Praia da Batata is the most central beach in Lagos. It’s right next to the fort, across from the castle. The convenient location attracts tourists staying at the hotels in the area, who just want to lie in the sun for a few hours, and is therefore usually crowded in the summer. Young locals also make it a destination on warmer summer nights, and when it hosts music festivals or volleyball competitions.
It’s a sheltered cove with golden rocks and it’s quite small, but just one of a series of beaches separated by cliffs. A tunnel connects it to Praia dos Estudantes, a much-photographed beach due to an iconic arch between two rock formations.
High tide often leaves shells at this beach, which aren’t always pleasant to step on, but it mostly has soft sand. The water is usually clear and calm, and therefore good for swimming. Most people in the water, however, are in kayaks, as this is the main departure point of kayak tours in Lagos. Others choose stand-up paddling.
There’s lifeguard supervision in the summer, when there are also a few parasols and loungers for rent. Unlike other beaches nearby, this one has wheelchair access.
There’s a bar right on the beach for light meals and drinks, and a restaurant at the top of the cliff if you get hungry, but as this is the center of town, you have plenty of places to eat and drink within walking distance.
The name means “Potato Beach” and no one really knows why. However, according to legend, it got that name when a ship transporting potatoes sank nearby and the potatoes washed ashore.
Above the beach is a viewpoint from where you have a view over the beach and the coast. It’s a terrace paved with the traditional Portuguese cobblestone designs, with a statue of St. Gonçalo, who local fishermen believed protected them at sea.
Beach for: Water Sports
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: Yes
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia da Batata
You can easily walk to this beach from anywhere in central Lagos. Just walk south, down Avenida dos Descobrimentos, the coastal road. If you’re staying at a hotel closer to Meia Praia, take bus number 2, which stops by the central beaches (there’s also the option of the tourist train). To know how to get around Lagos, see the transportation guide.
Beaches by Praia da Batata
In addition to Praia dos Estudantes, which you access through the tunnel, you have Praia do Pinhão just over the cliff. From here you can also walk to Lagos’ two most beautiful beaches, Praia do Camilo and Praia da Dona Ana. It’s highly recommended that you walk over the cliffs to these beaches. For the exact locations, see the Lagos beaches map.
Hotels by Praia da Batata
Lagos Avenida Hotel
Located on Lagos' main road, this highly-rated hotel faces the marina and is about a 15-minute walk from Praia da Batata and the other central beaches. Its contemporary rooms have balconies with views, and there’s a rooftop pool.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Lagos Avenida Hotel
Aqualuz Lagos Hotel & Apartments
There are a few standard rooms, but this hotel is mostly made up of apartments. It’s a short walk from Praia da Batata (less than 10 minutes), and features two large outdoor pools, a rooftop terrace, a spa, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Aqualuz Lagos Hotel & Apartments
Lagos City Center Guest House & Hostel
This hostel is the choice for budget travelers. It’s about a 10-minute walk from Praia da Batata and offers dorms and private rooms. There are private and shared bathrooms, and a communal kitchen where everyone can prepare meals.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Lagos City Center Guest House & Hostel