Praia de Almargem
A beautiful, wide sandy beach near Quarteira, offering water sports, a lively bar with music, and a more relaxed vibe than typical Algarve hotspots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Praia de Almargem
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful, wide sandy beach near Quarteira, offering water sports, a lively bar with music, and a more relaxed vibe than typical Algarve hotspots.
"Lovely long beach where you can get away from the regimented ones with sunbeds set out like a cattle market."
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking, even along the road if the main lot is full. :car:
🎶 Live Music Evenings
BJ's Beach Bar often has live music starting around 5 PM. :musical_note:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
BJ's Beach Bar
Adjacent to the beach
Enjoy food, drinks, and live music with ocean views. A local favorite for a relaxed atmosphere.
Water Sports Fun
Beachfront
Rent equipment for various water activities at competitive prices. Perfect for an active beach day.
Tranquil Pine Forest End
Western end of the beach
Escape the buzz at this quieter section, bordering a serene pine forest. Ideal for peaceful walks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Praia de Almargem
Parking and Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking, even along the road if the main lot is full. :car:
🎶 Live Music Evenings
BJ's Beach Bar often has live music starting around 5 PM. :musical_note:
🚶♀️ Walk Further for Quiet
Venture a few yards further down the beach for more space and tranquility. :walking:
☕ Iced Coffee Delight
Don't miss the amazing iced coffee at BJ's beach shack! :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking, even along the road if the main lot is full. :car:
🎶 Live Music Evenings
BJ's Beach Bar often has live music starting around 5 PM. :musical_note:
🚶♀️ Walk Further for Quiet
Venture a few yards further down the beach for more space and tranquility. :walking:
☕ Iced Coffee Delight
Don't miss the amazing iced coffee at BJ's beach shack! :coffee:
🌊 Water Sports Deals
Water sports rentals are priced affordably for the Algarve region. :ocean:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Praia de Almargem is lauded for its beautiful, wide sandy shores and clear waters, offering a more relaxed experience than busier Algarve beaches. Visitors appreciate the ample free parking, affordable water sports, and the lively yet laid-back atmosphere of BJ's Beach Bar with its live music. Some note potential detours on nearby cycling paths due to erosion.
"What a great beach! Plenty of FREE parking, great sand and waves and of course the fantastic BJ's restaurant adjacent. Found a baseball sized quartz rock with translucent crystal's and a large seashell. Unfortunately the Eurovelo 1 path is disrupted due to some major erosion and it's a BIG detour."
Mark McClary
"Nice quite beach with free parking, if the car park is full you can park along the road.
Water sports available at a below average price for the Algarve.
BJ's Beach Bar starts with live music some days around 5pm."
Phil Butterworth
"Lovely long beach where you can get away from the regimented one's with sunbeds set out like a cattle market. There's a really nice beach shack/bar that does food and drink and amazing iced coffee 😎 called BJs (I think). We always go to this beach as doesn't get too busy and there's always plenty of room if you're prepared to walk a few yards further."
Kate
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Praia de Almargem is located near Quarteira in the Algarve. If driving, there's ample free parking available, often along the road if the main car park is full. For cyclists, the Eurovelo 1 path is nearby, though detours may be necessary due to erosion.
While specific bus routes directly to the beach can vary, Quarteira is well-connected by public transport. From Quarteira, you can take a short taxi ride or a longer walk to reach Praia de Almargem.
From Faro Airport, you can take a taxi or a pre-booked transfer directly to Praia de Almargem, which is about a 20-30 minute drive. Alternatively, take a bus or train to Quarteira and then a short taxi ride.
Yes, cycling is a great option, especially if you're following the Eurovelo 1 route. Be prepared for potential detours if sections of the path are affected by erosion.
Praia de Almargem is situated between Quarteira and Vilamoura. Look for signs directing you to the beach, and you'll likely see the BJ's Beach Bar as a landmark.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Praia de Almargem is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand and sea for free.
Praia de Almargem is accessible at all times, as it's a natural beach. However, facilities like BJ's Beach Bar will have their own operating hours, typically from morning until late evening.
There's no need to book anything for general beach access. If you plan on using specific water sports rentals or dining at BJ's during peak times, it might be wise to check their availability.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting Praia de Almargem, other than standard beach safety guidelines. It's a family-friendly environment.
Absolutely! Praia de Almargem is perfect for a day trip, offering swimming, sunbathing, water sports, and dining options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the wide sandy shores. Water sports rentals are available, and BJ's Beach Bar offers food, drinks, and live music.
While some areas might have sunbeds available for rent, many visitors prefer to bring their own or find spots under the natural shade provided by the nearby pine forest.
Yes, it's a great family beach with calm waters suitable for swimming and plenty of space for kids to play.
The amenities at BJ's also cater to families.Praia de Almargem features beautiful, clean sand and clear waters, making it an attractive spot for beachgoers.
Facilities like restrooms and showers are typically available near the main beach access points and amenities like BJ's Beach Bar.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The main dining option is BJ's Beach Bar, which serves food and drinks. Visitors also praise their iced coffee.
There are also restaurants and bars a short walk away in Quarteira.Yes, you are welcome to bring your own picnic and beverages to enjoy on the beach. This is a common practice for many visitors.
BJ's Beach Bar offers a range of beach-style food and drinks, suitable for a casual meal while enjoying the seaside atmosphere.
While specific menus can change, beach bars often have salads or simpler dishes that can be adapted. It's best to inquire directly with BJ's Beach Bar about their current offerings.
Prices at BJ's are generally considered reasonable for a beachside establishment in the Algarve, offering good value for the location and experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the wide sandy beach, the clear blue waters, and the picturesque sunsets.
The area near the pine forest offers a more natural, serene backdrop.Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Late afternoons are also great for capturing the vibrant atmosphere around BJ's Beach Bar.
Look for interesting seashells and quartz rocks on the beach.
The contrast between the sandy beach, the sea, and the pine trees creates diverse photographic opportunities.Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in coastal areas before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the beach. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant shots. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing water and sky colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
🚴 Cyclists and Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Praia de Almargem's Vibe
This beach is characterized by its wide, sandy expanse and clean waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The western end, bordering a pine forest, offers a more secluded and natural setting, perfect for those seeking peace and quiet. The combination of accessible amenities and natural beauty makes Praia de Almargem a well-rounded destination for various types of visitors, from families to those simply looking for a beautiful stretch of coastline to enjoy.
Activities and Amenities at Praia de Almargem
The focal point for many is BJ's Beach Bar, a popular spot known for its relaxed vibe, good food, and live music sessions, often starting in the late afternoon. Visitors frequently rave about their iced coffee. This bar serves as a convenient place to refuel, quench your thirst, or simply soak in the beach atmosphere. The availability of these amenities, combined with the natural beauty of the beach, ensures a comfortable and enjoyable visit for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit