Lonely PlanetJul 9
15 of the best things to do in the Algarve
Plan your adventures on the cliffs, caves and beaches of Portugal
Vast park of lagoons, islands, and inlets.
24 things in this story
- Parque Natural da Ria FormosaNature reserveVast park of lagoons, islands, and inlets.
- FormosamarPlaceRuns excursions by bicycle, motorboat, and kayak.
- Ilha DesertaFerry terminalUninhabited island with a 7km sandy beach.
- EstaminéRestaurantIsland's only restaurant, serves fresh catch.
- AnimarisPlaceOperates ferries to Ilha Deserta.
- Elsewhere
- Solar do PerceveRestaurantVila do Bispo, PortugalSample tender crustaceans known as percebes here.
- Cabo de São VicenteSightAlgarve, PortugalLofty headlands for watching the sunset.
- Praia de Santo AntónioSightAlgarve, PortugalBeach on the eastern end of the Algarve.
- Praia da MarinhaSightCarvoeiro, PortugalTiny beach surrounded by towering cliffs.
- Amado Surf CampPlaceCarrapateira, PortugalOffers surf lessons, lodging, and gear.
- Olhão MarketMarketOlhão, PortugalStandout market in two historic red-brick buildings.
- Ponta da PiedadeSightLagos, PortugalHeadland with towering sandstone formations.
- Seven Hanging Valleys TrailTrailCarvoeiro, PortugalTrail above serene coves and rock formations.
- Mar IlimitadoPlaceSagres, PortugalDolphin-watching cruises with exceptional guides.
- Vila JoyaRestaurantAlgarve, PortugalTwo Michelin stars, changing menu, luxurious rooms.
- Benagil CaveSightCarvoeiro, PortugalVast sandstone cavern accessible only by sea.
- Clear EmotionsPlaceBenagil, PortugalOffers longer kayak or SUP tours of Benagil Cave.
- Portimão MuseumMuseumPortimão, PortugalJourney into Portugal’s seafaring past.
- Igreja MatrizPlace of worshipPortimão, PortugalChurch interior decorated with azulejos.
- Reserva Natural do Sapal de Castro MarimNature reserveCastro Marim, PortugalNature reserve with salt pans.
- SalmarimPlaceCastro Marim, PortugalHarvest premium flor de sal by hand.
- Agua MãeCaféCastro Marim, PortugalSalty souvenirs.
- Limite ZeroPlaceAlcoutim, PortugalSeasonal zipline across the border.
- Dos SantosPlace of worshipPortimão, Portugal