Although it’s officially called Praia do Barranco das Canas, everyone knows this beach as Praia do Alemão. The more popular name (“Beach of the German”) is said to have derived from a German man who was the first to build a home nearby. This is one of the most beautiful beaches in the region, especially when seen from the top of the cliff, due to the rocks in the water (on the western side).
On the clifftop is a trail called “Varandas Sobre o Mar” (“Balconies Over the Sea”), that starts in Praia do Vau to the east and ends 2.5km (1.5 miles) from there, at the João de Arens promontory in the west (it’s possible to further walk through the pine forest on the promontory all the way to Prainha, one of the best beaches on this coast). On your way, you’ll inevitably stop several times to photograph the views of the beaches and Portimão in the distance.
The beach has fine golden sand and is very clean. Much of it is taken over by parasols and loungers for rent in the summer. Because it’s sheltered by the promontory, the water is usually calm, attracting paddleboarders and snorkelers, who explore the coves to the west. There’s lifeguard supervision during the official bathing season.
The location, away from the center of Portimão, guarantees that it’s never crowded (it’s certainly less so than the beaches to the east), and is mostly frequented by tourists staying at the hotels nearby and locals who prefer a quieter beach.
Due to erosion and the risk of rockfall, never lie or stand directly below the cliffs. If you want shade, rent one of the parasols or bring your own. You don’t have to bring water and food, as there’s a small bar with refreshments. For fuller meals, you have to go to Praia do Vau.
Location: Portimão
Beach for: Couples, Families
Lifeguards: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Rentals: Yes
Bar or Restaurant: Yes
Accessible: No
Parking: Yes
How to Get to Praia do Alemão
Praia do Alemão is a 10-minute drive from the center of Portimão. There’s parking by the beach. Bus 14 of the local "Vai e Vem" network, departing every half hour on weekdays from Largo do Dique, or bus 1P around every hour on weekends, stops nearby. A walk from central Portimão is not recommended, as it takes close to one hour. The walk from Praia da Rocha, however, should take less than 40 minutes, and follows a scenic road and pathways.
Beaches by Praia do Alemão
At low tide, Praia do Alemão is connected to Praia de Boião, to the west. If you continue towards the pine-covered promontory to the west, you find the naturist beaches of João de Arens and Submarino. Also within walking distance, but to the east, are the beaches of Vau, Careanos, Amado, Três Castelos, and Praia da Rocha.
Hotels by Praia do Alemão
Jardim do Vau
Less than a 10-minute walk from Praia do Alemão, this hotel has 1- and 2-bedroom apartments with balconies and fully-equipped kitchens. All guests have access to indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness room, a cocktail bar, and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine. It’s a family-friendly property, with a kids’ club and pool. A free shuttle connects it to the center of Portimão.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Jardim do Vau
Hotel Alcaide
It’s located up the road from Praia do Vau, which means that it’s also within walking distance of Praia do Alemão. It’s quite a good value, rated just three stars but with facilities of the 4-star category. That includes an outdoor swimming pool and bright rooms with balconies.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Hotel Alcaide
Interpass Vau Hotel Apartamentos
These apartments are about a 10-minute walk from Praia do Alemão. They’re equipped with a kitchenette and a furnished balcony, and a few have a view of the sea in the distance. There are two outdoor pools (one for adults and the other for children) and an indoor pool, a children’s playground, a restaurant overlooking the pools and a bar.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Interpass Vau Hotel Apartamentos
Apartamentos Turísticos Coral do Vau
This hotel faces Praia do Vau, but Praia do Alemão is a short walk to the west. Rated three stars, it’s a good value when you consider the location. The décor of the apartments is dated, but the facilities are good. There are two swimming pools (one for adults and another for the kids), a tennis court, and a children’s playground. It provides an airport shuttle service.
SEE PRICES, AVAILABILITY AND MORE DETAILS HERE: Apartamentos Turísticos Coral do Vau