Lagos is one of the most famed cities of the Algarve. It played an crucial role during the Portuguese Discoveries as it was the home of Prince Henry the Navegator and the harbour from where many of the Portuguese expeditions departed during the 15th and 16th centuries. Lagos is also famed for its beaches such as Meia Praia, Camilo Beach or Dona Ana. Lagos is composed basically out of terrain houses, light coloured, where numerous shops, galleries and other hotel establishments are held.
The main elements regarding its heritage are the ruins of Laccobriga (Lagos), the Parish Church of Santa Maria de Lagos, the Santo António Church (Museum Municipal), the Governor’s Castle (Castelo dos Governadores) and the Ponta da Bandeira Fortress. On the other hand, its most unique beaches are the Porto de Mós Beach, the Meia Praia, the Camilo Beach and the fine Dona Ana beach. Also worth visiting the natural monument of the Ponta da Piedade and Lagos Zoo (Zoo de Lagos). Due to its coast and natural beauty, Lagos depends on tourism, nevertheless, this is a city that never lost its identity, its symbols, traditions and culture. Discover the best beaches in Lagos, Algarve, south of Portugal.
1. Praia do Camilo
Praia do Camilo Beach is a beautiful beach in the municipality of Lagos (Algarve). The beach can be accessed through a great rocky staircase. The cliff surrounding the beach offers a great panoramic view of the coastal line between Lagos and Albufeira.
The sandy area of this beach is divided by a vast rock formation that can be crossed through a tunnel excavated through it. While crossing the tunnel, pay attention and you will see a vast amount of seashells encrusted in the rock. In the cliff area, it’s common to spot birds such as the european shags and the common and black-headed seagulls.
2. Praia Dona Ana
The access to Praia Dona Ana beach ends in a small overlook from which you can see the interesting rocky formation. These have been sculpted by the fresh and sea waters for centuries, creating a vast array of grots, cliffs, caves, etc. The sandy area offers concavities next to the cliffs perfect for hiding from the winds and enjoying an intimate spot.
This beach is perfect for diving: it’s possible to see anemone, starfish, sea urchins, prawns, and banks of small fish next to the vast rock formations. On top of the cliff, there is a trail that leads to Praia do Pinhão beach.
3. Praia da Luz
Praia da Luz beach is located in the small and cosmopolite touristic town of Luz. A stone paved walk and flanked by great palm trees is here the perfect setting for your walk. Prefer looking at the sea or enjoying some drinks in the lively and sunny terrazas? Luz has that and more too. On one side of the beach, there is a rocky platform with reddish hues very much sculpted by the sea.
If you are close enough to it, it’s possible to see marine fossils and the fauna of the intertidal line. Towards the east of the beach rises a grey and eroded cliff known as Rocha Negra: a volcanic seam of Sierra de Monchique which extended towards the sea. This quiet-water bay is ideal for practicing different water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, or diving.
