At a glance
- Access
- Paved path and steps down from the car park
- Parking
- Car park at the end of a narrow single-lane road
- Facilities
- Beach bar (check if open); no toilets or lifeguard
- Blue Flag
- No
- Best time
- Low tide
Albandeira is a small, quieter cove a short drive east of Praia da Marinha. A huge rock splits the sand in two, a natural arch stands on the cliff path next door, and at low tide a tunnel leads through to the neighbouring beach. There are no lifeguards, and at high tide most of the sand disappears.
Praia de Albandeira lies on the coast of Porches, between Praia da Marinha and Praia da Senhora da Rocha. It is only about 80 metres long, but it packs a lot in: a massive rock in the middle of the beach and the arch that gives the area much of its fame.
Getting there and parking
The last 2 km of the road is a narrow single-lane track, with the final stretch on gravel, so drive slowly and be ready to pull in for oncoming cars. There is a car park at the end. As everywhere on this coast, it gets busy in summer.
Getting down to the sand
From the car park, a paved path and a flight of steps lead down to the middle of the beach. It is a short walk, but not suitable for wheelchairs.
The arch
The Arco de Albandeira, also called the natural arch of Praia da Estaquinha, stands on the cliffs between Albandeira and the next cove to the east. Follow the path along the cliff top to see it from above, and keep well back from the edges: the ground is undercut.
The low-tide tunnel
At low tide only, a tunnel through the rock leads from Albandeira to Praia da Estaquinha. Check the tide before you go through and come back in good time. See how tides change Algarve beaches.
Tides and safety
The beach is narrow, and at high tide most of the sand is covered. Like all cliff beaches here, sit near the water rather than under the cliff. See beach flags and cliff safety.
Facilities
A beach bar has operated here, but check whether it is open before relying on it. There are no toilets, showers or lifeguards. Bring water and shade.
Nearby
Praia da Marinha is a few minutes’ drive west, and a cliff path also links the two. Praia da Senhora da Rocha is a short drive east.
Questions people ask
Where is the Albandeira arch?
On the cliffs between Praia de Albandeira and the neighbouring Praia da Estaquinha, along the clifftop path. It is a natural sea arch that you can see from above.
Can you walk from Albandeira to the next beach?
Yes, at low tide only, through a tunnel in the rock to Praia da Estaquinha. Check the tide so you are not cut off.
Is there a lifeguard at Praia de Albandeira?
No. It is not an official bathing beach, so there are no lifeguards and no toilets.