Praia de Porto de Mós| Best Things to Do & Travel Tips
- Shahina Sultana
- Feb 6
- 4 min read
Praia de Porto de Mós is one of the most beautiful and underrated beaches in Lagos, Algarve. It has dramatic cliffs, golden sand, calm Atlantic waters, and a laid-back vibe from the locals. This beach is perfect for travelers who want beautiful views without the crowds of central Algarve hotspots. It's just west of Lagos Old Town.
Porto de Mós Beach should be at the top of your list of things to do in Lagos, whether you're just passing through or planning a longer trip to the Algarve. This local travel guide has all the information you need, including what makes the beach special, things to do, nearby attractions, where to eat, and tips from locals on how to enjoy it like a local.
Where Is Praia de Porto de Mós Located?
The Praia de Porto de Mós beach is in the western Algarve region of southern Portugal, about 2 km west of Lagos' center. The beach is a great spot for exploring some of the Algarve's most famous coastal landscapes, as it lies between the Ponta da Piedade cliffs and Praia da Luz.
You can reach Porto de Mós easily:
By car: 5 minutes from Lagos Old Town
By taxi or Uber: Affordable and quick
On foot: Around 25–30 minutes from the historic center
By bike: A scenic and popular option
There is a parking area near the beach, which is convenient but can fill up during summer months.
What Makes Praia de Porto de Mós Special?
Praia de Porto de Mós is a long, wide beach with plenty of space, even during the busiest times of the year. This is different from the smaller coves in Lagos. The beach is backed by beautiful limestone cliffs that turn golden and red at sunset. This is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Lagos.
What locals and repeat visitors love most:
Clean, soft golden sand
Strong but manageable waves
A less touristy, more residential feel
Excellent beachfront restaurants
Stunning coastal walking trails
It’s popular with families, couples, surfers, digital nomads, and locals who want a quieter alternative to Praia da Batata or Meia Praia.
Things to Do at Praia de Porto de Mós
1. Relax and Swim
Porto de Mós is perfect for swimming, especially on calm days. The beach is Blue Flag certified, meaning excellent water quality and safety standards. During summer, lifeguards are on duty, making it family-friendly.
2. Surfing and Bodyboarding
Thanks to its west-facing position, Porto de Mós often gets consistent Atlantic swells. It’s a great beach for:
Beginner to intermediate surfers
Bodyboarding
Surf lessons (available nearby)
Early mornings usually offer the best conditions.
3. Sunsets & Photography
Sunsets at Praia de Porto de Mós are unforgettable. The cliffs create dramatic shadows, and the sky often turns deep orange and pink. Bring a camera or simply enjoy a sunset drink at one of the beachfront restaurants.
4. Beach Walks
At low tide, the beach is ideal for long walks along the shoreline. The soft sand and wide space make it perfect for morning strolls or evening walks.
Nearby Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss
Ponta da Piedade (5 minutes away)
One of the most famous natural attractions in the Algarve, Ponta da Piedade features:
Dramatic rock formations
Sea arches and grottos
Cliff-top walking paths
You can explore it by kayak, boat tour, or hiking trails starting near Porto de Mós.
Lagos Old Town
Just a short drive away, Lagos Old Town offers:
Historic city walls
Cobblestone streets
Local markets and cafés
Churches like Igreja de Santo António
It’s perfect for evening strolls and dining.
Located west of Porto de Mós, Praia da Luz is a charming beach town with:
A family-friendly beach
Cafés and seaside restaurants
A relaxed village atmosphere
On the east side of Lagos, Meia Praia is:
One of the longest beaches in the Algarve
Ideal for kitesurfing and wind sports
Less crowded due to its size
Best Time to Visit Praia de Porto de Mós
May–June & September–October: Best balance of weather and fewer crowds
July–August: Warmest water and lively atmosphere, but busier
Winter months: Great for walks, photography, and surfing, though swimming is limited
Porto de Mós stays relatively calm year-round compared to central Algarve beaches.
Where to Stay Near Praia de Porto de Mós
The area around Porto de Mós is residential and peaceful, offering high-quality accommodation without large resorts.
Accommodation Options:
Holiday apartments near the beach
Boutique hotels
Villas with sea views
Airbnb rentals
For more hotel options, Lagos Old Town and Praia da Luz are just a short drive away
Where to Eat
Praia de Porto de Mós is known for its quality beachfront dining.
Popular Restaurants :
Campimar Restaurante – traditional Portuguese seafood and grilled fish
Porto de Mós Beach Bar – casual dining, cocktails, and sunset views
Expect fresh fish, seafood rice, salads, and Algarve specialties, all with ocean views.
FAQ
1. Is Praia de Porto de Mós good for swimming?
Yes, It is excellent for swimming, especially on calm days. The beach has clean Atlantic waters, Blue Flag status, and lifeguards during summer, making it safe for most visitors.
2. How far is Praia de Porto de Mós from Lagos Old Town?
Porto de Mós is located about 2 kilometers west of Lagos Old Town. It can be reached in five minutes by car or around thirty minutes on foot.
3. Is Praia de Porto de Mós less crowded than other Lagos beaches?
Yes, Porto de Mós is generally less crowded than the central Lagos beaches. Its wide shoreline provides plenty of space, even during peak summer months, making it ideal for relaxation.
4. Can you surf at Porto de Mós?
Yes, this beach is a popular surf spot in Lagos. It offers consistent Atlantic swells suitable for beginner and intermediate surfers, especially during early mornings and outside peak summer.
5. Are there restaurants at Porto de Mós?
Yes, it has beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood, grilled fish, and local Algarve dishes. Many visitors enjoy dining here while watching sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean.