When we think of stunning beach destinations our minds immediately flit to the likes of the Maldives and Bora Bora.
However, it turns out the world’s leading beach destination is much closer to home, in Portugal.
In the World Travel Awards – considered to be the ‘Oscars of Tourism’ – the Algarve won out for a record-breaking fourth time, beating idyllic destinations like the Maldives, Jamaica, the Galapagos Islands, and Turks and Caicos
This Portuguese tourism hotspot claimed the title in 2024, 2021, and 2020, with the Philippines briefly dethroning it in 2022 and 2023.
Other nominees in the category this year included the Seychelles, Maui, Indonesia, Costa Navarino (Greece), Porto Santo Island (Madeira) and Zanzibar – so there was certainly some stiff competition.
But having been crowned Europe’s Leading Beach Destination 10 times over the past decade, it’s clearly a firm favourite.
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With 200 kilometres of beaches between the southwest coast near Aljezur and the eastern end close to Vila Real de Santo António, the Algarve proved a hit with this year’s competition judges, who ranged from tourism professionals to press and travellers.
Coupled with white sand, clear sea, and a tepid climate with 300 days of sunshine a year, it remains a sure-fire choice for those who like to sunbathe.
Of the more than 100 beaches in the region, the most pristine offerings can be found on the Costa Vicentina, while more cosmopolitan coastlines surrounded by resorts are dotted between Lagos and Faro.
There are also 88 Blue Flag beaches in the Algarve – one of the largest concentrations of BF titles in Europe. To qualify as a Blue Flag, the water quality, environmental management and cleanliness must be of an excellent standard.
The 10 best beaches in Algarve, according to tourists
- Praia da Falésia – Olhos de Água (near Albufeira)
- Praia da Rocha – South of Portimão
- Praia Dona Ana – Lagos
- Praia da Marinha – Caramujeira
- Prais do Barril – Tavira
- Praia do Camilo – Lagos
7. Praia da Luz – Luz
8. Praia Sao Rafael – Albufeira
9. Praia dos Tres Irmaos – Alvor
10. Praia da Gale – Gale (near Albufeira)
Why do Brits love it?
Last year, 4.4 million Brits flocked to Portugal, many of them heading to the popular resorts of the Algarve.
According to Beverley Boden, head of aviation, tourism, and finance at Teesside University, affordability is a major factor in its popularity.
‘Living costs are much lower than the UK, making it attractive for both short breaks and long-term stays,’ Beverly tells Metro. ‘With the usual appeal of a short flight, more departure points and extremely cheap fares, all contributing to the appeal.’
The expert claims that the reason Algarve’s beaches often outrank those in East Asia and the Caribbean is in part because they’re ‘stunning’, but also because of their proximity.
‘In essence, it is a taste of paradise on your doorstep with guaranteed sunshine for cash strapped Brits,’ she adds.
‘The destination has natural charm, and the government has taken swift action to preserve its culture and crack down on unsavoury behaviour, adding to its appeal.’
Nikolaus Thomale, co-founder at holiday home co-ownership platform MYNE agrees, telling Metro: ‘The beaches are spectacular and the quality of villas and holiday homes is exceptionally high/
‘It’s also incredibly easy – there’s great infrastructure, English is widely spoken, fantastic food, and a sense of safety that families really value.
‘Simply the best choice for anyone looking for sunshine without the stress.’
How to dodge the Algarve crowds according to our Travel Editor
Metro’s travel editor Kristina Beanland has been to the Algarve 21 times and is well-versed on how to avoid the tourist traps and stuffy crowds.
A staple part of our family holiday to the Algarve always included a boat trip on the River Arade, inland towards the historic town of Silves,’ she says.
‘Cruising the calm waters, with lunch and a (usually too warm) vino verde is a novel way to travel. Tours on a traditional fishing boat depart from Portimão, with prices from €35.
‘Silves feels like a time warp. Stroll along cobbled streets before heading up to the imposing ochre-coloured castle, which costs just €2.80 to enter.’
Ferragudo is another must-visit for Kristina – a quaint fishing village, not far from popular Albuferia.
‘Growing up, this place felt untouched by tourists, and while it’s now getting more attention from those in the know, you can still feel like you’re experiencing authentic Algarve here,’ she says.
‘Stroll along the cobbled streets and stop for a coffee and a tosta mista (a glorified toasted ham and cheese sarnie — but they somehow do them differently in the Algarve).
‘Wander along the harbour, where you’ll see fishermen bringing in their catch, or chefs in restaurants, barbecuing the fish. There are beautiful beaches to spend your days at here.’
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