A classic Portuguese resort
Aptly named the ‘beach of light’, Praia da Luz is sure to leave you with a warm, sunny feeling. The beaches here are beautiful – it is the Algarve, after all – but what makes Praia da Luz holidays stand out is the tranquil atmosphere.
It’s easy to spend your days here dozing on a sunlounger on the long sandy beach and listening as waves break gently on the shoreline, but there is also wonderful hiking and cycling nearby should you fancy an adventure. You can whizz to pretty Praia da Ingrina beach – 5 kilometres away – or pootle to the characterful village of Burgau – an easy 2-kilometre stroll. Everywhere you go, you’ll find fresh fish served in rustic, family-run restaurants – often by the person who caught it that morning. With enticing cuisine and beautiful surroundings, on holidays to Praia da Luz it’s easy to settle into the laid-back pace of life, but not so easy to leave.
Your Praia da Luz questions, answered
Lots of people who visit the Algarve choose to hire a car. If you don’t want to, there’s a good bus network connecting Praia da Luz with nearby Lagos.
Southern Portugal enjoys glorious sunshine and warm temperatures for most of the year. June to August are the most popular, but it can remain hot through September and October.
Praia da Luz began as a fishing village thanks to its sheltered position behind the Rocha Negra headland – you’ll still see pretty, rustic boats washed up on shore.
Best things to do in Praia da Luz
Hit the beach
Praia da Luz’s sands are perfect for relaxing, but the beach also has body-boarding and surfing schools. Or grab a snorkel and explore the crystal-clear waters.
Take a boat tour
Cruise along the scenic coastline, or head further out to sea to search for dolphins – boat companies in Praia da Luz offer a range of trips.
Hike up Black Rock
Climbing these towering, black basalt cliffs can be hard, hot work. It’s worth it though, as from the top you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views.