Hidden away from the busy resorts, Praia da Luz is a secret haven waiting to be discovered. It is not on the train or airport bus route so the town steers clear of mass-market tourism. Instead, the vibe is as tranquil as it is cheerful.
All roads lead to its glorious one-kilometre-long beach that is fringed by a buzzy promenade full of excellent bars and restaurants. The standard here is exceptionally high, offering a welcome mix of local and international cuisine but without any gaudy photos of English breakfasts.
For the adventurous, there are a wide range of watersports on offer from the two beach kiosks. Activities include kayaking, wakeboarding, stand-up paddle (SUP) and boat trips to the stunning Ponta da Piedade. There are also walking trails to nearby Lagos and Burgau.
However, if building a sandcastle and dipping your toes into the Atlantic Ocean is more your scene, then Praia da Luz will suit your needs perfectly. The sheer size of the beach means that you will always find space, even in the height of summer.
A great destination deserves an equally great place to stay. For the full Praia da Luz experience, you need not look further than Ocean Villas Luz, a collection of fourteen oceanfront villas and apartments. Combined with extensive private gardens and a lagoon-style pool, Ocean Villas Luz is ideal for couples or families alike. For larger groups, try the spectacular AltaVista Lodge that sleeps up to twenty-six people.
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