Secret Beaches of the Algarve
Discover the Algarve's most hidden beaches: caves accessible only by boat, deserted sands and photogenic cliffs.
The Algarve has over 100 beaches, but many hide between cliffs, accessible only by trails or boat. This 3-day itinerary takes you to beaches most tourists never find.
Day 1 — Hidden Beaches of the West
Morning: Praia do Carvalho — accessed through a hand-carved rock tunnel.
Lunch: Cliff-top picnic with sea views.
Afternoon: Praia da Mesquita, trail-access only. Deserted even in August. Then Benagil at sunset.
🏖️ Carvalho · 🏖️ Benagil · 🏨 Hotels in Carvoeiro
Day 2 — Cacela and Tavira Beaches
Morning: Praia de Cacela Velha — boat access from the Algarve’s most photogenic village.
Lunch: Oysters and clams in Cacela Velha village.
Afternoon: Praia do Barril — walk through the anchor cemetery to a vast beach.
🏖️ Cacela Velha · 🏨 Hotels in Tavira
Day 3 — Wild Costa Vicentina
Morning: Praia da Cordoama — dirt road access, 100m cliffs, almost nobody.
Lunch: Grilled fish in Vila do Bispo.
Afternoon: Praia de Odeceixe in the late afternoon — best photography light is 5pm to sunset.
🏖️ Odeceixe · 🏨 Hotels in Sagres
Practical Tips
- Best time: May to June and September (fewer people)
- Getting there: Car essential for secret beaches
- What to bring: Camera, drone (check restrictions), food and water