Meia Praia (Meia Beach), Lagos
Meia Praia is one of the longest and most expansive beaches in the Algarve, offering a serene escape with its soft golden sands and clean waters. Located near the town of Lagos, this beach is a favorite among locals and visitors who seek peace, quiet, and ample space for relaxation or outdoor activities.
Despite its name, "Meia Praia" literally translates to "Half Beach", this stretch of sand is anything but small. Stretching 4.5 km, it’s the largest beach in Lagos and among the longest in the Algarve. Unlike Lagos’ cliff-backed beaches, it features dunes, offering an open, wind-swept landscape.
The soft, fine sand of Meia Praia makes it an ideal location for barefoot strolls, running, or sunbathing. Its vast size ensures that even in peak summer months, it never feels overcrowded. The busiest area is near the Lagos Marina, while the further east you go, the more tranquil and private the beach becomes. The eastern end is also known for being naturist-friendly and popular among dog owners.
Meia Praia’s clean, gently sloping waters make it safe for families, though the Atlantic remains cool even in summer. Protected by Ponta da Piedade, waves are usually calm. Its open, breezy setting attracts water sports like surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding, with rentals and lessons available. The longshore is also great for jogging and peaceful walks.
From Meia Praia, visitors can take in breathtaking views of Lagos, as well as the coastline stretching toward Sagres to the west and Alvor and Portimão to the east. On a clear day, the panoramic scenery extends to Carvoeiro. The beach is well-connected to Lagos, with easy access by car, public transportation, or even a scenic walk from the town center.
Despite its name, "Meia Praia" literally translates to "Half Beach", this stretch of sand is anything but small. Stretching 4.5 km, it’s the largest beach in Lagos and among the longest in the Algarve. Unlike Lagos’ cliff-backed beaches, it features dunes, offering an open, wind-swept landscape.
The soft, fine sand of Meia Praia makes it an ideal location for barefoot strolls, running, or sunbathing. Its vast size ensures that even in peak summer months, it never feels overcrowded. The busiest area is near the Lagos Marina, while the further east you go, the more tranquil and private the beach becomes. The eastern end is also known for being naturist-friendly and popular among dog owners.
Meia Praia’s clean, gently sloping waters make it safe for families, though the Atlantic remains cool even in summer. Protected by Ponta da Piedade, waves are usually calm. Its open, breezy setting attracts water sports like surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding, with rentals and lessons available. The longshore is also great for jogging and peaceful walks.
From Meia Praia, visitors can take in breathtaking views of Lagos, as well as the coastline stretching toward Sagres to the west and Alvor and Portimão to the east. On a clear day, the panoramic scenery extends to Carvoeiro. The beach is well-connected to Lagos, with easy access by car, public transportation, or even a scenic walk from the town center.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Lagos. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Meia Praia (Meia Beach) on Map
Sight Name: Meia Praia (Meia Beach)
Sight Location: Lagos, Portugal (See walking tours in Lagos)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Sight Location: Lagos, Portugal (See walking tours in Lagos)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Walking Tours in Lagos, Portugal
Create Your Own Walk in Lagos
Creating your own self-guided walk in Lagos is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Lagos Coastline Walk
Characterful and charming as it is, the historic city of Lagos on the Algarve coast of Southern Portugal has not succumbed to mass tourism, fortunately, retaining much of its distinctive centuries-old heritage. Lagos’s extensive history is reflected in the varied attractions found throughout the city, such as the ancient Moorish city walls, 17th-century Forte da Ponta da Bandeira and cobbled... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles
Lagos Introduction Walking Tour
Lagos, from captive to captivating.
The story of Lagos is over 2,000 years old. It was a Celtic settlement before the Punic Wars of Rome and Carthage. During the Second Punic War the people of Lagos sided with Hannibal and the Carthaginians. That didn't work out so well. The Romans came, then the Visigoths from Toledo, followed by the Byzantines. In the 8th century the Moors arrived.
... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
The story of Lagos is over 2,000 years old. It was a Celtic settlement before the Punic Wars of Rome and Carthage. During the Second Punic War the people of Lagos sided with Hannibal and the Carthaginians. That didn't work out so well. The Romans came, then the Visigoths from Toledo, followed by the Byzantines. In the 8th century the Moors arrived.
... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles