Praia do Burgau Algarve | Best Things to Do & Travel Tips

Praia do Burgau is a quiet beach and village on the coast of the western Algarve in Portugal. It is only a short drive from Lagos. Burgau offers a calm, authentic Algarve experience. It is known for its traditional fishing-village roots, whitewashed houses, and sheltered bay. The beach has soft, golden sand and calm waters, so it's great for families and people who want to swim without worrying. Praia do Burgau is a great place for travelers who want to see natural beauty, experience local culture, and get away from it all at the beach.

This complete travel guide will help you plan the perfect visit — covering how to get there, what to do, where to eat, the best time to visit, and insider tips to make the most of your trip.

Where Is Praia do Burgau Located?

Praia do Burgau is located in the western Algarve region of southern Portugal, within the municipality of Vila do Bispo, just:

• 10 km west of Lagos

• 5 km east of Praia da Luz

• 95 km from Faro Airport

Set between dramatic cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean, Burgau is part of the Costa Vicentina Natural Park, a protected area known for its unspoiled landscapes, rugged coastlines, and pristine beaches.

Why Visit Praia do Burgau?

Praia do Burgau is a great place to go in the Algarve if you want to feel peaceful, real, and not too crowded. Burgau remains a charming fishing village despite its modern amenities. This is different from bigger resort towns.

Key Reasons to Visit Praia do Burgau:

• Calm, sheltered beach ideal for swimming

• Crystal-clear Atlantic waters

• Traditional whitewashed village atmosphere

• Excellent seafood restaurants

• Close proximity to Lagos and Sagres

• Family-friendly and romantic setting

Best Things to Do in Praia do Burgau

Even though Praia do Burgau is small, there are a lot of fun things to do there, making it a great place to visit in the western Algarve, Portugal. Burgau has the perfect mix of nature, culture, and coastal charm for anyone looking to relax, go on outdoor adventures, or take short day trips.

1. Relax on Beach

Praia do Burgau Beach is the center of the village. It's a sheltered bay with golden sand and calm Atlantic waters. The beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, and family-friendly beach days because it is surrounded by cliffs. People can rent sunbeds and umbrellas or just relax and listen to the waves and seabirds. Because it is in the middle of everything, the beach is only a short walk from cafés and restaurants.

2. Explore the Village

Just walking around Burgau is an experience in itself. The narrow cobblestone streets wind between traditional whitewashed houses with blue accents, which is a nod to the area's fishing history. There are small cafés, bakeries, and seaside restaurants where you can enjoy Portuguese food and the village's laid-back vibe. Because it's small, it's easy to walk around.

3. Coastal Walks & Cliff Trails

Burgau is a great place to start beautiful walks along the Algarve coast. Burgau is connected to nearby beaches like Praia dos Rebolos, Praia da Luz, and Cabanas Velhas by well-known trails. These paths go along steep cliffs in the Costa Vicentina Natural Park, where you can see the ocean from all sides and take great photos, watch birds, and walk at sunset.

4. Snorkeling & Paddleboarding

Because the water is clear and the area is protected, Praia do Burgau is a great place to snorkel and stand-up paddleboard. Visitors can see small fish and interesting rock formations near the rocky edges of the bay. Even beginners can do these things because the sea is calm.

5. Day Trips from Burgau

Burgau is also in a great spot to see the best of the Algarve. Lagos has a historic old town, boat tours, and a lively nightlife. Sagres is known for its dramatic cliffs, surf culture, and the famous Cape St. Vincent. Praia da Luz, on the other hand, has a bigger beach, shops, and restaurants

Best Time to Visit Praia do Burgau

Summer (June – September)

• Warm weather (25–30°C / 77–86°F)

• Best beach conditions

• More visitors, but still quieter than Lagos

Spring & Autumn (April–May, October)

• Mild temperatures

• Fewer crowds

• Ideal for hiking and sightseeing

Winter (November – March)

• Very quiet and peaceful

• Cooler weather

• Best for long walks and relaxation

Best overall time to visit Praia do Burgau: May, June, and September for perfect weather without heavy crowds.

Where to Eat in Praia do Burgau

Despite its size, Burgau has excellent dining options — especially for seafood lovers.

Popular Restaurants in Burgau:

• Beach Bar Burgau – casual dining with ocean views

• Esquina Restaurant – modern Portuguese cuisine

• Miam Burgau – pizza, burgers, and family-friendly meals

• Snack Bar Burgau – affordable local dishes

Expect fresh fish, grilled sardines, octopus salad, and traditional Algarve flavors.

Where to Stay in Praia do Burgau

Accommodation in Burgau focuses on apartments, guesthouses, and boutique stays, rather than large resorts.

Accommodation Options:

• Beachfront holiday apartments

• Family-run guesthouses

• Villas with ocean views

• Budget-friendly Airbnb rentals

For luxury resorts and hotels, nearby Praia da Luz or Lagos offer more options within a short drive.

How to Get to Praia do Burgau

From Faro Airport:

• By car: ~1 hour 10 minutes via A22 motorway

• By train: Faro → Lagos, then taxi or bus to Burgau

• By taxi/Uber: Direct but more expensive

Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring nearby beaches and attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Praia do Burgau good for families?

Yes, it is very family-friendly. The beach is sheltered by cliffs, which keeps the waves calm and safe for children. The village is small, walkable, and relaxed, making it ideal for families with kids.

2. How do I get to Burgau from Faro Airport?

You can reach Praia Burgau from Faro Airport in about 1 hour and 10 minutes by car using the A22 motorway. Alternatively, take a train from Faro to Lagos, then continue by taxi or local bus to Burgau.

3. Is Praia do Burgau crowded in summer?

Compared to major Algarve destinations, it is relatively quiet even in summer. While July and August are the busiest months, it is still far less crowded than nearby beaches in Lagos or Praia da Rocha.

4. What is the best time of year to visit?

The best times to visit are May to June and September. During these months, the weather is warm, the sea is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists than in peak summer.

5. Are there restaurants and shops near Praia do Burgau beach?

Yes, there are several restaurants, cafés, and small shops located directly in the village near Burgau beach. Most places are within walking distance and offer fresh seafood, traditional Portuguese dishes, and basic travel essentials.

Is Praia do Burgau Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Praia do Burgau is perfect for travelers who want to experience the Algarve without mass tourism. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, family beach holiday, or relaxing coastal escape, Burgau offers beauty, authenticity, and calm in equal measure.