Praia do Camilo: The Most Iconic Beach in Lagos, Portugal
Praia do Camilo is a very photogenic beach, accessed by a long, steep wooden staircase. It was undoubtedly one of our favorite beaches in the Algarve, where we saw the most magical sunrise. Although it’s a popular place, it’s definitely worth a visit. This small beach boasts golden sand and crystal clear water, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and some water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
This ultimate guide to Praia do Camilo Beach includes the best time to visit, how to get there, what to expect during your visit, and some inspirational photos.
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Where is Praia do Camilo Beach?
Camilo Beach is just a short drive from the center of Lagos in Portugal’s Algarve region, between Dona Ana Beach and Ponta da Piedade.
How to Get to Praia do Camilo
The beach is about a 30-40 minute walk from Lagos. The best way to get there is to rent a scooter or car. We rented a motorbike in Lagos and explored the nearby beaches at our own pace.
There is no public transport to the beach. From Portas de Portugal – Mercado station (Lagos Old Town), take bus Line 2 (Blue Linha 2), which leaves every hour to Dona Ana, and then walk to Camilo Beach. A single ticket costs around 1,20 EUR per person.
Or you can use the Hop-on Hop-off Lagos tourist train and get off at Praia de Dona Ana or Ponta da Piedade and walk from there. One ride ticket costs 4,50 EUR, and a full-day ticket costs 5,50 EUR per person.
You can also take half-day or full-day boat trips, join a guided kayak tour, or rent a stand-up paddleboard and explore the surrounding coastline and caves.
Praia do Camilo Beach Parking
Directly at the entrance is a small car park, where parking is free but limited. As we arrived by scooter, parking was not a problem.
Once you arrive, it’s about a 10-minute walk down the 200 wooden steps to the beautiful Praia do Camilo. Use the toilet before you start your descent.
Book this top-rated boat cruise from Lagos to Ponta da Piedade and see Camilo, Dona Ana, and Praia do Barranco do Martinho beaches from a different perspective.
Best Time to Visit Camilo Beach, Algarve
The best time to visit the Algarve is from May to September. The summer months are the peak season, meaning hotel prices are higher and attractions are more crowded. In high season, we strongly recommend booking accommodation and tours in advance!
In our opinion, the best time to visit the beach is at sunrise, when you can enjoy the breathtaking view with beautiful lights and avoid the crowds. Sunset is also an ideal time to visit, but it is not easy to beat the crowds, especially during the high season.
Good to know
The water in Portugal is cold almost all year round. But if you visit the Algarve when the weather is warm, you can enjoy a refreshing swim.
We recommend planning your visit during low tide when you can walk through the rock tunnels connecting different parts of the coast. If you come at high tide, there will be little space on the beach.
Praia do Camilo Beach
The beach is free to visit and is accessed via a long wooden staircase leading down from the top of a cliff, offering picturesque views.
Descending the steep steps, you will reach a secluded, tranquil bay, perfect for relaxing, swimming, and admiring the magical sunsets. However, it can be incredibly crowded in the high season, so if you want to enjoy this beautiful place without the crowds, visit during the off-season.
Good to know
The beach is often covered in seaweed, making it unenjoyable, so check online or on various forums before visiting.
If you don’t want to go down the stairs, just enjoy the view from the top. You can admire the incredible rock formations surrounding the beach, the golden sand, and the crystal clear emerald green water.
But we think it’s worth going down to the beach. There is a small tunnel between the cliffs, which leads to other small beaches and hidden caves.
Recommended post → Things to Do in the Algarve
Facilities
There are no toilets, showers, or changing rooms at the beach. You cannot rent sunbeds! The restaurant and bar are only at the top of the stairs.
Beach Bar
There is no restaurant on the beach, so bring snacks and drinks with you. If you want to have lunch or dinner near the beach, there is a lovely restaurant on top of the cliffs overlooking the ocean where they serve lots of seafood.
O Camilo is a popular restaurant, and many people come here for lunch or dinner, so you may have to wait.
What to Do near Praia do Camilo Beach
Bring your snorkeling equipment or have a picnic on the beach and then explore the nearby attractions.
- Praia Dona Ana: The beach is easily accessible by car or walk, with parking and a café serving drinks and snacks. You can enjoy the beautiful views of its crystal clear green water and magnificent rock formations from above.
- Ponta da Piedade: At sunset, head out to the lighthouse for rugged cliffs, magnificent caves, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunsets.
Photo tips at Praia do Camilo
If you want the best light, come early, before sunrise. It’s a very popular spot for photographers. There were three other photographers on site when we visited.
You can take two kinds of pictures that look really good. One is when you sit on the wooden railing and take a photo like we did, and the other is when you walk down the stairs. Wearing a hat or white dress can add extra detail to your shots.
Read our → Portugal Itinerary
Where to Stay in Lagos, Portugal
If you are traveling to the Algarve for the first time and want to explore as many beaches as possible, Lagos is one of the best choices. In Lagos, Portugal, you can choose from 3 neighborhoods.
The historic center is the best choice if you arrive in the town by public transport and want to be close to the best restaurants, nightlife, and shops.
Away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas, it is close to Porto Mos beach, which is a very peaceful and relaxing area.
Or choose an area that is close to the best beaches and within a quick walk of the old town.
Recommended post → Best Areas & Hotels in Lagos, Portugal
Best Hotels near Praia do Camilo Beach
- Villas D. Dinis: The adults-only hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the beach. It has 3 outdoor swimming pools, green and flower gardens, and sun loungers to enjoy peace and quiet.
- Brisa do Mar: The apartment is equipped with everything you need, a perfect choice if you are traveling with family or a group of friends and want to be close to the beach.
- Uma Casa a Beira Sol: This is a wonderful and peaceful place to stay near the beach. The property is full of beautiful flowers and plants and has a relaxing pool.
Keep reading → Best Towns to Stay in the Algarve
What to Pack
- Sunscreen: You don’t have to worry about sun damage with this reef-friendly UVA/UVB sunscreen.
- Quick-dry towel: This microfibre quick-drying towel is ideal for traveling, hiking, swimming, bathing, and sports.
- Power bank: An essential accessory for anyone who needs reliable power on the go.
- Swimsuit
- Snorkeling equipment
- Hat and sunglasses
- Camera gear
- GoPro or Waterproof phone bag
- Snacks
- Plenty of Water
- Cash
- Beach umbrella
We hope you found our guide to Praia do Camilo Beach useful and will inspire you to visit Lagos, Portugal. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment below.
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