#457 European Rank Blue Flag Certified
Praia de São Rafael
Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal•Atlantic Ocean• Best Season: May, June, July, August, September, October
Photo: Kolforn (Kolforn) (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Wikimedia Commons source
EDITORIAL SCORE
4.43/ 5.0
SEA TEMPERATURE
20.3°C
August 30-year average
DAILY BUDGET
€38/day
SAND & SHORELINE
Golden Sand
Gradual Drop
Sea Temperature by Month
30-year monthly averages for Albufeira, Algarve · NOAA satellite dataSwipe 12 months ⇄
Refreshing Plunge
Jan
15.9°C
Air 19°C
Feb
15.2°C
Air 20°C
Mar
15.3°C
Air 22°C
Apr
16.1°C
Air 25°C
May
17.1°C
Air 28°C
Jun
18.8°C
Air 31°C
Jul
19.7°C
Air 33°C
Peak
Aug
20.3°C
Air 33°C
Peak
Sep
20.3°C
Air 31°C
Oct
19.5°C
Air 28°C
Nov
18.1°C
Air 24°C
Dec
16.8°C
Air 21°C
Swimmability Window · NOAA Climatology
Peak 20.3°C in August · cold-water plunge / wetsuit season
30-year NOAA satellite climatological mean (1991–2020).Explore all Portugal Sea Temperatures
Score Breakdown
Scenery & Setting4.6 / 5
Water Clarity & Cleanliness4.8 / 5
Sand & Shoreline Quality4.7 / 5
Atmosphere & Safety4.8 / 5
Accessibility & Entry Ease4.5 / 5
Affordability & Fair Pricing4.6 / 5
About Praia de São Rafael
A small, sheltered cove where sculpted golden rock arches and stacks rise from calm, clear water near Albufeira.
Key Beach Facts
Official Records•Access: Road and pedestrian access from Sesmarias / Albufeira with cliff-top parking and beach ramps.
•Protected Status / Environment: Blue Flag certified beach set against protected coastal limestone cliffs and arches.
•Notable Feature: Sculpted ochre rock formations, natural sea arches, caves, and clear turquoise waters.
Amenities & Facilities
Bathrooms
NoShowers
NoFree Parking
YesFood / Tavernas
YesGood for Kids
YesDog Friendly
YesLifeguard on Duty
YesSunbed & Umbrella Rentals
YesNatural Cliff/Pine Shade
YesWheelchair Accessible
NoSnorkeling & Watersports
YesNudist / FKK Friendly
NoGetting There & Local Notes
Getting there:
Located near Albufeira, Algarve. Accessible via regional coastal roads (37.076°N, -8.288°E).
•Sheltered, shallow and calm among the rocks.
•A small cove of sculpted golden rock stacks west of Albufeira.
Nearest Airport & Transit Gateway
FAO · 35m drive30-45 min drive along the A22 highway from Faro Airport (FAO).
Are you a Venue Owner or Promoter at Praia de São Rafael?
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Frequently Asked Questions about Praia de São Rafael
What is the water temperature at Praia de São Rafael?
The peak summer sea surface temperature at Praia de São Rafael averages 20.3°C (69°F), based on 30-year NOAA satellite climatology.
What type of coast or sand is Praia de São Rafael?
Praia de São Rafael is classified as a golden sand shoreline located in Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal.
Is Praia de São Rafael good for families with kids?
Yes, Praia de São Rafael is suitable for families and children with manageable water entry.
Are there parking and facilities at Praia de São Rafael?
Free parking is available. No public restrooms directly on-site.
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