Fodor's Expert Review Meia Praia

Curving like a crescent moon the entire distance between Lagos and Alvor, Meia Praia is the largest beach in the area and one of the best centers for water sports. The golden sand extends for 4 km (2½ miles), and the water is calm and clear. You can walk to it from Lagos city center in less than five minutes by crossing the footbridge, but there's also a bus from the riverfront Avenida dos Descobrimentos and a summer-only ferry service a few hundred yards from Forte Ponta da Bandeira. A section is reserved for nudists. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers. Best for: nudists; solitude; swimming; walking; windsurfing.