Praia de São Rafael

Located approximately four kilometres to the west of Albufeira old town centre, Praia de São Rafael is a Blue Flag beach recognised officially for its cleanliness. It marries the rich blue of the sea with a wide triangle of golden sand. This is edged by attractive rocky cliffs the colour of butter and biscuits which are etched with caves and grottoes and are perhaps best explored by renting a stand-up paddleboard or kayak.

Snorkelling is another common activity, with the submerged rocks offering plenty of hiding places for fish and other marine creatures. But there are plenty of beachgoers happy to paddling in the shallows before soaking up the sun or building sand castles too.

Amenities on Praia de São Rafael include the option to hire out sun loungers and umbrellas. There are public toilets and showers, and good access for those with reduced mobility due to boardwalks leading down to the beach from the two car parks.

Another unmissable feature of the beach for first time visitors is the stylish high-end restaurant which is nestled between the sand and the cliffs. Summertime sees Praia de São Rafael watched over by lifeguards.