Praia do Carvalho, a secluded beach that can be enjoyed between the cliffs and clear waters, is an excellent option for those who want to avoid crowded beaches. Imagine strolling through a passageway carved into a cliff, rather than a typical gate, and emerging into a beach cove or a solitary stretch of sand, where you can find peace, immerse yourself in a book, or embark on an exhilarating adventure.
Overview at Praia do Carvalho
Praia do Carvalho is a small, confined, and secluded beach that gives tourists a very serene environment with steep rock cliffs on either side. It's Carvoeiro is 4 meters away from it by car heading east. Categorized by its fine golden sand and clear sea, this beach is less popular than other beaches in Portugal, but it offers people much-needed rest because it is not so overcrowded. Its direct coastline and wind protection make it an ideal location for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
Praia do Carvalho's starting point is one of its most exciting aspects. Sebatik Island has a small beach that is accessible only through a tunnel that has been made from the side of a cliff. This adds excitement to the visit and creates a sense of isolation from the outside world.
Swimming and diving off the cliffs are possible; one can also explore the rocks surrounding the place. However, prioritizing safety is crucial—occasionally, large sections of the cliffs may collapse, posing a risk of injury, so it's advisable to stay as near to the cliffs as possible. Furthermore, no lifeguard service is available, so one needs to be very careful while swimming and snorkeling.
As a result, this is a bar that is entirely self-contained because there are no services or facilities on the beach for visitors to use. One should carry any item that might be helpful throughout the day, including food and beverages. Despite the proximity of amenities such as restrooms and fuel stores, reaching them requires a short drive. However, the discoveries one makes in this little paradise make this minor inconvenience worthwhile.
How to Get here -Praia do Carvalho
Praia do Carvalho is a relatively secluded beach located three hours' drive from Lisbon and one hour from Faro. Take the main roads toward Carvoeiro, and then look for the sign tilting toward the beach. For more accurate directions, use this address to get to the gym: The gym is located at Rua de Algarve Clube Atlântico, H15 Lagoa, Portugal.
Parking is possible at Urbanização Clube Atlântico or along the cliffs just beside the beach or the sand; it is free. The last part of the ride is going down through a wall adorned with marine fossils to complete the overall picture of geological history. Exercise caution when taking the steps, especially when clad in sand, as they can be slippery.
Best Time to Visit
Praia do Carvalho is open to tourists all year round; nonetheless, the best time to visit this area depends on the tourists’ tastes. The warmest months are from July to September; however, this is ideal for water-related activities such as swimming and sunbathing.
However, this is also peak season, which means that the beach is likely to be more crowded. It's advisable to arrive at the park early in the morning to enjoy a clear view and prevent park congestion from individuals commuting to work or other locations.
If you are not a big fan of crowds, it is better to go in the off-season, early spring, or fall. The weather is still excellent during these times, and there are not as many people as in other parts of the year. Additionally, the cliffs provide increasing shade as the day progresses, providing relief from the scorching sun.
Activities at Praia do Carvalho
Despite minimal infrastructure and service centers, several activities are available at Praia do Carvalho.
Snorkeling
This is an excellent place because of the calm water and the small cove beach. The entry at the beach is usually shallow and drops off fast; as such, it is home to several types and classes of sea creatures. Wear your snorkeling gear to feel and discover the underwater world. However, pay attention to sea urchins on rocks and currents. Here, they might be challenging. It would help if you did not wander into deeper waters, as they are dangerous, especially when the storm hits at night.
Cliff Diving
For adventurous people, you can try cliff diving around Praia do Carvalho. To the right of the beach, there is a shelf about 5-7 meters high that should suit most visitors. However, for the real daredevil, there is a trying jump point on the left side of the beach area. Unfortunately, I didn’t have a chance to take a picture of the pool, but it is deep enough to catch both jumps, so if you wish to ‘fly’ higher, be ready to jump and fall a lot deeper.
Hiking
Right next to it, there is a possibility of going hiking at the Cliffs, which are located nearby. Continuing westward from Praia do Carvalho, you will get to Carvoeiro and Praia de Vale Centeanes for other beach entertainment. On your way there, you can visit the Alfanzina Lighthouse, which is open to visitors on Wednesdays between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Going east, visit Praia de Benagil and the stunning Benagil Sea Cave. In the trail area, wear comfortable shoes, put on, and be wary of the talus slope, a loose rock.
Rock Exploration
The geography of Praia do Carvalho's rocky environment is ideal for treks and trails. You can see other fascinating rock formations and impressive natural features in addition to the entrance tunnel. A particular emphasis should be placed on the so called “window"—the n natural verse in the cliff on the left from the coastline, through which one can admire the beautiful view of the area. There are also trails that lead to a possible hidden beach behind the dune, which is hidden behind a cave-like structure.
Where to eat and Stay
Praia do Carvalho has more than a dozen restaurants, with some of the best ones being Restaurante Jardim do Farol, the Portuguese fine dining restaurant using fresh fish and seafood from their nearby farm; Brisa Do Mar, the seafood restaurant; and Earth Shop & Cafe. These restaurants provide meals and company for beachgoers, hikers, and others. Brisa Do Mar offers seafood risotto and avocado mango prawn salad, as well as light breakfast or lunch options at Earth Shop & Cafe, which is clean and relaxed.
Carvoerio offers some exclusive villas and resort that your moments and relax will fine.
Praia do Carvalho is one of the most beautiful and secret beaches in the Algarve, providing an opportunity for a natural experience, fun, and tranquility. Depending on one's preference, whether one wants to appreciate the scenery and read a book or desires to swim and cliff dive, the spot offers a vacation like no other for everyone.