A trip to Portugal isn’t just a vacation—it’s a feast for the senses, a place that leaves its mark on you long after you’ve gone. Among its many treasures lies one of the Algarve’s crown jewels: Praia da Marinha. This isn’t just any beach; it’s the kind of place that graces “world’s best” lists for good reason. Towering cliffs, crystalline waters, and a rugged charm make it unforgettable. If you and your family are ready to experience this breathtaking slice of Portugal, here’s everything you need to know to make it count.
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PRAIA DA MARINHA: HOW TO GET THERE
Praia da Marinha is located just southeast of the charming town of Lagoa, making it easily accessible by car. If you’re driving, there are two main routes to consider.
The N125 is a scenic coastal road, offering views of the Algarve countryside, while the A22 is a faster, toll highway.
Whichever you choose, you’ll eventually connect to the M1154, which leads you toward the beach. Follow this road until it merges with Estrada da Marinha, a winding stretch that takes you directly to the parking area.
Look for signs directing you to Praia da Marinha along the way, as they are well-marked.
Once you reach the end of Estrada da Marinha, you’ll find ample parking available near the cliffs overlooking the beach.
During peak summer months, however, parking can fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early in the day to secure a spot. From the parking lot, it’s a short walk to the viewing points and staircase that leads down to the beach.
Be sure to check your GPS or maps app before setting out to ensure the smoothest route, especially if you’re unfamiliar with driving in the Algarve.
FACILITIES & AMENITIES
At the end of Estrada da Marinha, you’ll find two parking areas conveniently located near the cliffs overlooking the beach. The primary parking lot is paved and features designated, marked spaces, offering a more organized option for visitors.
However, it is relatively small and tends to fill up quickly, especially during the busy summer months. An auxiliary parking lot, located on a dirt plot nearby, provides additional space, though it operates in a less structured, semi-organized manner.
To secure a spot and avoid parking challenges, it’s best to arrive early, particularly on weekends or during peak tourist seasons.
The facilities were fairly small but were clean and sufficient. There is a restroom with enough space to change for those with a family. There were a lot of people at the beach and though the changing area was small and there was a line, it moved pretty quickly.
The whole time that we were there it didn’t seem to be much of a delay when trying to use the facilities.
This is one of the best parts of visiting Praia da Marinha for families since all of the beaches on the Algarve don’t have facilities, especially as nice as the ones here.
There are no sun beds to be rented at Praia da Marinha so you’ll have to bring your umbrella to protect you from the sun.
PRAIA DA MARINHA BEACH: WHAT TO EXPECT
Praia da Marinha is consistently voted one of the best beaches in the world, and for good reason. Not only is the sand an immaculate, soft golden brown, but the cliffs that surround the beach area are astonishing.
The cliffs allow for an opening once you come down the staircase but then run the length of the beach backing the sand. The golden orange/yellow sandstone cliffs majestically frame the beach.
When we visited we were equally captivated by the cliffs as we were the gorgeous turquoise water meeting the sand.
The beach is long and has plenty of space even on a crowded day. The most crowded area is naturally just in front of where the staircase comes down and brings you to the beach.
As you wander further towards the east end of the beach you’ll find more space to spread out.
At the far end is an interesting area where the cliffs dip back from the oceanfront and form almost a cathedral-like quality as it half arches back. We noted several groups that made their way down to the end to take advantage of this unique area.
Further still down over a rock pile or around the water is another secluded area that includes a view of the famous “M” rock that the beach is most famous for.
The only way down to the beach from the parking lot is down a long walkway that is exquisitely beautiful and then down a flight of stairs. There are no other options for those who have limited mobility.
The staircase isn’t the longest or the steepest so it’s doable for a family with small children, but perhaps it’s best to pack light because the distance from the parking lot down to the beach isn’t short.
One of the main reasons to come to the beach is to get into the water and you won’t be disappointed. The water here is absolutely stunning. The turquoise water comes up to meet the golden brown sand and creates a visually remarkable combination.
Since this is the Atlantic Ocean, the water can be a bit cooler than you would expect. This of course varies on the time of year.
We found that even though the water was cool, on a warm day with the temperature in the 80s and sunlight, the water proved to be quite refreshing. Our family visited in mid-June, so July and August would also likely be fine, but outside of those months, the water may be a bit cool for younger kids.
That being said, all of the kids that we saw at the beach were having the time of their lives!
Having a beach on the ocean also means that there are going to be waves. The waves were constantly present but weren’t overwhelming.
Families with smaller children should exercise normal precautions but we were comfortable going several feet out into the water. Other families that were present seemed pretty comfortable as well.
TOP TIPS FOR FAMILIES
What to Pack for a Fun Day at Praia da Marinha
Before you set out for Praia da Marinha, make sure you’re fully prepared for a day of sun, sand, and adventure. This isn’t the kind of beach with bustling boardwalks or convenience stores nearby — it’s a slice of Algarve paradise where nature takes center stage. That’s part of its charm, but it also means you need to come ready.
Here’s a detailed packing checklist to help you enjoy your time at one of Portugal’s most iconic beaches:
Swimsuit
Whether you’re planning to swim, snorkel, or just dip your toes in, a comfortable swimsuit is essential. If you’re thinking of exploring the cliffs or nearby walking trails after your beach time, consider a quick-dry suit that won’t leave you feeling soggy.
Towel
A large beach towel is a must, especially since there aren’t any rental stands. For families, a sand-resistant beach mat can make life a little easier. If you’re packing light, a compact microfiber towel works well too.
Reusable Water Bottle
There’s no beach bar or snack hut down on the sand, so bring plenty of water. A large insulated bottle is your best bet to keep drinks cold under the Algarve sun.
Snacks
This is a beach picnic kind of place. Pack snacks that travel well — fresh fruit, nuts, sandwiches, and granola bars are all good options. If you’re bringing kids, having a stash of easy-to-eat food can save the day when hunger strikes.
Sunscreen
Praia da Marinha is beautiful, but shade is in short supply once you’re on the sand. Bring reef-safe sunscreen with high SPF, and don’t forget to reapply — the reflection off the water adds up fast.
Sunglasses
Between the bright sun, white limestone cliffs, and glittering water, it’s a lot for your eyes to handle. A solid pair of sunglasses (preferably polarized) is essential.
Flip Flops or Water Shoes
The sand is soft enough for bare feet, but getting down there is another story. The walkway is scenic but long, so bring sturdy flip flops or water shoes if you want to explore beyond the sand, especially if you’re planning to poke around in the tide pools.
Sun Hat
A good sun hat isn’t just for show here. Whether you’re staking out a spot on the beach or hiking the cliffside trails, a wide-brimmed hat offers some much-needed relief from the midday sun.
Optional Extras to Consider
- Snorkel Gear: The clear water and rocky formations make this one of the best casual snorkeling spots along the Algarve coast.
- Beach Umbrella or Pop-Up Tent: Shade is scarce, so if you’re planning a full day, bring your own.
- Beach Toys: Buckets, shovels, and a floatie or two can keep younger kids entertained while you enjoy the view.
- Portable Cooler: If you’re staying for the afternoon, a soft-sided cooler is perfect for keeping drinks and snacks chilled.
- Camera or GoPro: This beach is famous for a reason — you’ll want to capture the dramatic cliffs, turquoise water, and golden sand.
Final Thing to Pack
Since you’ll need to walk down a fairly steep set of stairs to reach the beach, pack smart. A comfortable beach backpack is your best friend here — hands-free makes it easier to navigate the steps safely.
Beach Safety Tips for Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha’s stunning cliffs and rocky terrain are part of its charm, but they also require extra caution. The paths along the cliffs can be uneven, and some areas are prone to erosion, so it’s crucial to stick to designated trails.
Always keep a close eye on kids near the cliffs and avoid venturing too close to the edges. When descending the staircase to the beach, take your time and hold onto the railing if needed.
By staying mindful of your surroundings, you can fully enjoy the beauty of this iconic beach while keeping your family safe.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
While Praia da Marinha is a gem worth savoring, the surrounding Algarve coastline offers plenty of other stunning spots and experiences if you’re looking to extend your adventure.
One of the most famous is the Benagil Cave, an iconic sea cave just around the corner. Its dramatic dome, naturally carved by the sea, features a circular skylight that floods the interior with sunlight. It’s only accessible by kayak, paddleboard, or boat, making the journey just as memorable as the destination. We chose the boat tour option and it was an amazing way to see Benagil Caves as well as the surrounding area.
For a change of pace, head to the nearby village of Carvoeiro, known for its whitewashed buildings, laid-back charm, and clifftop restaurants serving up some of the Algarve’s best seafood. You can also explore the Algar Seco rock formations, where wind and water have sculpted tunnels, arches, and blowholes into the limestone.
If you prefer to stay active, lace up your hiking shoes and tackle part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, a spectacular clifftop route that passes right by Praia da Marinha, offering jaw-dropping views of the rugged coastline and turquoise waters below.
OUR FAMILY’S TRIP TO PRAIA DA MARINHA
Our family had the chance to visit Praia da Marinha as part of our two-week trip through Portugal and Spain. While staying in the Algarve, we knew this beach was high on our must-see list and even after hearing so much about how beautiful it was, it still managed to exceed every expectation.
It’s easily one of the most stunning beaches we’ve ever visited, if not the most beautiful.Like many beaches in the Algarve, Praia da Marinha sits at the base of towering sandstone cliffs, meaning you enter from the top and make your way down.
The benefit of starting at the top is the incredible panoramic views — the sparkling water, the dramatic cliffs, and the famous “M” rock formation, one of the Algarve’s most iconic natural landmarks. Before we even set foot on the sand, we were already blown away by the scenery.
The walk down to the beach was just as impressive. Following the clifftop trail and stairway, we were treated to picture-perfect views of the beach framed between two cliffs, with the open sea stretching out beyond. It’s the kind of view you pause for — camera or not.
The beach itself was popular, as expected, but it never felt overcrowded. Praia da Marinha is long and wide, with plenty of space to spread out between the water’s edge and the cliffs backing the sand. We had no trouble finding our own little corner to set up for the day.
The water was absolutely beautiful — that signature turquoise-green color you see in every Algarve postcard — and the sand was soft and golden.
The Atlantic was cooler than we expected, but visiting in June meant warm weather balanced it out. Once we got used to the temperature, the water felt refreshing, and it didn’t seem to bother the many other families splashing around with their kids.
Even with slightly overcast skies, the entire setting was stunning, and we spent hours in the water. The kids had a blast playing in the waves, and we soaked up every minute of it.
There are small facilities near the entrance, which made changing quick and easy. There was a bit of a line when we arrived, but the facilities were clean and well-maintained, so it wasn’t an issue.
Overall, Praia da Marinha had such a relaxed, family-friendly vibe, with plenty of other families enjoying the beach alongside us. Whenever we make it back to Portugal, we definitely want to explore more of the Algarve’s beaches, but we’ll make sure to return to Praia da Marinha — it’s just that special.
THE BEST TIMES TO VISIT PRAIA DA MARINHA
The best time to visit Praia Da Marinha is late June and early September. July and August will provide the best weather if you’re looking for some heat to go along with warming water temperatures. Those months can get a bit crowded, especially considering that this is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Getting to the beach early would always be a good idea, but we arrived in the early afternoon and were able to easily find a nice spot at the beach.
We did have to park alongside the auxiliary lot and improvise a spot as it and the primary lot were already full. I would imagine on the really busy days parking would be even more of a challenge.
We visited in June so during the more busy season you’d probably want to get there much earlier than we did to ensure that you have a spot to park.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Praia da Marinha
1. What is the best time to visit Praia da Marinha?
The best time to visit Praia da Marinha is during the shoulder seasons — late May to early June or September to early October. You’ll still get warm weather and sunny skies, but without the peak season crowds that can overwhelm Algarve beaches in July and August.
2. Is Praia da Marinha suitable for families with kids?
Yes, Praia da Marinha can absolutely be enjoyed by families — but it’s worth noting the steep cliffs and staircase down to the beach. Older kids will love exploring the caves and tide pools, but parents with toddlers should be cautious, especially near the cliff edges up top before you descend down to the beach.
3. How do you get to Praia da Marinha?
Praia da Marinha is located about 45 minutes by car from Faro, 25 minutes from Albufeira, and roughly 15 minutes from Carvoeiro. The easiest way to get there is to drive and park at the top parking lot, which is free. Taxis and rideshares are available, and some local boat tours also stop at Praia da Marinha from nearby towns.
4. Are there facilities at Praia da Marinha?
Facilities at Praia da Marinha are limited compared to larger Algarve beaches. There’s a parking lot, some seasonal snack vendors, and toilets near the parking area, but once you’re on the beach, you won’t find lifeguards, showers, or formal restaurants. It’s a bring-your-own-beach-gear kind of spot.
5. Can you swim at Praia da Marinha?
Absolutely — the crystal-clear water and calm conditions (on most days) make it a beautiful spot for swimming and snorkeling. Just be mindful of tides and avoid venturing too close to the cliffs when swimming, as rockfalls occasionally happen. Families with young kids may prefer to stick to the shallows near the sand.
VISIT PRAIA DA MARINHA
The Algarve is spoiled with beaches—golden sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs. But if there’s one beach that demands your attention, it’s Praia da Marinha. This place isn’t just a beach; it’s a masterpiece carved by nature, the kind of spot that sticks in your mind long after your tan fades. And while you’re at it, don’t stop there. Make your way to Praia Dona Ana, another slice of paradise, and take the time to soak in everything the Algarve has to offer. It’s not a region to rush through—it’s one to savor.
