Praia de Albandeira Travel Guide and Things to Do

Praia de Albandeira is a beautiful beach, albeit overshadowed by more famous beaches like Marinha and Benagil. Because of its obscurity, it has managed to preserve its natural beauty, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers seeking a peaceful vacation in the southern regions of Portugal. This guide will surely reveal all of the reasons why Praia de Albandeira should be one of the choices you have to consider, especially for travellers seeking that perfect paradise.  

Praia de Albandeira: A Tranquil, Small Beach with Big Charm

Praia de Albandeira, despite its modest size of only 80 meters, exudes an unparalleled beauty. The fine-grain sandy beaches, as red-orange as gold, represent a hospitable invitation to relax in the sunny vacationland; the blue-green water is inviting for bathers and snorkelers. In contrast to most of the overpopulated beaches of the area, Albandeira has an atmosphere of privacy and calmness, being mostly visited by several Portuguese who appreciate the beautiful tranquillity of the place.  

Because of this, the sea is relatively well protected by massive cliffs, and the beach in general is ideal for swimming. These waters are relatively clear, so snorkelers can see beautiful underwater scenery. Remember though that on the right side of the beach, stones are found at the sea bed, so it is recommended that one should be very careful when wading into the water.  

Divided by Nature: The Unique Layout of Praia de Albandeira

Splitting of the beach depending on the natural conditions is one of the aspects of the beach that makes it unique. A large stone formation divides the Praia de Albandeira into two parts, making it easily explorable and home to numerous interesting structures.

The left side is bigger; there is more space to sunbathe, while the right side is cosier and has a sense of even more privacy.  At high tides, pools of water trapped in the rocks form little bays that are especially appealing to children. These pools create a fun-filled atmosphere on what would otherwise be rather serene beaches, making Albandeira a perfect vacation spot for families with young children.  

Arco de Albandeira: A Natural Wonder  

Undoubtedly, one of the most attractive sights of Praia de Albandeira is Arco de Albandeira, which has been carved by the waves for millennia. This beach rock formation is on the right side of the beach and is now considered a tourism nature landmark of Albandeira. It simply symbolizes the power of nature and demonstrates how the forces of nature can transform a man-made symbol of art over time. 

The thing that makes Arco de Albandeira unique is that one is able to swim around it as well as under it. For the gutsy ones, it is possible to swim to the right of the beach, get around the rocks, swim through the actual arch and come out at the beautiful, secretive beach called the Praia da Estaquinha.   If you don’t fancy getting your feet wet, there is also an opportunity to walk along the cliffs and over the arch, which gives a different perspective to this magnificent piece of nature.

Things to Do

1. Swimming and Snorkeling

Praia da Albandeira is a perfect beach for swimming and snorkelling, with its sheltered, crystal-clear waters. The beach is usually well-protected from the prevailing winds, making it safe for water sports. And yet caution is due, as one should consider the tide times!

2. Kayaking and Boat Tours

Rent a kayak or jump aboard a boat tour for a different view of the coastline. These trips also stop off at some of the grottoes and remote beaches along the way, providing a completely different way to see the Algarve’s dramatic coastline. Some tours leave from neighbouring Armação de Pêra, and take in trips to the well known Benagil Cave and other lesser known spots along the coast.

3. Walking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

Praia da Albandeira is one of the bays of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, a beautiful coastal trail that links the Praia da Marinha to Praia da Vale Centeanes. The views of the Atlantic Ocean, the rugged cliffs, and the unusual rock formations are spectacular. It’s a bucket-list must for hikers and nature lovers.

4. Photography

Praia da Albandeira is stunning so take any number of photos while you are here. With the gold sand, the turquoise water and the striking rocks, it is a beautiful scenery especially at dawn and at dusk.

5. Relaxing and Sunbathing

If you're looking to unwind, Praia da Albandeira is a quiet haven, with enough distance from the crowd. It can be more relaxing than many, however, as there are no sunbed rentals, but the natural beauty of the beach makes it an ideal place to relax and disconnect. Don’t forget to bring your own umbrella or sunshade, there is very little natural shade.

How to Get to Praia de Albandeira

Praia de Albandeira still looks rather isolated, even when compared to other Algarve beaches, because of its remoteness. It is more advisable to go to the beach by a car and if using a GPS, navigate to Vale de Engenhos, Lagoa.  Once you leave the EN125 near the International School of Lagoa, you follow the signs that will direct you to Albandeira. Approaching the beach, the roads are really skinny; however, you should be relieved that there is no shortage of parking sspaces,and they are also free of charge.

Nearby Accommodation

Those travellers who are interested in spending nights in close proximity to the beach will find comfortable lodgings in Suites Alba Resort & Spa, which is located within walking distance from Praia de Albandeira. This attractive resort provides the opportunity to swim in the pool's absolute edge with an ocean view, as well as enjoy delicious seafood meals at the top restaurant.

For any travellers who would love to explore the more natural side of their tours, though with adequate amenities in their resort, the location of the property is perfect. Another good place that’s located at Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa is the restaurant because of the excellent display of foods and the seaside scenery.   

Exploring the Surrounding Area  

The coastal strip running along Praia de Albandeira has some of the most spectacular sea cliff formations and cave formations, some of which are not easily reachable by foot or car but are best viewed from the boat. One way of discovering such gems is through boat tours, during which you stand a good chance of visiting the Benagil Cave, which is one of the biggest attractions to the Algarve region.

Most of the trips originate in nearby towns and it is advisable to make an early booking, especially during the major travel season.   For those who like individual tours, there is also an opportunity to rent a kayak and paddle on the sea along the coast, which also reveals many stunning corners of the Algarve.