Praia da Marinha, Algarve: A Simple Guide
- Last Update: September 22, 2025
Praia da Marinha, Algarve, is one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches, often ranked among the top 10 in Europe and the 100 best in the world. With golden cliffs, turquoise water, and the famous heart-shaped arch, it’s a must-see for anyone exploring Portugal’s south coast.
This guide keeps it simple: what to see, how to get there, the best time to visit, where to eat, and answers to the most common questions.
✅ Heart-shaped arch: Instagram-famous angle created by two natural arches.
✅ Clifftop viewpoints: some of the best photo stops in the Algarve.
✅ Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: a top-rated coastal walk.
What to See at Praia da Marinha
1. The Marinha Beach
A wide sandy stretch surrounded by high cliffs. The sand is soft, the water is clear, and it’s great for a swim or just relaxing.
Access is via a staircase of about 100 steps, fine for most, but not buggy or wheelchair friendly.
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2. The Famous Heart-shaped Arch
A natural wonder, but not a single “heart hole”. It’s actually two arches that, from the right angle, form the shape of a heart. The best view is from the cliff path east of the main viewpoint.
3. Clifftop Views
Even if you skip the beach, the clifftop trail offers breathtaking views over arches, stacks and the Atlantic. There are several marked viewpoints with safe spots for photos.
4. Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
This 6 km trail (one way) runs along the cliffs between Praia da Marinha and Praia de Vale Centeanes. Expect caves, arches, blowholes, and endless sea views. It takes about 2–3 hours each way at a steady pace.
You can hike short sections for quick views or do the full route if you’re up for a half-day walk.
Practical Information
How to Get There
- By car: 15 min from Carvoeiro, 45 min from Faro, 30 min from Albufeira. In summer it fills quickly, and roads may close once it’s full.
- By public transport: No direct bus. Closest is Lagoa, then a short taxi/transfer.
- With a tour: Many tours (including our tour) include Praia da Marinha, Benagil, Carvoeiro, and Algar Seco in one day.
Best Time to Visit
- May–June, September–October: warm and less busy.
- July–August: very crowded, go early.
- Winter: quieter, perfect for hiking and photos, but swimming may not be safe.
What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes (steps & trails).
- Swimwear, towel, snorkel gear.
- Hat, sunscreen, plenty of water.
- Camera for the famous arch and cliffs.
Where to Eat Near Praia da Marinha
Food options at Praia da Marinha are simple:
- Snack trucks in the car park — usually selling sandwiches, ice creams, cold drinks and fruit in summer.
- Seasonal beach kiosk — open in high season, with drinks and light snacks.
- For a meal — head to nearby Benagil or Carvoeiro for seafood restaurants and cafés.
Frequently Asked Questions about Praia da Marinha
Absolutely. It’s one of the Algarve’s most famous postcards, both the beach and the views from above are unforgettable.
Around 100.
Yes. It’s on the clifftop trail east of the main viewpoint. Remember, it’s an angle created by two arches, not a single hole.
2–4 hours is enough for the viewpoint, a swim, and a short walk. Half a day if you want to hike part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.
Often yes, on calm days. But the stair climb can be tough, and at high tide the sand space is smaller. Always check lifeguard flags.
Yes, along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. The views are amazing, but remember — you cannot access the inside of Benagil Cave this way.
Ready to Explore Praia da Marinha?
Praia da Marinha isn’t just a beach, it’s an Algarve postcard. Golden cliffs, crystal water, and views you’ll never forget.
👉 Want to see Praia da Marinha, Benagil Cave, Carvoeiro and Algar Seco in one trip?
Join one of our small-group tours from Faro, we handle the details, you just enjoy the views.
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About us
All stories start somewhere!
About us
All stories start somewhere!
Since 2019, we’ve been more than just a local tour company that wants to provide you with the best experience in the Algarve.
From 2023 alone, 7 039 travelers have joined us, and across platforms, more than 1 281 reviews rate us 4.9 stars — calling us “worth every penny,” “friendly and fun,” and “Top 10 Overall Tours.”
Join us and discover why travelers love our insider tips, relaxed small-group atmosphere, and perfect photo opportunities. Together we will visit some of the most emblematic and extraordinary places in the Algarve.
Because we don’t create tours; we create lifetime experiences.
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