Algarve Naturism - a warm welcome!

I had not, I must admit, realised that Algarve naturism was as widespread as it seems to be. But a bit of research revealed that there's more for naturists than might be gleaned from an official tourist guide publication. And any vacation spot (even one with a heavenly climate like Algarve's) must adapt to meet demands.

So, what's on offer for would-be Algarve naturists?

Algarve Naturist Beaches

The only 'official' (therefore possibly the most passé) beaches that accommodate Algarve naturism are: Praia da Ilha de Tavira (that's it in the picture at the top of the page); Barril and Adegas. But there's rather more choice nowadays for Algarve naturism than heretofore…

Not only do Algarve naturists get to go au naturel on some public beaches, but there are even a few 'dedicated' places awaiting them!

Pinheiros beach, near Lagos, is one possibility, and there are always the out-of-the-way spots where you'd be unlucky to encounter anyone else for hours at a time. Areas like Salema have tiny, unmade roads that lead to secluded spots where impromptu Algarve naturism would disturb no-one.

More examples? Certainly…

Barril

Not far from Tavira and Santa Luzia (a part of Algarve of which I never tire), this is one of my favourite beaches. You head for Pedras del Rei resort, park your car and walk over a pontoon bridge to the island. Then, you can walk beside the narrow gauge railway line, or pay a small fee to enjoy a short but scenic train journey. The Algarve naturists tend to favour the area to the east of the beach bars. 

You can also enjoy a ferry ride to Barril from either Tavira, Fuzeta or Santa Luzia...

Cabanas Velhas

Way over to the west, near Burgau, this spot offers a nice expanse of well-sheltered sand that's used by naturists from the nearby campsite. You follow the 'Boca do Rio' sign from Burgau and keep your eyes peeled for 'Cabanas Velhas' signposted via a narrow road off to the left.

Prainha

The east side of Prainha beach, between Lagos and Portimao, is rather popular with naturists.

Furnas

Just west of Salema, this one is worth the extra effort it takes to find it. Shelter and privacy are supplied by the cliffs, and the clean, light beach is a delight. Turn off the N125 main road heading for Spa da Floresta, drive through Figueira and head ever leftwards. When you reach a dilapidated cottage on your right, apply the brakes – you're there! Note, though, that it's not a nice drive after rainfall, unless you're an AWD devotee.

Carrapeteira

Further north on the west coast, one of my own favourite spots, Carrapeteira attracts both surfers and Algarve naturists. Again, there are sheltered spots to be found near the cliffs (rather more important here, since the wind-chill can be disconcerting on some days!)

Adegas

Just south of Odeceixe on the west coast, this is a pleasant spot and lately seems to have been attracting more naturists than before. It's small, so don't expect a lot of sand to yourself.

Ançao

Close to the lovely village of Cacela Velha, east of Tavira, you head for Fábrica, where you can park. A not-too frequent boat ride is necessary to reach the beach, where you head left. There are toilet facilities and beach security near the bar.

Trafal

On the road between Quarteira and Almancil, look out for a turn-off marked Trafal. When you reach the beach, head right for the naturist area. There are toilet facilities and a cafe / restaurant.

Other beaches known as 'tolerada' (tolerant) of naturists include Zavial (Vila do Bispo), Pera's Praia Grande and Meia Praia (Lagos).

If you'd like to know what a couple of enthusiastic Algarve naturists thought of some of the region's beaches, read these Algarve Naturist Experiences.

I'll be doing more research soon, so keep your eyes peeled for any updates on this page...

Campsites

You may be surprised (probably because of the presumed lack of privacy) that there are campsites where Algarve naturists are made welcome. Note that facilities are described as 'partially naturist'.

Quinta dos Carriços

Tel +351 282 695 400/01/03

Near the previously mentioned Praia da Salema, this is a campsite that accommodates those who wish to try Algarve naturism. The naturist facilities are in a separate valley from the rest.

It even offers apartments, but otherwise has all the facilities offered by typical campismos, some of them communal.

If you're without a car, you arrive at Lagos, and then take a local bus.

Camping Ingrina

Tel: +351 1282639272

Nearer to Sagres than Lagos, this campsite offers countryside views and the usual facilities. It can accommodate some 300 guests, and their motorhomes, tents, caravans, cars or whatever. It is 'partially' naturist. Prices appear to be very reasonable. If travelling west from Lagos, you turn left at the Raposeira-signposted traffic lights. Of course, from Sagres, you would turn right.

I'll be doing some more research for this page so that I can inform those among you who are interested in sampling some Algarve naturism.

In the meantime, if you know of any resources that you'd like to pass on to help others, I'd be delighted to put up your recommendations and tips on this page.

If you have any tips or anecdotes about your own experiences of Algarve naturism,please visit the Your Algarve Best page and use the simple form there to send me your information. Everyone will thank you for your 'insider information' on how to enjoy Algarve naturism.

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