The Best Kid-Friendly Beaches in the Algarve

The Algarve is one of Europe’s best family beach destinations, but its beaches vary a lot: some have big Atlantic waves, others calm, shallow water perfect for little ones. Here are the most kid-friendly beaches in the Algarve, and what to look for.

Quick answer: for the calmest, warmest water, head to the eastern Algarve: Ilha de Tavira, Praia do Barril and the Ria Formosa island beaches. In the centre and west, Meia Praia (Lagos), Alvor, Praia da Luz, Santa Eulália and Armação de Pêra are wide, sandy and easy. Avoid the wild west-coast beaches with small children.

The best family beaches

Eastern Algarve

• Ilha de Tavira: a long island beach reached by ferry, with gentle water. See Tavira.
• Praia do Barril: reached by footbridge (with a little seasonal train, or a short walk), with the famous anchor cemetery.
• Ria Formosa islands: calm lagoon sides and car-free beaches. See Olhão.

Central and western Algarve

• Meia Praia (Lagos): 4km of sand with lots of space. See Lagos beaches.
• Alvor: wide sands and boardwalks. See Alvor.
• Praia da Luz: a sheltered bay and rock pools. See Praia da Luz.
• Santa Eulália (Albufeira): facilities and calm water. See Albufeira beaches.
• Armação de Pêra: a long town beach with an easy promenade.

What to look for

• Lifeguards: choose beaches with lifeguards in season and respect the flags.
• Facilities: toilets, showers, cafés and sunbed rental.
• Access: beaches without long staircases are easier with buggies.
• Shade: rent a parasol, as there’s little natural shade.
• Cliffs: don’t sit directly beneath them.

More: the Algarve with kids, Algarve family resorts and Algarve water parks.

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