10. Praia do Pintadinho

Situated in a quiet bay, this beach remains relatively protected from the wind, making the perfect sun-bathing spot.

The adventurous among us can snorkel straight from the beach and explore the hidden coastal caves. If you don’t fancy taking a dip in the sea, you can either wait until tide is out, or climb the cliffs and venture across to the pier. With scenic views as far west as Lagos, you’ll be glad you made the trip.

Make sure you take something waterproof to put your phone in if you’re going in search of an Instagram worthy photo here!

9. Tavira

With it’s charming cobblestoned streets, the historic centre of Tavira is definitely worthy of an Instagram snap or two. Located on the eastern side of the Algarve, this region is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle.

Relax and enjoy the Portuguese pace of life at one of the many quaint little restaurants and bars, or simply sit by the slow flowing Gilão river and watch the world go by.

If you’re looking for white sandy beaches, then take a boat over to Ilha da Tavira (translates to Island of Tavira). The 11 kilometre stretch of sandy beach and crystal clear waters can be reached by ferry or boat taxi. Make sure to sample some of the Algarve’s freshest seafood at one of the beach restaurants whilst you’re there.

8. Barragem do Arade

The Algarve is more than just golden sandy beaches (Ok, there’s a lot of those, but there’s more on offer too – we promise!). If you’re willing to venture off the beaten track, then the Barragem do Arade in Silves is definitely worth a visit.

Built in the 1940’s in order to provide water to the local farming areas, it remains one of the main reservoirs of water in the Algarve. Currently irrigating more than 2.300 hectares of citrus trees, with the lake itself spanning an impressive 246 meters wide.

If you decide to take a drive down, be careful to get the right directions, otherwise your adventure off the beaten track might be more than you bargained for! Alternatively, you can really get to know the trails by booking a horse-ride with the local stables – The Country Riding Centre, Silves.

7. Cape St. Vincent

This south western tip of the Algarve (and Europe) is also known as the end of the world, and it’s easy to see why.

According to legend, the name comes from Saint Vincent of Saragossa, whose body was brought ashore here back in the 4th century.

Once home to Henry the Navigator, Cape Saint Vincent is now home to a museum, gift shop, and cafe. Sight-seers can appreciate magnificent views of the Atlantic coast, however be prepared for the strong winds and sea spray from the huge waves crashing against the cliffs.

6. Praia do Camilo

The descent to this secluded beach may seem like a lot of effort, with two hundred wooden steps to get down, but we promise it’s worth it. You might not thank us quite so much on the way back up…

Picturesque Praia do Camilo is situated in the western Algarve near Lagos, between Praia Dona Ana Beach and Praia da Boneca Beach. Unsurprisingly, Trip Advisor travellers have rated this not so secret spot as excellent. ‘I had seen images online and thought that they must surely be photoshopped. However, the place really has to seen to be believed. It’s simply stunning!’

Visitors can also enjoy excellent cuisine and spectacular panoramic views at the O Camilo restaurant. After all, with climbing all those steps – you’ll deserve it!

5. Fort of São João do Arade

Located in the quiet fishing village of Ferragudo, the Fort of São João do Arade (also known as the Castle of Arade) is situated between Praia da Angrinha and Praia Grande.

The fort was initially built to defend Portimão, in conjunction with the Santa Catarina de Ribamar Fortress. From the early 20th century, the castle became private property and is currently well preserved and restored, belonging to the Pereira Coutinho family.

After enjoying a stroll along the beach, visitors can enjoy some light refreshment or a bite to eat at local beach lounge and restaurant, Club Nau.

4. Pego do Inferno

If you’re willing to venture away from the typical tourist trail, then take a trip to Pego do Inferno in Santo Estêvão and discover one of the Algarve’s best kept secrets.

Whether you want to use the rope swing to capture the perfect Instagram moment, or simply jump from the rocks, make sure you choose suitable footwear to get there. This hidden gem is certainly ‘off the beaten track’ – be prepared for about a 15 minute walk along a dirt path from the car park to reach the lake itself. A lack of signposts has helped keep this wonderful oasis a secret, so put the following into your GPS to locate the nearest place to park: Latitude 37.1575 Longitude -7.6975

3. Praia da Marinha

Capture the true heart of the Algarve in a photo at Praia da Marinha.

Located on the Algarve’s Atlantic coast in Caramujeira, this particular beach has won several well deserved awards – considered by the Michelin Guide as one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in Europe and as one of the 100 most beautiful beaches in the world.

Being famous for its crystal clear waters, the destination is popular with both locals and tourists alike, and has even been featured in several global advertising campaigns. Number 3 on our list might not be a well kept secret anymore, but it’s definitely worth a visit whilst staying in the Algarve.

2. Algar Seco

The Algar Seco, literally meaning ‘dry cavern’ or ‘sinkhole’, is a stunning rock formation located one kilometre east of Carvoeiro’s town centre.

Carved out of the limestone bedrock, this natural piece of art has been created over time by erosion and the crashing waves.

On your way down (or up), you can reach the Boneca restaurant, and after venturing a little further you will arrive at the picturesque view point Algar Seco is famous for – ‘A Boneca’. This spectacular viewpoint offers visitors the perfect Instagram worthy spot! The ‘A Boneca’ cave name originates from the exterior of the formation, which resembles a doll, with the two cave arches supposedly forming the eyes of the doll.

1. Benagil Caves

Now this is the kind of beauty Insta dreams are made of!

The Benagil caves need little introduction. Being cited several times in several international newspapers, such as the Huffington Post, which considered this particular attraction as one of the 5 most beautiful places in the world.

Located in the central Algarve, between Lagos and Albufeira, there are many different options to reach the caves themselves. You can take a boat, a kayak, a stand up paddle (SUP) or even swim from the nearby beach. Keep in mind the time of year – swimming to the caves in peak season is not recommended due to the boat traffic at the entrance to the caves.

There is no doubt about it, this is our number 1 place to visit if you’re looking for the most Instagram worthy location in the Algarve!