Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Lagos, in the western part of the Algarve, not only has beaches and water sports, but cafes, restaurants, an exciting night life and many hotels. Ideal for walking, the long, wide beach of Porto do Mos offers crashing waves and scenic, jagged cliffs. The beach is about a 25-minute walk from the old town.
A little more difficult to get to, accessed only by stairs, is the popular and busy Dona Ana beach, shaded by towering cliffs. This one is about a 10-minute walk.
Do Camilo, about a 15-minute walk, is more secluded, with crystal waters, marine life and a rock tunnel offering access to a similar beach. With all the cliffs and caves in the area, hire a local boat and go exploring. Try to go early and on a calm day.
In the middle of the Algarve is the popular resort town of Albufeira, with its many hotels, restaurants, swinging nightlife and 25 beaches. The most popular beach, Dos Pescadores, or Fishermen's Beach, is a wide, golden-sand beach that sits in front of the old town, where sunbathers can marvel at the jagged rocks jutting out of the water just offshore. This beach is a popular party place in the summer.
Split by and surrounded by rock, Dos Olhos d'Agua beach has many coves and rock pools to be explored. Get to the beach early to buy fresh fish from the local fishermen. For a scenic beach walk, walk the 1 1/2 miles to Oura beach at low tide.
Located at the southwestern tip of Europe, Sagres is unlike its typical Algarve neighbors to the east. It is not a built-up tourist haven with bustling night life and big resorts, but a small, almost forgotten village. The beaches around here are also quite remote, compared to the more popular ones to the east.
Beliche beach, a short ride to the west, is a soft, sandy beach backed by cliffs. No restaurants or amenities are available on the beach, which is probably what keeps tourists away. This is a popular place for surfers.
Mareta beach, the closest to town, is also the busiest. Protected from the wind by beautifully colored cliffs, it is popular with sunbathers. With three restaurants, snacks and meals are not a problem. This beach is not wheelchair-accessible.