Albufeira boasts beaches where the sand is fine and the sea a turquoise blue sheltered
by cliffs of many natural hues. It is for its beaches that Albufeira is internationally
renowned, because all of them are different, and they are all equally enchanting.
Santa Eulalia: is situated in a natural environment. The beach environment consists
of rocks and cliff faces that are well worth exploring. The sand is fine and has
a bright, white colour and is very is clean. The seawater is a beautiful shade of
light blue and is crystal clear. The water is very clean. Praia Santa Eulalia is
quite short narrow. The beach is flat and is easily accessible on foot. There is
ample parking near the beach.
Albufeira: A long strip of sand with the city surrounding it like an amphitheatre. The two main beaches are the Town Beach and Fishermen's Beach, where early in the day fishermen can be seen unloading their catch and mending their nets.
Arrifes: A delightful sandy cove ideal for swimming and snorkelling in crystal clear waters. Beach restaurant.
Coelha: A picturesque small beach between colourful cliffs. 5 minute walk from the car park, but well worth the effort!
The beaches to the west of Albufeira include:-
São Rafael: One of the most beautiful beaches of the central Algarve. Smooth yellow sand backed by sandstone cliffs. Some sections of cliff have become detached after millennia of weathering and now stand alone or in arches, providing shade when on the beach and interesting places to snorkel around when half submerged in water. Beach restaurant and facilities. Nearby Ponte Pequena and Ninho das Andorinhas are
Gale: An expanse of sand that stretches for miles, between cliffs. It is equipped with a wide variety of tourist facilities. Never gets crowded even at the height of Summer.
Castelo: A lovely beach set in a weathered landscape of sculpted cliffs, grottoes and blowholes. Gently shelving and with lots of shade.
Senhora da Rocha: One of a series of sandy coves beyond Armacao de Pera, with cliffs and striking rock formations. Another secluded beach can be reached via a tunnel through the cliff at the western end of Senhora da Rocha.
Beaches to the east of Albufeira include:-
Oura, Balaia, Maria Luísa and Olhos de Agua: A series of beaches each sheltered by colourful cliffs. Tourist and sports facilities.
