Praia dos Arrifes

The basics

Praia dos Arrifes is one of the Algarve’s best beaches for snorkeling, as the rock formations rising from the sea are home to some interesting marine life. You can also rent sun loungers and parasols here during the peak spring and summer months. The beach features on some kayak or stand-up paddleboarding tours that explore lesser-known sections of the Algarve’s coastline. It’s also a popular stop on Albufeira tours by tuk-tuk, which combine it with lookout points and the Old Town.

Things to know before you go

• The ocean floor off Praia dos Arrifes is rocky and uneven, so it’s advisable to bring water shoes to protect your feet.

• There’s a seafood restaurant on the beach serving the Algarvian specialty of grilled sardines.

• The beach is only accessible via wooden stairs leading from street level, so is unfortunately not accessible for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.

How to get there

From Albufeira Old Town, Praia dos Arrifes is a 12-minute drive via Av. dos Descobrimentos. You can also take the 3 bus from central Albufeira, which drops you off a 20-minute walk away. Rideshare apps might be a better option for those keen to travel directly to the beach.

When to get there

Because of its tiny size, this beach gets crowded quickly—you’ll need to arrive early to secure a spot, particularly in summer. Visit Praia dos Arrifes during low tide, when there’s more sand and the retreating sea reveals natural pools among the rocks; tidal levels vary daily, so check online before your visit.

Marine life in the Algarve

There’s a wealth of marine life living in the waters that lap beaches such as Praia dos Arrifes. Boat trips from Albufeira take you into open waters to spot four different native species of dolphin: striped, bottlenose, common, and Risso’s. Albeit rare, humpback and minke whales have been spotted off the coast of southern Portugal, too.