Praia da Carreagem

Odemira, Portugal

Pebble beach with a small fishing port, waterfall, and seafood restaurant in the hamlet of Azenha do Mar.

Aljezur, Portugal

Praia de Vale Figueiras is a vast, wild beach on the Algarve's west coast, stretching over a kilometre of golden sand flanked by rockrose-covered schist cliffs. Part of the Costa Vicentina Natural Park, this non-concessioned beach is one of the most popular spots for dog owners in the western Algarve thanks to its enormous size, low crowds, and easy access via a wooden boardwalk. The beach is wide enough that even on busier days there is plenty of space for dogs to run and play. The firm, compact sand at low tide is especially good for long walks with your dog. The surrounding cliffs offer spectacular walking trails with panoramic views. Vale Figueiras is also one of the Algarve's most reliable surf beaches, receiving consistent Atlantic swells year-round, though the strong currents make swimming inadvisable. A small unpaved parking area sits at the rear of the valley with ample space given the beach's relatively low visitor numbers. There are no facilities whatsoever — no restaurants, showers, or toilets — so come prepared with water for yourself and your dog. The beach is accessed from the village of Alfambras via a partly paved, partly dirt road of about 5 km.

Brejao, Portugal

Praia da Amalia, also known as Praia do Brejao, is a hidden gem on the southern Alentejo coast named after Portugal's legendary fado singer Amalia Rodrigues, who owned a vacation house on the cliffs above. This dramatic, virtually deserted beach is reached by a trail from the hamlet of Brejao that descends the cliffs via a stone staircase — a challenging but rewarding access route that keeps crowds away year-round. The beach features a natural waterfall, Cascata das Cobras, cascading down the rocks on the left side, creating a stunning natural backdrop. As a completely non-concessioned and unmonitored beach within the Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina Natural Park, dogs are tolerated without the seasonal bans that apply to managed beaches. The isolation means you will likely have this spectacular stretch of sand entirely to yourselves — a paradise for dogs who need space or are reactive to other animals. White storks nest on the coastal cliffs nearby, part of a globally unique population of cliff-nesting storks found only along this stretch of coastline. There are absolutely no facilities — no parking lot, no toilets, no shade structures, and no mobile reception. Park near the trailhead in Brejao and walk approximately 10 minutes. The trail requires careful footing and is not suitable for elderly visitors or dogs with limited mobility. Bring all supplies including water, waste bags, shade, and food for a fully self-sufficient beach day.