Praia dos Beijinhos, Lagoa Travel Guide

Praia dos Beijinhos is situated in the municipality of Lagoa, Portugal. Surrounded by golden limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, this small and peaceful beach offers an authentic escape from the busier tourist beaches nearby. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Beijinhos, including what to expect, when to go, nearby beaches, places to stay, and the best things to do.

Praia dos Beijinhos Beach Overview

Praia dos Beijinhos, meaning "Beach of Little Kisses," gets its name from abundant small shells called beijinhos in Portuguese. It is located in a rocky bay in Alporchinhos, Porches parish, Lagoa municipality, and is surrounded by golden cliffs. It has rocks, sea birds, and many plants. This small cove between Praia do Vale do Olival (to the east) and Praia dos Tremoços (to the west) is never crowded. Families come for the pools at low tide, and couples come for the quiet atmosphere.

How to Get There

Drive via EN125, exiting at Porches toward Armação de Pêra; park along roads near Vila Vita Parc resort, then walk 10-15 minutes via cliff paths or stairs. It takes 20 minutes to walk from Armação de Pêra, 20 minutes to drive from Carvoeiro, and 25 minutes to drive from Albufeira.

A scenic trail from Praia do Vale do Olival provides stunning views through greenery. No public transport serves the beach directly—rent a car for flexibility or book airport transfers from Faro. Keep an eye on the tides to stay safe. At low tide, more sand is exposed, making it easier to get to nearby coves.

Things to Do at Praia dos Beijinhos

Swimming in Crystal-Clear Waters

Praia dos Beijinhos is ideal for swimming thanks to its calm, transparent waters. The sheltered cove protects the beach from strong waves, making it ideal for a relaxing, refreshing dip, especially during the summer months.

Snorkeling Along the Rocky Coves

The clear visibility and rocky formations around the beach make snorkeling a popular activity. You can spot small fish and marine life near the cliffs, offering a peaceful underwater experience.

Sunbathing and Relaxation

This quiet beach is perfect for sunbathing without crowds. Lay back on the golden sand, enjoy the sound of the waves, and unwind in a natural, unspoiled setting.

Coastal Walks and Hiking

Nearby cliffside trails offer scenic walks with stunning views of the Algarve coastline. These paths are great for light hiking and photography.

Photography and Nature Watching

Praia dos Beijinhos is a photographer's dream. Capture dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and beautiful sunsets in a serene environment.

Top Excursions Nearby

There are many great sights in the area around Praia dos Beijinhos. Start with the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, a stunning coastal hike connecting nearby beaches and viewpoints—begin from close by for epic cliff scenery. Explore Benagil Cave via kayak or boat tour from nearby ports (a must-see sea cave with natural skylight).

Visit the picturesque Praia da Senhora da Rocha (about 10 minutes west by car), featuring a clifftop chapel and fort ruins. Go to the village of Porches for pottery classes and other local crafts. For adventure, rent kayaks in Armação de Pêra or Carvoeiro to paddle along grottos and hidden coves. Wine lovers can tour Lagoa's vineyards, while foodies enjoy fresh seafood in Armação de Pêra. These trips are a perfect mix of nature, culture, and relaxation.

Tips for Visiting

Drinking water and snacks: No vendors nearby—bring plenty (2L/person) to hydrate and fuel hikes or beachcombing.​

Sunscreen and a hat: Algarve sun reflects intensely off rocks; reef-safe formula protects marine life during snorkelling.​

A beach umbrella for shade: Limited space at high tide; provides cover on golden sands without trees.​

Comfortable shoes for walking to the beach: Steep, 10-15-minute cliff paths demand sturdy footwear over flip-flops.​

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Praia dos Beijinhos in Lagoa is during shoulder seasons—spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November)—when temperatures range from 18-25°C, crowds thin out, and wildflowers enhance cliff hikes. Summer (June-August) offers peak swimming at 25-30°C with warm 21°C seas, but arrive early to beat heat and visitors. Always target low tide via apps like TideKing for expanded sands, safe pools, and snorkeling; high tide shrinks space dangerously. Winter provides quiet walks at 15°C, ideal for serene photography.

Where exactly is Praia dos Beijinhos located?

Praia dos Beijinhos is in the parish of Porches, part of the municipality of Lagoa, in the Algarve region of southern Portugal.

Is Praia dos Beijinhos suitable for families and children?

Yes, it’s a calm, sheltered cove with gentle waters, making it ideal for families, especially at low tide when small pools form. However, access involves a steep path, so bring sturdy shoes.

What can I do in Praia dos Beijinhos?

Popular activities include swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and photography. Adventurous visitors can hike the nearby cliffs, explore hidden coves at low tide, or enjoy scenic walks along the coastline.