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The best independent guide to the Algarve
Algarve-Tourist.com
The best independent guide to the Algarve
Praia de São Rafael beach, Albufeira, Algarve
Praia de São Rafael is one of the finest beaches in the Albufeira region (Albufeira beach guide), and the short journey from town leads to golden cliffs, calm turquoise water, and a tranquillity the main resort beaches cannot match
The beach sits within a sheltered cove on the Sesmarias headland, 3.5km west of Albufeira Old Town. Surrounding Praia de São Rafael on three sides are golden limestone cliffs, weathered over millennia into arches, pillars, and hidden caves with local names like Ninho das Andorinhas (Swallow's Nest) and Ponte Pequena (Small Bridge). Along the water’s edge the sands extend for over 250 metres, the longest beach of the headland.
The water here is calm and exceptionally clear. The western headland blocks the Atlantic swells that batter more exposed beaches, leaving conditions safe for children and ideal for snorkelling around the submerged rocks close to shore. Lifeguards supervise throughout the summer months.
Praia de São Rafael, surrounded by the golden cliffs of the Sesmarias headland
The short distance from Albufeira is enough to deter the crowds. While the main town beaches fill with sun loungers and competing sound systems, São Rafael retains a relaxed atmosphere even in high season. The beach is too far to walk comfortably from the Old Town, but a taxi or Uber costs just €5-7 and takes under ten minutes. Two free car parks sit behind the beach for those with rental cars; both fill on summer mornings, though parking can usually be found on surrounding streets.
Facilities match those of any good Algarve beach. A wooden boardwalk and paved ramp provide step-free access to the sand, making São Rafael one of the more accessible beaches in the region. Sun loungers and parasols can be hired during summer, with the serviced area on the western side and a free section to the east for visitors bringing their own shade. The Restaurante Praia de São Rafael (restaurantesaorafael.pt/) ,sits directly on the beach, serving fresh fish, seafood, and lighter snacks through the day, with cocktails into the evening. Further up the hill, Restaurante Praia Grande (praiagrandegale.pt/) has a roof terrace overlooking the coastline.
The beach holds Blue Flag status for water quality and facilities
Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards can be hired directly from the sand, opening up a coastline of sea caves and hidden coves inaccessible by land. The best route heads west towards Praia da Ponta Grande, passing Praia dos Piratas and Praia da Ponta Pequena along the way. Cliff-top footpaths extend in both directions: east towards Praia dos Arrifes and the Ponta da Baleeira viewpoint overlooking Albufeira marina, or west along a 5.8km trail to Praia da Coelha through some of the most weathered and dramatic scenery on this stretch of coast.
As with all Atlantic beaches, the water is cold. Even in August, temperatures rarely exceed 22°C, and on days when northerly winds push colder water to the surface, they can drop several degrees without warning. A wetsuit extends time in the water considerably, particularly for snorkelling.
Practicalities for your visit
Getting there: São Rafael lies 3.5km west of Albufeira Old Town (4.6km by road). A taxi or Uber from the Old Town costs €5-7. No public bus serves the beach directly.
Parking: Two free car parks behind the beach. Both fill on summer mornings, but parking is usually available on surrounding streets. GPS address: Estrada do Aldeamento São Rafael, Albufeira.
Access: Wooden boardwalk and paved ramp provide step-free access to the sand. Suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Facilities: Toilets, showers, sun lounger and parasol hire (summer only), beach restaurant. Blue Flag accredited.
Swimming: Calm, shallow water sheltered by the western headland. Lifeguards on duty June to mid-September. Good snorkelling around the rock formations.
Kayak tour: 2hour guided tour along the coastline (€35), full details here.
Kayak hire: Single kayak €15/hour, double €30/hour. SUP also available.
Restaurants: Restaurante Praia de São Rafael on the beach; Restaurante Praia Grande on the hill above with roof terrace.
São Rafael is consistently quieter than the main Albufeira beaches
Kayaking from São Rafael
The coastline around São Rafael is best explored by kayak or paddleboard, with sea caves and tiny beaches inaccessible from land. The sheltered waters close to shore make this an ideal location for beginners, while the concentration of caves and rock formations within a short paddling distance keeps more experienced kayakers engaged.
Independent exploration
Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards can be hired directly from the beach, with routes heading either east or west along the coastline.
The western route offers the more dramatic scenery. Within the first kilometre, the coastline opens up into a series of sea caves, hidden coves, and rock formations. Praia dos Piratas and Praia da Ponta Pequena are both only accessible from the water, and the Xorino Cave is large enough to paddle into at low tide. Local legend holds that Moors took refuge in the cave following the Christian reconquest of Albufeira in the 13th century. Continuing west, Praia da Ponta Grande lies around 1km from São Rafael, with Praia do Castelo a further kilometre beyond for those wanting a longer paddle.
The eastern route is shorter but still worthwhile, following the cliffs to Praia dos Arrifes. The rock formations are less numerous than to the west, but the paddle is easier and the beach at Arrifes makes a good turnaround point.
Single kayaks cost €15 per hour, doubles €30. Stand-up paddleboards are also available from Albufeira Surf SUP. Going early brings calmer seas, fewer boats and other kayaks, and easier parking. Before making plans always check wind and swell conditions, particularly for the longer western routes.
The prevailing winds and currents flow west to east along this stretch of coast. A westward route on the outward leg makes for harder paddling initially, but the return journey becomes considerably easier with conditions pushing from behind, a welcome advantage after an hour or more on the water
Kayaks ready for hire on the beach
Guided kayak tours
Guided tours depart from São Rafael beach and follow the coastline west, passing through sea caves and stopping at beaches inaccessible by land. The route covers around 4km of paddling over two hours, with stops for swimming and exploration along the way.
The tour heads west towards Praia do Ninho das Andorinhas, entering the Xorino Cave and other caverns where tide conditions allow. From Ninho das Andorinhas, the route continues to Praia das Salamitras, a small beach with time for swimming, before reaching Praia da Coelha. The return paddle to São Rafael follows the same coastline, offering a second perspective on the rock formations.
No previous experience is required. Guides provide instruction on basic paddling technique before setting off and remain with the group throughout, assisting anyone who tires on the return leg. Tours cost €35 per person and include kayak, life jacket, and guide. Booking in advance is recommended during summer and full details can be found here.
Coastal walks from São Rafael
Cliff-top paths extend from the beach in both directions, offering views over the rock formations and access to neighbouring beaches.
East to Ponta da Baleeira (2km): The path passes Praia dos Arrifes, an equally attractive beach reachable in around 10 minutes. Continuing east, the Ponta da Baleeira viewpoint overlooks the entrance to Albufeira marina, Baleeira beach, and the golden cliffs. This viewpoint is one of the lesser-known highlights of the Albufeira coastline. The final section follows the cliff-top road rather than a dedicated path.
West to Praia da Coelha (5.8km): A marked trail follows the coastline through highly weathered terrain of hidden bays, rock pillars, and sea grottos. The scenery is more dramatic than the eastern route, though the paths are rougher. Praia da Coelha itself is a beautiful cove beach with a small sea arch.
Both routes require sturdy footwear. Flip-flops are not suitable for the rough, uneven surfaces.
The view over Albufeira marina from the Ponta da Baleeira viewpoint
Our most popular articles for Albufeira and the Algarve
Expert Insight: These guides are curated by Philip Giddings, a travel writer with over 25 years of local experience in Portugal. Since 2008, Phil has focused on providing verified, on-the-ground advice for the Algarve region, supported by deep cultural ties through his Portuguese family. Read the full story here.
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