We are back in early September and I'd like to find a good beach east of Faro for a change (we've explored the local ones with Albandeira our favourite, the west coast, Burgau, Zavial etc and in the past the area of the coast by Falesia). I know there''s lots of stretches of sand from the flight in but somewhere specific to head for , preferably with a bar/cafe would be good.

Manta Rota beach is beautiful and clean. And there's always space.

Monte Gordo is great. Plenty of space, lovely walks , cycle paths and easy to go by ferry to Spain for lunch. There is plenty of choice as well for eating in Monte Gordo itself.

We live here in Carvoeiro but go at least twice a year for a weekend break as we adore the walking there, ( long beach walk then back through the forest.)

+1 for Manta Rota. We had a two week holiday there in 2001 and it is a great beach with some excellent restaurants. Apart from weekends and bank holidays there's plenty of room. Well worth a visit.

Praia Verde is also lovely, long white sandy beach bordered by pine trees. Last time I went I visited a family beach restaurant called Pezinhos n'Areia, before it was refurbished
http://www.pezinhosnareia.com

I enjoyed Barrill beach near Santa Luzia. It's on an island so no cars. You can catch the frequent ferrys from Santa Luzia or better - park the car at Padras del Rei, cross the little pontoon bridge and walk or catch a little train to the beach. The bars and restaurants are down this end. (not where the ferrys land you from SL)

Hiya,

Stop off at Cabanas de Tavira.
Get the ferry across to the island or walk along the river edge from Cabanas to a great little resturant along the river and the dunes.
This is where we tend to spend our hols in Portugal, here in Cabanans

Ilha de Tavira has a beautiful beach.

Many thanks for the suggestions - I'm looking forward to heading east and visiting some of them

Thanks for the recommendations - we went to Manta Rota and had a lovely day there. We found a nice little cafe at the end of the day for a beer and coffee. We went on the day that cvo had rain so did well. Will try the other suggestions another time