The largest beach in the area is Praia do Meco, the local beach of the village Aldeia do Meco, a 15 minutes ride from Casa Azuloia. This very long beach has fine golden sand and is recognisable by a rock providing shade in the middle of the beach. You can lie on the sand but there is also a section for rental of deckchairs and umbrellas. If you walk towards the south, you will find a reserved area for those who prefer to swim and sunbathe naked.
Due to the protected environment, the area is free from overcrowding and noise. The beach has two restaurants with typically Portuguese food. In the evening you can see the fisher boats coming in onto the beach and you can buy sardines fresh from the sea for your barbecue dinner. Or enjoy a Caipirinha or a glass of Portuguese wine while being smitten with the beautiful sunset – after all the beaches face west.
Praia das Bicas and Praia da Foca, both closer to Casa Azuloia, 10-12 minutes ride, are smaller, entirely natural beaches without lifeguards. They are absolutely worth the little bit more effort it takes to get there! Just if you are not good on foot be warned that they are not so easily accessible: Praia das Bicas is long way down by means of wooden stairs and to reach Praia da Foca you have to cross a rocky surface. They are both enclosed by almost golden coloured rocks.
If you need more quiet and shallow water, for example with small children, the Lagoa de Albufeira is the best to go. This lagoon mixes salt and sweet water and is also used by kite surfers. It is however large enough for everyone so there is no danger for your child. It is so close to the beach that your teenage children can at the same time swim in the ocean, if they look for more activity.
And finally, about 36 minutes east, you can find an idyllic spot in the shape of a village where about 10 houses lean into the rock. Portinho de Arrabida and its beach lie in a romantic bay and it offers tow fish restaurant built in the water. So, while eating you can feed the fish. Be aware that parking is a bit of a difficulty there during the summer months.