Praia do Pinhão is a relatively small but beautiful beach. It’s in the center of Lagos, surrounded by cliffs and rock formations, which protect it from winds. For this reason, the water tends to be calm. It’s also clean and clear, making this a good beach for swimming, snorkeling and diving, as well as kid-friendly.
High tide reduces the sandy area, but invites cliff jumpers. Due to the central location, most people here are tourists, but it’s never as crowded as the neighboring beaches. To guarantee the perfect spot, however, make sure you go early.
The beach is actually divided into two sections, separated by a cliff but connected by a tunnel. The northern part is very picturesque but very small, and disappears when the tide is high. The southern part is larger, and separated from the bigger and more famous Praia da Dona Ana by a cliff and strategically-placed stones.
Before descending the staircase down to the sand, everyone stops to admire and photograph the view over the beach.
There are no facilities, but for eating and drinking you can always head to the restaurant above Praia da Batata nearby, and, as this is the center of town, there are many cafés and restaurants within walking distance. Also note that there are no lifeguards or rentals (bring an umbrella if you prefer shade).
Beach for: Couples, Families
Lifeguards: No
Bathrooms: No
Rentals: No
Bar or Restaurant: No
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia do Pinhão
This beach is a short walk from just about anywhere in the Old Town or the center of Lagos. Just walk up Avenida dos Descobrimentos, and past the fort is the aforementioned Praia da Batata, Praia dos Estudantes, and just up the road is Praia do Pinhão (turn left on Rua José Formosinho, and at the end of the street is a terrace and the stairs leading down to the beach). If you’re staying closer to Meia Praia, you’ll want to take bus number 2, which passes by this part of town (it departs every hour and the tickets are bought from the driver). You also have the option of the tourist train, or one of the kayak and boat tours. Alternatively, walk from Praia da Dona Ana -- take the bus or tourist train there, and walk back to Praia do Pinhão, following the trail over the cliffs. To know how to get around Lagos, see the transportation guide.
Beaches by Praia do Pinhão
As mentioned above, Praia da Batata and Praia dos Estudantes (to the north) and Praia da Dona Ana (to the south) are within walking distance of Praia do Pinhão. Continuing down the coast, you also reach the beautiful beaches of Camilo and Pinheiros. It’s highly recommended that you go over the cliffs from Praia do Pinhão to Praia da Dona Ana -- there are wonderful views of the beaches from above. For their exact locations, see the Lagos beaches map.
Hotels by Praia do Pinhão
Lagos Avenida Hotel
It faces the marina, on Lagos’ main road, and is therefore within walking distance of Praia do Pinhão (about 15 to 20 minutes). It’s a highly-rated hotel, featuring rooms with balconies and a rooftop pool.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Lagos Avenida Hotel
Aqualuz Lagos Hotel & Apartments
This hotel is about a 15-minute walk from Praia do Pinhão. It has standard rooms but mostly offers apartments, attracting families and groups of friends. There are two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, a spa, and a restaurant with local cuisine.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Aqualuz Lagos Hotel & Apartments
Lagos City Center Guest House & Hostel
Those on a budget might want to stay at this hostel, which is also within walking distance of Praia do Pinhão (15 minutes). It has dorms and private rooms, with private or shared bathrooms, and a communal kitchen.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Lagos City Center Guest House & Hostel