If you're planning a photoshoot in the Algarve — whether it’s a couple session, a family shoot, a proposal, or even surf photos — one of the first questions that comes up is:

“Where’s the best place to shoot?”

Totally fair question.
With 100+ beaches, cliffs, coves, viewpoints, and towns, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Do you want dramatic cliffs or calm water? Something private or easy to access? A romantic spot or a place where kids can run?

This guide is here to make that choice simple.

These are real locations that genuinely work — not because they’re Instagram-famous, but because the light, space, and atmosphere actually create beautiful, natural photos, no matter who’s in front of the camera.

As a full-time photographer living in Sagres, I work in these locations every week — with couples, families, proposals, surf shoots and branding sessions — so this guide is based on real sessions, not random Google lists.

Couple photoshoot at Miradouro do Cordoama cliffs during golden hour in the Algarve

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT LOCATION IN THE ALGARVE?

Before choosing the beach, it helps to think about:

✔ Light – golden hour is the best time
✔ Tide – some beaches disappear at high tide
✔ Wind – the west coast is wilder, the south coast is more sheltered
✔ Access – stairs, sand, stroller-friendly, parking, etc.
✔ Photoshoot type – not every location works for families, proposals, surf, etc.

That’s why when people book a session, location choice is part of the experience — not something left last minute.

BEST COUPLE/PROPOSAL PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION IN THE ALGARVE

1.📍 PRAIA DO CASTELEJO (SAGRES)

Raw cliffs, dramatic shoreline, wide open space.
Beautiful at sunset and perfect for emotional, cinematic photos.

2.📍 PRAIA DA MARINHA (LAGOA)

One of the most iconic beaches in Portugal — rock arches, turquoise water, postcard views. 👉 Best outside peak season or at sunrise, especially after October.

3.📍 PRAIA DONA ANA/PONTA DA PIEDADE (LAGOS)

Golden rocks, crystal water, and easy access. Great mix of romance + landscape — perfect for couples who want “wow” without hiking.

BEST LOCATION FOR FAMILIES WITH KIDS

1.📍 PRAIA DO TONEL (SAGRES)

Big beach, space to run, stunning backdrop.
Good for active families and kids who don’t mind a little adventure.

2.📍 PRAIA DO MARTINHAL (SAGRES)

Calm water, soft sand, and open space — ideal for little kids or multi-generation sessions.

3.📍 PRAIA DA FALESIA (ALBUFEIRA)

Long beach, red cliffs, soft light. One of the easiest family-friendly beaches in the Algarve.

4.📍 PRAIA DO PORTO DO MOS (LAGOS)

Wide, clean, stroller-friendly, with incredible light in both sunrise/sunset.

BEST LOCATION FOR PORTRAIT & PERSONAL BRANDING

1. 📍 PRAIA DA BARRIGA (VILA DO BISPO)

Wild cliffs, rock formations at low tide, quiet and cinematic. Great for portraits or creative branding sessions.

2.📍 PRAIA DA MARETA (SAGRES)

Neutral tones, calm atmosphere, great natural light.

3.📍 PRAIA DO BELICHE (SAGRES)

Rock texture + soft background blur = ideal for clean portraits with personality.

BEST LOCATION FOR SURF & OCEAN LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

1.📍 PRAIA DO BELICHE (SAGRES)

Perfect mix of cliffs + punchy waves. Great for action shots and lifestyle surf.

2.📍 PRAIA DO TONEL (SAGRES)

Classic Sagres surf backdrop, raw energy, dramatic spray.

3.📍 PRAIA DA PONTA RUIVA (SAGRES)

Wild, uncrowded, amazing texture in rocks and sky.

4.📍 PRAIA DA CORDOAMA (VILA DO BISPO)

Huge open beach, long lines of water, sand and cliffs — cinematic when shot wide.

When Is the Best Time of Year to Shoot?

Winter: Empty beaches, pastel skies. Cooler air, nice colours

Spring: Green cliffs, wildflowers, Great temperature

Summer: Long days, vibrant colours. More crowded, perfect for sunrise/sunset

Autumn: Warm ocean, golden sunsets, very reliable weather

💡 Golden hour always wins — 60–90 minutes before sunset.

Quick Tips for a Better Photoshoot

✔ Bring a light jacket — Algarve wind has personality
✔ Neutral outfits work best with the landscape
✔ Check the tide if shooting on small beaches or planning a proposal
✔ Kids do better when they can play, not pose
✔ Sunrise sessions are underrated (and usually empty!)

FAQs

How long should a session be?
Most sessions last 60–90 minutes — enough time for movement, breaks, and natural moments.

What happens if the weather is bad?
We reschedule or switch to a more protected location. There’s always a backup option.

Can we shoot in more than one location?
Yes, many sessions include a cliff + beach combo if the distance allows.

Do you help with outfits and timing?
Yes — outfit guidance, timing, light, and location are always part of the experience.

How many photos do I get?
Depends on the package, but usually 30–40 edited images in a private gallery.

Want photos like these?

Whether you're planning a surprise proposal, a family holiday, a surf session, or simply want timeless portraits by the ocean, the Algarve has the perfect backdrop.

📩 Send a message to start planning.

Best Places in the Algarve for a Photoshoot