Praia do Camilo in Algarve, Portugal

Praia do Camilo

Algarve, Portugal

Two secret coves, a rock tunnel, and 200 steps of cliff-face stairway โ€” intimate Algarve magic.

Quick Facts

Location

Lagos, Algarve, Portugal

Sand Type

Golden Fine

Water Clarity

Excellent

Facilities

Restaurant at Top, Parking, Cliff Stairway

Best Season

May โ€“ October

Nearest Airport

Faro Airport (FAO)

About Praia do Camilo

Praia do Camilo is a tiny, intimate beach accessible via a dramatic wooden staircase of nearly 200 steps that zigzags down the cliff face. This is the Algarve's most romantic beach โ€” two small coves connected by a natural tunnel through the rock, surrounded on all sides by golden sandstone cliffs. The sense of seclusion is extraordinary.

At low tide, the tunnel opens and you can explore between the coves, discovering rock pools and hidden corners. The water is sheltered and calm, with excellent clarity for swimming and snorkeling. The clifftop above has one of Lagos' best restaurants with a terrace overlooking the spectacular coastline towards Ponta da Piedade.

Visitor Information

Facilities

  • ๐Ÿฝ๏ธCliff-Top Restaurant
  • ๐Ÿ…ฟ๏ธSmall Parking Area
  • ๐Ÿชœ200-Step Cliff Stairway
  • ๐Ÿ•ณ๏ธNatural Rock Tunnel

Accessibility

Nearly 200 steps down a cliff stairway. Not suitable for mobility-impaired visitors. The stairs can be tiring in summer heat.

Getting There

Located on the coast road south of Lagos, between Dona Ana and Ponta da Piedade. A 25-minute walk from Lagos centre.

Things to Do

Swimming Snorkeling Rock Pool Exploring Photography Romantic Beach Visit

Nearby Attractions

๐Ÿชจ Ponta da Piedade

Spectacular grottos just around the headland

๐Ÿ–๏ธ Praia Dona Ana

Popular Lagos beach nearby

๐Ÿ˜๏ธ Lagos Centre

Historic old town and restaurants

๐ŸŒ… Praia da Luz

Family resort beach to the west

Frequently Asked Questions

How many steps to reach the beach?
Nearly 200 wooden steps zigzag down the cliff face. Allow about 10 minutes to descend and longer to climb back up.
Is there a tunnel between the coves?
Yes, a natural rock tunnel connects the two small coves. It's accessible at low to mid tide. At high tide the second cove may be flooded.
Is Camilo beach very small?
Yes, it's one of the smallest beaches in the Algarve. In summer it fills up quickly โ€” arrive early for the best spots.

Nearby Beaches