The Algarve is increasingly popular amongst naturists from throughout the world - due to the region’s excellent climate and coastline which combines extensive sandy beaches with small, secluded rocky coves that are ideal for naturism.

Several spots along Portugal’s southern coast enable you to enjoy naked sunbathing in the golden sands. The Homem Nu (Naked Man) beach, on the western tip of the island of Tavira, in the heart of Ria Formosa Natural Park is the oldest naturist zone, with legal protection since the early 1990s.

Other options include Adegas Beach nestled in a small cove to the south of the main beach in Odeceixe, in the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park. Naturism is also practised here with an official license throughout the year and there are other areas currently in a licensing process.

There are “tolerated” beaches in areas that are more isolated or difficult to reach, where naturism can be practised with a degree of safety. Along the Algarve’s coast, from West to East, the Portuguese Naturism Federation recommends the beaches of Bordeira (Aljezur), Beliche, Zavial, Furnas (Figueira), Cabanas Velhas (Vila do Bispo) and Canavial (Lagos).

In the Algarve’s sotavento region (east of Faro) there are an additional two beaches where nudism is tolerated – the beach in the island of Armona, near Fuzeta (Municipality of Olhão) and Quatro Águas beach in the island of Tavira.

In the Algarve, naturism is also practised beyond the beaches. If you enjoy camping, there’s a campsite near Salema, close to Vila do Bispo, that has a naturism license – the Quinta dos Carriços Campsite.