at Praia do Alemão, during the bathing season).
If you prefer shade, bring an umbrella. There are none for rent here and you shouldn’t lie close to the cliffs, due to the risk of rockfall. Also bring water and snacks, or you’ll have to walk to the bar at Praia do Alemão.
Don’t leave without walking over the cliffs. There’s a trail called “Trilho das Varandas Sobre o Mar” (“Balconies Over the Sea Trail”), which extends from Praia do Vau in the east to the João de Arens headland to the west, for a total of 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles). Here you have a view of the center of Portimão in the distance, over the beach and of a series of rocks emerging from the sea. These limestone rocks, formed about 25 million years ago, have been shaped by the water and the winds, but look like they were carefully arranged here.
Location: Portimão
Beach for: Couples, Social Media
Lifeguards: No
Bathrooms: No
Rentals: No
Bar or Restaurant: No
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia de Boião
Praia de Boião is accessed through Praia do Alemão. It’s about 10 minutes by car from the center of Portimão, and there’s parking by the beach. You can also get there by bus -- number 14 on weekdays (departing every half hour) and number 1P on weekends (around every hour), from the stop on Largo do Dique. Walking from central Portimão takes close to one hour, but the walk from Praia da Rocha, which takes less than 40 minutes, is quite pleasant, down a scenic road and pathways.
Beaches by Praia de Boião
If you keep walking west over the cliffs (to the right when facing the sea), you reach the headland of João de Arens, which hides a beach of the same name and a smaller one that’s only accessible at low tide (Praia do Submarino). These two are unofficial nude beaches and are quite beautiful. To the east, in addition to Praia do Alemão are the beaches of Vau, Careanos, Amado, Três Castelos, and Praia da Rocha.
Hotels by Praia de Boião
Jardim do Vau
It’s less than a 10-minute walk from Praia de Boião and offers direct access to Praia do Vau. If you want a beachfront hotel, this is an excellent option. It’s divided into 1- and 2-bedroom apartments and caters to families, with separate swimming pools for adults and children, and a kids' club. For grownups, there’s a sauna, an indoor pool and a fitness room. Although the apartments have fully-equipped kitchens, guests can also enjoy meals at the restaurant, which serves local and international cuisine. A free shuttle takes you to the center of Portimão.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Jardim do Vau
Hotel Alcaide
Located a short walk from Praia de Boião, this is a good-value hotel. It’s rated three stars, but has bright rooms with balconies and an outdoor swimming pool. The rooms vary in size, but are all comfortable and clean.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Hotel Alcaide
Interpass Vau Hotel Apartamentos
This family-friendly property is about a 10-minute walk from Praia de Boião. It consists of apartments with a kitchenette but there’s also a restaurant. All units have balconies, and a few offer a sea view. It has outdoor pools for adults and children, plus an indoor pool. The kids can burn energy on the playground, as the grownups relax at the bar.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Interpass Vau Hotel Apartamentos
Apartamentos Turísticos Coral do Vau
Praia de Boião is a short walk from this hotel facing Praia do Vau. It has 1- and 2-bedroom apartments, which are a good value, considering the location. The décor is quite dated, but facilities are generally good. There’s an outdoor swimming pool for adults and another for children, a children’s playground, and a tennis court. It also offers an airport shuttle service.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Apartamentos Turísticos Coral do Vau