Portimão’s Beaches Fly the Blue Flag for the 39th Consecutive Year!
Summer has officially arrived, and the bathing season in Portimão is in full swing from 1 June 1st through to 30 September. As your community magazine for the Algarve, we are thrilled to share the fantastic news that our local coastline is once again being recognised for its outstanding quality, safety, and accessibility.
A Legacy of Pristine Coastlines
Starting 23 June, beachgoers can spot the prestigious European Blue Flag waving over the beaches of Rocha, Três Castelos, Vau, Três Irmãos, Alvor, and the Marina de Portimão. This marks the 39th consecutive year that Portimão has achieved this status, having first raised the Blue Flag in 1987 to raise awareness for marine and coastal protection. The Blue Flag guarantees that these spots meet strict criteria for water quality, environmental management, and safety.
It’s not just the beaches earning accolades! The Marina of Portimão and two local eco-tourism vessels operating out of the port, Sun Cat I – Algarve and Sun Boat I – Algarve by Sun Boat Trips, have also been awarded the 2026 Blue Flag.
Beaches for Everyone
Inclusivity is a major highlight this summer. The “Accessible Beach – Beach for All” flag has proudly returned to Rocha, Vau, Três Irmãos/Alvor Nascente, Torralta/Alvor Poente, and the Marina. These beaches provide excellent amenities for individuals with limited mobility, including obstacle-free pedestrian access, reserved parking spots, walkways across the sand, and specially adapted restrooms.
Top-Tier Safety and Care
You can relax on the sand knowing that your safety is a top priority. The municipality’s safety plan includes 15 watchtowers and 50 lifeguards distributed across the area, fully equipped with automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and oxygen tanks.
Additionally, if you need minor medical assistance, three nursing stations will be open daily from 10 am to 6 pm between 1 July and 15 September at the following locations:
- Praia da Rocha (Support unit UB 6 – “O Casalinho”)
- Praia do Vau (Support unit UB 2 – “Os Costas”)
- Praia de Alvor (Support unit UB 3 – “Dunas”)
A Five-Star Destination
To top it all off, a special congratulations goes to Praia da Rocha, which has once again secured the Prémio Cinco Estrelas Regiões (Five Star Regions Award) in the seaside resorts category, revalidating its stellar reputation from previous years.
Whether you are heading out for a swim, a walk along the accessible pathways, or an eco-boat tour, our local beaches have never looked better. Be sure to follow @tomorrowalgarve on social media for more stories, news, and events happening around our beautiful Algarve community!
