Praia da Coelha

The basics

Because it’s sheltered by the Algarve’s signature golden cliffs, the water at Praia da Coelha is calm and perfect for swimming. The Blue Flag beach features on some of the central Algarve’s most popular excursions: dolphin-spotting cruises will likely pass by it, while kayaking tours that visit sea caves and grottoes also paddle past.

Things to know before you go

• There’s one beach restaurant that specializes in seafood and fish, and also sells ice cream, drinks, and snacks. It’s a good idea to bring your own water as there are no stores on the beach.

• During the summer there’s a lifeguard on duty and you can hire sunbeds.

• Don’t sit or sunbathe too close to the cliffs, as they are prone to crumble without warning.

• Due to wooden steps leading down to the beach, it is inaccessible to travelers with limited mobility.

How to get there

Praia da Coelha is 9 miles (15 kilometers) from the holiday hub of Albufeira. It’s a 15-minute drive via Av. dos Descobrimentos and there’s a parking lot about 5-10 minutes away from the beach. Alternatively, you can take the 8 bus from Terminal Rodoviario, then walk 10 minutes.

When to get there

If you can, avoid the Algarve from June through September when hotel prices rocket and crowds soar. If you are in the region during this time, Praia da Coelha is a great pick, as it attracts fewer people than beaches closer to Albufeira center. As the water lapping Praia da Coelha is from the Atlantic Ocean, it feels cool year-round, even during the scorching summer months.

Adventurous activities in the Algarve

Thanks to its rugged shoreline and climbable cliffs, the Algarve is a mecca for water and adventure sports enthusiasts. One of the most exhilarating activities you can do is coasteering, which involves rock climbing and jumping from cliffs into the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Parasailing is a great way to combine adrenaline with aerial views, too.