Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
 

Discover Lagoa, one of the most beautiful cities in the Algarve region, in southern Portugal, full of natural beauty, beaches and beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean!

THE CITY OF LAGOA

Lagoa is a coastal city located in the south of Portugal that has about 24 thousand inhabitants. It is divided into 4 parishes: ferragudo; Estombar and Parchal; Lagoa and Carvoeiro; and porches. Along with the neighboring city of Lagos, its beaches are on all lists of the most beautiful in Portugal. With waters in tones ranging from turquoise blue to emerald green, golden sand beaches and cinematic colored cliffs, including Lagoa in your Algarve itinerary is a must!

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
On the beautiful Praia da Marinha
Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Benagil Cave, one of the main highlights of Lagoa| Photo: publicity

A LITTLE OF HISTORY…

According to scholars, the name “Lagoa” is due to the fact that the first settlements in the area took place on the banks of small lakes, swamps and lagoons, which were drained to create fertile land. Celts, Romans, Visigoths and Arabs passed through the region from the 8th century until the Reconquista in the 12th century. The coastal area was, for centuries, attacked by barbarian pirates and corsairs, with those responsible for public security erecting various defensive structures along the coast, such as the fortresses of Nossa Senhora da Rocha, Carvoeiro and São João de Ferragudo, in addition to the viewpoints and redoubts, such as the Lapa or Marinha towers. In 1773, the village was officially elevated to the category of town.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Lagoa is home to some of the most beautiful areas in the Algarve

On the other hand, natural resources contributed to the local economy, including agriculture (with emphasis on fruit growing and viticulture), fishing (with canning industries that were responsible for an economic boom in the early twentieth century), and industry light. However, from the 1960s onwards, tourism increasingly became the main driver of the region's economic development and the creation of new infrastructure. It was precisely the growth of tourism, along with all related activities (especially in civil construction, services and commerce in general), that raised Lagoa to the status of a city.

WHEN TO VISIT LAGOA

Lagoa is a good choice all year round, but if you have plans to make the most of the beaches, the best time to visit the region is may to september. During this period, temperatures vary between 16ºC and 27ºC. during the months hottest (from July to August), it practically doesn't rain, but accommodation tends to get more expensive, as the number of tourists increases a lot. The rainiest months are October, November and December and the coldest are december, january and february. In winter, temperatures vary between 11ºC and 15ºC. We were there in May and the temperature was mild, with warmer days and colder nights, needing a cold sweater at times. In the summer months, there are usually some interesting events in the city:

  • Portuguese Gastronomy Week: This event consists of a thematic exhibition that promotes Portuguese gastronomy and has the presence of a dozen typical restaurants. It also includes a handicraft fair and takes place at month june.
  • FATACIL (Lagoa Crafts, Tourism, Agriculture, Commerce and Industry Fair): Created in 1980, this fair has trade, industry, agriculture, handicraft and gastronomy exhibitions. The event usually takes place over ten days in the August.
  • SOUNDS OF THE ATLANTIC: This is a music festival at Senhora da Rocha in Lagoa. The event includes concerts, street theater, handicrafts and gastronomy and takes place at August.
  • FATT (Festival of Didgeridoo): Every year, during the summer, at the beginning of September, the Didgeridoo Festival takes place at Sítio das Fontes, in Estombar, parish of Lagoa. Didgeridoo is a wind musical instrument of Australian origin. It is possible to camp on site and the festival hosts several musical concerts. Event date varies.
  • SandCity FIESA: The largest sand sculpture festival in the world, FIESA (International Sand Sculpture Festival), which features artists from all over the world. It takes place on different dates between March and October. buy tickets in this link.
Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
View from Praia do Carvoeiro

HOW TO GET AND GET AROUND LAGOA

Of course you can reach Lagoa by plane, through the Faro airport and take a local bus, taxi or Uber to get to Lagoa. But most people usually go by car anyway. Having a car in Lagoa has many facilities, but the biggest difficulty is finding places to park, especially in high season. See details of the main means of transport.

  • CAR: We were doing a tour from north to south in Portugal when we visited the city for the first time and, therefore, we rent a car to travel around the country, which made it much easier for us to move to more distant areas.
  • BUS (BUS): It's an excellent way to go to Lagoa, as the journey through Express Network it takes just over 3 hours and there are buses leaving Lisbon every two hours. Another option is by RenEX which lasts for 3h20 twice a day. Generally, prices vary between €4.99 and €20, depending on the time of day.
  • TRAIN (TRAIN): Another option is to take the train trains from Portugal  and get off at the Estombar-Lagoa station, a little far from the city's beach area. The journey takes around 4 hours and costs, on average, between €22 and €30 (there are cheaper promotional tickets).
  • TOURS & EXCURSIONS: There are options for private and group tours departing from Lisbon to the Algarve region. Some interesting options:

WHAT TO DO IN LAGOA

The Lagoa region is full of natural beauty, beautiful golden sand beaches and breathtaking rock formations. To facilitate your planning to get to know the area, we put all the tips mentioned in this post on the interactive map below. The beaches and attractions of village of ferragudo are in purple; the beaches of village of Carvoeiro are in orange; the beaches of village of Lagoa are in green; the beaches of porches village are in blue; It is additional tips of walks (furthest from the coastal region) are in pink. Furthermore, suggestions for restaurants are indicated in red, hosting tips can be found in dark gray and train stations and other tips are in black. Then, check out details about each of the attractions and tips for getting to know the city of Lagos.

best beaches

>> VILA DE FERRAGUDO

Ferragudo is a beautiful fishing village where, in the past, much of its economy was linked to fishing. Currently, the main activities are focused on tourism, as its main attraction is its beautiful beaches. Then find out a little more about

1. ANGRINHA BEACH AND SÃO JOÃO DO ARADE CASTLE

Located in the estuary of the River Arade, right in front of Portimão, Praia da Angrinha has a large strip of sand surrounded by rocky walls and a lot of vegetation. It is the closest beach to the center of Ferragudo and is a good option for sunbathing. The beach is protected from big waves, with very calm waters. However, due to the presence of many boats, it is not one of the best beaches for swimming, but it is interesting for surfing, windsurfing and sailing.

Portugal: What to do in Portimão, Algarve - Guide and Tips
Castle of Sao Joao do Arade

In the north of the beach is located the Fort of Sao Joao do Arade, built in the 15th century. This fort, next to the Fortress of Santa Catarina on the other side of the river, in Portimão, guaranteed the defense of the region against invasions, in addition to controlling the movement of vessels. Later, the fort was converted to be a holiday residence and gained a castle-like appearance.

2. FERRAGUDO GRANDE BEACH

Praia Grande is also located on the estuary of the river Arade, passing the Fort of São João do Arade. The beach has a large stretch of sand and has an excellent structure for practicing water sports, including surfing and windsurfing, in addition to parking, a bar and restaurant, showers, rental of sunbeds and umbrellas. When the tide is low, it is possible to walk around the fort and take a walk to Praia da Angrinha.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Praia Grande in Ferragudo | Photograph: Francis Santos – Wikimedia Commons

3. PRAIA DO MOLHE 

Praia do Molhe, also at the mouth of the Arade River, is divided in half into two small areas of sand by a 650-metre long pier (a narrow structure supported by the seabed) that gives the beach its name. Due to its geographical position, the waters are very calm. Access to the sand is via a staircase in the cliff from the parking lot. It is even possible to see the boats in the Portimão Marina.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Praia do Molhe | Photograph: Joseolgon – Wikimedia Commons

4. PINTADINHO BEACH & LIGHTHOUSE OF PONTA DO ALTAR

Praia do Pintadinho is surrounded by clay rocks that are often used by fishermen. The right rock draws a cape that enters the sea where the Ponta do Altar Lighthouse. This 32 meter high lighthouse was built in 1893 and consists of a square white tower, exposed granite corners and a red lantern. Beyond the lighthouse, there is a white house where the lighthouse keepers used to live.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Pintadinho Beach | Photograph: Joseolgon – Wikimedia Common

5. PRAIA DOS CANEIROS

Around the small promontory of Ponta do Altar of Praia do Pintadinho is the small cove of Praia dos Caneiros, about 200 meters long. There is even a hidden beach between Praia dos Caneiros and the lighthouse, known as Praia do Vale da Azinhaga. Praia dos Caneiros is in front of a large rock isolated by the water known as “Leixão das Gaivotas”, an islet with a steep slope that is home to several species of birds. The cliffs offer protection from the winds, but the beach itself is outside the shelter of the breakwaters at the mouth of the River Arade, which means the sea can get quite rough at times. One of the most striking features of the beach is a large isolated rock in front of the beach and the view over the lighthouse on the right side. On the beach there is also a well-known restaurant called Rei das Praias.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Praia dos Caneiros | Photograph: Joseolgon – Wikimedia Commons

The sand is fine and golden, great for walking. The sea is relatively calm and the waves are usually small, making it a good place for swimming, diving and snorkeling. In addition, you can rent kayaks and pedal boats on the beach to explore the surroundings.

>> VILLAGE OF CARVOEIRO

Like Ferragudo, Carvoeiro was once a fishing village and, since the 1960s, has emerged as a tourist resort due to its beautiful golden sand beaches, rock formations and crystal clear waters. Check below the main attractions of this parish.

6. PRAIA DO PARAÍSO

Praia do Paraíso is a very small beach that is next to Monte Carvoeiro and, even in summer, it is not usually crowded, as it is hidden and not very well known. Access to the beach is via a steep staircase along the cliffs, which protect the beach from the winds. During high tide, the beach practically disappears, but during low tide, you can find some natural pools. Although it has no infrastructure, it is a good place to sunbathe, relax and explore the caves on both sides of the beach.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Staircase leading to Praia do Paraíso

7. CARVOEIRO BEACH

This picturesque beach is in a pleasant bay with calm waters and also surrounded by beautiful cliffs, where the white houses of fishermen are located. The trails and Miradouro da Senhora da Encarnação on top of the cliffs allow panoramic views of the surroundings of the clear waters of the beach and the charming village of Carvoeiro. Although not very large, the beach is very popular with tourists, as there are several boat trips along the coast to discover more hidden beaches and caves. Behind the beach, there is a central square with good options for shopping. This is a very busy beach with many options for entertainment as well as bars and restaurants.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Carvoeiro beach

8. FORT OF OUR LADY OF THE ENCARNATION

Close to the beach is the Fort of Our Lady of the Incarnation, also called fort of carvoeiro. It is a military building built around 1670 to protect the region with an irregular polygon-shaped plan. It was severely destroyed by the 1755 earthquake and rebuilt in 1796. In the 19th century, the structure fell into decline. In 1871, it began to function as a Fiscal Guard. In 1937, part of the old walls of the fort were demolished, during the installation of the road that leads to Algar Seco. In 1965, repair work was carried out both at the tax office and at the chapel. Of the old fort, only part of the wall remains, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Incarnation and some buildings that were also part of the Fiscal Guard.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Nossa Senhora da Encarnação Chapel | Photo: publicity

9. ALGAR SECO & CARVOEIRO BOARDWALK

Algar Seco is a natural monument consisting of a series of rocks and caves carved by winds and waters. It is a true wonder of nature in which the opening of the rocks resemble balconies and windows overlooking the sea. It is in Algar Seco that the famous “Boneca” is found, a rock in the shape of an inverted cone that is said to look like a doll when seen from the sea. Further down is the entrance to the famous Algar Seco tunnels.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Algar Seco | Photograph: Ana_Rey – Wikimedia Commons

To get to Algar Seco, take the Estrada do Algar Seco road. Then it is necessary to walk, on foot, a kind of labyrinth with 134 steps of reddish rocks. You can also walk from the Fort of Our Lady of the Incarnation, traversing the approximately 570 meters of the Carvoeiro Boardwalk (also called Passadiços do Carvoeiro or Caminho do Algar Seco) that connect the fort to the Algar Seco area, passing through the Viewpoint of the cliff of Carvoeiro. Other ways to get to know the region are to take a boat trip, which depart from the marinas in Vilamoura, Albufeira or Portimão or rent a kayak or stand up paddle.

10. VALE COVO BEACH

Praia do Vale Covo is a small cove with calm waters due to its location next to a cliff where there is a diving center. The strip of sand is super small and disappears during high tide. One of the highlights of this beach is the existence of a small island located about 55 meters from the coast. To the east, there is a cave in the cliffs with a huge arch at the entrance and to the west is a staircase that gives access to the beach from the top of the cliff.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Covo Valley Beach | Photograph: aurore pro ferroglio

11. PRAIA DO VALE CENTEANES

Praia do Vale Centeanes is a beach located at the foot of high, jagged cliffs that is an excellent option for snorkeling. The beach has all the necessary tourist infrastructure with a cafe near the entrance to the beach, as well as restrooms, as well as a stall selling ice cream and cold drinks during the summer.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Vale Centeanes beach

This is where the “Route of the Seven Hanging Valleys”, which opened in 2010 and stretches for almost 6 km. The beach has golden sands and waters are clear and clean, being excellent for swimming, diving and snorkeling. There are also several boat trips departing from this beach.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Start of the Suspension Valleys Route
Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Information plaque on the Route of the Suspended Valleys

12. CARVALHO BEACH

Praia do Carvalho is a quiet beach that has a wide strip of sand in the shape of a shell and is surrounded by cliffs with fine, golden sand. On the west side of the beach is a cave in the cliffs. In front of the beach, there is an islet. Access is via a staircase built in two hand-dug tunnels inside the cliff, where marine fossils can be seen. Supposedly, its name is due to the fact that it was owned by a captain named Carvalho. As the beach is surrounded by high cliffs, the beach is covered in shadows well into the early evening. If you want to be exposed to the sun, it is better to stay on the left side of the beach, where there is the greatest period of sun during the day. The waters are crystal clear and one of the best places in the Algarve to go snorkeling.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Carvalho Beach | Vitor Oliveira – Wikimedia Commons

>> VILA DE LAGOA

Following the example of the previous parishes, Lagoa was also a fishing village and, for a long time, it was the main economic activity, along with agriculture and the canning industry. From the 1960s, tourism emerged strongly, boosting local development. Of the four parishes that make up the municipality of Lagoa, this is the one with the longest coastline and the one that deserves the most time, as the Benagil Cave and Praia da Marinha are two places that you cannot miss. Below, check out its main highlights.

13. BENAGIL BEACH & BENAGIL CAVE

Praia de Benagil is a 130-metre long beach bathed by calm waters from where many boat trips depart to discover deserted beaches and sea caves not easily accessible by land. The region is famous for having a population devoted to the fishing industry and access to the beach leads to an area reserved for fishing vessels. The limestone cliffs around Benagil have been eroded into many weird and wonderful ways over the years. In varying degrees of yellow and orange, caves, arches, pinnacles and caverns have been carved into the cliffs.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Benagil beach
Portugal: What to do in Albufeira, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Benagil beach seen from the sea

What really impresses in Benagil is the Benagil Cave, also. It is an extraordinary cave in the shape of a cathedral with arched entrances and a small beach inside as well as a algar, a hole in the ceiling of the cave which can be seen from the top through a 350-meter-long trail from the parking lot. The best ways to access it are by boat, kayak, stand up paddle and there are also several walks to the beach.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Arriving at Benagil Cave by boat
Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
The cave houses a small beach that is illuminated by the opening in the ceiling.

THE Benagil Cave it has two entrances from the sea, which are separated by a rocky sandstone wall. The first entrance is just 100 meters from the left corner of Benagil beach, the second, 50 meters later. These two entrances are the accesses to the cave, where the tour boats stop for photos. To park, go past the beach and continue for another 200 meters, going up a hill where there is a free parking lot.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Benagil Cave | Photo: publicity

We did the tour"Albufeira: Speedboat Ride Algar de Benagil and Dolphins” and we thought it was super cool to be able to see incredible beaches up close, including the Benagil Cave.

14. CORREDOURA BEACH

Praia da Corredoura is a secluded beach, accessed only through the water and is famous for having crystal clear waters, being surrounded by cliffs and having picturesque views. With fine sand, the beach is ideal for those who like more isolated places, without large crowds. The beach has no tourist infrastructure, but it is an excellent option for getting in touch with nature with sea and sun bathing, and other water activities such as kayaking.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Corredoura Beach | Photograph: Alesia Kozik

15. MESQUITA BEACH

Praia da Mesquita consists of a wide strip of sand from which you can see the beauty of two islets located in the waters a short distance from the beach, as well as two natural arches made of limestone that resemble ancient Roman buildings. At the top of the cliff, there are several trails that give access to the beach and the parking lot that is located at the entrance to Praia da Marinha, which is next door and is separated only by a rock.

Portugal: What to do in Albufeira, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Rock formations known as Arch of the Mosque

16. PRAIA DA MARINHA

considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal and one of the most beautiful in Europe, it is known for its beautiful cliffs and clear turquoise waters perfect for diving and snorkeling. Due to its beauty, the beach is consistently used by advertising agencies and recording advertisements. Although it is not very big, the waters hit the rocks and are responsible for the iconic rock formations, promoting incredible views. On the right side of the beach is a famous rock structure that looks like the letter “M”.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Praia da Marinha
Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Rock formations at Praia da Marinha
Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
The beauty of the region impresses

Seriously, it was the beach that most impressed us in Lagos! There is parking on top of the cliffs which offers stunning views of the beach and water. However, vacancies are not enough to meet the demand. We went out of season, in May, and even so we had to wait for about 15 minutes to get a parking space. To get to the beach, go down a steep staircase on the left. It is also possible to access it via a boat trip, taking the opportunity to discover other beaches in the surroundings and sea caves.

Portugal: What to do in Albufeira, Algarve – Guide and Tips
amazing rock formations
Portugal: What to do in Albufeira, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Praia da Marinha is a must

17. BARRANQUINHO BEACH

Praia do Barranquinho is known for its different formation, since the extension between the beach access to the sand and the sea is greater than the extension of the beach. At the top of the cliff, there are pine trees that make the place even more interesting and to the east, there is a complex of caves. The beach is usually frequented by those looking for quiet places and also by naturists. It's easier to get there by sea, but if you want to walk to the beach, it's easier to go from Praia da Marinha, as the view is really nice.

Portugal: What to do in Albufeira, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Barranquinho Beach

>> PORCHES VILLAGE

Porches is the last region of Lagoa before reaching the municipality of Silves (for those traveling east) and it only became a village in 2001. The region is famous for its wine, potteries and, of course, since the 1980s, tourism . It also has natural beauties, beautiful beaches with turquoise waters.

18. ALBANDEIRA BEACH

Praia de Albandeira is located in a region that is home to small coves and bays created in the yellow limestone cliffs. At high tide, two distinct beaches separated by rock formations are created. It is famous for its natural rock pools, surrounded by fine golden sand, crystal clear waters excellent for diving or snorkeling, as well as beautiful rock formations.

Portugal: What to do in Albufeira, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Arch of Albandeira
Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Arriving at Praia de Albandeira

On one side of the beach, the cliff face has a cave-like formation, while just around the headland is the iconic Arco de Albandeira. The beach has a great infrastructure with restrooms and also has the “Bar Pirata”, a good place to eat a pizza, salad or sandwich or have a cold beer or coffee.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Left side of Praia de Albandeira

19. PRAIA DAS FONTAINHAS

Praia das Fontainhas is a small shell-shaped beach surrounded by cliffs and vegetation. The waters are calm and clear. Access is via a dirt path not recommended for young children. The beach is usually not very crowded and, therefore, it is highly recommended for those who want a quiet place to relax and get in touch with nature, since it does not have tourist infrastructure.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Fontainhas Beach | Photograph: Kolforn – Wikimedia Commons

20. PRAIA DA MORENA

Praia da Morena, also known as Praia do Ferro de Engomar, is a small cove with calm, crystalline waters and golden sands. The beach has a central cave and to the east there is a large rocky island sticking out of the water which is known as “Ferro de Engomar” or “Submarino” (due to its shape) and is just over 100 meters from the beach. O access to the beach is only done by the sea.

Portugal: What to do in Albufeira, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Morena beach

21. PRAIA DO PONTAL

Located right next to Praia da Morena, Praia do Pontal has a good strip of sand in the shape of a shell and is surrounded by cliffs. To the west, in the water, there is a small cave, and to the east, there is an area for sunbathing and jumping and diving. O access is possible only by water and the beach has no tourist infrastructure.

Portugal: What to do in Albufeira, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Pontal Beach

22. BARRANCO BEACH

Praia do Barranco is a beach surrounded by cliffs and has a very narrow strip of sand of about 160 meters, crystalline waters and blue-green tones.

Portugal: What to do in Albufeira, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Barranco beach

23. PRAIA NOVA

Praia Nova has an extensive strip of sand divided in half by rock formations, many of which come from landslides coming from the top of the cliff. Access to the beach is via a staircase that cuts through the cliff, in the central area of the beach. To the east is the Fort and Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Rocha.

Portugal: What to do in Albufeira, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Praia Nova
Portugal: What to do in Albufeira, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Chapel of Our Lady of the Rock at the top of the hill

24. BEACH & CHURCH OF OUR LADY OF THE ROCHA

This beach is in the area of a fishing village and received this name due to the presence of the old Church of Our Lady of the Rock, in honor of the Virgin Mary, located on top of the cliff where the remains of the Fort of Our Lady of the Rock. From the car park at the top of the cliffs, you can easily climb up to the chapel. The exact origins of the chapel are unknown, but several sources suggest that a building has existed here since the 8th century. From the top, it is possible to have a beautiful panoramic view of the coast, being an excellent place to watch the sunset.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Rocha | Photograph: Rsantus – Wikimedia Commons

The beach is not very big (the beach is about 100 meters long and 40 meters wide) and has soft yellow sand, but also has several broken shells that can hurt your feet. It is great for swimming and water sports, including kayaking and jet skiing, but wind surfing is not a good idea, as the cliffs protect the beach from the winds. A curiosity is that there is a tunnel excavated in the rock that connects Praia de Nossa Senhora da Rocha to Praia Nova. It is best to use this tunnel during low tide.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Nossa Senhora da Rocha Beach | Photograph: Joseolgon – Wikimedia Commons

25. COVA REDONDA BEACH

Praia da Cova Redonda is also known as Praia do Vila Lara or Praia das Gaivotas. It has a good stretch of sand and very calm and calm waters and is protected from the wind by the cliffs. Access to the beach is via a large stone staircase of more than 100 steps to the west of the beach, surrounded by vegetation. The beach has a large rock formation in the water that resembles a ship or a large whale. During the summer, the beach is very popular with families.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Cova Redonda Beach | Photograph: Vitor Oliveira – Wikimedia Commons

26. BEIJINHOS BEACH

Praia dos Beijinho is a cove with several bays with turquoise waters and brown sand. There are many rocks and seabirds on the beach, as well as vegetation. The beach is very quiet and never crowded, great for those who like privacy. The name is due to the fact that there are a large number of kissing whelks on the beach. Families with children usually go to the beach during the summer, as small lagoons form during low tide. Access to Praia dos Beijinhos is via a sidewalk next to the luxurious Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa. The beach has parking, but no other infrastructure such as bathrooms, showers, restaurants, lifeguards, among others.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Beijinhos Beach | Photograph: Guy MOLL – Wikimedia Commons

27. PRAIA DO VALE DO OLIVAL

Praia do Vale do Olival is a good stretch and has a cliff with a natural arch in the shape of a door, which can be crossed. At the opposite end, flows into the Ribeira do Vale do Olival. The water is great for swimming, there are few waves and not much wind, but you have to be careful with the rocks. In summer, this beach is very crowded, as it has a good infrastructure, including renting sunbeds and umbrellas. It is very popular with families with children and couples, as well as being great for walks.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Vale do Olival Beach | Photograph: Vitor Oliveira – Wikimedia Commons

>> OTHER TIPS

28. ARMAÇÃO DE PÊRA BEACH

This beach tip is a bonus, since Armação de Pêra is a parish in the city of Silves, neighboring Lagoa. It ended up on this list of attractions because Armação de Pêra is very close to Lagoa and has more of a city feel. In the past, it was a fishing village and some old houses have been preserved and can still be seen today. Praia de Armação de Pêra is an extensive sandy beach (about 1 km long and 50 meters wide), has calm turquoise waters and has several restaurant options in the surroundings, which makes it one of the favorites for beachgoers. tourists during the summer months.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Armação de Pêra Beach | Photo: publicity

29. SAND CITY

Imagine what a world built of sand looks like. This is Sand City, the largest sand sculpture theme park in the world! The park covers an area of 6 hectares and has around 50,000 tons of sand that have been transformed into more than 90 works produced by various artists. Among the sculptures, it is possible to know a little of everything, traveling through history, culture, art, sport, music, gastronomy, nature and personalities. The site also offers sand sculpting workshops.

  • Address: EN 125, Nº252A, Sítio dos, 8400-395 Lagoa, Portugal
  • Schedules: from March 10th to March 31st: Monday to Friday from 10am to 6pm | from April 1st to July 10th and from October 3rd to 31st: every day from 10 am to 7 pm | from July 11th to October 2nd: every day from 10 am to 10 pm
  • Entrance: from €11.90 – buy it here
Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
The Simpsons Sand Sculpture | Photo: publicity

30. QUINTA DOS VALES – WINE STATE

Founded in 2007 by banker Karl Heinz Stock, Quinta dos Vales is a 44-hectare property considered one of the best wineries in the Algarve. It is possible to learn more about the world of the wine production process with super interesting experiences, enjoy beautiful views, admire works of art, taste wines and even host your 4 star hotel. Check available activities in this link.

  • Address: Quinta dos Vales Sítio dos Vales, 8400-031 Estombar, Portugal
  • Schedules: Monday to Friday from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm
  • Entrance: wine tasting + guided tour 32€
Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Barrels with wine at Quinta dos Vales | Photo: publicity

31. SLIDE & SPLASH

After the adults enjoy a wine tasting at Quinta dos Vales, it's time to have fun with the kids at Slide & Splash, a water park that operates during the summer months. The place has swimming pools, toboggans, as well as various attractions and shows.

  • Address: Vale de Deus 125, 8401-901 Estombar, Portugal
  • Schedules: opens between early April and early November | confirm the dates and times of each day on the official website
  • Entrance: 30€ adults | 22€ children (under 1 meter tall up to 10 years old) and seniors 65+ | free for children under 1 meter tall | Tip: check for discounts on purchase online!

32. AQUALAND ALGARVE

Aqualand Algarve is a water park located in the parish of Alcantarilha, in the municipality of Silves, next to Lagoa. It is a large water park with various pools, slides, wave pool for surfing and more. A good choice for those traveling with children.

  • Address: Estrada Nacional 125 – Sítio das Areias, 8365-908 Alcantarilha, Portugal
  • Schedules: open during the summer months (mid-June to early September) | confirm the dates and times of each day on the official website
  • Entrance: 30€ adults | 21€ children (between 5 and 10 years old) and seniors 65+ | free for children up to 4 years old | Tip: there is a good discount on the purchase online!
Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Aqualand Algarve | Photo: publicity

TOURS AND EXCURSIONS IN LAGOA

There are many tours, tours and activities available in Lagoa and region that are worth it! Boat trips and kayaking are among some of the main attractions. Below, check out some of the options and click to learn more.

WHERE TO EAT IN LAGOA

We made a selection of some restaurants and bars close to the main beaches in Lagoa. Keep in mind that as they are in tourist areas, prices can be higher than elsewhere. Below, check out some options to help you when hunger strikes.

RUSTY

COLOMER

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Mar d'Fora Restaurant at Praia do Paraíso

LAGOON

PORCHES

PEAR FRAME

Portugal: L'Oasis Pizzeria in Armação de Pêra, Algarve
Colorful pizza from L'Oasis Pizzeria in Armação de Pêra

WHERE TO STAY IN LAGOA

Lagoa is home to some good accommodation options. Below, check out a selection of interesting places to stay in the city.

Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
One of the rooms at the Hotel Carvoeiro Plaza
Portugal: What to do in Lagoa, Algarve – Guide and Tips
Charming room at the Tivoli Carvoeiro

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Read more about Portugal:

HARBOR

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