Olhos d'Água beach - Albufeira

One of the main reasons people travel to the Algarve, and Albufeirain in particular, is the beaches. Albufeira's beaches are some of the nicest in Portugal, being well kept and clean. There are a few safety tips and practical pieces of information that will be helpful and allow visitors to enjoy the area to the fullest.

Accessible Beaches

Most of the beaches in Albufeira are known as accessible beaches. What this means specifically is they offer easy access from the main roads to the sand. Ramps and footpaths are also provided as well as restaurant tables and bars. Most accessible beaches are also fully equipped with first aid stations, disabled toilets and are wheelchair accessible. Some accessible beaches will also have walking aids for the elderly and disables users.

Lifeguards

Some of Albufeira's beaches maintain lifeguards during the high season while others have a "swim at your own risk" policy. For those who only wish to swim on a guarded beach, tourist information is the best source. Praia de pescadores and Praia do tunel are both supervised beaches during the summer season.

Flags

Visitors may notice flags of various colors and patterns flying above the beaches. The meaning depends upon the color. A green flag means that swimming is permitted. A yellow flag means that swimming is forbidden. A red flag means that both swimming and entering the water are forbidden. Finally, a blue and white checkered flag means that the beach is temporarily unattended.

Sun Screen

Sun protection is important at any time of the year but during the summer months it is absolutely essential. The temperature in the Algarve region can reach up to 40 degrees C. To add to the danger, since the days are especially long there are increasing chances of exposure to the sun's rays. Visitors from northern climates or those who are fair-skinned run an increased risk of burning and sun damage.

Nudity

Men and women are allowed to go topless on most of the beaches in Albufeira. There is no written rule but it seems to be a generally accepted practice. Full nudity is a different story. Meco beach is the closest one to Albufeira that allows full nudity, making it 1 of only 4 official nude beaches in the Algarve region.

Contributor: Gretchen Ivey