The Albufeira coastline of the Algarve in southern Portugal is among the most picturesque in Europe, where brightly colored fishing boats manned by local fisherman make day trips from the region's many cliff-sheltered beaches. Hidden alcoves and swimming areas abound among the sandy-colored cliffs; just don't get caught when the tide comes in. Castelo beach features some of the most dramatic rock formations in Albufeira, and the cove provides a natural haven from the wind and swirling sand which can ruin other, more exposed, Portuguese beaches.