Praia da Oura is Albufeira’s “party beach.” Located down the road from the bars and clubs on “The Strip,” it’s where many young tourists (mainly British and Dutch) spend their day after a big night out. Found to the west of the Old Town, it was where Albufeira developed as a modern city and tourist destination, with several apartment buildings and hotels.
The beach is actually divided into two sections, separated by rocks. The eastern side is nestled by a cliff and tends to be quieter, while the more accessible western side is more crowded. It has soft sand and clean water, certified by the Blue Flag. The sea is often calm enough for swimmers (just watch out for a few underwater rocks in some parts), but there can also be stronger waves. Pay attention to the flags -- green means it’s safe to go in the water, yellow means you should be extra careful and may just get your feet wet, and red means you’re not allowed to bathe or swim. There are lifeguards on duty in the summer.
Although some people at this beach just lie in the sun, recovering from a hangover, many prefer more active activities, like water sports and exploring the rock formations and caves. There are rentals available by the restaurant. This restaurant overlooks the beach, and serves drinks and meals throughout the day. You’ll find other places to eat and drink up the road.
One end of the beach is reserved for parasols (and loungers), and the other for sun worshippers. Although there are ramps, those with mobility issues or on wheelchairs may find it difficult to come down the steep hill to the beach.
Beach for: Groups, Water Sports
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: Yes (western side)
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia da Oura
Praia da Oura can be reached by bus (the green line of the Giro network) from the center of Albufeira. It departs every half hour from the bus station, and after several stops, it reaches Praia da Oura in about 30 minutes. It’s about 3km east of the Old Town, and a walk would be about 40 minutes. Naturally, the fastest way to get here is by car, but parking is limited. In fact, in the summer it can be quite difficult to find a spot. Alternatively, take a taxi or Uber. To know how to get to and around Albufeira, see the transportation guide.
Beaches by Praia da Oura
The quieter Praia dos Aveiros is a short walk west from here (about 15 minutes), while the beautiful Praia de Santa Eulália is a 5-minute drive to the east.
To locate these beaches, see the Albufeira beaches map.
Hotels by Praia da Oura
3HB Golden Beach
This highly-rated 3-star hotel has a superb location, just steps from the beach. The architecture follows the local traditions, and it’s divided into studios, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments with balconies and fully-equipped kitchenettes. All guests have access to an outdoor swimming pool and sun deck.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: 3HB Golden Beach
Aqua Pedra dos Bicos Design Beach Hotel
This is the choice for couples. It’s an adults-only design hotel with direct access to the beach, featuring an outdoor pool, a refined restaurant of regional and Mediterranean cuisine, and rooms and suites with balconies overlooking pine trees and the sea.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Aqua Pedra dos Bicos Design Beach Hotel
Grand Muthu Oura View Beach Club
Standing right above the beach, this property offers spacious self-catering apartments, a huge outdoor swimming pool overlooking the ocean, a bar, a restaurant, and a health club with a variety of treatments.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Grand Muthu Oura View Beach Club
Apartamentos Borda d’Água
Groups or families might want to choose these apartments located right behind the beach and a short walk down the road from the nightlife street. The studios and 1-bedroom apartments are in traditional Algarve-style buildings, and some have a sea view.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Apartamentos Borda d’Água
Muthu Clube Praia da Oura
It’s one of the oldest hotels in the area, but it has been slowly renovated. It offers direct access to the beach, two outdoor pools, an international restaurant, and apartments with balconies.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Muthu Clube Praia da Oura