Albufeira boasts beaches where the sand is fine and the sea a turquoise blue sheltered by cliffs of many natural hues. It is for its beaches that Albufeira is internationally renowned, because all of them are different, and they are all equally enchanting.

Albufeira- A long strip of sand with the city surrounding it like an amphitheatre.  The two main beaches are the Town Beach and Fishermen's Beach, where early in the day fishermen can be seen unloading their catch and mending their nets.

The beaches to the west of Albufeira include:-

Arrifes - A delightful sandy cove ideal for swimming and snorkelling in crystal clear waters.  Beach restaurant.

São Rafael - One of the most beautiful beaches of the central Algarve. Smooth yellow sand backed by sandstone cliffs. Some sections of cliff have become detached after millennia of weathering and now stand alone or in arches, providing shade when on the beach and interesting places to snorkel around when half submerged in water. Beach restaurant and facilities. Nearby Ponte Pequena and Ninho das Andorinhas are fascinating rock formations

Coelha - A picturesque small beach between colourful cliffs. 5 minute walk from the car park, but well worth the effort!

Castelo - A lovely beach set in a weathered landscape of sculpted cliffs, grottoes and blowholes.  Gently shelving and with lots of shade.

Gale - An expanse of sand that stretches for miles, between cliffs. It is equipped with a wide variety of tourist facilities. Never gets crowded even at the height of Summer.

Senhora da Rocha - one of a series of sandy coves beyond Armacao de Pera, with cliffs and striking rock formations.  Another secluded beach can be reached via a tunnel through the cliff at the western end of Senhora da Rocha.

Beaches to the east of Albufeira include:-

Oura, Balaia, Maria Luísa and Olhos de Agua - A series of beaches each sheltered by colourful cliffs. Tourist and sports facilities.

Falesia - Endless miles of beaches fringed by the green pines and the many reddish colours of the surrounding cliffs. Tourist and sports facilities available