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The Algarve is located in the most southern region of Portugal. The provice of Algarve is well known as a famous destination for European tourists, especially the British. Unlike other parts of Portugal, life in the Algarve is laid back and easy going. Being near the ocean, fish, sea food and fruit are its major exports. The Algarve region is quite hilly with lush valleys.
Over the past 2 decades, the Algarve has become a popular destination for tourists, primarily because of its pristine and unspoiled beaches. The mild Mediterranean climate, the warm water, almost no crime and minimal costs has made it a popular destination for many European visitors.
There are miles and miles of coastline which is noted for its beautiful limestone caves and grottoes. Some of these grottoes are only accessible by powerboats of jet skis. For the daring these grottoes can be explored when the tide is low.
The most famous beach in Algarve is the Praia da Marinha. It was once classified as one of the 100 most beautiful and well preserved beaches on the globe. However, the massive influx of tourists has led to some congestion and beach contamination. Algarve is also home to many more beautiful beaches which include:
- Albufeira- excellent beach but has very limited parking
- Vilamoura- vast sandy area where one can wind surf
- Lagos- fine sandy beach
- Monte Gordo- excellent beach with soft water
- Praia da Rocha- oldest and most crowded beach
- Praia de Gale- long sandy beach and often crowded
- Praia de Alvor- beach acts as a sand bar and is often covered with water
- Praia de Arrifana- safe for swimming and magnificent views
- Praia do Castelejo- does have dangerous undercurrents and not recommended for everyone
- Praia do Martinhal- best site to windsurf
While some beaches are open with endless miles of empty coastline, there are also some sheltered coves. For the tourist there is ample opportunity to explore both the inland and coastline. There is water transport available to view all the other beaches.
No matter how quiet and inviting the beaches in Algarve can be, they are also quite variable in temperament. Large sudden waves have been known to wash people away. The northern beaches are usually rough due to the large waves and many have dangerous undercurrents. During season, all the beaches have life guards on patrol. Asides from the beach, many businesses have been established nearby. Some offer snacks and restaurants are plentiful. Sporting facilities are available on most areas of the beach.
In and around Algarve, hotels have sprung up. Renting a car can be helpful and one can explore the inland and visit some of the old churches, pretty villages and modern marinas.
While it is hard to say which is the best beach in Algarve, you can rest assured that no matter which beach you go to, the water will be warm, the sands will be soft and inviting and the beautiful scenery will have you coming back again and again.
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