Things to Do in Albufeira

Just steps away from the resort town of Gale, and a handful of kilometers west of Albufeira, stretches one of the region’s favorite beaches, Praia Gale. It’s a favorite because of its eastern rocky and cave- and cove-filled coastline, and probably even more so for its western stretch of soft sands and calm waters especially loved by families. This expansive stretch of shoreline is ideal for relaxing walks, watersports, and grabbing a bite to eat at one of the waterside restaurants and bars. Families relish in enjoying the calm beach but also the many tide pools. Meanwhile, those looking to explore further can take advantage of watersports, or go on a healthy walk westward toward other regional beaches such as Praia dos Salgados, Praia Grande, and even Armacao de Pera.

When it comes to beaches, Armacao de Pera has something for everyone. The beach, which stretches out in front of the fishermen’s village-meets resort town of the same name, offers everything from rocky coves, to rows of umbrella-shaded sunbeds, and fresh-seafood-serving restaurants.

Indeed, if you’re looking for rocky, natural wonders, head to the shoreline’s western end, which is filled with coves and craggy formations. Going eastward, you can take a stroll along the promenade-lined beach, slithering into the resort-style village, or stepping down onto the wide, sandy, family friendly shore. Or wander still farther east, where you’ll happen upon the city’s fishermen’s village. There, you can spy the fishermen arriving with their daily catch, or enjoy said catch at one of the waterside restaurants before grabbing an ice cream and exploring the sweet streets of the neighboring old town.

Golf, nature and a seaside resort — these are all things you’ll find just steps away from the sandy stretch that is Praia dos Salgados. This beach is where you’ll want to come for a seemingly endless and calm shoreline that offers all the amenities, including showers, lifeguards and rentable sunbeds. It is just a short walk away from other visit­worthy spots, too, such as the Dos Salgados Lagoon, and the nature reserve around it, famously home to flamingos and loads of other birds and wildlife. While in the area, you can also hit the links at one of Algarve’s best golf courses, Salgados Golf Course. Or wander in either direction down the coast to discover still more beaches, such as Praia Gale to the east, and Praia Grande to the west, and even beyond to Armacao de Pera Beach and its sweet resort town­-meets-fishing village.