Camilo Beach is a secluded cove at the bottom of a set of wooden stairs in the outskirts of Lagos. The stunning stretch of sand is backed by colorful cliffs that display a range of red and yellow hues. Descend the wooden steps to the base of these cliffs and spend the afternoon at this picturesque inlet.
Lay down a blanket at the foot of the wooden staircase for sunbathing and picnicking on the beach. When choosing a spot, consider the changing of the tides and find a place far enough back from the water. The beach is an ideal location on a blustery day, since the cliffs protect it from the wind. Bring your kids to swim in the calm water.
Reach the neighboring coves through a small tunnel in the rock face. Part of the beach’s charm is its lack of amenities. Bring your own snacks and sunbathing gear. The water is crystal clear here, providing ideal snorkeling conditions.
Ascend to the top of the cliffs and have a meal at the restaurant overlooking the bay. The restaurant serves typical Portuguese dishes, with a focus on seafood, including clams, prawns, oysters and numerous varieties of fish. Stand at the edge of the lookout point for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding rock formations. Stay at a nearby guesthouse, villa or hotel in this quiet region outside of Lagos.
Note that the beach can get busy on summer weekends. Arrive early to see the sunrise and admire how the sun changes the shades of the rocks.
Find Camilo Beach in a small cove in the southeastern outskirts of Lagos. Walk south from the historic center for 30 minutes to reach the beach. You can also drive and leave your car in the small parking lot beside the restaurant. Visit nearby attractions, such as Dona Ana Beach, Pinhão Beach and Ponta da Piedade lighthouse
