The east Algarvian beaches are fewer in number and less visited.
With some beaches bordering the River Guadiana the landscapes change from warm yellow sands to soft river beaches.
Another peculiarity is its proximity to Spain.
Like Faro, Olhão has two main larger 'islands' and a large selection of beaches of golden sand and azure waters.
Armona beach, similarly to its neighbour; the Fuseta beach is set on an island close to Olhão. It is possible to reach this beach by boat as there are regular ferries, especially during the summer.it is also know for its wide variety of water sport activities such as canoeing, windsurfing, sailing and diving. There are also restaurants, toilets and a lifeguard present during the summer.
Located on the border of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, this beach is also an island. It has beautiful natural conditions which permit several leisure activities. Easily accesed by ferry from Olhão, which is known as Algarve's most visited city in terms of nautical sports. Furthermore it has an easy access for disabled people as well as a reasonable food and beverage offer in its immediate proximity.
Beautiful empty beaches with sands that seem to go on forever. Fields of orange trees, heavy with the scent of blossom.
Barril Beach is long enough to encompass both the cosmopolitan atmosphere and near complete isolation as it is found in the middle of the 'island' of Tavira.
Directly translatable to the 'Narrow Beach' is stretch of sand is a full 50 metres wide. Also known as the Santa Luzia Beach it is usually quite devoid of people and offers breath-taking vistas along with sun bed rental, toilets, beach sports areas and is watched by a lifeguard during the summer.
There are regular ferry and bridge crossings to this island, which lies opposite the city and has long beaches and calm waters. One of the areas of this long stretch of sand is a nudist beach.
Separated by an arm of the Ria Formosa, Cabanas is quiet and isolated. It can be reached by boat from Tavira. The Resort Quinta Velha can be found nearby as well as restaurants, showers and public bathrooms.
Located at the eastern tip of the Algarve, many of the beaches of this municipality are directly bordering Spain.
Located on the extreme border of the Ria Formosa, on the Cacela Peninsula (which recalls the name of the beach) Surrounded by orchards and lagoons it is reachable by boats from the town.
Located near the small fishing village of the same name. Retaining a rather peaceful environment it is relatively close to support facilities and restaurants. This beach has direct access for the disabled and a relatively large parking lot. It is also watched during the summer.
This beach is rather popular for fishing and some beautifully decorated wooden fishing boats still embellish the landscape. The beach has a lifeguard during the summer and has some restaurants and a car park nearby.
This is another beach of the area that used to be used very much for fishing. Nowadays the brightly coloured boats are more of a decoration. This beach has a facilitated access for people with physical limitations. There is also a large car park, several food and beverage options as well as public toilets. The Monte Gordo beach has a lifeguard during the summer.
This beach is the closest to the border of Spain and begins at the mouth of the Guadiana River.
Much like the municipality of Vila Real de Santo António some of these beaches actually share waters with Spain.
Situated near the small village of Altura, the Alagoa beach is reachable by various footpaths through the dune vegetation. Close by one can find some restaurants and it is watched during the summer months.
Literally meaning 'Green Beach', Praia Verde owes its name to its surrounding vegetation of pines and gentle slopes of green plants. There is a car park at walking distance, as well as a small restaurant and public rest rooms. It has a facilitated access for people with physical limitations.
A favourite place to spot chameleons and other creatures, this small beach is usually relatively quiet. It is watched by the coast guard during the summer and has a few food and beverage outlet options in its immediate surroundings.