Praia Do Almargem A Tourism Guide 2023

Praia do Almargem, or Cavalo Preto, is situated on the Portuguese Algarve in Quarteira. It rests halfway between Albufeira and Faro and is a part of an approximately 17-kilometre-long area of sand that connects from the harbour in Quarteira to Faro airport. This particular beach is more peaceful with less tourists than the neighbouring beaches eastward towards Quarteira.

Highlights of Praia Do Almargem

Praia do Almargem is a stunning Portuguese beach. It’s well known for its clear waters and white sand, which make it perfect for swimming. The surrounding cliffs provide some great photo opportunities. Praia do Almargem is often quieter than other beaches in the area, such as Praia de Quarteira and Praia de Vilamoura, making it a great place to relax. 

There are dunes located at the back of Praia do Almargem beach with wooded areas containing cork oaks and pine trees. The Ribeira do Almargem river flows between them, but during dry seasons it onlyforms a lagoon landscape here instead of continuing all the way to the sea. Swimming is not recommended in this lagoon area. 

There is still extra appeal to Praia do Almargem beach because of its diverse flora and fauna—which provides many little attractions for nature lovers in particular. The conservation area surrounding the beach is also known to be good for bird watching.

Although Praia do Almargem is largely unspoiled, there are still some amenities available to visitors, such as sun loungers and beach umbrellas for hire. In addition, there is a restaurant serving delicious fish dishes in a relaxed setting. For those looking for more active pursuits, there is also a volleyball pitch and water sports operator offering plenty of activities.

Location Praia Do Almargem

It’s only a short walk, around 1.5km from the center of Quarteira, but for many people its too far, and this means it’s often very quiet.

How to get Praia Do Almargem

There is tarmac road access via the east exit of Quarteira, heading towards Almancil, or from the N 125 in the direction of Fonte Santa. The Praia do Almargem is signposted; there is one access to the east and another to the west of the beach, both on dirt tracks and both approximately 1.5 km long. Orientation: Southwest.

GPS: 37° 3’32.32″N 8° 4’59.12″W

Praia Do Almargem sights

The beach resides at the edge of a vast valley shaped by the Ribeira do Almargem river which flows into a decent-sized lagoon on the other side of the sand. This small lake that sits behind the beach is teeming with various plant and animal life, including some rare and uniquely Algarvian plant species like alcar-do-Algarve (a type of rockrose) and tomilho cabeçudo (hammerhead thyme). The lagoon makes for great birdwatching too, as it’s constantly visited by all sorts of waterfowl.

The surrounding region Praia do Almargem

• Vilamoura ( 3.9 km)
• Faro (14 km)
• Albufeira (15 km)

Beaches nearby Praia do Almargem

Additionally, there are a number of beaches near Praia do Almargem that you can visit:

• Praia do Loulé Velho (283 m)
• Praia de Forte Novo (424 m)
• Praia do Trafal (1100 m).

Praia Do Almargem things to do

Praia do Almargem offers many exciting activities:

• Swimming
• Sunbathing
• Beach Walking
• Picnicking
• Surfing
• Windsurfing
• Kiting
• Banana boat
• Jetski
• Canoe
• Pedal boat
• Ringe
• Water ski
• Hiking

Desporski offers a variety of water sports, including banana boats, jet skis, canoes, pedal boats, rings, and water skis. The staff is happy to help you choose the right activity for your group and will provide all the necessary equipment.

Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure or a relaxing day by the sea, Desporski has something for everyone. The water sports provider Desporski is conveniently located near the restaurant and the western part of the beach. In addition to water sports, you can also rent sunbeds and umbrellas here.

Praia Do Almargem Hiking trail

There are multiple, excellent hiking trails in the Praia Do Almargem area. A few of our favorites are:

Lagoa da Foz da Ribeira de Almargem – Loulé

• Distance 1.45 mi
• Technical difficulty Easy
• Trail type Loop
• Time 44 minutes

Lagoa da Foz da Ribeira de Almargem – Loulé – A magnificent landscape dominated by an extensive pine forest that surrounds the mouth of the Ribeira do Almargem river, making it an excellent habitat for waterfowl.

Quarteira – playa y laguna de Almargem

• Distance 4.58 mi
• Technical difficulty Experts only
• Trail type Loop
• Time one hour 34 minutes

Departure from the surroundings of the hotel Dom José and Quarteirasol along the seafront and campsite to the Almargem lagoon.

It is also possible to continue to the lagoon of Loule Velho (where a greater number and variety of birds can be seen) by following the seashore, the distance to the lagoon may be about five to six hundred meters longer.

Foz de Almargem y Vale do Lobo

• Distance 6.9 mi
• Technical difficulty Moderate
• Trail type One Way
• Time 3 hours 59 minutes

We set off from Quarteira to the east, from Gaviota beach, along a path that runs along the top of a small cliff, among pine trees, until we reach the lagoon of Almargem. The next part of the trail consists of circling around the lagoon until we reach the other shore.

We then look for a small path through the pine forest, which runs alongside a beautiful abandoned irrigation canal that leads us to Valle do Lobo, a private super-luxury complex with a golf course. We cross the valley, situated on a prominent landmark, and head down to the beach to start our return. On the way back we pass the lagoons of Loule Velho. We had lunch at Santiago seafood restaurant, a place I highly recommend.

Praia Do Almargem Nightlife

 BJ’s Oceanside is a stunning seafood restaurant located at the western end of the Praia do Almargem beach. They serve exquisite fish dishes and have an extensive wine list, making it the perfect place for a night out. Live music and dancing are often featured, adding to the overall atmosphere of fun and excitement.

Praia Do Almargem amenities and FEATURES

• Lifeguards (Lifeguards on duty during the bathing season)
• Public restrooms( WC nearby the restaurant BJ’s Oceanside)
• Parking (Car parking nearby Praia do Almargem). There are two parking spaces on this beach. They are both available on gravel roads, and they’re free! You can easily find a parking spot by looking for the gravel parking lots.
• Restaurants (F&B places nearby Praia do Almargem). If you’re looking for a nice evening out, BJ’s Oceanside is the place for you. They serve amazing seafood dishes with fine wine pairings, and there’s usually live music or dancing if you’re interested.
• Pet friendly (Subject to pet policy)

Praia Do Almargem Pet Policy

• From July to August, dogs are not allowed on the beach. This means that you can walk your pet until 9am or from 7:30pm. It is important to remember to wear a leash and to clean up any messes your pet may make.
• However, during the rest of the year they are allowed on a lead.  
• Additionally, service dogs are allowed on the beach at any time.

Praia Do Almargem Fees

• PARKING PASS Fee for parking in lots
• Beach umbrellas and sun loungers on the order of €15-20 per day

When to visit Praia Do Almargem

The hottest months at Praia do Almargem

June, July, August, and September

The best time to visit Praia do Almargem is during the summer months when the weather is warm and there are fewer crowds. The hottest months at Praia do Almargem of the year, from June to September. These are also the busiest months, as this is when most people visit. June, July, August, and September provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy all that Quarteira has to offer!

Coldest months at Praia do Almargem:

December, January, February, and March

The coldest months of the year in Praia do Almargem are January, February, March, and December. These are the months when it is most likely to experience cold weather conditions such as rain, wind, and lower temperatures. If you are looking for a place to visit that is known for its warm weather and beaches, then Praia do Almargem is not the ideal destination during these months.

Rainiest months at Praia do Almargem:

March, October, November, and December

The rainiest months of the year in Praia Do Almargem are March, October, November, and December. This is because these months have the most rainfall on average. If you are looking to visit Praia Do Almargem during one of these months, be sure to pack your raincoat!

Praia Do Almargem Water and waves

The waves at Praia Do Almargem are usually not very strong and the water is usually calm. This makes it a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The beach is also great for fishing.

You might also like: Praia Manuel Lourenço, Praia do Trafal, Praia do Ancão, Praia Do Garrão, Praia da Balbina, Praia da Ponta Pequena, Praia da Terra Estreita, Praia da Ponta Grande

RULES & REGULATIONS ON Praia Do Almargem

• No pets are allowed on the beach (please refer to the pet policy)
• DO NOT make campfires or barbecues
• NO Fireworks

Praia Do Almargem for families and young children

Praia Do Almargem is perfect for a family vacation. The beach has a gentle slope making it easy to get into the water, and the sand is clean and soft. The shoreline is wide, making it safe for children to play in the water. Even though the beach is supervised by lifeguards during the summer season, it is important for parents to keep an eye on their children at all times, as waves can pull children out to sea.

Day trips from Praia Do Almargem

Quarteira is conveniently located near other interesting places in the Algarve, making it perfect for day trips and excursions.

Aquashow

Aquashow, one of the Algarve’s largest water parks located on the outskirts of Quartieira. The Aquashow features hotel, water roller coasters, multiple slides and flumes, wave pools and some family-friendly animal shows that are sure to entertain everyone in your group!

Loulé and Faro

The historic town of Loulé is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a change of pace from the more lively atmosphere of Quarteira. It has a distinctly Portuguese feel, with a lively market at its center and plenty of cultural activities available in the nearby city of Faro.

If you’re looking for some sightseeing, Loulé’s walled old town has a cathedral and museums, while the famous Igreja de Carmo and its chapel of bones are located in Faro. There’s also plenty of shopping and a lively local bar and restaurant scene in both towns.

Excursions Praia Do Almargem. Coastal Excursions in the Algarve

There are many different tour operators in Vilamoura Marina that offer boat trips along the coast. You can go dolphin watching, cave exploring in Benagil, or on a luxury catamaran tour. There are also deep sea fishing and wildlife watching trip options available to you in Ria Formosa. This is a great way to experience more of what the Algarve has to offer!

Praia Do Almargem Hotels and rentals

If you’re considering staying for one or even a few nights, there are plenty of options available near the Praia Do Almargem beach. Chose your preferred accomodation type and your favourite room provider:

• Nearby rentals from VRBO.
• Nearby rooms and properties from Booking.com.

The Pros And Cons of a Holiday at the Praia Do Almargem

Praia Do Almargem is a great place to visit if you are looking for a beach with calm water and gentle waves. It is also perfect for families with young children as the shoreline is wide and the sand is clean and soft. However, it should be noted that the beach can be quite crowded during the peak season.  

PROS Praia Do Almargem

• Dog friendly
• Wildlife
• Perfect for families with young kids
• Pristine sand and water
• Near the city

CONS Praia Do Almargem

• Small
• There are no public showers available
• The road is unpaved and covered in dust.

CONCLUSION. A holiday to Praia Do Almargem

Praia Do Almargem is a great beach for families with young children, as it has a wide shoreline and gentle waves. The sand is also clean and soft. However, the beach can be quite crowded during peak season. If you are looking for a more quiet and relaxing beach experience, Praia Do Almargem may not be the best option for you.