Praia do Carvalho, Coastal beach in Lagoa, Portugal
Praia do Carvalho is a sandy beach on the Algarve coast set between tall limestone cliffs and accessible only through a carved tunnel. The passage descends to the shore with walls displaying visible marine fossils embedded in the rock.
The beach takes its name from Captain Carvalho, a former owner of the land, and has remained largely unchanged over time. The tunnel through the rock was carved later to provide public access to this isolated cove.
Portuguese families gather at this beach during summer months, particularly choosing the left side for optimal sun exposure throughout the day.
The beach has minimal facilities, so bring your own food and drinks for the day. Parking is available at the clifftop near the tunnel entrance, from where you walk down to reach the sand.
A distinctive rock formation rises from the water, creating a focal point in the cove and becoming partially accessible on foot at low tide. Carved steps along the cliffs serve as jumping platforms for those wanting to dive into the water below.
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