The entire Algarve region in Portugal is full of spectacular beaches for families. If you’re staying near Lagos there are several options right near you. One of the best is Praia Dona Ana.
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HOW TO GET TO PRAIA DONA ANA
Located just outside of Lagos, Praia Dona Ana is easily reached by bus or car. Depending on where you are in the town, it could be just a 5 to 7-minute ride. The parking spaces are limited, but between the parking lot and the adjoining streets, you should be able to find a spot.
WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING TO PRAIA DONA ANA
Before you head to one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve, check to make sure you have all that you need:
- Swimsuit
- Beach Towel
- Water Bottle
- Snacks
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Flip Flops
- Currency (to rent a sunbed)
- Sun hat
PRAIA DONA ANA AREA
The entire area is absolutely gorgeous. The beach is backed by remarkable, tall yellow sandstone cliffs. They extend all along the back of the beach and down along the coast.
Since the beach is located at the bottom of these cliffs, there is an issue with visiting this beach. To access the beach you’ll have to descend a rather lengthy flight of stairs. Since there are no elevators or other means to reach the beach.
This means that people with mobility limitations will not be able to access the beach. Families with small children should be mindful of this as well.
If you’re in Portugal for any amount of time, you’ll quickly get used to climbing hills, stairs, etc. so this won’t be anything too extraordinary but it’s good to know ahead of time. It may be wise to pack light when visiting.
PRAIA DONA ANA WATER
The water at Praia Dona Ana, like many beaches in the Algarve, can be a bit cooler than expected. The reason is that when you are on the beach here you’re in the Atlantic Ocean, not the Mediterranean. There is a noticeable difference.
If you come in the summer, especially on a hot day as we did, it didn’t take much to get used to the water and it was very refreshing. It helps that the beach gets a lot of sun early.
We found the waves to be steady but fun. They were not oppressive, but keep in mind, especially with small children that this is the ocean not a smaller body of water.
That said we found it to be perfectly safe even several feet out into the water. We didn’t notice any significant drop-offs that we would have to be aware of.
THE FACILITIES
One of the things that makes Praia Dona Ana such a great choice for families to visit is the excellent facilities. The restrooms aren’t extensive, but there was just enough space and most importantly they were clean and free.
There are also showers to rinse off. Once you come down the staircase, the restroom along with a restaurant are located on the far end of the beach. When we were at the beach it was fairly crowded but there was never a long line to use the facilities.
There is also a section on the beach where you can purchase the use of a sun bed which comes with two beds and a parasol-like covering to keep the sun off of you.
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit Praia Dona Ana is late June and early September between morning and early afternoon. This will ensure that you enjoy the beach in good weather and avoid the heaviest of the crowds.
Praia Dona Ana is a very popular location due to its beauty and convenient location. It’s also a good-sized beach. Because of its popularity, it can get a bit crowded during peak seasons of July and August. The weather is it’s warmest during those months so you can still enjoy your visit, it’ll just be a bit more crowded.
There is a lot of space at the beach so if you don’t mind being off of the water a bit it shouldn’t make too much of a difference.
If you want to rent a sunbed, then that might raise an issue as the beds will likely be rented pretty quickly.
The cliffs make for a beautiful backdrop and make this location especially beautiful. In the afternoon; however, those same cliffs can cast a shadow over sections of the beach.
The parking lot above the beach is quite limited for the amount of people that visit during the busy season. Once the parking lot fills up, you can park on the adjoining streets and take a short walk down.
There is also the option of taking the bus from the city to the beach and avoiding the parking situation altogether.
All these things combine to suggest getting to the beach earlier in the day rather than later will work out best.
SAFETY TIPS FOR A RELAXING DAY AT PRAIA DONA ANA
Praia Dona Ana is a breathtaking spot for a family day at the beach, but a little preparation can make it even better. During the summer, lifeguards are on duty, giving parents peace of mind while the kids splash in the shallow waters.
Keep in mind, though, that the stunning cliffs surrounding the beach can occasionally experience small rockfalls. To stay safe, it’s best to set up your towels and umbrellas a bit further from the cliffs.
The water here is calm and inviting, but it’s always smart to stay within marked swimming zones. For extra comfort, bring water shoes to navigate the rocky seabed.
With these tips in mind, your family can relax and soak up the beauty of this unforgettable beach.
VISIT PRAIA DONA ANA
Praia Dona Ana was one of the highlights of our trip to Portugal. Our family loved it and it’s very popular for a reason. Located just outside of the town of Lagos it’s also in a great location.
While you’re in the Algarve be sure to plan well so that you can see the rest of this magnificent area and check out our essential guides for the best areas to stay as well as what you need to pack for your trip to Portugal. Safe travels!
