This Fun And Captivating European Beach Is Known As One Of The Best In The World

The great selection of stunning beaches is one of the reasons to pick Portugal as your next adventure destination. There is something for every type of beachgoer, so how to pick a favorite? Named the best beach in the world by Tripadvisor in 2024, you can't go wrong with Praia da Falésia, in the southern region of Algarve.

Just 45-minutes from Faro International Airport, the beach takes its name from the Portuguese word for cliff, and the setting is nothing short of spectacular. The shimmering Atlantic washes along 4 miles of velvet sands unfolding as far as the eye can see, framed by the ochre cliff face. Don't leave too soon. At sundown the beach goes quiet and the cliffs turn vermillion against the lavender sky, with the lap of the waves and the seagulls as the only soundtrack. You can rent sun beds and umbrellas, and there's no lack of restaurants or cafes along the coast. Note that some only accept cash, such as the snack bar at the top of the stairs in the central entrance to the beach.

Wherever the mood takes you, from whiling away the afternoon with a book, building mighty sand castles, or enjoying thrilling water sports, there is so much to see and do that you may soon agree that Praia da Falésia is in a league of its own. 

There is a trail atop the cliffs that runs the entire length of the shore, and you may spot the birds and flowers that thrive in this habitat. To make the most of the walk, start from the main entrance in the center, go to one end enjoying the spectacular views, and walk back down along the sand. Bring good walking shoes and keep a safe distance from the edge of the cliff, as the rock is soft and breakable. 

There are several free parking areas, although it's wise to arrive early in the summer as it does get crowded. For a quieter section you can leave the car by the Alfamar Beach & Sport Resort and walk through the shady pine forest. Here the cliffs are lower but you still get a stunning view of the beach for the best photos. Note that you have to navigate steep wooden steps to the beach, which can be very challenging for people with reduced mobility. 

Then there's the swimming, of course. Falésia has received a blue-flag label, awarded to sites that meet high standards of environmental quality, safety, and sustainability initiatives. Families in particular appreciate the gently sloping water that gives about 160-feet of shallow area to play in, with lifeguards on duty between May and October. Depending on weather conditions, the water is also dotted with paddle boarders, divers, and surfers. You can learn to hang 10 with surf lessons for around $40. And if you prefer a quiet spot, or need space for a beach game, the length and breadth of Praia da Falésia offer a perfect playground. When visiting Praia da Falésia, remember travelers to Portugal should be mindful of the clothes they pack for the trip.

After a full day at the beach, seafront restaurants await serving delicious local seafood, sardines, or a steaming bowl of "cataplana", the traditional Algarve seafood stew. There is a wide choice of eateries around the town of Olhos de Água, towards the western end of the beach, and more if you continue your drive west to Albufeira.

There is a selection of hotels within walking distance of the coast. You can splash out at the highly rated five-star Epic Sana Algarve, starting from $280 per night in the low season, or pick from a variety of three- and four-star hotels. For budget and outdoorsy travelers, there are also eight campgrounds in the surrounding area. 

This is a destination for all seasons. While you can expect beachgoers to flock here in the summer, Praia da Falésia is so vast that you can always find a quieter spot. This is also one of many great destinations in Portugal to visit in the spring, and even into early fall, when you can snag lower prices, and still get sunny days and mild temperatures — not to forget the show-stopping sunsets. Here's why Portugal tops the list of the best European countries for retirees.