The easternmost beach in Albufeira is actually closer to the resort town of Vilamoura, which you can see in the distance. It’s the last kilometer of a 6km-long (4 miles) stretch of sand and is essentially the eastern end of the famous Praia da Falésia. However, on this side the cliffs are lower, the sandy area is wider, and there’s a different atmosphere. For this reason, it feels like a different beach and hence the different name (which translates to “Beach of the Low Rock”).
It also consists of two parts -- Poente (or west) and Nascente (or east). The western part is quieter and connected to the taller red cliffs of Praia da Falésia. It has a parking lot and used to be called Praia dos Tomates (“Tomatoes Beach”) because a farmer used to sell his tomatoes here. The eastern part is where the cliffs end and is backed by dunes. Here are bars and restaurants, making it something of a party beach at the end of the day.
The sand is white and soft, and there’s a boardwalk over the dunes, protecting the vegetation and linking the bars.
On the eastern side you also have opportunities for water sports and activities like surfing and jet skiing. What you decide to do will depend on the tides, winds and currents -- on some days the sea is very calm, and on others it has waves big enough for surfing. When the tide is low and the water shallow, this is a good beach for children. There are lifeguards on duty in the bathing season. It’s also possible to rent wicker parasols and loungers at that time.
The bars and water sports attract young crowds, the many hotels in Vilamoura nearby bring tourists, but there are also local families looking for a beach with more space for the kids. This has also been known to be a favorite destination of Portuguese politicians. It’s big enough for everyone, meaning you can have fun at a sunset party or watch the sunset in peace away from the bars.
The beach is also accessible to those on wheelchairs, and the Blue Flag indicates that it is clean and safe for everyone.
Beach for: Groups, Families, Couples, Water Sports
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: Yes (western end)
Parking: Yes
How to Get Praia da Rocha Baixinha
Praia da Rocha Baixinha is the last stop of bus number 8, operated by the Vamus company, which departs from Albufeira’s bus station. There are only a few departures per day, and the journey takes about 25 minutes. If you’re driving, it takes about 20 minutes and there’s a parking lot on the western side of the beach, in the area known as Praia dos Tomates. If you’re coming from Vilamoura (it takes just 10 minutes), you need to leave the car on a parking lot by a small footbridge that leads to the beach. Another option is a taxi or Uber. To know how to get to and around Albufeira, see our transportation guide.
Beaches by Praia da Rocha Baixinha
Praia da Rocha Baixinha is separated from Praia de Vilamoura to the east by a marina. Although these beaches are very close to each other, you need to walk for about 30 minutes or drive for about 10 around the marina. As indicated above, there’s a parking lot by a small footbridge that links Vilamoura to Praia da Rocha Baixinha, and that’s where you should leave your car if you’re coming from Vilamoura. It’s recommended that you walk west from this beach (to the right when facing the sea) and spend some time at the beautiful Praia da Falésia. You don’t have to go all the way to the end, but should walk for about a half hour to reach the part with the most impressive cliffs.
To locate these beaches, see the Albufeira beaches map.
Hotels by Praia da Rocha Baixinha
AP Adriana Beach Resort
This all-inclusive resort is surrounded by gardens on the western side of Praia da Rocha Baixinha. It offers two large swimming pools, a spa, three restaurants, and bright rooms with balconies.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: AP Adriana Beach Resort
Domes Lake Algarve
Located a few steps from the footbridge that takes you to Praia da Rocha Baixinha, this luxurious resort features a design of Mediterranean and Oriental inspiration, a floating restaurant, a spa, and three pools. The spacious rooms have balconies and views of the beautiful surroundings.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Domes Lake Algarve