The Algarve, with its captivating coastline, fabulous year-round climate, and crystal-clear waters, is a paradise for open water swimming enthusiasts. To help you discover the best spots for swimming along the coast,  we’ve compiled expert recommendations from Ricardo at Adamastor Swim Adventures, highlighting the most stunning locations, his favourite spots to swim, and practical tips for safe and memorable swimming experiences.

Why the Algarve is Perfect for Open Water Swimming
What makes the Algarve a great open water swimming destination? The region offers a diverse and dramatic coastline stretching over 200km. From the tranquil waters of the eastern Sotavento to the rugged beauty of the Costa Vicentina, each region provides unique swimming experiences. With over 300 days of sunshine annually and water temperatures ranging from 15°C in winter to 25°C in summer, conditions are ideal year-round. Add to that the vibrant marine life and fascinating geological formations, not to mention the great on-land lifestyle, and you have the ultimate destination for swimming holidays and guided swim tours.

About Adamastor Swim Adventures
Led by Ricardo, an open water swim champion and very experienced swim coach, Adamastor offers open water swimming holidays as well as daily guided swim tours along the coast. The tours bring you to Ricardo’s favourite spots so you too can explore the immense beauty of the ocean and coastline. The Adamastor team have been swimming these waters all their lives, and their intimate familiarity with every cove, cave and rock formation really adds to your experience with them.
Find out more about Adamastor Swim Adventures

Ricardo, Adamastor Swim Adventures 

Swimming Zones in the Algarve
Eastern Algarve (Sotavento)
Known for its long stretches of golden sandy beaches, this area is characterized by calm waters and gentle tides. The expansive plains stretching from Faro to the Spanish border create an ideal setting for leisurely swims. The tranquil beauty of this area is immense however the swims are somewhat less interesting from a geological point of view.

Western Algarve (Barlavento)
The Western Algarve, from Albufeira to Sagres, is a favourite among swimmers, offering optimal conditions for swimming on around 90% of the days of the year. The water temperature ranges from averages of 15º to 25 ºC. This region is famous for its:

• Cliffs and Caves: The area from Albufeira to Sagres boasts remarkable geological features, including fossilized shell deposits in cliffs ranging from 5 to 25 meters high, with hidden caves and secluded coves to explore, some only accessible from the sea. There are even dinosaur footprints to see on the coast!
• Marine Life: The water is teeming with life, including octopus, squid, sea bream, sea bass, and grey mullet. Sardines dominate the waters, forming massive schools near the coast in specific areas

 


Vicentine Coast (Costa Vicentina)
For a more rugged and wild experience, head to the Costa Vicentina, or West Coast. Located within the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, this stretch between Sagres and Odeceixe is a haven for nature lovers. Highlights include:

• Dramatic Cliffs: Towering up to 70 meters, these cliffs showcase vibrant red sandstone and almost black shale formations, creating a breathtaking backdrop.
• Wild Beaches: Pristine white sands and a rich array of marine life make this a magical place to swim.

Known for its strong currents and waves, only around 20% of the days of the year provide good conditions for swimming here. The rest of the time, the conditions are better for surfing, and you can find some of the best surf spots in the Algarve here. But on those days when conditions are just right for swimming, the beauty of this area is absolutely stunning and unique.



Adamastor’s Favorite Swimming Spots
Ricardo shares some of his very favourite spots in the Algarve to swim and explore.
Carvoeiro and Benagil
Renowned for their iconic sea caves and dramatic cliffs, these spots offer unique seascapes to explore. The Benagil Cave, one of the Algarve’s most famous attractions, is definitely worth seeing. It is not permitted to swim to Benagil cave but you can visit by boat or kayak. Find out how to visit Benagil cave in 2025. However, Ricardo knows of other amazing caves near by, which you can swim to, equally stunning, and with much less traffic. Join an Adamastor Swim Tour to unlock the secret.

Benagil Cave

Portimão and Lagos
These locations feature expansive, protected bays ideal for relaxed swimming and observing marine life. Families and less experienced swimmers will particularly enjoy these areas. The massive bay encompassing Alvor and Lagos (Meia Praia) is a great spot to see marine life and lots of fish.

Praia do Camilo, Lagos

Sagres to Odeceixe
This is the ultimate destination for those seeking untamed beauty. Not for the faint-hearted, the clear waters, imposing cliffs, and abundant marine life create an unparalleled swimming experience.
Between Sagres and Odeceixe, you’ll encounter cliffs reaching up to 70 meters high, composed of red sandstones and schist, with some appearing almost black due to quartz erosion. The beaches are pristine, and the marine life is dazzling, with sea bream taking center stage. The local economy is deeply connected to the ocean, with delicacies like goose barnacles (percebes) beloved by locals. Swimming here feels like a pure and transformative experience, offering a deep connection with nature.
 
Practical Tips for Open Water Swimming in the Algarve

1. Plan Entry and Exit Points: Identify safe entry and exit locations and be aware of tidal changes during your swim.
2. Check Marine Traffic: Some areas have boats and other marine traffic; ensure you’re swimming in designated areas.
3. Understand Weather and Tides: While apps provide forecasts, traditional local knowledge, such as interpreting how southeast (SE) or southwest (SW) winds affect the water, can be invaluable.
4. Safety First: Always swim with a buddy or guide, and use a brightly colored tow float for visibility.
5. Join a guided swim tour or swimming holiday. Your guides will know the best entry and exit points, are experts in reading the local sea conditions, know the best swim spots, and offer safety and insurance for each swim.