Along the stretch between Quarteira and Vale do Lobo, large-scale sand replenishment works are currently reshaping parts of the Algarve coastline ahead of the summer season. What appears to be heavy construction is part of a coordinated effort to restore beaches affected by recent storms and ongoing coastal erosion.

Offshore, dredging vessels collect sand from the seabed and transport it back to land. On the beach, excavators then spread and level the sand, gradually rebuilding the shoreline. The work is being carried out in sections to allow public access to continue where possible.

Led by the Portuguese Environment Agency, the project covers several kilometres of coastline and represents a significant investment in coastal protection. Some areas in this zone have seen the shoreline retreat by up to 15 metres in recent years.

Beyond improving the beach’s appearance, the aim is to reinforce natural defences, protect nearby infrastructure, and help preserve this stretch of coastline for the future.