This golden stretch of sand was one of the quietest I’ve ever seen in the Algarve
Stepping out onto a crowd-free golden stretch of sand, this beach was one of the quietest I’ve ever seen in the Algarve. There were no rowdy crowds, loud music and litter, just the rhythmic sound of waves lapping at my feet.
Sleepy Salema might just be the last fishing village in the Algarve that’s escaped the attention of international tourists, who flock to Portugal’s south coast for a sunny escape by the sea.
Far from the crowded tourist hubs of Albufeira and Lagos, Salema, with its whitewashed houses, vibrant bougainvillaea vines and narrow cobbled streets offers a quieter western Algarve retreat with bracing, azure blue waters, seafood restaurants and small yet buzzing cocktail bars.
It has a rich history dating back to its origins as a small fishing village, and you can still spot a few wooden boats going out to sea to catch sea bass, bream, octopus, sardines and mackerel. The local community still has a deep connection to the sea, with fishing remaining part of daily life and an upscale tourism offering.
Historical remnants like old fishing nets and traditional wooden boats can still be seen along the beachfront. If you get up early, you can watch local fishermen unloading their catch each morning before mending their nets and resting.
Golden Sand Beaches
The heart of Salema is its beautiful blue flag beach, Praia da Salema. This expansive stretch of powder-soft golden sand is framed by rocky, yellow-coloured cliffs and offers crystal-clear, bracing waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling and paddleboarding.
The beach’s western end is backed by limestone cliffs, and at low tide, you can explore intriguing rock formations and marine-life-rich tidal pools.
If you have a rental car, a short drive to the west gets you to the most dreamy beach in the region: Praia do Castelejo.
The best time to visit for a quieter Algarve beach experience is during the shoulder season when the weather is still warm and the kids are in school. Get up early enough, and you may even have the whole beach for yourself!
Salema activities, including snorkelling and paddle-boarding
While Salema is ideal for unwinding, plenty of activities keep you entertained. The calm, clear waters are perfect for snorkelling and paddleboarding.
For surfers, some of Europe’s best surf beaches can be found on the Algarve’s west coast, just a short drive from Salema. The wind is typically offshore, and the big rollers cascade in from the open Atlantic—perfect!
If you’re more of a ‘have a go’ surfer like me, several surf schools in the Lagos and Sagres area and their pro instructors should be able to get you standing on the board by the end of the day. Kayak rentals are also available for those who want to explore the coastline and discover hidden coves along the undulating coastline. For hikers, the coastal trails provide impressive views of the vast Atlantic Ocean and lead to secluded beaches like Praia das Furnas and Praia da Figueira.
You can also explore further afield by hopping on a boat tour and zipping down the coastline. Samema Tours offers dolphin-spotting excursions and trips to the jaw-dropping Benagil Sea Cave, a Sea-sculpted Cathedral with fine golden sand and translucent waters.
The village
If you like lively Portuguese towns packed with souvenir shops and thumping bars, Salema isn’t for you! The quiet village instead has a handful of boutique stores selling gifts and craft items, small grocery shops, chilled-out bars, and excellent seafood restaurants.
While several bars stay open late, this isn’t the place for a ‘big night out’. Instead, enjoy a crafted cocktail at Bar Aventura and feast on fresh grilled fish and meats at A Boia Restaurant.
What to eat in Salema
Salema’s fishing heritage is alive and well, and the village is renowned for its fresh seafood. Local restaurants serve up incredible seafood dishes featuring the catch of the day.
At a Boia restaurant, you can choose your own dinner from the lobster tank. Waiters will also come to your table to show you the fish caught that day so you know you are getting the freshest ‘catch of the day’.
Atlantico Restaurant is one of the best places for oceanside dining. This contemporary restaurant has impressive beach views and a large, open-air terrace perfect for a sunset Aperol spritz.
Here, you can order fish, grilled meats and beautifully presented hanging skewers. Try the traditional Portuguese beef steak.
Where to stay in Salema
Plenty of private villas and swish-gated resorts are dotted on the inland hilltops. Simply Salema has some of the best oceanfront properties in the village. They offer an impressive selection of large, luxurious villas with heated swimming pools and outdoor areas, ideal for a family holiday or group break.
Salema Eco Camp offers Sustainable Camping and glamping near the beach. It features outdoor play equipment for the kids and a bicycle rental service.
How to get to Salema
Faro Airport is the closest airport to Salema. Flight times from the UK and Ireland are typically around 2 hours 30 minutes. From Faro, Salema is a simple drive of just over an hour (64 miles). Renting a car is recommended as public transport is limited in this region of the Algarve.