Carvoeiro, Portugal: A Simple Guide for Travellers
- Last Update: August 21, 2025
Carvoeiro in Portugal, is one of those towns that makes you smile straight away. Once it was a small fishing village, today it’s a chilled beach town with golden sand, colourful houses and a friendly vibe.
This guide shows you what to see, where to eat, and how to enjoy Carvoeiro.
✅ Places to visit in Carvoeiro:
Beach; Boardwalk; Chapel + Fort; Algar Seco; and, Vale Centeanes Beach (Carvoeiro area).
✅ Where to eat in Carvoeiro:
A Fonte; A Casa Algarvia; Restaurant Organic; Levels; and, Tapas da Vila.
✅ What to do in Carvoeiro:
Watch the sunset from the viewpoints; Walk the boardwalk; Relax in the beach;
What to visit in Carvoeiro, Portugal
Tip: Carvoeiro (Portugal) is best explored on foot. Bring comfy shoes, water and your camera.
1. Carvoeiro Beach, Portugal (Praia do Carvoeiro)
The heart of the village: a small beach in a bay, surrounded by cliffs and colourful houses. Good for swimming, a bit of sunbathing, or just relaxing with the view (from a terrace or on of the viewpoints).
2. Fort & Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Encarnação (Carvoeiro, Portugal)
A small fort from the 17th century with a whitewashed chapel that looks over Carvoeiro Beach. It’s just a short walk from the beach, a bit uphill but easy for most people.
At the top you get some of the best views in town, especially at sunset, when the cliffs turn golden and the sea glows.
The chapel is still in use and only opens at limited times, usually Wednesday mornings (10:00–11:00) and Saturday late afternoons (17:30–18:30). Inside it’s quiet, simple and, peaceful.
Around the fort you’ll also find places to sit, take photos and watch the fishing boats on the water.
3. Carvoeiro Boardwalk, Portugal
The Carvoeiro Boardwalk is a wooden path along the cliffs, starting near the chapel of Nossa Senhora da Encarnação and leading towards Algar Seco. It’s about 570 metres long, flat and very easy — perfect for families or anyone who just wants a relaxed walk.
There are benches to stop and enjoy the view, plus panels with info about the local nature and rocks.
Go early in the morning for a calm, peaceful experience, or at sunset when the cliffs glow orange and the sea shines.
Length: ~570 metres (one way)
Difficulty: Very easy; good for all ages and most mobility levels.
4. Algar Seco near Carvoeiro, Portugal
Algar Seco is a natural playground of caves, arches and cliffs, shaped by the wind and sea.
The most famous spot is A Boneca (“the Doll”), a small cave with two openings that frame the sea like a picture.
You can get to Algar Seco via the wooden boardwalk from the chapel of Nossa Senhora da Encarnação in Carvoeiro. At the end of the boardwalk, a set of stone steps takes you down to the “A Boneca” and a natural pool where, if the sea is calm, you can take a refreshing dip, or simply enjoy its beauty from the rocks.
Algar Seco is also known for cliff jumping, with several heights to choose from. Only attempt this in calm sea conditions, with proper care, and after checking the depth and for any hidden rocks.
It’s a fantastic spot for photos, but the rocks can be uneven and slippery (wear good shoes and watch your step).
5. Vale Centeanes Beach (Carvoeiro area, Portugal)
Vale Centeanes is a beautiful, sandy beach located about 1.5 km east of Carvoeiro, backed by impressive golden cliffs. It’s a little larger than Carvoeiro Beach and tends to feel quieter, especially outside the peak summer months.
The beach has calm, clear waters most of the year, making it great for swimming, and there are rocky areas at either end that are fun to explore at low tide. There’s also a beach café serving drinks and snacks, plus seasonal lifeguards for extra safety.
Vale Centeanes is also the starting point for the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, one of the Algarve’s most famous walks with epic coastal views.
Where to Eat in Carvoeiro, Portugal [Our Top Picks]
We believe good food is a big part of what makes a trip memorable.
Every restaurant and gelateria listed below is a place we’ve personally tried (and loved) for its quality, flavour, and atmosphere.
Whether you’re after fresh seafood, traditional Portuguese dishes, healthy bites, or a sweet gelato to end the day, these are our top picks in Carvoeiro.
Portuguese Food in Carvoeiro
Restaurante A Fonte (Carvoeiro, Portugal)
A cosy, family-run spot serving traditional Portuguese dishes with generous portions and friendly service.
Fresh fish, grilled meats, and homemade desserts are the stars here. It’s a relaxed place where you can enjoy a proper Algarve meal without rushing.
📍Google Maps: Restaurante A Fonte
Restaurante A Casa Algarvia (Carvoeiro, Portugal)
A welcoming restaurant that focuses on classic Algarve flavours, from fresh seafood and cataplanas to grilled meats and regional appetisers.
The décor has a rustic charm, and the service is warm, making it a great choice for a relaxed lunch or dinner after exploring Carvoeiro.
📍Google Maps: Restaurante A Casa Algarvia
Vegetarian & Vegan Food in Carvoeiro, Portugal
Restaurante Organic (Carvoeiro, Portugal)
A bright and modern spot perfect for healthy eating, serving fresh, locally sourced dishes with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.
Expect colourful salads, smoothie bowls, wraps, and fresh juices. Ideal for a light lunch or a post-beach refuel that still feels indulgent.
Quick Meals in Carvoeiro
Levels (Carvoeiro, Portugal)
A stylish rooftop bar and restaurant with sweeping views over the village and ocean. Perfect for sunset cocktails, tapas-style sharing plates, and a relaxed evening atmosphere.
The modern décor and laid-back vibe make it a favourite for both locals and visitors looking to unwind with a view.
Tapas in Carvoeiro, Portugal
Restaurante Tapas da Vila (Carvoeiro)
A cosy and inviting spot in the heart of Carvoeiro, serving a variety of Portuguese and Mediterranean tapas perfect for sharing.
From local cheeses and cured meats to fresh seafood and tasty vegetarian options, it’s a great place to sample different flavours in one meal. Pair your plates with a glass of regional wine for the full experience.
Gelato & Coffee in Carvoeiro, Portugal
Gelataria La Piazza (Carvoeiro, Portugal)
A popular stop for a sweet treat, offering creamy Italian-style gelato in a wide range of flavours, from classic chocolate and pistachio to seasonal fruit options.
Perfect for cooling off after a beach day or enjoying while strolling through the village square.
📍Google Maps: Gelataria La Piazza
Frequently Asked Questions about Carvoeiro, Portugal
Yes, compact centre, sheltered bay (conditions permitting), kid-friendly menus and loads of gelato.
Not for the centre and main beach. A car helps for extra coves or sunset hops, but you can manage with taxis/transfers.
1–2 days to get the feel; 3–4 if you want slow mornings, cliff walks and proper switch-off time.
The chapel viewpoint and the boardwalk both face west, they deliver the golden-hour glow you came for.
You Can Visit Carvoeiro (Portugal) in One Day
Carvoeiro is small, so you can see the main spots — the beach, the boardwalk, Algar Seco and even Vale Centeanes — in just one day. But if you stay longer, you’ll have time to enjoy the sunsets, try different restaurants, and explore the trails at a slower pace.
👉 Want to see Carvoeiro, Portugal together with Benagil, Praia da Marinha and Algar Seco in one day trip?
Join one of our small-group tours from Faro — we handle the details, you just enjoy the views.
Book now your tour with us.
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