The Algarve, a region known for its beaches, picturesque villages and mild climate, continues to stand out as a privileged scenario for photographs. An Algarve corner has gain international relief over the years due to its natural beauty and unique conditions for photography lovers.
Located in the municipality of Lagoa, Algarve, Marinha Beach is often highlighted in national and international rankings as one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal and the world, being a much sought after place for photograph capture. Its impressive landscape of limestone cliffs, crystal clear waters and unique rock formations has made it one of the favorite destinations of tourists and local, as well as an algarve coast icon.
Marinha Beach is also a starting point to explore the Algarve coast, with several caves and accessible covered by boat or kayaking. One of the most emblematic attractions nearby is the natural arch known as “M”, which has become a very photographed place by tourists.
Although it is a very visited place, Marinha Beach maintains its tranquility, especially outside the high season. This balance between popularity and preservation is part of what makes it so special for those who visit it.
International recognitions over the years
Since 1998, Marinha Beach, located in the municipality of Lagoa, has been regularly highlighted in several international publications and entities.
This year, according to the Michelin Guide, received the “Dourada Beach” award awarded by the Portuguese Ministry of Environment, recognizing its unique natural characteristics, especially favorable for photography.
In 2015, the European Best Destinations portal placed Navy Beach among the best beach destinations in Europe, highlighting its visual beauty, especially suitable for photographers looking to capture impactful images.
Navy Beach was again enhanced by the international press in 2018, when CNN included it on a list of 20 most beautiful cliffs in the world.
In 2019, CNN reinforced this recognition, recommending it as the best Portuguese beach to visit in September due to its photogenic scenario and ideal conditions for photographing.
In 2021, the specialized European Best Destinations website and the prestigious US Forbes US magazine, which have millions of travel passionate followers, highlighted Marinha Beach, located in the municipality of Lagoa, as one of Europe’s 16 most romantic destinations to celebrate São Valentine day safely.
According to the renowned Condé Nast Traveler Magazine, in 2023 and 2025, this Algarve beach was again highlighted among the best beaches in Europe, underlining the uniqueness of its Atlantic golden and crystal clear waters, perfect elements for memorable photographs.
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Navy Beach on Social Networks
Marinha Beach stands out as a use of users to share representative images of the natural beauty of Portugal.
This digital popularity reinforces Algarve’s notoriety as a destination of excellence for professional and amateur photographers, contributing directly to the region’s international disclosure.
Positive impact not local tourism
According to the Algarve () tourism region, the continuous international exhibition to the Algarve has significantly benefited the tourist attractiveness of the region.
The RTA states that international prominence generates positive impacts on the local economy, particularly in hotel, restoration and commerce.
The entity also underlines that the distinctions are fundamental to attract tourists who seek differentiating and sustainable experiences, contributing decisively to the global appreciation of the Algarve image.
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