The Ocean Terraces by Vila Gaivota are surrounded by some of the best beaches in Algarve, with crystal clear waters, fine white sands, ochre sandstone cliffs and beautiful rock formations, including a number of caves worth exploring. The pathways along the cliffs also make for a great way to get to know the area’s coastline.

Praia dos Caneiros (walking distance)

A beautiful Blue Flag award beach, backed by an ochre cliff wall and facing a small islet named Leap of Seagulls, home to various bird species. To the west, you can see the Ponta do Altar Lighthouse. Caneiros Beach offers a small parking lot, seasonal lifeguard service, sunbeads and parasols, and the Rei das Praias Restaurant & Bar, which serves full meals or snacks and hosts live music performers. If you prefer something calmer, try Torrado Beach just next to it.

Praia do Torrado (walking distance)

Only accessible at low tide from west of the Caneiros beach, Torrado beach consists of a small sandstrip surrounded by sharp cliffs. It presents a quieter, uncrowded and unsupervised alternative to its neighbouring beach, still offering calm waters and a lovely view.

Praia do Pintadinho (walking distance)

Also a Blue Flag award beach, located just beyond the mouth of the Arade River, this scenic beach offers calm waters, typically Algarve rock formations and caves, and a scenic view of the Ponta do Altar Lighthouse and Portimão in the distance. A restaurant sits right by the entrance, and there is a small parking lot.

Praia Grande (5 minute drive)

Praia Grande, also known as Praia de Ferragudo, sits at the end of the Arade river estuary and offers a long sandstrip, framed by cliffs filled with vegetation, and pool-like waters. It is a supervised beach, with sunbeads and parasols, and plenty of restaurants and bars around. At its northern end sits the São João do Arade Castle, which once defended the estuary from pirate attacks.