Is the Algarve worth visiting in winter? Best beaches for off-season travel

If you are part of the team who is searching for sunny destinations to escape the winter cold as soon as Halloween is over, welcome. This post is for you. I can certainly relate, in the last few years I barely spent the winter in the UK, and opted for warmer, more spring-like destinations across the globe. This is how I ended up exploring Algarve in January a few years ago. I absolutely fell in love with the atmosphere, it is tranquil, sunny, relaxing, crowd-free and just wholesome. I loved it so much that a year later I organised my annual, birthday girls' trip to Algarve, and it was a hit! Everyone agreed, that off-season may be the best time to visit the area. So, in today's post I thought I would bring you everything that I think makes Algarve worth a visit in winter, from best beaches to budget tips.

Let's start with the accommodation. Once I stayed in Albufeira (which is easily accessible via public transport coming from Lisbon) and once in Lagos. I can recommend both locations, although Albufeira definitely feels more lively and busy even in winter times, so I might slightly prefer that option. Especially if you decide to go solo. Off-season prices are very budget-friendly compared to what you would pay in the summer, if you end up going with a group (like I did the second time), accommodation will not break the bank.

Given that the beaches and attractions are spread out, you will either need to rent a car. However, if you end up going in a group I would recommend booking an Uber everywhere, it is affordable when you share the costs (might even be cheaper then rentals) and is easily accessible.

Now, you may also be wondering how long you should go for. In my opinion even if you only have 2-3 days spare for a quick break, it is worth a visit. Algarve in the winter is the perfect long-weekend getaway destination, and you can see the most beautiful beaches and attractions easily in a couple of days. Given that it's not bikini weather, you probably won't spend days on the shores sunbathing. Of course, if you want to go for longer than a couple of days, by all means. But if you found a cheap return ticket for a log weekend, go for it, it is worth it!

And now, to the main event: the beautiful beaches/shores of Algarve. I am going to be honest, I don't really see the point of going on and on about them using word, so instead let me share my photos of them with instructions/ top tips in the captions. Just a quick reminder, the beaches may look a little different depending on when in the day you visit them, it is worth checking the tide forecast beforehand.

Search for Praia da Mesquita (has two parts, the other, smaller beach is called Praia da Mesquita Oeste), this is where you can see the Elephant rock from, and there are trails on the top that you can follow for some epic coastal walks.

The Elephant Rock from the beach (this was a morning view in January)

This is also the perfect spot to watch the sunset from

No filter, need I say more?

This is another area, Ponta de Piedade, iconic views, barely anyone there in January

Another viewpoint, search for Miraduro São Gonçalo de Lagos for epic views and more trails to discover

Praia do Poço Velho, my personal favourite, I could recommend both, the beach and trail walks. The red colour of the rocks makes it feel like you're walking on Mars

Look at these colours, the contrast of the red and the blue are not something you see everyday!

Praia dos Paradinha (without an s at the end, that beach is closed), the perfect spot for a long beach walk, and this one is closer to Albufeira

Not a beach, but check out Marina Albufeira if you can. The boats and colourful houses create a nice atmosphere and it's an easy walk around. There are some cafes and restaurants if you want to stop as well!

And if you're staying in Albufeira, I can highly recommend Al-Gharb Coffee Roasters for breakfast/brunch. I have been there a few times now, and both, the service and food are great.

If you want to see flamingos (and other beautiful but lesser known birds) make sure you visit the bird watching spot in Lagoa dos Salgados! Such a cool experience

Even though the Algarve might be best known for its summer buzz, winter reveals a calmer, more authentic side of this stunning region — one filled with quiet beaches, cozy cafés, and endless sunshine. If you’re craving a slower, more mindful way to travel, the off-season here is pure magic.

And if you’re planning your own winter escape, don’t forget to grab my free Travel Wellness Routine Builder. It’s packed with simple tools to help you stay grounded and cosy wherever you are — from printable checklists to easy self-care rituals you can take on the road. Download it below and start creating your own travel wellness routine before your next adventure.

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