Praia da Alagoa/Altura is in Altura, in the municipality of Castro Marim, within the Natura 2000 area of Ria Formosa/Castro Marim. It has golden sand and an extensive dune system. To plan your visit, the essential point is that the municipality indicates two car parks and four beach access points, three of them with elevated boardwalks down to the sand. The existence of adapted facilities, lifeguards and support equipment is described on the municipal page, but this does not guarantee operation in all seasons. Confirm the services you need before travelling.
| Need | What the municipal information indicates | Recommended decision |
|---|---|---|
| Arriving by car | Two car parks, no price indicated | Use the car parks indicated by the municipality and confirm conditions on arrival |
| Pedestrian access | Four access points; three with elevated boardwalks down to the sand | Choose an access point with a boardwalk if you need a more even surface |
| Reduced mobility | Reserved parking, adapted toilets and amphibious chairs at specific units | Contact the municipality or the concession holder to confirm the unit and availability |
| Lifeguard cover and support | Lifeguards described at the beach support facilities | Do not assume permanent lifeguard cover; confirm the period and location |
Parking and arrival
The official page of Castro Marim Municipality lists two car parks for Praia da Alagoa/Altura. Prices are not indicated. As availability may vary with the season and time of day, confirm parking conditions on arrival, especially on days of higher demand.
Pedestrian access and boardwalks
The municipality describes four access points to the beach. Three have elevated boardwalks down to the sand. This means the route may be more even at those points, but you should not assume that the entire dune system is free of steps or changes in level. Loose sand and the natural slope of the terrain still require care.
Using the designated access points helps protect the dune vegetation. Avoid cutting across the dunes, even if it seems shorter.
Adapted facilities and beach support
The municipal information mentions adapted toilets, reserved parking and amphibious chairs at specific beach units. It also describes lifeguards at the beach support facilities and an area for football and volleyball. These descriptions do not guarantee operation at all times of year.
If you need an amphibious chair, an adapted toilet or lifeguard cover, confirm in advance which unit offers the service and whether it will be operational on the date of your visit. Direct confirmation avoids unnecessary journeys.
Sea conditions and water quality
The municipal page describes water quality, but this does not mean the sea is always calm or free of warnings. Conditions can change quickly. Before entering the water, observe the local signage and the instructions of the lifeguards, if present.
For a broader perspective on beaches in the Algarve, you can consult the guide The 15 Best Beaches in the Algarve in 2026: Complete Guide with Photos and Tips. If travelling with children, the article Algarve with Children: 12 Activities the Whole Family Will Love brings together complementary ideas for organising the day.
Confirmation before travelling
The official source was verified on 2026-09-09. As beach services can change from season to season, the safest decision is to confirm directly with Castro Marim Municipality or with local concession holders. The official beach page is available at Praia de Alagoa/Altura.
Plan on the basis of what is confirmed: two car parks, four access points, three boardwalks and adapted facilities at specific units. Confirm bathing conditions and the services you need on site.
