In the Algarve, every town has its own personality… and with it, a different mix of people who fall in love with the place and never want to leave. In Ferragudo, where we live, there’s a wonderful blend of Portuguese locals alongside British, Dutch, German, and even Scandinavian neighbors. But just twenty minutes west, Alvor Portugal is its own vibe entirely, and it’s got a distinctly Irish soul.
Maybe it’s the cozy streets lined with pubs and family-run restaurants, or the warm, welcoming energy that reminds me of Galway summers. Whatever it is, it makes Alvor feel different from anywhere else in the Algarve—and it starts with the beach.
The Alvor Portugal Beach: long, wild, and wonderfully natural
Praia de Alvor is one of the longest beaches in the Algarve, stretching nearly 4.5 kilometers from the Alvor estuary all the way to Praia dos Três Irmãos. This isn’t your typical packed seaside. The beach is wide, with soft golden sand and shifting dunes that give it a natural, untouched feel, even on a sunny summer day.
On one side in the distance, you can see the charming town of Lagos; on the other, the beach transforms into towering rock formations and sea caves, perfect for a sunset stroll or a photo op. The blue water is striking and usually calm, though it does get deep quite quickly, which may make it less ideal for toddlers or less confident swimmers.
Shells, treasures & shark teeth
What really makes Alvor Portugal Beach a personal favorite for our family is the shell hunting. This is, hands down, the best beach in the Algarve for finding shells – not just a few here and there, but bucketfuls of them. Tiny spirals, ridged fans, glistening pinks and purples – it’s like nature’s own treasure hunt with every tide.
We’ve spent hours here just collecting, sorting, and marveling at the variety. And the best part? One day, my daughter found a huge shark tooth! I couldn’t believe it. It’s still sitting on her dresser as proof that magic lives at the beach.
Swimming in blue
If you’re a strong swimmer or love the ocean, this beach is a dream. While the shoreline is a bit shelly underfoot (bring water shoes if you’re sensitive), the water is some of the clearest and most inviting in the Algarve. It’s cooler than some of the smaller coves but perfect for a refreshing dip. You can float for ages, watching the sky shift and the waves roll in.
Eats & Treats: Restinga, donuts & Wild Sandwiches
When it comes to beach day food, Restinga is an ideal stop. It’s a laid-back beachfront restaurant with a stunning view and even better food. We ordered grilled fish and it was as fresh as it gets, perfectly flaky, seasoned just right. And the sangria? Cold, fruity, and absolutely hit-the-spot delicious.
As you lounge on the sand, you’ll also spot vendors walking by with “beach donuts” – hot, sugary fried dough made right on the spot. It’s one of those Algarve traditions that brings instant joy to kids and adults alike. They’re warm, soft, and coated in just the right amount of cinnamon sugar. We grab one every time.
And when we were heading back home, we decided to try Wild Sandwiches on a whim. I’m so glad we did. I had what might be the best sandwich of my life, fresh bread, creative fillings, and so much flavor. Their cinnamon rolls? Don’t even think about skipping them. Gooey, buttery, warm perfection.
Why we keep coming back
There’s something about Alvor that keeps pulling us back, maybe it’s the welcoming feel of the town, the natural beauty of the beach, or the thrill of finding treasures in the sand. It’s not just a place to sunbathe. It’s a place to explore, to eat, to play, and to breathe.
Whether you’re planning a beach day with the kids, a solo stroll with your camera, or a romantic evening meal by the sea, Alvor Portugal Beach should be at the top of your Algarve list.
Pro Tips:
- Bring a shell-collecting bag or small bucket… you’ll thank me later.
- Water shoes help if you’re sensitive to the shelly shoreline.
- Reserve at Restinga if you’re going for dinner (or even lunch!) during high season.
- Try Wild Sandwiches early in the day before they sell out (they do sell out!).
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