Praia de São Rafael
Albufeira, Portugal
Best known for its sandstone-colored rock formations jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, Praia de São Rafael delivers Algarve coastal beauty in droves. It's backed by terracotta-colored cliffs and lapped by the refreshing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. It's also far enough from Albufeira center to be less crowded than the main beaches, even in peak summer.
The basics
One half of Praia de São Rafael offers sunbed rentals (sometimes this isn’t available in winter), and the other offers clear sands where you can set up your equipment. Thanks to the abundance of sandstone rock formations surrounding it, the beach is a popular starting point for kayaking trips, which let you get closer to hidden grottoes and sea arches than larger boats. Some dolphin-spotting speedboat tours also pass by the beach.
Things to know before you go
The shallow water of Praia de São Rafael means it heats up quicker than other beaches, so expect warmer waters here.
Watch out for rocks on the ocean floor and occasional strong currents when swimming.
Ramps leading down to the beach allow travelers using wheelchairs and strollers to access it easily.
How to get there
Praia de São Rafael is 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from the Old Town of Albufeira. It's a 1-hour walk or a 10-minute drive. There are no public transport services to the beach, so you'll need to rent a car or call a taxi using rideshare services such as Uber, which is available in the Algarve.
When to get there
The beach is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is a lovely spot to watch the sunset. Peak season in the Algarve is over the summer school holidays of June and July. Visiting in May and October shoulder seasons will help you beat the crowds.
The best beaches in the Algarve
The Algarve is famous throughout Europe (and the world) for its unique beaches. Some of the best beaches near Albufeira include Praia de Alvor, home to sandstone arches and sheltered bays ideal for swimming, and Praia da Marinha in the region of Lagoa, which has been voted one of the best beaches in the world.
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