Praia do Barril - Tavira
Embrace the magic of Praia do Barril beach, experience the mini train ride to the beach, cristal water and visit the anchor graveyard.
Where is Praia do Barril?
Praia do Barril is located about 6 kilometers from Tavira. To reach Praia do Barril from Tavira, we recommend you can take the scenic drive along the Ria Formosa through a small village called Santa Luzia. This will take you approximately 15 minutes to drive.
The island is divided into 3 beaches;
- Praia Ilha de Tavira ( Tavira Island beach)
- Praia Estreita (Narrow beach) you will need to catch a boat from Tavira or Santa Luzia village.
- Praia do Barril to the East of the Island. Walk across or catch the scenic train.
If you’re coming from Faro, a journey of around 40 minutes by car. Take the turn to Pedras D’el Rei, a resort with several small white villas.
At the end of the Resort you will see paid parking and signpost for Praia do Barril. Along the road you also have free parking spots, but these fill up very quickly during the summer season.
After the signpost of the beach, you must cross a pedestrian bridge that takes you over the Ria Formosa. After crossing the bridge you will then have the option of walking to the beach which is about 1.5 km or go choose the Touristic Train.
Traveling from Albufeira will take about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
The Enchanting Landscape of Praia do Barril
Praia do Barril, a hidden gem in the breathtaking Algarve. With its rich history it adds depth to its appeal. The name “Barril” originates from the historical tuna fishing activity that once thrived in the region.
Our Algarve Travel Guide, will take you on a journey to discover the wonders of Praia do Barril, from its golden shores to its captivating history. This stunning beach of Algarve has something special in store for everyone.
The golden sand that stretches as far as the eye can see. Praia do Barril is part of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, the area surrounding the beach is a protected sanctuary for an array of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for eco-lovers.
Praia do Barril Beach Train
The best way to get to the beach is by catching the mini beach train. Two trains are operating during the high season; therefore, you will only wait a couple of minutes for the train to arrive.
Praia do Barril is the only beach in the Algarve offering a train as a means of transportation to the Beach.
A return ticket is 2 euros per person. Children under 4 years old do not pay.
The train ride is approximately 10 minutes a distance of 1.5 km. If you do not want to use the train, you can walk to the beach alongside the train track. It is a safe pathway and well signed post.
If you have young children we highly recommend you take the train ride and enjoy the scenery of the Ria Formosa.
Praia do Barril - The Anchor Graveyard
One of the most intriguing aspects of Praia do Barril’s history is the Anchor Graveyard with over 100 anchors.
This unique and evocative display of anchors pays homage to the tuna fishing community that once flourished in area ofTavira.
You can reach the Anchor Graveyard by walking along a picturesque wooden bridge, this will provide an experience that blends history with nature.
Where does the name Barril come from?
Praia do Barril has a long history, a location where people caught tuna fish for many years.
In the past, fishermen used to catch tuna fish using big nets and boats. They would bring the tuna to the beach to process and preserve it.
Back then, they needed containers to keep the tuna fresh, and these containers were called “Barril” in Portuguese, which means “Barrel” in English.
The name “Praia do Barril” comes from these old barrels that were used to store the tuna. The beach became known as “Praia do Barril” because it was a place where many of these barrels were found.
The buildings today that are restaurants and cafés were once the homes of the tuna fisherman and their families during the period of 1841 until 1967.
Today, you can enjoy the beautiful beach, learn about its history, and see the old anchors and tuna processing facilities, which serve as a reminder of its fishing past.
Are there Restaurants or cafes on the Beach?
The old fisherman’s homes today are restaurants and also cafes right on the beachfront and next to the Anchor Graveyard.
If you want to learn a little more about the history of the beach and also have a great meal? We definitely recommend Museu do Atum. The restaurant is also divided into a small museum showing the history of Tuna (bluefin) fishing in the Tavira back in the days.
You must try the fresh Tuna and Octopus dishes these are traditional dishes to Santa Luzia and Tavira region.
At the Blue Beach Bar you can gave a burgers, wraps, salads etc. We always stop to have a nice cold beer on the terrace and look out onto the beach and Anchor Graveyard.
If you like a great Ice cream that stop by Gelatoria Barril.
FAQ on Praia do Barril
What is the average water temperature during the Summer? : 17.5 ºC – 24.0 ºC
Is the Beach ideal for Families with Children? : Yes, this is a family-friendly beach, with calm waters, long beach with plenty of space to play and build sandcastles.
Is there a lifeguard on duty? : Yes, between June to September.
Can you hire sunbeds? : Yes
Are there toilets & Showers? : Yes
Is the beach a wheelchair Accessible Beach? Yes
Can I buy food and snacks? Yes, you have a a couple of restaurants and snack bars (cafes).
Are animals allowed on the beach? Animals are not permitted on the beach.
GPS coordinates : 37º 05′ 35.02” N 7º 40′ 30.79” W
How do I get to Praia do Barril from where I am?
Praia do Barril located in the Tavira Region. From where ever you are in the Algarve or in Portugal. It is an easy access. The map below will give you the best directions from your location.
