Why go to Meia Praia Beach?
With more than 2.5 miles of golden sand, Meia Praia Beach is by far the largest stretch of paradise in Lagos, Portugal.
Definitely more low key than other beaches in the area, this sandbank is where locals go with their families to spend the day lounging in the sun. Casual cafes dot the landscape, and I tried several of them. Honestly, they were forgettable, but if you are hungry, they come in handy. Also, if you want to use the bathroom, they require payment if you are not eating. So, be prepared to at least purchase a few bottles of water.
This area gets crowded, but don’t worry, because there is an abundance of space. Lacking any of the rock formations that have made the Algarve infamous, Meia Praia definitely has more of a relaxed vibe. Translation, if you walk for long enough, you can spread out as much as you want.
Advice for solo travelers.
As a solo traveler, I didn’t worry about my things getting snatched at Meia Praia Beach. I was smart about it and only brought a few euros with me. Plus, setting up camp away from the crowds made me feel safe when I went swimming
Chaise loungers with oversize parasols are available for rent, so you don’t need to bring much with you. And, if you are craving activity, this area is teaming with extreme water sports including tubing and Flyboarding.
Water sports galore!
I took a 3-hour kayak cave excursion that provided time for swimming. Easily one of my favorite activities in Lagos, my only complaint is that we took off at the same time as several other tour companies, so getting in and out of the caves was time consuming. I wish the operators had staggered the departures. Still, if you are outdoorsy, you will love maneuvering your way through these magnificent grottos.
Overall, Meia Praia Bech is one of those destinations that has something for everyone. It’s not as epic as the other beaches in Lagos, but it’s a great way to pass a lazy afternoon in the Algarve.
Kayaking at the caves sounds awesome! Hopefully the tour companies take feedback and adjust their departure times for a less crowded experience. But the beach sounds amazing!
I do love a good beach, and this one sure is pretty. Great to know it’s safe and not too crowded. As an often solo traveler I’m sometimes concerned about having to leave things while out and about so good that you felt it was a good place for you too
Beautiful beach! Thanks for sharing.
looks like a clam, gorgeous beach, and bonus that it seems to be away from the crowds. i am so hoping to go to Portugal before the end of 2021, and i have my eye on Meia Praia.
Meia Praia Beach looks so beautiful! I’d love to go on a kayaking cave tour and then take a nap on one of those loungers!
What a beautiful beach! It looks like a stunning place to relax and soak up the sunshine! I’ve never visited Portugal but I would love to go! I’ll definitely be adding Meia Praia to my list. Thanks for the great guide!
Wow, this beach is beautiful! And with Portugal now on the new UK green list I’m tempted to book a flight there right now!
It looks like the perfect area to go kayaking! I really like the look of the beach itself too – great guide!
Such a great guide! Algarve is on my bucket list and definitely can’t wait to visit. Pinned for later!
Would love a beach day here . Thanks for the guide and amazing pictures .
I absolutely loved Portugal and hope to visit again. We stayed on Lisbon and took a day trip to Cascais and Sintra. I would love to see Lagos and spend the day at the beach! Thanks for all the travel info and tips!
Wow Meia Praia Beach looks so beautiful! I would love to go there and spend the day in the sun. The caves also look like a really cool place to explore – even if they’re a little crowded!
Oh that water looks sooo inviting!
I love reading about new places. This beach in Portugal looks fantastic. Adding to our bucket list! Thank you 🙂
Love the tips on keeping your stuff safe while travelling alone – that’s always an issue for me at the beach
The cave tour looks like fun! I haven’t made it to Portugal yet but it’s on my list!
Wow! It looks amazing there. I loved the Portuguese beaches. I visited Peniche in 2019 and it was so beautiful. I will have to put this spot on my bucket list for when I revisit the country. 🙂
Take me away! I’d love to go here right now. I’ve never been to Portugal yet but it’s on my list, hopefully some day!
I had never heard of Meia Praia Beach before. Love knowing about low-key gems in Europe and yes I would love to sit back and watch the sea and the grottos.
Wow this looks and sounds lovely! Portugal is at the top of my list, I’m hoping to go next year!
I have been to Algarve coast in Portugal but not to Lagos. The area is gorgeous with the many rock formations. Hope to get back there again and check out Lagos.
This looks like such an amazing place to visit!
This beach is absolutely lovely! I think you’re right it’s definitely worth exploring if in the area, so I’ve added it to my list.
This beach looks so amazing. Unfortunately I didn’t know it in time of my visit to Algarve last year. Otherwise I would definitely add it to my list.
You certainly make a visit sound appealing. A few hours under the umbrella with a good book would be a wonderful way to top off a kayak tour!