Located in the beautiful and sunny southern part of Portugal, Praia Dos Salgados is located in the small city of Albufeira which is in itself a pretty spectacular place. Albufeira is a gorgeous coastal town that sees tons of people from all over come here to relax on the beach and enjoy some sunny weather, especially during the winter months. Albufeira is an old city with everything from Roman ruins to medieval castles dotting the landscape among the mountains and hills. Tourism is the biggest industry here and it is easy to see why as the area is absolutely filled with amazing beaches, food, and sights. Praia Dos Salgados is one of such beaches that has beautiful warm water and white sandy shores that brings both locals and tourists to the area. If you’re in Albufeira and want to spend some time by the water, here is a guide to Praia Dos Salgados.
Things to do / Highlights
Spend a day at the beach
Perhaps the most obvious thing to do here is hang out at the beach! The beach is in the form of crescent and is pretty unique in comparison to plenty of other beaches in the area. The beaches stretches all the way from the hotels on one side and the city of Albufeira to the other with rocks cliffs close to the city. The beach, by contrast, is low and backed by sand dunes making it a very sandy beach. Also, because of the lack of natural windbreakers, the beach can be windy at times. The water here can be a little choppy at times so make sure to know the condition of the water before you hop in.
Go surfing
Because of the lack of cliffs and the general open area of the beach, the wind can get strong but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The waves here make surfing a great option and in fact, the spot is a pretty well-known area for surf enthusiasts. Other water activities are open as well, like kitesurfing, as the combination of the waves and wind makes the conditions optimal for such activities.
Go bird-watching
What sets Praia dos Salgados apart from other beaches and makes it unique is the biodiversity in the area. There are wetlands close by and a lagoon which is important for migrating bird species that are commonly found in the area. The local government has tried to keep the area intact as much as possible without disturbing the local eco-system. Bird-watchers can get a glimpse of red herons, grassquits, and curlews just to name a few.
What to eat
Food around here is some of the freshest and most delicious around. Seafood is very popular with several local specialties like cataplana and caldeirada being just two options you’ll find around Albufeira.
Praia da Galé Restaurante
Located in a nearby hotel, this restaurant is a little upscale but is certainly worth the service and the food. Offering freshly caught seafood and classic Portuguese dishes including some international options like** wood-oven** pizza are what make Praia da Galé so great. There is also spectacular outdoor seating with views of the edge of cliffs and the beach in the distance.
O Galeão
Located right on the beach, this restaurant is simple and delicious and offers great options for people who want a quick bite and a good time. There are some good options for kids, too. O Galeão is in a prime spot looking out onto the beach so if you’re looking to come for dinner, you’ll be greeted with an amazing sunset. Their cocktails are pretty well-known in the area so even if you’re just looking to grab a couple of drinks, O Galeão, is a good option.
Bellavita
Bellavita is located a little further away from the beach inland and is a quintessential Italian bistro-style restaurant. Enjoy some delicious pizzas and pastas made from fresh locally sourced ingredients or make sure to try their seafood dishes. Everything served here is caught fresh and prepared daily. It’s great for people with kids and they’re open late if you want to grab a late-night snack.
Travelers tips
Seasonal highlights
For the people who are interested in the bird-watching and conservation areas around Praia Dos Salgados, note that the best time to head here is during the winter months. December and January are when the areas are fullest with local wildlife. Make sure to bring your camera!
Best time to visit
The beach is beautiful all year round. As a country which enjoys Mediterranean climate, Praia dos Salgados generally experiences hot, dry summers and mild winter. The best time to experience the beach would be any time from June to October, but if you’re aiming for sunny days perfect for beach activities, make sure to come between June to August. Mild weather also makes the beach a chill destination toward the end of the year. In December, the beach is relatively quiet and less crowded.
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How to get there
By taxi
There are taxi services available in the town primarily in the city center and the old town. Prices are generally cheap and since many tourists go to the beach anyways, taxi drivers will know exactly where to go. The trip should take about 15 minutes from the city center.
By bus
Taking the bus is another great option for getting to Praia Dos Salgados as well as around town in general. Use Line 74 bus to get to the beach area. Hotels will have timetables and information on using public transportation to get around town.
Where to stay (from USD 143)
Reasonable pricing with some overpriced items like water bottles
Spacious rooms, multiple pools, easy beach access, and a kids club
Beautiful resort near the beach, but slightly isolated from town centers
Fabulous breakfast, varied buffet, and good restaurant options, though some food was overpriced
As one of the best hotels in the area, Salgados Dunas Suites is located a short two-minute walk away from sandy shores of the beach. The hotel has a private path leading to the beach and offers panoramic views from the hotel property as well as views from the swimming pool. Enjoy a couple of cocktails by the pool and relax on the loungers or enjoy the amenities in your room like WiFi and TV access.
NAU Salgados Dunas Suites
Address: Herdade dos Salgados, Rua da Alagoa - Guia
4.34 km (2.7 mi) from Zoomarine Algarve, Portugal
Praia dos Salgados information
Praia dos Salgados
Address: Praia dos Salgados, Algarve, Portugal
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Cost: Free
Department of tourism: Visit Algarve
Albufeira and Vilamoura: Algarve Night Photography Tour in a Volkswagen T2 Van
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
History
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