Framed by a 200km coastline and enjoying 300 days of sunshine per year, the Algarve is home to award-winning beaches, which reign as one of Europe’s great surfing playgrounds. This region in Portugal has breaks for all levels, including areas that visitors can try for the first time to get a thrill.
For those looking to swap the Cornwall coastline and head out to the Algarve during the winter months, the more exposed points of Zavial, in the west off the region are popular among surfers and beginners. Meanwhile, spring and autumn bring good conditions to more sheltered beach breaks, such as Luz for intermediates.
Where to soak up the sun, sea and waves
The Algarve is unique in that it threads along the south of the country and so has exposure to the open Atlantic on its western side. During the winter, strong swells come in from the North Atlantic, bending around the Sagres headland – bringing incredible waves. From spring to autumn, there is good exposure to the open ocean which means that there are great waves to catch on the west coast, all the way from Tonel to Praia da Amoreira.
Here are some top picks...
Location: Faro
Located close to the airport, the Praia de Faro a great location for surfing in the Algarve, but it’s also one of the most unique beaches visitors to the region will see as the beach and mainland are separated by the Ria Formosa.
Location: Sagres
This beach is geared more towards advanced surfers, so if you’re a pro definitely check it out. The sheltered beach is covered by the coastal cliffs, which in turn create some amazing waves. Sagres also makes for an enjoyable day trip while you are down in Western Algarve, so make sure to visit the Cabo de Sao Vicente, the Fortaleza de Sagres and the town centre.
Location: Aljezur
This a small market town of whitewashed houses and cobbled streets is another ideal location for suffers of any level, and is a popular area for surfers due to the fact that it is protected from the north wind. The backdrop is incredible too – with towering cliffs overlooking the beach.
Aljezur is close to a number of spectacular beaches including Arrifana, Monte Clérigo and Carrapateira, all of which form part of the stunningly beautiful Natural Park a strip of coastline that is protected from development.
Where to visit whilst you’re not surfing
Faro International Airport is the gateway to the Algarve. If you’re after a relaxing day trip, or a break from surfing, there are plenty of towns – such as Lagos, Silves, Loulé, Faro, Olhão and Tavira – to visit.
Faro is a historic and culturally rich city that boasts a variety of fascinating tourist attractions including the cathedral church, the Municipal Museum of Faro, the marina, and strolling around the old town. There is a lot to do, and the city makes for an enjoyable day trip or destination during a touring holiday of the Algarve.
If you want to immerse yourself in nature, walk or cycle, then discover Monchique, the highest mountain in the Algarve. Visitors will be able to explore the natural surroundings and rich culture of the region, while learning about the streams and abundant water resources influenced by the Atlantic Ocean.
A hike on the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, a costal clifftop walk that offers stunning views of the coastline near Praia de Marinha and Benagil, should not be missed! The day walk makes for a pleasant and relaxing time, and will leave you wanting to come back to the Algarve year after year. Don’t forget to pack your camera as the Seven Hanging Valleys trail guides you through some of the most striking natural gems in the Algarve.