Pedro DominguesThe coastal region of Lagoa is a true paradise nestled in the heart of the Algarve. It boasts stunning beaches with golden cliffs and crystal-clear waters, offering a dreamy experience for visitors. From Ferragudo to Nossa Senhora da Rocha, and not forgetting Carvoeiro, there are countless excellent options for an unforgettable stay in southern Portugal.
This region is home to some of the Algarve’s most iconic attractions, including Marinha Beach, Benagil Cave, and the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. It’s the perfect destination for immersing yourself in various water activities, with numerous tour companies offering boat trips to explore the enchanting caves or the option to rent kayaks or paddleboards for a personalized adventure.
Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of the best beaches in Carvoeiro and Lagoa. In this article, I’ve curated a simple and comprehensive list of the must-visit beaches that you absolutely cannot miss.
More articles about the South of Portugal
If you’re considering a more extensive itinerary along the Algarve coast, you’ll find a wealth of helpful articles on this blog. Here’s a curated list for your reference. Enjoy! 😉
MORE ARTICLES FROM ALENTEJO AND ALGARVE: - Best Costa da Caparica beaches - Best beaches in Setúbal - Best Beaches in Sesimbra - Visit Ribeiro do Cavalo Beach - Best beaches in Tróia, Comporta and Melides - Best Beaches in Alentejo and Vicentine Coast - Things to do in Odemira and Vila Nova de Milfontes - Things to do in Marvão - Things to do in Elvas - Things to do in Estremoz - Things to do in Vila Viçosa - Things to do in Monsaraz & Alqueva Lake - Things to do in Porto Covo and Sines - Things to do in Arraiolos - Best Things to do in Évora and surroundings - Things to do in Mértola and Guadiana Valley - Things to do in Beja - Algarve Road Trip Itinerary - Best Beaches in Algarve - Things to do in Sagres - Things to do in Lagos - Best Beaches in Lagos - Things to do in Portimão - Things to do in Armação de Pêra and Silves - The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail - Best Beaches in Albufeira - Things to do in Vilamoura and Quarteira - Things to do in Faro - Things to do in Tavira - Things to do in Olhão - Things to do in Monte Gordo
Tours and Activities in Carvoeiro and Lagoa
Similarly, you should consider the following suggestions for activities and excursions in the region to explore the best beaches in Carvoeiro and Lagoa, as well as the top caves in the vicinity. I often use Get Your Guide, Viator, or Civitatis to research and book activities while traveling. 😉 These are trusted companies, so why not do the same?
Tours and Activities in Carvoeiro and Lagoa: 1 - Benagil Caves Kayaking Experience 2 - Pirate Ship Cave Cruise from Portimão 3 - Benagil Caves Tour from Lagos 4 - Boat Tour from Carvoeiro to Marinha Beach 5 - Caves & Dolphin Watching Boat Tour from Albufeira 6 - Benagil Boat Tour + Dolphin Watching from Vilamoura 7 - Benagil Caves Boat Tour (Carvoeiro)
Accommodation tips to visit the best beaches in Carvoeiro
When it comes to accommodation, I also provide several suggestions in the following table, along with a button for you to conduct your own research based on your filters and criteria.
| Accommodation | Score | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Tivoli Carvoeiro | 8.8 | Vale Covo Beach |
| Lagoa Hotel | 8.3 | Lagoa City Center |
| Castelo Guest House | 9.1 | Carvoeiro Beach |
| Rocha Brava | 8.5 | Carvoeiro Cape |
| Hotel Carvoeiro Plaza | 8.6 | Carvoeiro Beach |
| Monte Santo Resort | 8.7 | Carvoeiro |
| Hello Villas | 8.8 | Carvoeiro |
| Placid Village | 9.1 | Carvoeiro |
| Villa Welwitshia | 8.8 | Carvoeiro Beach |
| Pestana Palm Gardens | 8.4 | Vale de Centeanes |
| Vila Alba Resort | 8.8 | Albandeira Beach |
| Vilalara Thalassa Resort | 9.3 | Senhora da Rocha |
Best Beaches in Carvoeiro and Lagoa
Finally, the list of the best beaches in Carvoeiro and Lagoa. 😉 I have decided to divide this list into three coastal zones: the central group, from Carvoeiro to Marinha Beach; the group of beaches in Ferragudo, bordering Portimão; and the group of beaches to the east, around Nossa Senhora da Rocha and towards Armação de Pêra.
Best Beaches in Carvoeiro and Lagoa (Central Group)
1. Carvoeiro Beach
Carvoeiro Beach, nestled in the charming village of Carvoeiro in Lagoa, is an essential treasure to discover when visiting the Algarve. Despite being a popular tourist hub, the village retains its traditional character from its fishing village origins. The striking cascade of white houses leading down to the sea is a captivating sight. Nearby, the renowned Algar Seco wooden walkway offers access to awe-inspiring views and dramatic rock formations along the cliffs.
Carvoeiro has a rich history, including notable naval battles such as the victory of Dom Pedro da Cunha and his squadron over the Turkish corsair Xarramet in 1544.
I personally used Carvoeiro Beach as a starting point for the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, but it is not the official beginning. If you’re interested, I invite you to read more about it in my dedicated article.
2. Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach, located near Carvoeiro, offers a serene and authentic experience away from the crowds. Accessing the beach requires navigating a steep staircase, demanding physical fitness and effort, especially when returning from a day enjoying the sun and sea down there. This hidden gem, tucked between cliffs, lacks any beachside facilities, attracting visitors seeking a tranquil and secluded setting.
3. Vale Covo Beach
Vale Covo Beach, located just after the walkways of Algar Seco, offers a stunning sight with its giant cave that dominates the landscape. Witnessing boats passing by with tourists only adds to the allure. Imagine the incredible experience of observing it from the sea or even kayaking inside the cave. Consider adding this thrilling activity to your itinerary when visiting Carvoeiro and Lagoa.
For a premium accommodation option in the area, Tivoli Carvoeiro Hotel is conveniently situated right in front of Vale Covo Beach.
4. Vale de Centeanes Beach
Vale de Centeanes Beach serves as the official starting point of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, as mentioned earlier. However, those who begin the trail from this beach will miss out on the best viewpoint to it, with a strategically placed table and two chairs where you can enjoy a picnic while taking in the stunning scenery.
Despite being one of the narrower beaches in Carvoeiro, Vale de Centeanes Beach boasts towering and vertical cliffs that create a striking contrast. It is renowned as a fantastic spot for snorkeling in the Algarve.
5. Carvalho Beach
Caution must be exercised when accessing Carvalho Beach, as the staircase and tunnel carved into the rock can be slippery. Ensure your safety by taking care during the descent and adhering to all rules regarding the risks of cliff collapses on the sandy shore. While this beach offers a magnificent setting that will undoubtedly delight you, prioritize your safety at all times. Enjoy your visit! 😉
6. Benagil Beach
Benagil Beach is a popular and bustling destination, serving as a hub for boat tours of the caves and kayak rentals. It offers convenient access to the mesmerizing Benagil Cave, a sparkling gem of the Algarve coastline.
While Benagil Beach is ideal for those seeking sea activities, there are more appealing options among the best beaches in Carvoeiro and Lagoa for sunbathing and relaxation.
7. Benagil Cave Beach
Don’t forget that Benagil Cave has its own beach inside.
For those short on time, a boat tour is recommended. However, for a more fulfilling experience, paddling into the cave with a kayak or stand-up paddleboard allows you to reach the sandy beach. Take a look at my tips below and make your choices and reservations accordingly! 😉
Tips on activities to visit Benagil Cave 1 - Benagil Caves Kayaking Experience 2 - Boat Tour from Carvoeiro to Marinha Beach 3 - Benagil Caves Boat Tour (Carvoeiro)
8. Corredoura Beach
Corredoura Beach is a secluded gem that can only be reached by sea, making it a tranquil and uncrowded destination. Luckily, it is conveniently located near the Benagil Cave, requiring just a few extra paddles to access it.
9. Marinha Beach
Marinha Beach is an exquisite gem in the Algarve, known for its unparalleled beauty. It has been ranked among the world’s top 100 most beautiful beaches, solidifying its status as a must-visit destination in any itinerary of the region. Don’t forget to bring your snorkeling mask, as Marinha Beach offers extraordinary opportunities for underwater exploration.
As the final stop on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in Lagoa, Marinha Beach is adorned with breathtaking rock formations, adding a spectacular finale to the region’s best hiking trail. Prepare to be captivated by the sheer beauty of Marinha Beach—it’s a true paradise!
Best Beaches in Carvoeiro and Lagoa (East Group)
During my trip to the Carvoeiro and Lagoa region, my main focus was on the beaches mentioned in the previous group, part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. However, there are other phenomenal beaches in Lagoa before reaching Armação de Pêra that are definitely worth a visit. I had the opportunity to explore some of them. 😉
1. Albandeira Beach
I had difficulties reaching Albandeira Beach as the GPS I was using kept directing me through impassable roads. However, there are accessible routes, particularly from the Caramujeira area. Despite the road being narrow, it’s manageable.
Albandeira Beach boasts breathtaking rock formations, including the impressive Albandeira Arch. Although not visible from the beach itself, you can get a frontal view of the arch through a tunnel leading to Estaquinha Beach. Please note that access to Estaquinha Beach through the tunnel may be restricted during high tide.
Additionally, I recommend exploring the surrounding cliffs and visiting FontaÃnhas Beach, Morena Beach, and Pontal Beach. These beaches offer equally stunning natural rock formations, with the famous submarine-shaped boulder near Morena Beach being a standout feature.
2. Nossa Senhora da Rocha Beach
Nossa Senhora da Rocha Beach stands out for its quaint fishermen’s chapel perched atop a narrow promontory, which separates it from the neighboring Praia Nova (New Beach). Visiting this chapel is a must for anyone exploring the Algarve region, and I’m confident you’ll adore the breathtaking viewpoint it offers.
3. Cova Redonda Beach
While not as obligatory, the surrounding beaches are equally fantastic. Take a look at the photo below to get a sense of what awaits you during your trip: Ponta da Adega Beach, just after Nossa Senhora da Rocha; Escaleiras Beach (not clearly visible, unfortunately); Cavalos Beach; and the remarkable Cova Redonda Beach with its distinctive rock formation in the sea. 😉 Among the mentioned beaches, Cova Redonda is the largest and undoubtedly the finest!
4. Tremoços Beach, Beijinhos Beach, and Vale Olival Beach
Also referring to Tremoços Beach, Beijinhos Beach, and Vale Olival Beach, although I haven’t had the opportunity to visit them yet. It’s worth noting that Tremoços Beach used to be smaller in size, but it has been expanded through the construction of a breakwater and artificial sand injection.
Best Beaches in Carvoeiro and Lagoa (Ferragudo Group)
Ferragudo is situated close to Portimão, yet it remains part of the municipality of Lagoa. Therefore, I deem the following beaches as viable choices for this article.
1. Angrinha Beach and Praia Grande
Among the Ferragudo group, the first two beaches are river beaches situated along the Arade River. The captivating landscape is adorned by the Castle of São João do Arade, also known as Ferragudo Castle or Fort of São João Baptista. This historic fortress traces its roots back to the time of Philippine dominion in Portugal.
2. Pintadinho Beach and Caneiros Beach
As for Pintadinho Beach and Caneiros Beach, they are both coastal gems situated near the Ponta do Altar Lighthouse, a must-see attraction also. Take advantage of the breathtaking view from there overlooking Portimão.
Map with the best beaches in Carvoeiro and Lagoa
Rent a Car to visit the best beaches in Carvoeiro and Lagoa
A car is completely mandatory to easily explore all the beauty in Carvoeiro region. If you don’t have your own car, decide to rent it with Discover Cars, comparing prices and conditions there between rental companies.
Take out Travel Insurance to visit Carvoeiro and Lagoa
I also recommend that you take out travel insurance for your stay in Carvoeiro region, and I recommend to do it with World Nomads.
Other beaches near Carvoeiro and Lagoa, in Algarve
In the surroundings of Carvoeiro and Lagoa, there are many other Algarve beaches for you to explore. Discover them all by consulting my dedicated articles. 😉 Have a great journey in the south of my country.
MORE ARTICLES FROM ALENTEJO AND ALGARVE: - Best Costa da Caparica beaches - Best beaches in Setúbal - Best Beaches in Sesimbra - Visit Ribeiro do Cavalo Beach - Best beaches in Tróia, Comporta and Melides - Best Beaches in Alentejo and Vicentine Coast - Things to do in Odemira and Vila Nova de Milfontes - Things to do in Marvão - Things to do in Elvas - Things to do in Estremoz - Things to do in Vila Viçosa - Things to do in Monsaraz & Alqueva Lake - Things to do in Porto Covo and Sines - Things to do in Arraiolos - Best Things to do in Évora and surroundings - Things to do in Mértola and Guadiana Valley - Things to do in Beja - Algarve Road Trip Itinerary - Best Beaches in Algarve - Things to do in Sagres - Things to do in Lagos - Best Beaches in Lagos - Things to do in Portimão - Things to do in Armação de Pêra and Silves - The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail - Best Beaches in Albufeira - Things to do in Vilamoura and Quarteira - Things to do in Faro - Things to do in Tavira - Things to do in Olhão - Things to do in Monte Gordo
