Where to Watch the Sunset in the Algarve - Portugal
The sunset is one of the most beautiful moments of the day, and the best part is that you don’t need to spend a penny to enjoy this natural spectacle. All you need is to find a great spot to witness the best sunset in the Algarve. To make your search easier, we’ve gathered some of the finest places to enjoy this unique experience.
What time is sunset in the Algarve?
Sunset, known as dusk, occurs when the sun disappears below the western horizon. Do you know the exact times to watch this natural phenomenon? Thanks to technological advances, this task is much easier and just a tap away on your mobile phone. To ensure you arrive in time to see the best sunset in Portugal, you can check a website that not only provides the exact times but also indicates temperatures, wind intensity, and water temperature. To stay updated on timings and the best spots to view this event, you can download the Golden Hour app for Android or the corresponding app for iOS.
Deadrian Moise Photography – Unsplash
1. Sunset at Praia da Luz – Rocha Negra
Very close to the Baía da Luz resort, you’ll find one of the day’s biggest surprises. After a day at the beach, pack a small snack and take it with you to Rocha Negra, a volcanic rock formation in the village of Luz. One of the highest points in Luz offers an excellent view of the sunset. In the evening, the sun hides behind the cliffs of Sagres and disappears on the horizon (always check the sunset times before heading out using the apps mentioned earlier).
- This is the perfect spot to watch the sunset at Praia da Luz (just 9 minutes from Baía da Luz).
2. Sunset in Lagos - Ponta da Piedade
The Algarve is the perfect place to watch the sunset, and Ponta da Piedade is one of the best spots to do so! Located in Lagos, it’s a popular destination for tourists who admire the beauty of the cliffs and the turquoise sea. Picture yourself surrounded by stunning landscapes, with a golden light illuminating the sky. The best part is that you can visit this spot in two different ways: on land or aboard a boat tour. Ask at our reception about booking your boat trip to Ponta da Piedade. Additionally, before reaching Ponta da Piedade, you can watch the sunset from the Praia do Canavial Pointview, which offers a perfect view of this natural spectacle.
- Find the location to watch the sunset at Ponta da Piedade here (just 16 minutes from Baía da Luz).
3. Sunset in Sagres – Cape St. Vincent
Some say it’s the end of the world, where you see nothing but the sea and a few birds crossing the Algarve skies. From Sagres, you can take in these breathtaking landscapes and an unforgettable sunset. So, whenever you visit the Algarve, remember that Sagres is a must-see, especially if you’re a sunset lover.
The lighthouse at Cape St. Vincent is perhaps the most popular spot to witness this phenomenon, with organised tours allowing you to watch the sunset while enjoying a glass of wine and snacks. Although it’s a tourist hotspot, you can visit independently, as there’s plenty of space to admire the brightest star dipping into the sea.
Here’s an important tip: don’t forget to bring your camera. You won’t want to miss capturing the stunning images that the autumn sky’s orange hues provide.
This is the location of the Cape St. Vincent lighthouse in Sagres (38 minutes from Baía da Luz).
4. Sunset in Monchique – Fóia
Because the Algarve isn’t just about the sea and beaches, our fourth suggestion is to visit the Monchique region. If we have the best sunset in Portugal, why not appreciate it from an elevated viewpoint? The Monchique mountains offer the chance to observe the phenomenon for a minute longer than in the coastal cities of the Algarve, thanks to its 902-metre altitude.
After enjoying the best cured ham sandwich in the Algarve at the entrance to the village, you’ll be ready to head up to Fóia, the highest point in the Algarve. Once there, look for a cluster of rocks on your left and climb to the top. We guarantee it will be one of the best experiences you’ll ever have.
This is the location to watch the sunset at Fóia, in the Monchique mountains (55 minutes from Baía da Luz).
5. Sunset in Aljezur – Praia da Amoreira
In Aljezur, we return to the coast to watch the sunset at one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve. At Praia da Amoreira, a river and the sea merge into one.
The setting is idyllic at any time of year, but during autumn, the golden hour becomes even more enchanting on this beach.
You can watch the sunset from the sand or the wooden walkways that encircle the beach. After experiencing this natural spectacle, having dinner nearby is sure to be a great idea. Be sure to try one of the best pizzas in Portugal at the restaurant Arte Bianca.
This is the location of Praia da Amoreira in Aljezur (37 minutes from Baía da Luz).
On your next visit to the Algarve, plan a picnic in one of the best places to watch the sunset and enjoy a magical and unforgettable moment.