Praia do Camilo

Praia do Camilo is a compact and highly photogenic beach on the Lagos coast, set between sculpted golden cliffs not far from Ponta da Piedade. Official tourism sources describe it as a small sandy beach sheltered between cut cliffs, reached by a staircase of around 200 steps. The descent is part of the experience, with wide views over the sea, rock stacks and the Costa d'Oiro coastline before reaching the sand. This is not a large resort beach. Camilo is better suited to scenic visits, photography, short beach stops and coastal walks than to a spacious all-day beach setup. Its small scale means that space can feel limited during busy periods, especially in summer and around the staircase. Visitors who want a calmer experience should consider arriving early, visiting later in the day or choosing shoulder-season months. The beach sits naturally within a classic Lagos route, with Praia de Dona Ana, Praia do Pinhão, Praia da Batata and Ponta da Piedade nearby. VisitPortugal highlights Ponta da Piedade as an impressive rock formation with jagged shapes and sea-carved caves, accessible from the same road area as Camilo. Access is an important limitation. Lagos municipal regulation confirms that access to Praia do Camilo is exclusively by the existing staircases, which are extensive and winding. During the bathing season, there are restrictions on using the stairs with surf, SUP, windsurf, kitesurf, kayak, canoe and diving equipment between 09:00 and 19:00. Visitors should also keep away from cliff edges and cliff bases and follow all local signage.