Stepping out onto a crowd-free golden stretch of sand, this beach was one of the quietest I've ever seen in the Algarve. There were no rowdy crowds, loud music and litter, just the rhythmic sound of waves lapping at my feet. Sleepy Salema might just be the last fishing village in the Algarve that's escaped the attention of international tourists, who flock to Portugal's south coast for a sunny escape by the sea.
Far from the crowded tourist hubs of Albufeira and Lagos, Salema, with its whitewashed houses, vibrant bougainvillaea vines and narrow cobbled streets offers a quieter western Algarve retreat with bracing, azure blue waters, seafood restaurants and small yet buzzing cocktail bars. It has a rich history dating back to its origins as a small fishing village, and you can still spot a few wooden boats going out to sea to catch sea bass, bream, octopus, sardines and mackerel. The local community still has a deep connection to the sea, with fishing remaining part of daily life and an upscale tourism offering.
Historical remnants like old fishing nets and traditional wooden boats can still be seen along the beachfront. If you get up early, you can watch local fishermen unloading their catch each morning before mending their nets and resting. The heart of Salema is its beautiful blue flag beach, Praia da Salema.
This expansive stretch of powder-soft golden sand is framed by rocky, yellow-coloured cliffs and offers crystal-clear, bracing waters perfect for swimming, snorkellin.