Carvoeiro is one of those places that instantly wins you over. Once a humble fishing village, it’s now a laid-back beach town with golden sands, colourful houses, and a warm, friendly vibe.
This guide takes you through the essentials: what to see and where to eat (from fresh seafood lunches to indulgent gelato stops),to help you experience Carvoeiro like a local.
Highlights
What to see in Carvoeiro
Tip: Carvoeiro is best explored on foot. Bring comfy shoes, a refillable bottle and your camera.
1. Carvoeiro Beach (Praia do Carvoeiro)
The heart of the village: a small, sheltered beach framed by cliffs and colourful houses. It’s a great spot for a morning swim, some relaxed sunbathing, or just enjoying the view from a terrace or one of the viewpoints.
2. Fort & Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Encarnação
A small 17th-century fort site with a pretty whitewashed chapel that looks out over Carvoeiro Beach. It’s a short walk from the beach, but note that it’s uphill.
The climb is gentle and manageable for most visitors, and at the top you’re rewarded with some of the best views in town, especially at sunset, when the cliffs glow and the water turns golden.
The chapel is still in use, it’s usually open only at very limited times, typically on Wednesday mornings (10:00–11:00) and Saturday late afternoons (around 17:30–18:30), so plan ahead if you’d like to visit the interior. Inside, you’ll find peaceful altars and soft light that make for a quiet, reflective stop.
Around the fort area, you’ll also find spots to sit, take photos, and watch the fishing boats come and go.
3. Carvoeiro Boardwalk
A wooden boardwalk runs along the clifftops from the small chapel of Nossa Senhora da Encarnação and fort area towards Algar Seco. It’s flat, easy to walk, and great for families, with benches along the way to pause and take in the view. The route offers stunning panoramas over the sea and golden cliffs.
Along the way, you’ll find information panels about the local geology and wildlife, making the stroll both scenic and educational. Go early in the morning for a calm, peaceful experience, or at sunset when the light turns the cliffs a warm orange.
Length: ~570 metres (one way)
Difficulty: Very easy; suitable for all ages and most mobility levels.
4. Algar Seco (near Carvoeiro)
Algar Seco is a beautiful area of cliffs shaped by the wind and sea. Here you’ll find caves, natural holes in the rock, and “windows” that look out over the ocean.
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 centre of Carvoeiro. At the end, 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)
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 coastal walks, which leads past dramatic viewpoints towards Praia da Marinha.
Where to eat in Carvoeiro [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)
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)
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
Restaurante Organic (Carvoeiro)
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)
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
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
Gelataria La Piazza (Carvoeiro)
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
Is Carvoeiro good for families?
Yes, compact centre, sheltered bay (conditions permitting), kid-friendly menus and loads of gelato.
Do I need a car in Carvoeiro?
Not for the centre and main beach. A car helps for extra coves or sunset hops, but you can manage with taxis/transfers.
How many days do I need in Carvoeiro?
1–2 days to get the feel; 3–4 if you want slow mornings, cliff walks and proper switch-off time.
Best sunset spot in Carvoeiro?
The chapel viewpoint and the boardwalk both face west, they deliver the golden-hour glow you came for.
Bonus: You Can Visit Carvoeiro in our Tour 😍
Carvoeiro is small, scenic and seriously easy to love. Come for the beach, stay for the clifftop strolls, lazy lunches and long, rosy sunsets.
If you’d like a fuss-free day with local stories and photo stops, join one of our small-group experiences in Carvoeiro, we’ll handle the details while you just enjoy the view.
Ready to make unforgettable memories?
Book now your tour with us.
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