The Ultimate Guide to Lagos, Portugal: Best Beaches, Hikes & Activities
If you’re looking for a laid-back, picturesque getaway in Portugal, Lagos is the perfect destination. This charming coastal town offers stunning beaches, epic cliffside hikes, and exciting water adventures—all without breaking the bank.
How to Get There: Lagos is about 3 hours from Lisbon by bus, costing around €15 each way—a budget-friendly way to explore Portugal’s Algarve region.
You don’t need a long stay here—2 to 3 days is the perfect amount of time to soak in everything Lagos has to offer. Here’s how to make the most of your visit!
Explore the City & Find Hidden Gems
Lagos is a small but lively town, filled with local shops, charming streets, and great cafés.
Where to Grab Coffee & Breakfast: One of my favorite finds was called Black and White. This cozy café that serves iced coffee (a rare find in Europe!) and customizable breakfast options that are perfect for fueling a day of exploring.
If you’re looking for a casual afternoon, wandering through the local markets and souvenir shops is a great way to experience the town’s charm.
Relax & Explore at Praia da Batata Beach
Praia da Batata is one of the most unique beaches in Lagos, thanks to its cliff-surrounded shores and hidden coves.
The natural rock formations create a maze of small, secluded beach areas—the further you walk in, the less crowded it gets. It’ perfect for a peaceful beach day. There’s also a cliffside bar at the entrance with relatively expensive drinks, but the views make it so worth it!
Don’t forget to wear strong SPF sunscreen! Lagos gets intense sun, and this was the only time I’ve ever gotten blisters from a sunburn.
Take the Stunning Cliffside Walk to Ponta da Piedade
One of the best hikes in Lagos is the cliffside walk above Praia da Batata, leading to Ponta da Piedade.
Why It’s Worth It:
Short and manageable in a few hours.
Incredible 360° views of the coastline.
Greenery, ocean cliffs, and wildlife all around.
Lighthouse at the top (under construction when I visited, but still cool to see).
Bonus Tip: There are public bathrooms along the trail, but they cost €0.50 so keep some coins handy!
Go on a Kayak Tour Through Sea Caves
If you’re looking for an unforgettable water adventure, a kayak tour along the Lagos coast is a must!
Tons of companies offer guided group tours exploring caves, tunnels, and rock formations. Small group tours are available for a more personalized experience as well. I’d recommend a morning slots on a hot day to avoid the strong midday sun.
I booked with EZ Ride Kayak Tours for around €35, and they even had a photographer capturing moments during the trip.
Cool Feature: At the end of the tour, you can either kayak back solo or get towed back for a relaxing ride. No one in my group opted for the solo return, but in hindsight, it would have been fun to explore at my own pace!
Enjoy the Laid-Back Atmosphere of Lagos
Unlike other party-heavy beach towns, Lagos is more about relaxation than nightlife. If you’re looking for:
• Scenic views and outdoor adventures
• A slower pace with friendly locals
• A mix of beaches, hikes, and good food
Then Lagos is the perfect weekend getaway in Portugal!
Final Thoughts: Is Lagos Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! If you want stunning beaches, scenic hikes, and a relaxing atmosphere, Lagos should be on your Portugal itinerary.
Quick Travel Tips:
Plan for 2-3 days—it’s the perfect amount of time.
Bring SPF & a hat—the sun here is intense!
Book activities in advance—especially for kayak tours and boat trips.