Albufeira Beaches and Water Sports

(Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal)

The secret to Albufeira's success as a tourist resort is the more than 20 beaches within reach of the city centre. Popular beaches like the Praia dos Pescadores, the Praia da Oura and the Praia de Falesia have rows of deck chairs and ample facilities, and offer the entire gamut of water sports.

These beaches get crowded during the peak summer season, but savvy tourists escape to more peaceful spots just a few miles outside of the city. Quieter alternatives include the Olhos d'Agua, which is just a short distance to the east of the city centre.

General Information

A stroll along the pedestrianised seafront is a joy and the city's Praia do Peneco beach can be reached by using the tunnel close to the tourism outlet on the Rua 5 de Outubro. Nearby and to the east is the Praia dos Pescadores, which also goes by the name of the Praia dos Barcos and literally translates as the 'Fishermen's Beach'. Here you will often see colourful fishing boats and possibly even the odd fishermen mending nets and preparing for their next trip.

On the eastern and western sides of Albufeira are a series of further beaches, which frequently boast rugged coves and natural coastal scenery. However, it should be noted that the closest are rather developed and can become busy. Particularly popular is the Praia da Oura, which can be reached by following the Avenida 25 de Abril.

For peace and quiet, away from the crowds of sunbathers, check out the stretch of sand sited between the Praia da Oura and the Praia de Falesia, approximately 10 km / 6 miles to the east of central Albufeira. It is here that you will find appealing beaches such as the Olhos d'Agua and Balaia, both of which are well connected by regular buses.

To the west of Albufeira, the Praia da Galé in Sao Rafael is around 6 km / 4 away and easy to locate, although it is worth noting that there is no direct bus service to this particular beach. Various water sports are popular here, such as water skiing and jet skiing.