Praia do Vale de Centeanes is a picturesque beach nestled between the village of Carvoeiro and the notable Benagil cave in Lagoa, Algarve, Portugal. The beach is known for its golden cliffs that shelter it and provide a unique and beautiful landscape. These cliffs have distinct formations that occasionally erode, leading to the creation of grottoes. The top of these cliffs offers stunning views and serves as the starting or ending point of the Seven Suspended Valleys trail, one of the most scenic hiking trails in the Algarve.
The beach itself is relatively long but narrow, particularly during high tide, and its waters can range from calm to rough within a few hours. The water clarity often allows for snorkeling, but non-swimmers are advised to stay close to the shore due to the quick depth increase. At low tide, a small cave on the beach's western side becomes accessible for exploration. Along with the rich underwater biodiversity, these features make Praia do Vale de Centeanes a popular spot for divers and nature enthusiasts.
Praia do Vale de Centeanes is equipped with various amenities for visitors. Sun umbrellas and loungers are available for rent, though visitors may bring their own shade if they prefer. A restaurant serving light meals and grilled fish is situated at the beach entrance and is particularly popular during sunset due to the panoramic views it offers. Restroom facilities are also available for beachgoers.
The beach is recognized for its environmental quality, having received the Blue Flag certification. It is also accessible to people with reduced mobility via a ramp. Lifeguards supervise the beach during the bathing season, which runs from June 1st to September 30th.
Reaching Praia do Vale de Centeanes is relatively straightforward. It's about a 20 to 25-minute walk from the center of Carvoeiro. By car, the journey from Carvoeiro takes about 5 minutes, from Armação de Pêra around 20 minutes, and from Albufeira approximately 35 minutes. Public transportation options include the Vamus bus and bus number 52, both of which stop near the beach.
Despite its popularity, especially among families, Praia do Vale de Centeanes tends not to be as crowded as other beaches in the area. However, those driving are advised to arrive early as parking spaces near the beach can fill up quickly.
