There are many photo opportunities in the Algarve. Some of Portugal's most dramatic scenery includes golden beaches, clifftop lighthouses, and historic cobblestone-lined centers. It's helpful to know the lay of the land before you plan your trip.

From Odeceixe down to Sagres, there are wild beaches and headlands. There is a wetlands reserve in the eastern Algarve, as well as barrier islands, a charming town, and the fishing mecca of Olho.

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The central Algarve has many famous beaches, rock formations, and headland walks with panoramic views over the coast. Lagos and Albufeira are two of the buzzing resort towns in the central Algarve, which also have some great snapshots of flower-draped streets.

It's a good idea to plan your photos for early or late in the day. The Algarve's famous limestone cliffs take on auburn and golden colors at that time of year. There are a number of well-known classics and off-the-beaten-path locations in the Algarve.

Portugal's rocky coastline at Praia da Marinha is bathed in warm sunlight; stacks of rock rise from a calm sea, and a figure is visible standing on a clifftop.
Praia da Marinha is one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe © Pete Elliott / Lonely Planet

Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe due to its amazing cliffs and jutting sea stacks. You can find the best views by hiking west along the coast.

Coastal rock has been eroded to form the prominent Albandeira Arch; a lilac-hued sky at dawn rests above.
It's possible to see Albandeira Arch without the crowds © Pete Elliott / Lonely Planet

Albandeira Arch 

When you arrive at the car park for Praia de Albandeira, take the path west and you will see a small beach. You can see the Albandeira Arch from this location. Golden cliffs, frothing seas, and dramatic perspectives toward the sea can be found at this beach, which is less crowded than other Algarve beaches.

Cabo de São Vicente

The Cabo de So Vicente is located in the southwest of Portugal. There is a red-topped lighthouse and a small white-washed complex surrounding it on a rocky cliff high above the lapping seas. There's a lot of time to explore here. You can see the lighthouse from both sides. As you walk along the clifftop paths, be aware of your step as you go down.

Praia dos Arrifes

One of the more attractive beaches in Albufeira is Praia dos Arrifes. It has craggy formations and islets. The tides reveal more rock formations on their way out and waves crash into the limestone structures. If you're staying in Albufeira, it's a great place to watch the sunrise.

Benagil Caves

You can only reach one of the Algarve's most spectacular beaches from the water. The Benagil Caves are illuminated by an opening high overhead, with the rays of the sun creating an ever-changing play of light on the limestone walls. The caves are very popular so be prepared to share the space with a lot of other people. You can take a boat or kayak to get there. You can hire a kayak or stand up paddle board on calm days.

An elevated shot of Praia da Dona Ana; in the foreground are yellow wildflowers, while down below a few people stroll on the wide sandy beach which has a backdrop of curving cliffs.
Praia de Dona Ana is within walking distance of Lagos © Pete Elliot / Lonely Planet

Praia de Dona Ana

Lagos is a vibrant town that is close to some great coastline. One of the prettiest beaches in the area is less than 30 minutes south of town. From the headland, you can take the steps to the surprisingly wide shore that is bordered by cliffs. The north and south ends of the beach have unique views.

A few people walk down a set of wooden steps towards the sheltered sands of Praia do Camilo.
Walk the 200 steps down to Praia do Camilo for perfect shots of the beach © Pete Elliott / Lonely Planet

Praia do Camilo

Praia do camilo is south of Praia de Dona Ana. Significantly smaller than its neighbor, this beach has a rich texture thanks to the rocky features woven among the sand. Praia do camilo is a must-see even with 200 steps leading to it. You just have to work harder for it to be a good photographer. The perfect conditions for a morning shoot can be found on the beach when the sun rises.

Tavira 

The town of Tavira is one of the prettiest in the Algarve. You can take a stroll across the Ponte Romana or look for beauty on the back lanes of the town. The ruins of a medieval castle are located on a hill above the town. You can take pictures on a long sandy island after you've explored the city. There is a graveyard near Praia do Barril.

The weathered, eroded cliffs at Ponta da Piedade. Waves crash and froth around the rock stacks.
Ponta da Piedade is famed for its chiseled good looks © Pete Elliott / Lonely Planet

Ponta da Piedade

The Ponta da Piedade is one of the finest natural features of the Algarve coastline. Chiseled out by years of storms, it consists of a huge variety of sea pillars, rock arches, and hidden caves. There is enough here to keep a photographer busy for an entire morning. Steps allow access right down to sea level at the headland but, for a different perspective, take in the view on a boat or kayak tour.
 

Olhão 

The largest fish market in the region is located in Olho and is the perfect place to take a picture. You can see Olho's clam diggers at work on the tidal flats outside the village, so make sure to ask permission before taking a picture.

The article was first published about four hours ago.