Beaches in the Algarve generally fall into three categories: South coast, "Ponte da Piedade", and West coast:

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South Coast beaches (which includes Burgau beach) are pretty, sandy, normally well protected from heavy sea and wind conditions. A number of these beaches lay relatively undiscovered and can offer totally private sunbathing (although they can take a little finding!), others are more easily found and have restaurant facilities.. Burgau beach has a lifeguard on duty

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Burgau Beach, late afternoon

Ponte da Piedade beaches are the "postcard beaches" of the Algarve. Piedade is a 5km stretch of very soft rock which has been shaped by the sea into a series of 15-20 beaches. Unsuspecting gaps in the cliffs occasionally lead to the next beach. Grotto trips around this area are popular, remember to take your snorkel & mask with you!

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Praia d'Ana, Ponte da Piedade

West Coast beaches offer phenomenal scenery. The aggressive cliffs along with surfable waves coming straight in from the Atlantic make these beaches a worthwhile visit. Please note: light rip currents, potentially heavy sea conditions and submerged rocks on these beaches can be dangerous so please take care when in the water here.

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Surfing Beaches on the West Coast... Stunning scenery

To reach the nearest of these beaches, head north from Vila do Bispo towards Alijezur, after 2 minutes take a dust road off to the left, signposted "Florestal Perimito" and head west, note: road surface is unsuitable for some cars.


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