A holiday in the Algarve Portugal simply has to feature somewhere on everyone’s bucket list. You see, the Algarve has all the ingredients for the perfect holiday, including sun, sand, sea, shopping, food, and friendly locals. So, whether it’s a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or a holiday with friends, your holidays in Algarve Portugal will certainly not disappoint.
We’ve put together a guide to holidays in Portugal Algarve so you can make the most of your time there. From beaches, watersports and golf courses to food and cultural attractions, we cover all the bases and prepare you for the perfect holiday in the Algarve.
The Best Beaches in the Algarve
For any holiday-goer, the beach is generally the first thing on their mind. And trust us, beaches in the Algarve will surpass your expectations. Let’s begin by looking at some of the best beaches the Algarve has to offer so you can be beach-ready as soon as you arrive!
Praia da Marinha (Marinha Beach)
Renowned for its fascinating limestone cliffs and clear waters, Praia da Marinha is often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Located about a 10-minute drive from Lagoa, this beach is ideal for sunbathing, snorkelling, and exploring hidden caves.
Praia da Falésia
Situated just east of Albufeira, the almost 6 km-long Praia da Falésia is famous for its dramatic red cliffs that contrast beautifully with the golden sands and clear waters. It’s a perfect spot for leisurely walks along the beach and enjoying breathtaking sunsets.
Praia Dona Ana
Just south of Lagos, Praia Dona Ana can be found within the limestone cliffs of the Ponte de Piedade headland. This family-friendly beach offers amenities, such as beachside cafes, shops and showers making it an ideal destination for a relaxing day by the sea.
Praia de Benagil
Famous for its iconic sea cave, Praia de Benagil near Lagoa is a must-visit for adventurers. Take a boat tour to explore the renowned Benagil Cave or relax on the beach and savour the natural beauty surrounding this incredible location.
Activities and Water Sports in the Algarve
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast and water sports lover, then the Algarve will grant your every wish. Here are some of the top activities and water sports to enjoy during your holiday in the Algarve Portugal.
Surfing
The Algarve is a prime destination for surfing, with its Atlantic coast offering excellent waves suitable for all levels. Popular spots like Sagres, Arrifana, and Praia do Amado provide surf schools and rental shops, ensuring easy access and support for both beginners and advanced surfers.
Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding
Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are fantastic ways to explore the Algarve’s stunning coastline and sea caves. Routes from Lagos to Ponta da Piedade are popular, with rentals and guided tours available for all skill levels.
Scuba diving and snorkelling
The Algarve’s clear waters and diverse marine life make it a great destination for scuba diving and snorkelling. Sites like Praia da Marinha and Praia de Benagil offer fantastic underwater exploration, with dive centres providing rentals, courses, and guided dives.
Boat tours and dolphin watching
Boat tours are a wonderful way to explore the Algarve’s coastline, giving you a different perspective on its dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches. Dolphin watching is a highlight, with tours departing from towns like Lagos, Portimão, and Albufeira.
Jet skiing and parasailing
For adrenaline seekers, jet skiing and parasailing are excellent choices. Albufeira and Vilamoura offer rentals and guided sessions, providing thrills with the speed of jet skis and panoramic views from parasailing.
Windsurfing and kitesurfing
Consistent winds along the Algarve’s coast make it ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Spots like Alvor and Praia da Rocha are popular among enthusiasts, with schools and rental shops available for all skill levels.
Golf Courses in the Algarve
Any golfer worth their handicap will associate the Algarve with world-class golf. And with over 300 days of sunshine per year, it’s no wonder thousands of golf enthusiasts travel to the Algarve to enjoy this sport in idyllic surroundings.
Here, we highlight four of the top golf courses in the region, each offering a unique experience for golfers of all levels.
Boavista Golf
Boavista Golf, located near Lagos, offers an 18-hole championship course designed by Howard Swan. The course is known for its rolling fairways, strategic bunkers, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. With excellent practice facilities and a welcoming clubhouse, Boavista provides a complete golfing experience.
Dom Pedro Golf
Dom Pedro Golf offers a collection of five outstanding courses in Vilamoura, including the famous Old Course, Millennium, Pinhal, Laguna, and Victoria. The Victoria course, designed by Arnold Palmer, is particularly notable for hosting the Portugal Masters. Each course has its own unique layout and challenges, providing diverse and exciting options for golfers.
Onyria Palmares Beach & Golf Resort
Onyria Palmares, situated in Lagos, is a 27-hole course designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. The course seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape, offering links-style play with panoramic views of Alvor Bay. Each of the three 9-hole loops presents its own challenges, making Onyria a favourite among golfers seeking variety and beauty.
Quinta do Lago
Quinta do Lago is one of the Algarve’s premier golfing destinations, featuring three championship courses: North, South, and Laranjal. The South Course, designed by William Mitchell, is known for its many water hazards and challenging layout, while the North Course, revamped by Beau Welling and Paul McGinley, offers a modern, strategic design. Laranjal, set in an orange grove, provides a different yet equally enjoyable experience with its undulating fairways and well-placed hazards.
For more information, check out our Definitive Guide to Golf Holidays in Portugal.
Gastronomic Experience in the Algarve
Holidays are a time when most of us look forward to leaving the kitchen behind. For a couple of weeks a year, we get to splash out in local restaurants and try foods that wouldn’t normally be on the menu back home.
With this in mind ,here are some of the culinary highlights to enjoy during your holiday in the Algarve:
- Seafood: The Algarve’s coastline ensures a fresh supply of seafood, with popular dishes including grilled sardines, octopus salad, and cataplana (a seafood stew).
- Piri-Piri Chicken: This spicy grilled chicken, often served with chips and a salad, is a staple of Portuguese cuisine and a must-try in the Algarve.
- Pastries: The region is famous for its sweet treats, particularly pastel de nata (custard tarts) and dom rodrigo, a traditional dessert made from eggs, sugar, and almonds.
- Wine: The Algarve’s vineyards produce excellent wines, particularly red and rosé varieties. Local wine tours and tastings offer a great way to explore the region’s viticulture.
So, rest assured, your time away from the kitchen will be full of delicious local food and sweet treats. Hey, it may even give you some ideas to add to your weekly shopping list!
Cultural and Historical Attractions of the Algarve
For those looking to add a bit of culture to their holiday in the Algarve, we’ve included this final section to highlight the many cultural and historical sites in the area.
Here are some of the must-visit attractions:
- Castles and Fortresses: The Algarve is dotted with impressive castles and fortresses, such as the Castle of Silves and the Fortress of Sagres. These historic structures provide insight into the region’s Moorish and medieval history.
- Churches: The Algarve is home to beautiful churches, including the Igreja de Santo António in Lagos and the Sé Cathedral in Faro. These churches showcase stunning architecture and intricate interiors.
- Museums: The region boasts several museums, such as the Museu Municipal in Faro and the Museu de Portimão, which offer exhibits on local history, archaeology, and maritime heritage.
- Traditional Markets: Local markets, like the Loulé Market, offer a cultural experience with a variety of traditional crafts, fresh produce, and regional delicacies.
Exploring these cultural and historical attractions will add some depth to your holiday in Algarve Portugal. That way, you can be sure you’ve had a well-rounded experience that goes beyond the beaches and outdoor activities.__
Come and Visit the Algarve!
The Algarve is an all-rounder when it comes to holidays. It’s simply got all the bases covered, from beaches, water sports and golfing to fabulous food and cultural attractions. Holidays in the Algarve Portugal have something to offer the whole family.
Plan your escape today and experience everything the Algarve has to offer with Allure Villas. Browse our range of luxury villas and personalised services, designed to make your stay unforgettable. Book now and embark on a journey of discovery in the Algarve – where every moment is a celebration of hospitality and relaxation.
