Lagos
The South of Portugal Stole My Heart — Let Me Show You Why
Along the sun-drenched southern coast of Portugal, the Algarve stretches out with its rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and hidden coves. Nestled among them are countless charming seaside towns — none more captivating than Lagos. This picturesque coastal gem brims with stunning architecture, centuries of history, and mouthwatering cuisine. Once a vital hub during the Portuguese Age of Discovery from the 15th to 17th centuries, Lagos served as a launch point for many famous explorers. Today, it remains an underrated destination — the perfect place to soak in local culture, savor delicious tapas, and unwind to the rhythmic sounds of the Atlantic.
What began as a single planned day in Lagos during my friend’s and my trip across Portugal quickly turned into three. The moment we arrived, we were greeted by warm locals and winding streets lined with old buildings radiating centuries of life and stories. We checked into the Sol a Sol Hostel, tucked among the whitewashed facades and surrounded by cafés and restaurants, all less than a ten-minute stroll from the beach. It was a very welcoming hostel.
To stretch our legs after a long travel day, we wandered along the São Gonçalo de Lagos, a scenic pathway tracing the shoreline, before settling on Praia do Camilo. The beach was a stunning mix of rocky terrain and soft sand, framed by dramatic rock structures. The Atlantic water was cold but invigorating, the perfect reset after hours of travel. We spent the afternoon exploring the beach before heading into town for lunch.
That evening, we stumbled upon Beats & Burritos, a lively Mexican spot where I had one of the best burritos of my life. This spot is an absolute must. Later, after relaxing on our hostel’s rooftop, we treated ourselves to a feast at Restaurante Azimute Lagos, dining on freshly caught mussels, piri-piri shrimp, tuna tartare, and hearty chicken stew. The night ended with glasses of Portuguese wine under the stars, watching street performers serenade the crowd with Elton John classics. The atmosphere was electric, the streets alive with laughter, music, and the energy of summer nights by the sea.
The next morning, we woke early for an adventure; kayaking along the Algarve coast, a trip we’d booked through our hostel. One of the best parts about Sol a Sol was how easy it was to join group activities and meet other travelers. Paddling across the clear blue waters of the Atlantic, we marveled at the towering cliffs, hidden grottos, and solitary rock formations jutting dramatically from the ocean. We got the chance to do some cliff jumping, and we kayaked into one of the large caves, where sunlight streamed through a small opening above. It felt absolutely magical. It was an unforgettable experience, and by the end, we jokingly considered ourselves “professional kayakers.”
Back in town, we refueled with chicken skewers, fries, and crisp salads before getting dressed up for a night out. Our evening turned into an impromptu bar crawl through Lagos, from a laid-back dive bar to a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views. We met fellow travelers, shared stories over drinks, and added another night of laughter to our growing collection of memories.
On our final day, we were genuinely sad to leave. Over lattes and pastries at a nearby café, we basked in the morning sun, reluctant to say goodbye. Before departing, we took an Uber to Ponta da Piedade, a breathtaking natural landmark perched high above the coast. From its cliffs, we admired sweeping views of the turquoise ocean, dramatic caves, and the iconic lighthouse. The area buzzed with visitors snapping photos, kayaking below, or simply soaking in the view — just like us.
Eventually, it was time to move on to our next destination, but leaving Lagos felt bittersweet. It had completely captured our hearts, and we both knew we’d be back someday. Without a doubt, it was the highlight of our Portugal adventure.