Beaches in Ferragudo, Algarve

Many Algarve beaches are now classified as 'Accessible Beaches' meaning that not only do they provide ramps, footpaths and walkways directly to the sand but also meet certain criteria for restaurant tables, bar and counter heights. They also have first aid posts and disabled toilets and should be equipped with wheelchairs, walking aids and other equipment capable of being used in the sea as well as on the beach. We include which beaches have been awarded the 'Accessible Beach' flag , although depending on individual abilities you may just want to know that you can park nearby or that there are no steps involved.

We also indicate which beaches have lifeguards during the season (normally April to the end of September) and as a reminder for you: a green flag - swimming permitted; yellow flag - swimming forbidden; red flag - swimming and entering the water forbidden; blue and white chequered flag - beach temporarily unattended.

Praia Grande and Praia da Angrinha 

The fort of São João de Arade marks the division of these two beaches with the long, sandy bay of Praia Grande to the south and Praia da Angrinha to the north (nearest to Ferragudo town). They are lovely, sandy beaches located  within Portimão’s harbour walls where the river Arade joins the Atlantic Ocean.

The water is perfect for windsurfing because of the Molhe – the seawall that protects the waters from the Atlantic waves, and with Portimão on the opposite bank is a very popular stretch of water for water sports events during the year.

Praia Grande is, as the name suggests, the larger of the two beaches and the one with beach cafes and facilities for visitors. It also tends to be the busiest but Angrinha is just a short stroll across the sand so there is always plenty of room.

There is plenty of car parking - a smaller area at Praia Grande, but quite a large area at Praia da Angrinha and access to the beach is level with the road. Praia Grande is supervised during the 'beach season'.

The fort of São João de Arade sits on the cliff top overlooking the beach and is really quite an amazing sight. (The fort  was turned into a private residence at the beginning of the 20th century)

Praia do Molhe

Praia do Molhe is a small beach just along from Praia Grande, just where the harbour wall joins the coastline. It is accessed down quite a long flight of steep steps from a car parking area at the top.There is a popular fresh fish restaurant ("O Molhe") on the beach which probably makes it worth the effort! From the top of the steps there are some lovely views across to Praia da Rocha and Portimão marina, a view enjoyed by the rather nice villas on the cliff top! Driving out of the parking area, take the very first turning on the right to take you down to Pintadinho beach.

Praia do Molhe is not supervised during the 'beach season'.

Praia do Pintadinho

Located approximately 2km past Praia Grande is Praia do Pintadinho, a lovely sheltered sandy cove beach. Here the waters can be slightly cleaner because it is outside the harbour walls of Portimão, so there’s no excuse not to take a dip in the sea!

While you are visiting Praia do Pintadinho, do make sure you go up to the top of the cliffs.
If you look over to your left, you will see a lighthouse on Ponta do Altar and then over to your right you will be able to see all the way over to Ponta da Piedade in Lagos; actually on a really clear day you may be able to see all the way to Sagres!

Praia do Pintadinho is relatively small so the only facility on offer is a small restaurant. There you will be able to get a coffee, ice cream, a snack or something more substantial, or you may want to take lunch with you in a cool box. . There is a large car parking area just behind the beach, and some spaces on the road just above the beach. Access to the beach is easy because the car park and beach are both at ground level, so no steps involved! There are also sunbeds for hire. Pintadinho is supervised during the 'beach season'.

Praia dos Caneiros

Praia dos Caneiros is past Ponta do Altar, if you are travelling away from Ferragudo town and is a soft, sandy cove, backed by golden sandstone cliffs . It isn't a very large beach, but really is a beautiful, sheltered bay with sunbeds and pedaloes for hire, and a magnificent view! 

There is a lovely restaurant at the entrance to the beach which stays open in the evenings ..it is extremely popular and booking is recommended for dinner reservations. There are  toilet facilities behind the restaurant for visitors to the beach.

There is a small car parking area within a turning circle right behind the beach and when that's full parking continues along the sides of the road! There is also a kiosk for ice-creams and soft drinks by the car park.
There are steps down to the beach beside the restaurant, so it is not suitable for disabled access. It is supervised during the 'beach season'.