SUN-SOAKED beaches, mouthwatering seafood, rich culture, and picturesque villages make the Algarve a firm favourite among holidaymakers.
There were more than five million visitors to the Portuguese region in 2023, and it’s set to attract even more vacationers in the coming years.
Praia da Rocha is the most famous beach in Portimão, and there are many others nearby[/caption]
Lagos has plenty of beautiful beaches, places to eat, and activities on offer[/caption]
BJ’s Oceanside offers tasty food, good wine, live music, and stunning beach views[/caption]
But if you’re looking to beat the crowds and visit the very best the Algarve has to offer, as part of our new Best of Beaches series, we asked the people who live and work there where the locals tend to go.
Tour guide Inês Tito, writer Ana Veiga, watermelon farmer Angela Antor, pilates instructor Verity Thenard, business owner Jack Reeves, and social media marketer Salem Haire are all from the Algarve, and they offered up their best kept secrets.
Best place to go for a beach holiday
Inês Tito, a Portugal and Algarve trip planner, said: “Portimão, near the Praia De Rocha, is the perfect place for beach holidays. There are plenty of accommodation options, some only a few steps from the beach, so you won’t have any issue in finding a place to stay.
“Praia da Rocha is the most famous beach in Portimão, but these others nearby are also fantasic – Três Castelos, Careanos, Vau, Alemão, João D’Arens, Submarino, Prainha, Três Irmãos and Torralta.’”
Salem Haire, a photographer and social media marketer, said: “Either Lagos or Sagres, as both towns are filled with fantastic beaches, incredible eateries, and extra activities.”
Favourite restaurants
Inês said: “Luar da Fóia in Monchique has an incredible mountain view with the best Portuguese food (starters from €3.50 and mains from €12), and Taberna da Maré is a small and cosy “tasca” in downtown Portimão, perfect for some petiscos – the Portuguese version of the Spanish tapas (dishes from €12).
“Or, head to Casa da Rocha for the best ocean view and freshest seafood in town (starters from €3.50 and mains from €13), and Sueste in Ferragudo, for traditional Algarvian food (startes from €14 and mains from €30.”
Ana Veiga, a travel and food writer, said: “Petisqueira 3 em Pipa in Faro is my favourite restaurant in the Algarve, offering a selection of small plates with local ingredients (mains from €12).
“Or if you’re in the east Algarve, I’d suggest Vai e Volta in Olhão – they only serve charcoal grilled fish that keeps on coming to the table until you are done (all you can eat for €16pp).”
Angela Antor, a watermelon farmer and YouTuber, said: “My favourite restaurant is Matuya sushi restaurant in Armação de Pera (from €7 a dish), for its large variety, good quality and excellent service, and Sexy Meat in Albufeira is excellent if it’s a steak you are after (steaks from 13).”
Verity Thenard, a pilates instructor, said: My favourites are BJ’s Oceanside beach restaurant in Quarteira (where the catch of the day costs from €28), Oliwander’s – a restaurant built around the old town walls in Loulé (starters from €5 and mains from €15), Taberna by the Algarvian chef Lucia Ribeiro in Almancil (dishes from €3).”
Salem said: “In Lagos, Pomò La Pasta Italiana has the best Italian food – people will wait more than two hours to eat there (speciality mains from €19), and there’s a local Portuguese kitchen called Tasca de Lota that’s my personal favourite (mains from €11 and bottles of wine from €13).
“Also in Lagos, Go Bao has delicious bao buns for those who are tired of Portuguese food (buns from €5), and Gelicia has amazing Italian gelato, with vegan and gluten free options too.”
“Elsewhere, the surf house Ti Raul in Arrifana has stunning views and delicious snacks for after a day on the beach, such as acai bowls, small bites and baked foods.”
Ria Formosa is a popular place for photographers because of its maze of canals, marshes, islands, and wildlife[/caption]
Tia Bia is off the beaten track, but its freshly prepared dishes and good house wine are worth the journey[/caption]
Hidden gems – places only locals know about
Inês said: “Carrapateira is a tiny village in Costa Vicentina Natural Park, famous for its stunning beaches, and Monchique is the highest village in the Algarve, secluded in the mountains, surrounded by dense forests of pine and cork trees.
“Salir is a charming countryside village in the Algarvian countryside, perfect to get away from the coastline, and Cacela Velha is a beautiful village overlooking Ria Formosa Natural Park and one of the best locations for landscape photography.”
Ana said: “If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the Algarve coast, but still want to have a day on the beach, the islands of the Ria Formosa Lagoon are amazing – you have to get a ferry or a water taxi to reach them, but the pristine waters and quiet atmosphere are worth it.
“My top pick is Ilha do Farol, reachable by ferry from both Faro and Olhão, but there are several more islands to explore.”
Angela said: Albandeira Beach is a little hidden treasure that has a cafe bar and fabulous views off the rocks (wear sensible footwear.)
“Just outside Albufeira is the fishing village of Olhos de Água, where you can enjoy a nice evening drink and watch the sun go down whilst the fisherman take to the sea, and in the traditional village of Ferragudo you can enjoy the catch of the day in riverside restaurants straight from the fishing boats.”
Verity said: “Quinta dos Santos is a nice micro-brewery and winery in Lagos, with views of the vineyards, and 200-year-old, family-owned estate Morgado do Quintão does family-style lunches in a vineyard setting.”
Jack Reeves, who owns a design consultancy and local co-working space, said: “If you’re a cyclist, you may already know Monchique from the famous hill climb stage of the Volta ao Algarve.
“Visit the Velochique cycling cafe in town and get an amazing breakfast before renting an e-bike and giving the road a try for yourself. If you make it to the summit, you’ll be greeted with the best view in the whole of the Algarve at Fóia. While you’re here, visit the Alacrem food truck.
“If you’re in the area and the sun is too hot, then stop in at Caldas De Monchique, it’s a little oasis with its huge eucalyptus trees and tropical environment that has been famous since Roman times for its waters, which supposedly have healing properties.”
Ferragudo is a small medieval fishing village with incredible views and a host of activities available, such as dolphin watching and boat tours[/caption]
Cavoeiro is a picturesque and traditional Portuguese resort town with excellent restaurants and golden beaches[/caption]
Best place to go for families
Inês: “Ferragudo is a small medieval fishing village, perfect for families travelling with children, with narrow-cobbled streets, incredible views over the Arade River and quiet local beaches – I recommend Praia Grande, Praia do Pintadinho and Praia dos Caneiros.
“In Ferragudo, families can book a boat tour to see the caves, go dolphin watching, join a kayak tour, and a short distance away is the Slide & Splash water park Krazy World or Zoomarine theme parks.”
Ana said: “Alvor has a little bit of everything, incredible beaches, a small town vibe, and a great selection of hotels and resorts – it’s the perfect family destination without ever feeling too hectic.”
Angela: “For a family break there are so many places to choose from – the town of Quarteira, between Vale do Lobo and Vilamoura, is flat with a promenade that’s good for pushchairs and wheelchairs.”
Jack said: “When my family comes to visit, we send them to Porto de Mós or Praia De Luz – both places are close to Lagos, benefiting from 300 days of sunshine each year and being a touch further from the airport than the classic British favourite, Albufeira.
“Because of its surge in popularity, you have tons of activities to do with kids of all ages—from fishing trips, surf lessons, and wake boarding parks to simple things like great playgrounds for youngsters.”
Salem said: “Carvoeiro, Portugal – there are many kid-friendly resorts, and because it’s located in the south, there aren’t huge waves in the summer months.”
Where to grab a cheap bite to eat
Inês said: “Restaurante do Cabrita in Carrapateira is the best family-run restaurant in Costa Vicentina for ‘percebes’ – a rare seafood delicacy in Portugal (starters from €2.50).
“A Sereia in Sagres is perfect for fish “rodizio” – an all-you-can-eat ‘fish carvery’ where diners can try several different fish in one meal (glasses of wine from €1.80).”
Ana said: “When in the Algarve, you have to try an authentic piri piri chicken, a charcoal grilled chicken glazed with homemade chilli sauce, usually served with fries.
“One of our favourite spots is O Teodósio in Guia (piri piri chicken from €7), but you’ll find lots of churrasqueiras specialising in charcoal grilled chicken and meat.”
If you’re after a city break, there’s plenty to see and do in Faro, with attractions like the Bone Chapel and Santo António[/caption]
Cacela Velha is a popular beach among locals, and requires a car to get there[/caption]
Aljezur tends to be one of the quieter beaches in the Algarve for those looking to beat the crowds[/caption]
Hidden beaches, away from all the tourists
Ana said: “Cacela Velha – with no major town nearby and no public transport, it’s a beach that’s mostly populated by locals. You’ll need a car to get there though.
“Another type of hidden beach in the Algarve are the praia fluvials – or river beaches. If you head away from the coast and most of the tourists, inland, you’ll discover some amazing river beaches.
“My favourites are Praia Fluvial do Pego Fundo in Alcoutim, and Praia Fluvial de Alte in Alte.”
Jack said: “For a perfect beach day, take a short boat ride to Tavira Island, where you’ll find pristine sandy shores and crystal-clear waters.
“Spend your time lounging on the beach, swimming in the gentle waves, or enjoying a romantic sunset walk.” The island’s serene environment is perfect for unwinding and reconnecting away from the hustle and bustle.”
Seven Hanging Valleys is a great free attraction – a clifftop trail along a rugged coastline with magnificent views[/caption]
Silves holds a medieval festival from the 9th to 17th August, with craft stalls, music, food and drink[/caption]
Tavira is a small city that straddles the Gilão River, with the ruins of Tavira Castle a popular attraction[/caption]
Budget attractions worth visiting
Inês said: “Try out the local markets in Loulé, Olhão and Portimão to find the freshest local produce and fish in the region. Products arrive daily and are quickly sold out, so it’s best to visit early in the morning.
“Alternatively, hiking is the best way to explore Algarve’s natural landscape and admire how rich and diverse it is – I recommend Seven Hanging Valleys, Waterfall Trail and Ponta da Carrapateira Trail.
“Or for a different experience, pack your lunch and go on a picnic in the countryside around Monchique, Salir, Alte, Querença or Alcoutim.”
Ana said: “The Algar Seco is a stunning area of natural rock formations, and it’s free to explore its caves, stacks and pathways.”
Angela said: “Silves is an amazing city and from August 9-17 they have a medieval festival in the evenings, with lots of handicraft stalls, music, food and drinks.”
Best place to go for a couple’s retreat
Ana said: “Tavira is a beautiful small town in the east Algarve. Its charm lies in its slow flowing river, cobble stoned streets, and picturesque bridges.
“This atmosphere blended with historic architecture, intimate dining options, and a few luxury hotels and resorts, makes it the perfect destination for couples.”
Angela said: “I would recommend the quaint resort of Alvor, an hour’s transfer from the airport – it’s typically Portuguese with the picturesque cobbled streets.
“It’s a more laid back resort with bars, restaurants and fine dining.”
Ria Formosa National Park is an unspoiled coastal area with salt marshes, islands, lagoons, and an abundance of wildlife[/caption]
Must-do activities
Inês said: Take a boat tour to Benagil Cave and Praia da Marinha or Ponta da Piedade – these are the most visited natural landmarks in the Algarve. Not visiting them is the same as going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower.
“Make sure you do some oyster tasting, as the best oysters in Portugal come from the Algarve, and also some wine tasting – when compared with Alentejo or Douro wines, Algarvian wines are much sweeter and slightly more alcoholic.
“Spend the day at Ilha Deserta. Although it’s a popular location, Ilha Deserta is one of the most isolated coastal areas in the Algarve and perfect for a quiet day enjoying the sun.”
Ana said: “From a simple day on the beach, to hiking on the cliffs. There’s multiple boat activities; dolphin watching in their natural environment off the coast in the Algarve is one of the best for all ages! For food tourists, the algarve has several wineries and vineyards that make excellent slower days. Or you can visit the more traditional side of rural life and explore olive oil production, and even orange tree farming.
Jack said: “Visiting the islands from Olhão is a must-do experience when exploring the Algarve.
“This charming coastal town serves as a gateway to the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park, a sprawling lagoon system dotted with idyllic islands.”
Favourite bars
Inês said: “In Portimão, Bolan in Alvor is a chilled, family-owned bar that serves the best capirinhas, while NoSolo Água has a pool lounge overlooking the beach in Praia da Rocha that serves sushi and oysters.
“In Ferragudo, head to Club Nau on Sundays to enjoy live music and a few cocktails, for views over Praia Grande at sunset (cocktails from €6).”
Ana said: The LAB Terrace sunset bar is my favourite bar in Faro – the atmosphere is very relaxed, the drinks are excellent and fairly priced (beers from €2 and wines from €4.50).
“The views are stunning, with the most beautiful sunsets over the Ria Formosa lagoon.”
Angela said: “Pedro’s bar on the beach in Armação de Pera is good for a cocktail (house wine from €3.50 and cocktails from €7).”
LAB Terrace is a good spot to head to enjoy a drink as it boasts beautiful sunset views over Ria Formosa lagoon[/caption]
Many people head to Monchique to enjoy hiking in the Monchique Mountains[/caption]
Arte Bianca in Aljezur offers Italian classics from pizza to pasta, and is a good place to stop if you do the cliff-front walk[/caption]
Best place to go for outdoors adventurers
Inês said: “For outdoor adventurers, there is no better place than Monchique, for its hiking trails and birdwatching, medicinal water thermal baths, and yoga retreats.”
Ana said: “Lagos is a brilliant town that has long attracted surfers to the west Algarve, but recently has become a prime destination for visitors of all types.
“It has incredible hiking trails, water and beach sports, and a historic old town to explore, plus its proximity to the west Algarve is great for explorers that want to see the wild coastline with cliffs and big waves.”
Verity said: “Head to Baloiço Panorâmico do Pico Alto for a swing on the mountains with a picturesque view of the Algarve, and Fonte Férrea has a pretty waterfall and open water area close to the mountains.”
Jack said: “If you’re into surfing, then in the summer months you need to visit the west coast.
“Monte Clerigo and Arrifana beaches are both based near the bigger town of Aljezur, and all three locations offer great accommodation and dining options to accompany the stunning waves.
“If the waves aren’t working that day, then you can always go for an amazing cliff-front walk and explore the area that way, and make sure to stop by Arte Bianca for an amazing pizza if you’re in the area.”
Meet our local experts
Our panel of Algarve experts all live, own businesses or work in Portugal’s southernmost region…
Inês Tito is a Portugal and Algarve trip planner at Go Ask A Local, as well as a freelance content writer, copywriter and translator.
Ana Veiga, 30, is a travel and food writer and the co-founder of We Travel Portugal. She’s originally from São Paulo, Brazil, but has been in Portugal since 2018. She currently lives in Faro.
Angela Antor, 59, is a watermelon farmer that’s lived in the Algarve for five years, having previously lived in North Yorkshire. She also runs a YouTube channel, Living in the Algarve Portugal.
Verity Thenard, 35, is a pilates instructor and co-founder of a health and wellness concierge, Core Algarve. She’s lived in the Algarve for two years and is originally from Sydney.
Jack Reeves, 38, owns and operates a design consultancy called Mates Incorporated with his wife Hannah, 32, as well as a local co-working space for creatives in the Algarve called CoCreate. Jack is originally from Keighley, Yorkshire in the UK and Hannah from Munich.
Salem Haire, 22, is a full time solo traveller, photographer and social media marketer. She currently lives in Lagos, where she’s been since March 2023. Follow her on Instagram here.
Cacela Velha is a small village with stunning views over Ria Formosa[/caption]
If you’re looking for a good spot to enjoy the sunset, head up the cliffs at Porto Mos Beach[/caption]
Favourite viewpoints
Inês said: “Alcoutim is an authentic countryside village overlooking the Guadiana River, where you can admire the river view while crossing the border to Spain on a zip line.”
Ana said: “A view point I always go back to is in Cacela Velha, a tiny village with a view of the Ria Formosa, an expansive beach, and the coast.
“Alternatively, Sagres, formally known as the ‘End of the Known World’ offers jaw dropping views with its huge cliffs and Atlantic waves breaking on the beaches below.”
Angela said: “Pria da Rocha, the resort at Portimao, has fantastic views along the coastline and it’s also a great resort to visit with its boardwalk on the beach lined with bars and restaurants.”
Salem said: “One of my favourite view points is Porto Mos Beach, if you walk up the cliffs at sunset.”
Slide & Splash water park in Lagoa offers a great day out for families with young kids[/caption]
Best place to take kids
Verity: ParTee Mini Golf Vale do Lobo, Zoomarine, Aquashow, Lagos Zoo or any of the waterparks. There is also a Safari park in Aljezur.
Jack: One thing I LOVE to do with my nieces and nephews is visit Slide & Splash water park in Lagoa. I highly recommend booking a day here as they have slides suitable for all ages, and a safe, comfortable environment to all relax in together.
Albufeira has stunning beaches but can appear too touristy and overdeveloped[/caption]
Places that are overrated or tourist traps
Inês said: “Praia da Rocha. The beach is one of the best in the Portimão area, you barely get any waves and you’ll find all the necessary facilities, from restaurants and bars to restrooms, sunbeds, outdoor gym, and a sports area.
“However, if you look over to the shoreline all you’ll see are apartment towers and hotels, tacky bars and pubs, and souvenir shops.”
Ana said: “Albufeira is the original Algarve resort town with stunning beaches, but it’s too touristy and too overdeveloped. You have to look hard to find an authentic and local experience.”
Verity said: “Vilamoura Marina and Quarteira are quite touristy, so they won’t give you the true Algarve experience. But they also have some new restaurants, so the vibe is slowly changing.”
Tips for tourists
Ana said: “The Algarve suffers serious seasonality, the summer months – June to August are saturated. If you can, visit in late September and October, when the temperatures are still warm enough for the beaches.”
Angela said: “Hire a car to reach the hidden beaches and coves stretching the whole of the Algarvian peninsula, from Tavira right down to Sagres.”
Verity said: “Avoid the old towns or centres during July and August if you don’t like crowds, and prepare for customs control to take a while if you’re coming with a non-EU passport.
“Bring your sunscreen, as it can get pricey here, and ask which fish has been caught locally. ”
Jack said: “Hop on a ferry or if you’re a larger group, hire a private boat tour to reach the tranquil islands of Culatra, Armona, and Farol.
“Each island offers its own unique charm, from the pristine beaches and traditional fishing villages to the vibrant marine life and scenic walking trails.”
Figueira offers a quiet stay for those looking to enjoy beach village life, with Praia da Figueira a secluded beach spot[/caption]
Where to stay
Inês said: “Aldeia de Pedralva is a rebuilt, formerly abandoned traditional countryside village near Lagos. You can stay at one of the refurbished houses, go cycling or hiking in the countryside and still be close to the beach.
“Or the Bela Vista Hotel & Spa – Relais & Châteaux in Portimão is a beautiful boutique hotel set in a 19th palace overlooking Praia da Rocha.”
Ana said: “If you are looking for a unique and luxurious stay in the Algarve, I recommend the hotels from Pousadas de Portugal.
They are small luxury hotels built in historic buildings, so you not only get the 5-star hotel experience, but you also have unique access to some historical palaces and monuments in the Algarve.
“In Estói, you have Pousada Palácio de Estói, an 18th century Neoclassical palace located 10 km from Faro, and in Tavira, Pousada Convento Tavira is built inside a former 16th century convent.”
Jack said: “For a quiet stay, head to Budens, Salema, or Figueira and enjoy the village beach life.
“On the western side of the south coast, these locations are a little further from the airport but enjoy a quieter, more relaxed way of living away from any high rises.”
