Ponta da Piedade: What To See And How To Visit in 2026?

Welcome to the beautiful ALGARVE in Portugal!

 

If you’re looking to visit Ponta da Piedade but you don’t know if it’s worth it, what to see and how to visit it? Then you have come to the right place!

 

Let’s go.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Beauty of Ponta da Piedade: Ponta da Piedade is famous for its golden cliffs, turquoise waters, and sunsets.

 

• Boating and Kayaking: The best way to see Ponta da Piedade’s grottos and arches is by boat or kayak tours, which access hidden spots like Camel Rock and The Elephant.

 

• Stairs and Boardwalk: The Ponta da Piedade Boardwalk is a 1.5 km scenic hike ending with 182 steps down to the grottos to access the mini harbor.

 

What is Ponta da Piedade?

 

Ponta da Piedade is a beautiful cliff area along the coast of Lagos in the Algarve. It is one of the bucketlist items of every Portugal itinerary!

 

You probably know the Instagram pictures with the beautiful YELLOW-GOLDEN CLIFFS that reach up to 20 meters above the Atlantic Ocean.

 

These cliffs create unique rock formations, sea arches, caves, and HIDDEN grottos (more below).

 

Ponta da Piedade is Portugal’s MOST DRAMATIC COASTAL VIEW. Keep in mind that there is no real beach here (there is no sand)!

 

DID YOU KNOW: These rocks and cliffs have been formed through THOUSANDS of years of erosion, wind, and water, creating the views you have today?

 

This natural wonder attracts thousands of visitors yearly for its amazing views and opportunities to discover the area by boat or foot (more on below).

Ponta da Piedade: What’s in a name?

The name Ponta da Piedade originates from when local fishermen would enter the open sea from a small pier at the cape.

 

Their families would wait at the top of the cliffs, keeping a lookout for their safe return. In the darkness of night, the only visible signs of hope were the distant lights on the horizon.

 

The families would pray for mercy that their fishermen return safely.

The geological explanation

The formations at Ponta da Piedade are made out of limestone. This is the number one item that is affected by wind and water erosion over millions of years.

 

Luckily, you can visit and go between the grottos and arches with small boats, making it one of the best places for kayak and boat tours in the Algarve.

 

How to get to Ponta da Piedade

By car, taxi, or Uber

Ponta da Piedade is only 3 km south of Lagos and is easily accessible by car. You can reach it in about 10 minutes from central Lagos.

 

You won’t read this in other blog posts, but due to recent road restrictions, you CANNOT DRIVE directly to the cliffs or the Ponta da Piedade lighthouse.

You must use the car park at Praia do Camilo Beach.

 

From there, it is a short walk to the main viewpoint. Remember that the parking lot fills up quickly due to limited spaces, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

 

You can also order an UBER or Bolt, which costs around €5-6 ($5.40-$6.40) one way.

 

INSIDER TIP: We recommend Uber to save time and hassle at the parking lot during peak summer months.

 

By foot

If you don’t want to order an Uber, you might as well walk to Ponta da Piedade.

 

The coastal trail, with mostly flat terrain, is 4 miles or 6 km roundtrip from Lagos Old Town.

 

During the walk, you’ll pass by Dona Ana Beach and Camilo Beach, two of the Algarve’s most beautiful spots.

 

The hike takes about 1.5 hours (roundtrip). Remember to bring water, a hat, and sun protection, as the trail has almost no shade.

 

By tourist train

If you are visiting Ponta da Piedade during the summer, you can take the Lagos Tourist Train.

 

The hop-on-hop-off train departs from Lagos Marina and Avenida dos Descobrimentos, stopping at 9 locations around Lagos. A one-way ticket costs €4, while a day pass costs only €5.50 (6.5 USD).

 

During peak season, the tourist train operates daily from 9:45 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, visit the Tourist Train Lagos Website.

 

Insider Tip: Take the train in the late afternoon to catch the sunset at Ponta da Piedade.

By public transport

Ponta da Piedade is not accessible by bus or train, so this is NOT AN OPTION.

 

Best time to visit Ponta da Piedade

The best time to visit Ponta da Piedade is from late April to May and from September to early October.

 

With 300 sunny days in Portugal, the weather is still warm and pleasant.

 

The biggest advantage is that there are FEWER PEOPLE. You can finally take those Instagram pictures without any people in the background.

 

If you are visiting during the peak season, you should visit Ponta da Piedade EARLY IN THE MORNING or late in the afternoon.

 

The early hours offer relaxing views and a chance to find parking, while the late afternoon provides the best lighting for photography (especially during golden hour) and stunning sunset views over the Atlantic Ocean.

 

Perfect time for boat trips

The sea conditions are calmer in the Algarve region from May to October, making it the best time for kayak or boat tours.

 

In the winter, tour operators are often not working due to strong winds and rough seas.

Ponta da Piedade wooden boardwalk: Step-by-step guide

 

I’m sure you have heard about the famous Ponta da Piedade boardwalk + the 188 steps you must do before finally getting to the viewpoint.

 

Let us give you a step-by-step guide on how to complete the walk!

 

Starting point: Dona Ana Beach

1. Begin at Praia de Dona Ana: The best place to start the Ponta da Piedade hike is at Praia de Dona Ana, a famous beach about 20 minutes from Lagos town. The boardwalk entrance is at the end of the Praia de Dona Ana parking area, marked on Google Maps as “Ponta da Piedade Walkway Entry.”

 

2. Starting the Boardwalk: Step onto the wooden boardwalk from the parking lot. The path is wide, flat, and easy to walk, perfect for a family visit.

 

Following the path

4. Walking along the Boardwalk: The boardwalk runs along the coastline, offering amazing views of rocky formations and the turquoise water. Several offshoot paths lead to viewpoints and benches where you can stop to enjoy the scenery.

 

End of the boardwalk

5. End Point: Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse. After about 30 minutes of walking, the boardwalk ends at the Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse. From here, follow the short path to the main viewpoint to see the sea arches, cliffs, and hidden grottos up close.

 

6. Navigating the Steps: Be prepared—from the Lighthouse, you still have to descend 180 steps. They are narrow and steep, making the descent challenging but rewarding. You’ll want to take your time and hold onto the railings while climbing down.

 

7. Explore the Grottos: At the bottom, locals offer small boat tours through the arches and caves.

Important tips

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The wooden boardwalk is flat, but some detour paths are quite rocky.

 

• Sun Protection: Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the trail is fully exposed to the sun.

 

• Time Your Visit: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better light for photography (more on the best Instagrammable locations below).

 

For more information, visit the official Algarve website.

WORTH IT: Adding the Praia do Camilo to Your Hike

If you want to extend your walk and enjoy a real beach with a stunning coastline, consider detouring via Praia do Camilo.

 

The beach is just a 10-minute walk from the Ponta da Piedade boardwalk and offers a different perspective of the coast.

 

Step-by-Step to Praia do Camilo

1. Follow the Boardwalk Until You Reach the Junction: Midway along the boardwalk, you’ll see a sign directing you towards Praia do Camilo. Turn here and continue until you reach the top of the staircase.

 

2. Descending the 220 Steps: Brace yourself for the 220 STEPS down to the beach. The descent is steep, but the golden sands and clear waters of Praia do Camilo make it worth the effort.

 

3. Exploring the Beach: At the bottom, you’ll find a sandy beach and a small, sheltered cove framed by dramatic rock formations. The left side features the unique camel-shaped rock formation that the beach is named after. This area is perfect for a quick swim.

 

4. Dining at O Camilo: Return and stop at the O Camilo restaurant at the top after your beach visit. This spot is famous for its delicious seafood dishes.

 

Then, it’s time to return to Praia do Canavial. Don’t miss the Miradouro da Praia do Canavial, a scenic viewpoint near your car’s parking.

 

INSIDER TIP: Visit Praia do Camilo during low tide to see the full rock formations.

 

Visit-Worthy Places at Ponta da Piedade

Grottos

 

The caves around Ponta da Piedade are some of its most iconic features.

 

The ocean’s force has carved out these natural sea caves over THOUSANDS of years.

 

The Gruta dos Amores (Grotto of Love) is a popular highlight, accessible only by kayak or small boat.

 

Due to the shifting tides, you can only enter safely during low tide.

 

Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse

 

Standing 51 meters above sea level, the Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse has been guiding ships since 1913.

 

Built on the historic Nossa Senhora da Piedade Pelgrimige site, it took decades to complete due to its location on sacred ground.

 

The lighthouse now has a white light flashing every seven seconds and is a symbolic landmark. It’s a must-see viewpoint.

 

Ponta Da Piedade Activities

1) Boat Tours at Ponta da Piedade

One of the best ways to enjoy Ponta da Piedade is via a boat tour.

 

Lagos boat tours are very popular and will take you to hidden grottos, natural arches, and iconic rock formations such as Camel Head, The Elephant, and The Cathedral (locals have given each rock a name).

 

Tour Options

• Grotto Boat Tours: Lasting 1-2 hours, these are perfect for a short sightseeing of the coast and grottos, afterwards, you can hike to Ponta da Piedade!
• Sunset Cruises: A perfect choice for enjoying the cliffs at golden hour.

 

Booking Tips

Especially a small boat tour is top-rated in the summer, so booking is recommended. Prices range from €20-€30, depending on the tour type and duration.

 

Where to Book

You can book using our widget below with GetYourGuide. This way, you are sure the tour operator is trustworthy and offers value for money!

TIP: Some tours also depart from Portimão and Praia da Batata in Lagos.

 

2) Kayaking at Ponta da Piedade

Next to a boat tour, kayaking is one of the best ways to explore Ponta da Piedade up close.

 

Because kayaks are smaller than regular boats, they allow access to narrow caves and hidden grottos that the larger boats can’t reach.

 

Most guided tours depart from Lagos Marina, and participants are usually transported to the site on a catamaran before launching the kayaks.

Why Choose a Guided Tour?

It’s mandatory.

 

There have been too many tourist deaths due to the difference in tides and water conditions.

 

Guides know when it’s safe to enter specific caves and are responsible for your safety throughout the tour. Some tours even stop at secluded beaches (like Praia da Camilo) for a swim.

 

Booking Tips

Since kayaking is very popular, book in advance, especially during summer!

 

Prices range from €35-€45.

Where to stay near Ponta da Piedade

There are beautiful hotels and resorts along the coastline and in Lagos city. You can use our interactive widget below to discover the BEST hotels!

 

To help you, we have already selected the most luxurious hotels (check below).

Luxury Accommodations

• Cascade Wellness Resort
  • Features: Panoramic views of the Algarve coast, luxury spa, multiple pools, and fine dining.
  • Price: €200 per night.
  • Booking: Available on Booking.com.

 

• Tivoli Lagos Hotel
  • Features: Located in central Lagos, access to a private beach club at Meia Praia, indoor and outdoor pools, and an excellent breakfast buffet.
  • Price: €150 per night.
  • Booking: Check availability on Booking.com.

 

Mid-Budget Options

• Baluarte da Vila Apartments
  • Features: big apartments with a kitchen, an outdoor pool, and just a short walk from Lagos’ old town.
  • Price: €80-100 per night.
  • Booking: Book via Booking.com.

 

• Agua Hotels Vila Branca
  • Features: apartments with two pools, ideal for families or longer stays, and within walking distance of Ponta da Piedade.
  • Price: €70-90 per night.
  • Booking: Available on Booking.com.

 

Where to eat in Lagos?

There are a few restaurants that you cannot skip!

 

Let’s take a look!

1. Tasca Jota
   • Features: Authentic Portuguese dishes, excellent seafood, and a local dining atmosphere.
   • Price: €28 per person.
   • Booking: Reserve through Tripadvisor.

 

1. Tasco do Kiko
   • Features: Known for its delicious seafood dishes in the Lagos Marina area.
   • Price: €20-30 per meal.
   • Booking: Book via Tripadvisor.

 

1. Poké Lagos
   • Features: Fresh Hawaiian-style poké bowls and smoothies.
   • Price: €15-20 per person.
   • Booking: Find it on Tripadvisor.

 

1. Goji Lounge Café
   • Features: Healthy breakfast and lunch options with vegan choices.
   • Price: €10-15 per meal.
   • Booking: Available on Tripadvisor.

 

1. Beats & Burritos
   • Features: Mexican cuisine with a variety of burritos and sides.
   • Price: €12-18.
   • Booking: Check Tripadvisor.

 

1. Nah Nah Bah
   • Features: Best-known for gourmet burgers and a fun dining experience.
   • Price: €15-20 per person.
   • Booking: Available on Tripadvisor.

 

Full-Day Adventure Tour

Below, we list the perfect family-friendly Ponta da Piedade itinerary for one day.

• Morning Kayak Tour: Join a guided kayak tour to explore the grottoes and sea caves.
• Lunch Break: Go from Lagos to O Camilo Restaurant for fresh seafood.
• Praia do Camilo beach: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Praia do Camilo!
• Scenic Cliff Walk: From Praia, do Camilo; take the boardwalk to Praia, do Canavial.
• Sunset at the Lighthouse: Finish at the Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse for panoramic views.

Best viewpoints for photography

Whenever we do an activity, our pictures are as important as the activity itself. They allow us to share them on our social channels and provide unforgettable memories.

 

That is why we want to guide you to the best spots in Ponta da Piedade for Instagrammable pictures!

• Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse: Capture panoramic cliffs and ocean views from this spot with the lighthouse in the background (aperture on the lighthouse, ocean should be blurred).
• Miradouro da Praia do Canavial: Stunning views overlooking the coastline and Praia do Canavial.
• Camilo Beach Staircase: Get a perfect shot of the winding steps leading down to the beach and turquoise waters. This is perfect for your stories!
• Boardwalk Viewpoints: Multiple spots along the Ponta da Piedade Boardwalk offer incredible angles of the sea arches and grottos.
• Sunset Viewpoints: Head west along the boardwalk to catch dramatic sunset shots.

 

Parking and safety information for Ponta da Piedade

 

• Parking: Limited parking is available near Praia do Camilo, a short walk from Ponta da Piedade. Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to secure a spot.
• Accessibility: The area has uneven terrain and steep stairs. Wheelchair access is not available, and families with strollers should plan to be prepared!
• Facilities: Only one restroom at O Camilo Restaurant.
• Safety: No barriers are along the cliffs, so be cautious, especially with children!
• Weather considerations: Bring water (2 litres per person), sunscreen, and a hat, as there is no shade!
• Wear proper footwear: Hike the rocky paths around the lighthouse in sneakers or sturdy shoes. The boardwalk is suitable for flip-flops.
• Respect nature: please respect nature and stick to the Leave No Trace Principle!

 

Nearby Beaches and Connecting Paths

There are a few other beaches that you can also visit during your time at Ponta da Piedade.

 

1. Praia do Camilo

• Just 1 km from Ponta da Piedade, Praia do Camilo is a scenic beach with clear waters and golden sands. Accessible by a 220-step staircase, it’s an excellent stop for a swim or sunbathing.

 

2. Praia de Dona Ana

• A 15-minute walk from Ponta da Piedade, this popular beach is known for its stunning rock formations and turquoise waters.

 

3. Meia Praia

• For a more spacious option, visit Meia Praia, a 5 km stretch of sandy beach near the Lagos Marina. It is ideal for those seeking a quieter atmosphere.

 

Conclusion

Ponta da Piedade is one of the Algarve’s crown jewels, offering a mix of landscapes, activities, and viewpoints.

 

The rock formations, hidden grottos, and sea arches make it a top destination in Portugal.

 

The best way to explore is by kayak or boat tours that leave from Lagos Marina, allowing you to see the rock formations Camel Head and Elephant Rock up close.

 

You can also hike along the Ponta da Piedade Boardwalk which provides sweeping views and access to connecting paths leading to nearby beaches like Praia do Camilo and Praia de Dona Ana.

 

The 220 steps to Praia do Camilo or the 180-step descent to Ponta de Piedade offer exhausting but amazing experiences.

 

If you prefer a leisurely visit, catch the Lagos Tourist Train during peak season or explore the extended boardwalk to the west of the Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse, which intersects with paved paths and offers additional viewpoints like Miradouro da Praia do Canavial.

 

If you plan a visit, aim for the shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) for ideal weather and fewer crowds.

 

There is limited parking, so arrive early or consider using taxi services. With no barriers along the cliffs, it’s essential to be cautious.

 

Nearby accommodation ranges from luxurious stays like the Cascade Wellness Resort and Tivoli Lagos Hotel to mid-budget options like Baluarte da Vila Apartments.

 

For dining, sample the fresh seafood at O Camilo Restaurant or enjoy meals at local favourites such as Tasca Jota and Tasco do Kiko.

 

With breathtaking sunsets, panoramic views, and access to some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, Ponta da Piedade is a must-see for any Algarve itinerary.

 

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