F
or the big-wave surfer
Praia do Norte in the once-sleepy fishing town of Nazare has grown tremendously in popularity due to massive media coverage when Garrett McNamara, an American big-wave surfer, broke records by surfing a 24 metre wave here in 2011. The record has since been broken but serious surfers still flock here to experience their own piece of Praia do Norte’s freakish geological consequences: The Nazare canyon is 175km long and in parts, 5km deep, chaneling huge Atlantic swells onto the beach, creating the giant waves this beach is famous for.
For the whole family
Carvoeiro in western Algarve is the perfect spot to keep all members of the family relaxed and entertained. The central beach, Praia do Carvoeiro, is a sunny, sandy bay protected on both sides by milky cliffs offering a calm splash pad for the little ones. Parents will remain calm and satisfied sipping wine in the sun while the older kids are kept happy riding jetskis and fishing with the locals.
For the Insta-worthy photos
Frequently voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Praia da Marinha near Lagoa will take your breath away with its picture-perfect white sands, azure blue water and steep, rocky cliffs. Be the envy of your friends and garner a few more followers on your Instagram profile at this sunbathing and snorkelling haven. #
