Praia do Tonel is a beach next to the Sagres Fortress, which is Algarve’s most visited monument, but that doesn’t mean that it’s crowded with tourists. In fact, it’s relatively quiet and mostly frequented by surfers. It stretches for 400 meters (1300 feet) and even with the view of the fortress in the east and of the Beliche Fort to the west, it feels wild and remote. It’s very peaceful, but it was once the site of a deadly disaster. In 1943, during WWII, a British seaplane crashed here, killing all 10 members of its crew.
It’s very clean and flies the Blue Flag. There are lifeguards on duty in the summer, but you should always be very careful in the water, even if you are an experienced swimmer. It can be rough and the currents strong (it’s also quite cold, with the average temperature in the summer reaching just 22C or 72F). For this reason, this is not a recommended beach for children. However, days with a calm sea and no waves are not exactly rare either.
Roughly at the center of the bay is a big rock emerging from the water, resembling a submarine. There are many small underwater rocks along the shore as well, especially on the western end. At high tide, much of the sand disappears, especially in autumn and winter. At low tide, there’s always plenty of space for everyone, even in the summer.
Sagres is known to be windy, but the tall cliffs shelter this beach somewhat. They also offer beautiful views from the top. Just don’t count on them for shade, as you should keep a safe distance, due to the risk of rockfall. For shade, bring a parasol. There are no rentals here. For drinks and light meals, there’s a small bar by the entrance.
Many of the surfers you’ll see here were brought by the surf schools of the region. This is where you're more likely to find the perfect conditions for the sport. Summer is ideal for beginners, while only the more advanced should ride the big waves of autumn and winter. It’s possible to rent equipment (surfboards and wetsuits) at the beach.
This beach rivals neighboring Praia do Beliche for the best sunset view in Algarve. The best view is from the top of the cliffs. Just bring a jacket, even in the summer, as it can be windy and cold at the end of the day.
Location: Sagres
Beach for: Surfers
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Rentals: No
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia do Tonel
Praia do Tonel is about a 10-minute walk from the center of Sagres. It’s also 10 minutes from Vila do Bispo, by car. The drive from Lagos is about 35 minutes. Once in Sagres, follow the road to the fortress and then turn to the beach. There’s parking above it, and the access down to the sand is via a ramp. You can also go from Lagos to Sagres by bus (the infrequent bus 47, operated by Vamus).
Beaches by Praia do Tonel
The aforementioned Praia do Beliche is another surfing beach just a 5-minute drive to the northwest from Praia do Tonel. Further north (about 20 minutes by car) is yet another surfing beach, Praia do Castelejo. You can also walk to Praia da Mareta in the center of Sagres in less than 15 minutes.
Hotels by Praia do Tonel
Wavesensations Sagres Surf House
This is where surfers will want to stay. It’s right by Praia do Tonel and has male and female dorms, plus double, twin and triple rooms with a contemporary décor. Outside is a wonderful terrace for sunbathing and outdoor dining.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Wavesensations Sagres Surf House
The Lighthouse Hostel
One of the best hostels in Algarve is about a 20-minute walk from Praia do Tonel. It features a large terrace with a swimming pool, a shared kitchen and a game room, in addition to the mixed dorms, 2-bedroom bungalows and double rooms.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: The Lighthouse Hostel
Tonel Apartamentos Turisticos
To get to Praia do Tonel from these apartments, you just need to walk for about 8 minutes. They have one or two bedrooms and are decorated with bright colors. It’s the choice of families and those on a budget, as it’s possible to prepare meals in the kitchenettes. For a break from the beach, there’s a seasonal outdoor swimming pool.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Tonel Apartamentos Turisticos
Cercas Velhas
A group of renovated houses located less than a 15-minute walk from Praia to Tonel is one of the top places to stay in Sagres. They have kept the original architecture, but the interiors (which are the size of a hotel room or small apartment) are contemporary.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Cercas Velhas
Mareta Beach House
The closest beach is Praia da Mareta (which it overlooks), but Praia to Tonel is a 10-minute walk away. There are double and family rooms, many of them facing an infinity pool and with a sea view.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Mareta Beach House