Enjoy the white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters of the Algarve in style whilst sipping on a refreshing drink, whether with family or friends
– July 16, 2024 | Text Beatriz Maio
The south of Portugal is celebrated not just for its exquisite gastronomy but also for its incredible landscapes and consistently warm temperatures.
The Algarve, with its myriad attractions, boasts some of the most beautiful white-sand beaches, picturesque cliffs, and crystal-clear waters in the country.
These natural wonders are best enjoyed from the comfort of a well-positioned beach club, and Edd’s Beach, NoSoloÁgua, and Benagil Beach Club are among the Algarve’s favourite spots, for doing just that in the most stunning of settings.
The atmosphere at these three beach clubs is tailored to meet your every expectation, whether you are looking to relax or let loose with a party. Ideal for all ages and groups – be it families, couples, or friends – these clubs offer flexible options for spending an entire day or just a few hours.
No matter which place you choose, the experience is unforgettable, often leaving guests planning their next visit even before they leave.
Edd’s Beach, Ferragudo
Burrowed on the golden sands of Pintadinho Beach, Edd’s Beach ushers in a new era of sunbathing and leisure with its inaugural summer season.
Fronted by the Dutch family behind Semi XO restaurant and Edd’s Wines, who made the Algarve their home back in 2002, this beach club blends sleek design with warm hospitality, creating an oasis that is hard to resist.
The club’s aesthetic of neutral and natural tones radiates a refined yet welcoming vibe. From the carefully curated décor to the tasty menu and the friendly staff, Edd’s Beach is a testament to meticulous planning and dedication to quality.
Open year-round and seven days a week during the summer, it offers a sanctuary where every detail is designed to enhance the guest experience.
The menu is a blend of local and international flavours. Guests can choose from a diverse list of options that features everything from freshly baked pizzas to succulent grilled meats and locally sourced fish. Starters such as oysters, burrata, and spicy tuna or beef tartare are great for sharing.
The drink selection is equally impressive, with a focus on classic and speciality cocktails and a wine list that includes labels from Edd’s own vineyards and other local producers. But there is more to Edd’s Beach than their tasty offerings.
With three distinct areas – the indoor and outdoor restaurant, the bar, and a unique pool complete with a sandy area – visitors can find their perfect spot to unwind.
“You can feel the local vibe and also a very chill one,” says Michelle Opstelten, manager and co-owner.
The team, a dynamic mix of locals and international staff from the Netherlands, Italy, Russia, and Brazil, adds to the vibrant, youthful, and attentive atmosphere.
The space is perfect for a “chill day with good food”, whether you are with family or friends. Special attention is even given to the pool water, treated naturally to accommodate all skin types.
Edd’s Beach is also making waves with its Sunset Sessions featuring DJs spinning Pop, Soul, and Chillout lounge music and aims to be “a reference in the Algarve,” according to Michelle.
NoSoloÁgua, Portimão
Tucked away on the sun-drenched sands of Praia da Marina, NoSoloÁgua offers a seaside escape where each visit promises new memories.
With toes dipped in the sand and the scent of the ocean breeze in the air, visitors can indulge in an array of experiences from vibrant sunset evenings to exuberant night parties.
“The atmosphere in the pool and on the beach is completely different”, from the music and décor to the international cuisine, described Matthias Janvier, manager since 2008.
The venue is split into two distinct areas, each offering its own slice of gastronomic delight. You can enjoy a gourmet dinner or casually enjoy some oysters perched at the bar stools in the salt-water pool. For something truly special, Matthias recommends the grilled ribeye steak, served with a “sea and mushroom risotto”, perfectly complemented by a selection of fine Portuguese wines.
The beachside, meanwhile, serves lighter options such as creative salads or Baos, paired wonderfully with a refreshing natural fruit juice bursting with the flavours of local Algarve oranges or a fresh smoothie.
“We pay special attention to detail, from the service to the menu, which we try to make sure appeals to everyone,” revealed Matthias.
This year there’s something new: NoSoloÁgua is introducing ramen to the menu, adding to an already diverse range of options that cater to every palate, from fresh sushi to the delectable picanha. Choosing a cocktail will be a difficult, if pleasant, dilemma, given the vast array of options.
If sweet is your taste, the Moranguito, bursting with fresh strawberries, comes highly recommended. Or perhaps, a Nosolo Spritz or a classic Caipirinha to capture the essence of a breezy beach day.
Conveniently, any cocktail can be ordered by the jug, perfect for a celebratory moment with friends.
Matthias points out that NoSoloÁgua is designed to offer distinct vibes by day and night. The venue even has changing rooms, allowing guests to transition effortlessly from a sunny beach day to a comfortable evening dinner, all without leaving the premises.
Adding to the charm is a dynamic team of over 100 dedicated staff members, whose spirit and energy make every visitor feel welcomed. For many, the highlight of the year is NoSoloÁgua’s line-up of summer parties.
From the opening night to themed events like the White Party and performances by renowned DJ Pete tha Zouk, the club pulses with Pop, Dance, Electronic, House, and Soul rhythms, making it a must-visit summer hotspot.
Benagil Beach Club, Benagil
With sweeping views of the shoreline, Benagil Beach Club has become a must-visit for those exploring the renowned caves of this quaint fishing village – a spot that draws nearly a million admirers every year.
The club contrasts sharply yet beautifully with the natural surroundings. While Benagil Beach Club is a striking feature from a distance, it offers an intimate and secluded ambiance, making it an ideal spot for a meal or a sunset drink, regardless of the season.
According to Rúben Costa, a Benagil native and the owner of the club, the sushi here is “among of the best in the Algarve”.
He recommends pairing it with a Pina Colada or Mojito to enhance the experience of dining alongside one of the region’s most picturesque beaches.
The Sangria is also an excellent choice, perfect alongside their Poke Bowls, Ceviches, and Tacos for a burst of South American and Asian flavours – a reflection of the club’s vibrant setting.
For guests looking for something a bit more familiar, the sweet and savoury crepes offer a delightful alternative.
The club’s layout spans two floors, each designed to create a unique ambiance. The first floor caters more to dining experiences, while the second floor is designed for lounging and relaxation. This segmentation allows for versatility, whether patrons are there to eat or simply unwind by the salt-treated swimming pool.
Service at Benagil Beach Club is as notable as its food and views. The staff is known for their friendliness and attentiveness, ensuring that every guest receives a warm welcome that matches the quality of the food and space.
With its calm atmosphere, Benagil Beach Club stands out as a peaceful retreat in the vibrant Algarve coast, and they can also host private events.
For all beach clubs, it is advisable to book in advance, both for the restaurants and the sunbeds, to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Follow Inside Algarve Magazine on Instagram and Facebook for more news!
Read also:
Lagos welcomes the Arte Doce Fair with major concert headliners, starting this July 24
Portimão’s Zona Ribeirinha welcomes back the Lota Cool Market this July 24
