Visit this typical Algarve beach to stretch out on its pristine sand, play a round of golf and spot exotic birds at a nature reserve.
Salgados Beach (Praia dos Salgados) offers an idyllic combination of recreation and relaxation on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Spend a day soaking up the sun, swimming in the calm seawater and watching the sunset. Enjoy walks on miles of empty coastline and explore the nearby lake and wildlife area.
The beach is as inviting and unblemished as any beach in the Algarve. Throw down a towel and allow your body to sink into the spongy, golden sand. Gaze out across the deep-blue water and watch people practicing bodyboarding, kitesurfing and windsurfing. There is no water sport center here, so you’ll need to bring your own equipment.
Stroll in any direction along the seashore to discover deserted areas of rolling dunes and dramatic cliffs. To the east, the beach connects with Galé Beach, recognizable for its craggy hills, rock tunnels and tidal pools. To the west it passes Grande de Pêra Beach before reaching the village of Armação de Pera.
Behind the sand dunes that frame the beach is Praia dos Salgados Nature Reserve. This wetlands area sits at the confluence of two streams, which empty out into the freshwater Salgados Lake. Wooden boardwalks wind around the lake and reserve and provide the chance to spot migratory, native and protected birds. See coots, ducks, flamingoes, herons, sandpipers and warblers, among other species.
Partake in one of the Algarve’s most popular activities with a round of 18-holes at Salgados Golf Club. This scenic course is set within the grounds of a luxury hotel and is open to the public. Buggy, club and trolley rentals are available at the clubhouse. You can take lessons at the club and practice on the putting and chipping greens.
Salgados Beach is just a 20-minute drive east of Albufeira. There’s a large car park with direct access to the beach and nature reserve. Parking is also possible at the adjacent Grande de Pêra Beach.
