Spectacular Cliff-Top Walk in Lagos, Portugal
Trail Length: 7.12 km
Difficulty: Easy
Why Hike the Coastal Trail from Lagos Marina to Praia do Porto de Mos?
The Lagos Marina to Praia do Porto de Mos Coastal Trail is one of the Algarve’s most photogenic routes. Stretching roughly 5 km one-way, this trail combines easy-to-follow streets, seaside boardwalks, and panoramic cliff-top views. Whether you’re a sunrise chaser, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a leisurely stroll, this walk delivers unforgettable scenery at every turn.
Trail Overview
- Distance: 7.12 km
- Duration: 1.5 hours (without stops) to 2 hours + for sight seeing and photos
- Elevation Gain: 159m – mostly flat with gentle inclines on the cliff tops
- Surface: Paved streets, wooden boardwalks, and compacted paths
- Difficulty: Easy / Beginner-friendly
Highlights of the Hike
1. Stunning Cliff-Top Vistas
As you leave the Lagos Marina, head west along the promenade, take in the boats entering and leaving the marina, check out the waterside vendors, then head on past the Fort (Forte da Ponta da Bandeira). The road starts to climb and you’ll pass Restaurante Mar (highly recommended seaside restaurant and one of my favourites) When you get a bit further up the hill you’ll see the Bombeiros (fire fighters on the right) – take the road on the left, past the restaurant and down Rua Jose Formosinho until you see the start of the boardwalk. The beach below, Praia do Pinhao is closed right now as back in January 2024 the whole rockface collapsed. Admire the dramatic rock formations and the infinite Atlantic horizon which create a postcard-perfect backdrop.
2. Charming Boardwalk Sections
Take the raised wooden boardwalks which hug the rugged shoreline. The boardwalk also protects the delicate coastal vegetation, so please stay on the path.
The first boardwalk section takes you from Praia do Pinhao to about 100 meters from Praia Dona Ana – at the end of the boardwalk follow the path around the seaside hotels and emerge at Dona Ana Beach.
The second section of boardwalk starts about 80 meters up the road on the left and it takes you all the way to Praia do Camilo (Camilo Beach) and Restaurant Camilo.
Keep heading south along the concrete path for 150 meters and you’ll connect with the boardwalk that’ll take you most of the way to Ponta da Piedade and the lighthouse.
Skirt the lighthouse to the left and behind the lighthouse you’ll connect with the next boardwalk section – this heads north west along the cliff tops. At the end of the boardwalk, a combination of dirt and concrete paths will take you past a now unused golf driving range and the back of the Cascade Wellness Resort. At the end of the path there is a final short boardwalk section that brings you into the back streets of Porto do Mos. Follow Rua do Canavial and Travessa das Urzes until you get to the main road. Turn left and stroll on down the hill to Porto do Mos beach.
3. Quaint Seaside Streets
The quiet back streets of Porto de Mos are lined with whitewashed houses and bougainvillea. This is one of the more wealthy areas of Lagos, Portugal
4. Praia do Porto de Mos Beach
Your journey culminates at one of Lagos’s most expansive and accessible beaches. With its golden sand, dramatic cliffs, and all-year-round restauyrants (O Antonio and Campimar), Praia do Porto de Mos is ideal for a post-hike swim or picnic.
If you have the energy and time consider walking on to Praia da Luz. You’ll find my article on this walk here. To return to Lagos, you have 3 options; 1. grab a local bus 47, 2. Uber or 3. Taxi.
Practical Tips for your Unforgettable Coastal Walk
- Best Time to Go:
- Sunrise: Soft pastel skies and fewer fellow walkers.
- Late Afternoon/Sunset: Warm golden light on the cliffs (avoid high summer hours to skip the crowds and peak heat).
- What to Wear:
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip (boardwalks can be slippery when wet).
- Light layers and a windbreaker—sea breezes can be brisk even on warm days.
- What to Bring:
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Smartphone or camera with plenty of storage for those epic cliff-top shots.
- Safety & Etiquette:
- Stay on marked paths to protect coastal flora and avoid erosion.
- Keep an eye on tide times if you plan to explore the lower caves.
- Respect local residents—quiet voices and no littering.
How to Get There
- Starting Point: Lagos Marina (Marina de Lagos). Plenty of street parking is available, or arrive by local bus/taxi.
- End Point: Praia do Porto de Mos. You can catch a bus back to the marina, or simply retrace your steps for a round-trip adventure.
- Public Transport: Bus route 3 connects Lagos town centre to Porto de Mos.
Maximize Your Algarve Adventure
Pair this coastal walk with nearby attractions:
- Praia Dona Ana – walk down the stairs to the beach for great sun baking and swimming
- Praia do Camilo – take the 225 steps to this small iconic beach
- Ponta da Piedade: Take in the amazing views to the east and the south. A great spot for a breather while you take in the stunning scenery.
- Lagos Old Town: After your hike, wander the cobbled streets, visit the fortress walls, and wander into one of the many local restaurants for a great Portuguese feed.
Conclusion
The Lagos Marina to Praia do Porto de Mos Coastal Trail perfectly encapsulates the Algarve’s natural beauty—combining easy pathways, incredible cliff-top views, and vibrant seaside charm. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual stroller, this trail promises an unforgettable slice of Portuguese coastline. Lace up your shoes, charge your camera, and set off on one of Lagos’s most scenic coastal adventures!
