Praia de Vale Centeanes is one of the better beach stops east of Carvoeiro, framed by honey-coloured limestone cliffs and clear Algarve water. It is more contained than the resort's central beach and has the advantage of immediate access to coastal walking.
Use it as a swim-and-walk combination. The Seven Hanging Valleys route begins nearby, so you can turn a beach visit into a half-day of cliff views, sinkholes, and sea caves.