Praia do Camilo

Praia do Camilo is arguably the most photographed beach in the Algarve, and for good reason. Often referred to as the 'Stairway to Heaven,' this intimate cove is accessed via a famous wooden staircase of approximately 200 steps that zigzags down through dramatic ochre cliffs—a descent that has become an iconic image of the Portuguese coastline. The beach itself is relatively small, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in sheer natural beauty. The cliffs surrounding Camilo have been sculpted by millennia of Atlantic waves, creating dramatic rock formations, natural arches, and hidden grottos. The crystal-clear turquoise waters are some of the clearest in the region, thanks to the sheltered cove and sandy bottom. At low tide, adventurous visitors can discover a second, even more secluded cove to the south through a small tunnel on the left side of the beach. This hidden section typically has fewer people and offers a more intimate beach experience. The beach takes its name from the restaurant O Camilo at the top of the stairs, which has served regional fish and seafood dishes with panoramic views for decades.