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Some of the best beaches in the world are to be found in the Algarve. Whether you’re looking for family fun, ease of access, a romantic getaway, plenty of action or splendid isolation, you can be assured of quality beaches. Favourite beaches are very subjective - everyone has their own favourite. Some opt for secluded, cove beaches; others love wide broad expanses of golden sands. For some the wild beauty of the Algarve West Cost is unrivalled, while for others the luxurious pampering of a private beach club, and some great beach restaurant is their idea of heaven. Whatever you are looking for there is a beach to suit in the Algarve.
Praia Angrinha
From Casa Azure it is a 5 minute walk to the peaceful, golden sand of Angrinha beach overlooked by the historic 15th century Castle of Sao Joao de Arade. Angrinha Beach is closer to Ferragudo than the larger and more popular beach beyond the castle. However, although this beach is not as broad, its sand has the same golden glow and the water is as calm and peaceful here although it does not have the facilities that characterise Praia Grande beach.
Praia Grande
Praia Grande is a short 7 minute walk from the villa. Walking around the Castle of Sao Joao de Arade, you will discover the larger beach of Praia Grande where you can soak up the sun and enjoy a drink or lunch at one of the beach bars. Praia Grande is inside the breakwater and the gently shelving sand and safe bathing makes this an ideal choice for small children. There is also a small play area to keep the children happy when they have tired of the sea and sand. Fans of dinosaurs can also go hunting for the set of 66 Pterodactyl footprints which can be seen in the cliff face at the south end of the beach. We have been told that midday is the best time to see them as the sun is directly overhead.
Praia do Molhe
Molhe Beach is a small beach just along from Praia Grande, just where the breakwater joins the coastline. It is accessed down quite a long flight of steep steps from a car parking area at the top. There is a popular fresh fish restaurant ("O Molhe") on the beach which makes it worth the effort! From the top of the steps there are some lovely views across to Praia da Rocha and Portimão marina. The beach has no supervision. It is possible to walk to neighbouring Praia do Pintadinho at low tide where there are restaurants and other tourist facilities. This is a great beach for all the family. Praia do Molhe is two beaches in one: one half is inside the break water and provides calm water ideal for paddling and crabing; whilst the other half is outside the break water which can provide great ‘boogie boarding’ conditions.
Praia do Pintadinho
Located approximately 2km past Praia Grande is Pintadinho Beach, a lovely sheltered sandy cove beach. Praia do Pintadinho is relatively small so the only facility on offer is a small restaurant. You can also hire sunbeds. There is a large car park just behind the beach. Access to Pintadinho beach is easy because the car park and beach are both at ground level, so no steps involved! Praia do Pintadinho is supervised during the 'beach season' (normally April to the end of September). While you are visiting Praia do Pintadinho, do make sure you go up to the top of the cliffs. If you look over to your left, you will see a lighthouse on Ponta do Altar.
Praia dos Caneiros
Caneiros Beach is a soft, sandy cove, backed by golden sandstone cliffs. It isn't a very large beach, but really is a beautiful, sheltered bay with sunbeds and pedaloes for hire, and a magnificent view! Praia dos Caneirosis is supervised by lifeguards during the 'beach season' (normally April to the end of September). There is a very small car park and when that's full parking continues along the sides of the road. There is a lovely restaurant at the entrance to Caneiros beach which stays open in the evenings. It is extremely popular and booking is recommended for dinner reservations. There are toilet facilities behind the restaurant for visitors to the beach and a kiosk for ice-creams and soft drinks by the car park.
Praia da Rocha
Praia da Rocha, the beach next to Portimão marina, is a bustling holiday resort in its own right. The beach itself is vast, even in the middle of summer there is always plenty of space. The avenue which runs along the top of the beach, is full of restaurants, cafes, and shops and is particularly lively at night with a variety of bars, and clubs to choose from. At the end of the avenue is the Fortress of Santa Catarina de Ribamar, which was part of Portimão's defences against corsairs and pirates.
“Casa Azure - Perfect for your time in the Algarve”