Fodor's Expert Review Praia da Mexilhoeira

Hedged in by rocky cliffs topped with the greenest of vegetation, this is one of the region's prettiest beaches. The strand is fairly narrow at high tide, but it rarely gets very crowded because it is served only by a simple café. Access to the beach is via a wooden walkway. The beach is signposted off the N247 north of Santa Cruz, where the beaches are broader but busier. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (no fee). Best for: solitude; sunset; surfing; walking.