In July, some people look for a beach with golden sand and plenty of sunshine, but the water temperature also makes all the difference when it comes to taking a dip. In the Algarve, Praia da Alagoa, the warmest beach in Portugal, in Altura, in the municipality of Castro Marim, stands out for its relatively warm water, which can get close to 24 °C at the best times.
As well as its inviting sea, this beach offers a long stretch of sand and is ideal for a family day out. But where exactly is it, and how can you get there?
Praia da Alagoa: warm water and sand as far as the eye can see
Located in the Sotavento, the eastern Algarve, Praia da Alagoa, also known as Praia de Altura, enjoys the typical conditions of this stretch of coast, where the water tends to be warmer than at many beaches in the north and centre of Portugal.
In July, the water can get close to 24 °C, although the figures vary with the weather and sea conditions. This makes it a good choice for those who prefer a less chilly swim and want to enjoy the summer without the cold shock you can get elsewhere on the Portuguese coast.
There is more to it than the water temperature: with a wide stretch of fine sand, Praia da Alagoa is also popular with families and with those who like walking by the sea. It also has beach facilities and boardwalks that make it easy to reach the sand.
How do you get to warmest beach in Portugal?
Praia da Alagoa is in Altura, in the municipality of Castro Marim, and you can get there by different means of transport.
- By car: take the EN125 towards Altura and follow the signs to the beach. There are parking areas nearby, although spaces can be harder to find in summer.
- By bus: there are bus services to towns in the eastern Algarve, including Altura, although routes and timetables vary from line to line.
- By train: Vila Real de Santo António station is one of the nearest train stations. From there, you can continue by taxi or check the available bus services.
How can you make the most of a day at this beach?
To enjoy Praia da Alagoa in greater comfort, it’s best to arrive early, especially in July, when more people visit and parking can be harder to find. As the Algarve sun is strong at this time of year, bring sun cream, a hat and enough water to stay hydrated.
If you enjoy walking, the long stretch of sandy beach is also ideal for walks along the seashore, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, when the temperatures are more pleasant. Before going into the water, check the sea conditions and always follow the instructions of the lifeguards.
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Is it worth visiting Praia da Alagoa in July?
If you’re looking for an Algarve beach with a wide stretch of sand and relatively warm water, Praia da Alagoa deserves a place on your list. Its location in the eastern Algarve, water that can get close to 24 °C and the facilities at the beach make it an appealing choice for summer days.
Rather than just looking for the warmest water, it’s worth choosing a beach where you can enjoy the sea, relax and make the most of the Algarve at your own pace. In Altura, you’ll find a setting that ticks all these boxes and invites you to make your days at the beach last longer.
Rita Diegues
