Algarve Travel Guide: Discover Portugal’s Coastal Paradise 🏖️

Meta Title: Algarve Travel Guide: Best Beaches, Towns & Things to Do in Southern Portugal
Meta Description: Escape to the Algarve! Explore Portugal’s top beach towns, sea caves, coastal hikes, and unforgettable food in this essential Algarve travel guide.

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📸 Featured Image Suggestion:

An aerial shot of Benagil Cave with a small boat entering its sunlit dome and turquoise waters.
(Alt text: Aerial view of Benagil Cave in Algarve, Portugal with crystal-clear water)

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🏝️ Welcome to the Algarve – Where the Coast Comes to Life

The Algarve is Portugal’s sunny southern region, known for its cliff-backed beaches, golden sand, fishing villages, and dramatic sea caves. It’s the perfect destination for sunseekers, surfers, families, and foodies, with over 300 days of sunshine per year. Whether you're chasing waves, dolphin-watching, or sipping sangria by the sea, the Algarve has something for everyone.

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🌟 Top 6 Things to Do in the Algarve

🌊 1. Visit Benagil Cave

One of the most iconic sea caves in the world. Accessible only by boat, kayak, or paddleboard, this natural cathedral glows with sunlight through its skylight.

🏖️ 2. Relax on Praia da Marinha

A picture-perfect beach surrounded by limestone cliffs and turquoise waters — regularly ranked among Europe’s best beaches.

🐬 3. Go Dolphin Watching from Albufeira or Lagos

Take a speedboat tour to see wild dolphins playing along the coast — a favorite for families and nature lovers.

🏄 4. Surf the West Coast (Arrifana, Amado)

The Algarve’s wild west is surfer heaven. Head to Carrapateira for waves, sunsets, and a chill vibe.

🏞️ 5. Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

A breathtaking coastal trail from Praia da Marinha to Vale Centeanes with sea views, cliffs, and hidden coves.

🏙️ 6. Explore Lagos’ Old Town

Cobblestone streets, colorful markets, and vibrant nightlife make Lagos the perfect base for exploring.

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🍽️ What to Eat in the Algarve

• Cataplana de Marisco – A seafood stew cooked in a traditional copper pot

• Grilled Sardines – Fresh, smoky, and served with potatoes and salad

• Piri Piri Chicken – Spicy grilled chicken with Algarve’s famous hot sauce

• Dom Rodrigo – A sweet almond and egg yolk dessert wrapped in foil

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🎉 Top Festivals in the Algarve

• Festival do Marisco (Olhão, August) – A seafood lover’s dream with music and local dishes

• Medieval Festival in Silves (August) – Knights, markets, and medieval magic in a Moorish castle town

• Carnaval de Loulé (February) – Portugal’s oldest and most colorful carnival parade

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🧳 Algarve Travel Tips

• Best time to visit: May to October (July–August for peak beach weather; May–June and Sept–Oct for fewer crowds)

• Getting around: Renting a car is the best way to explore beaches and hidden gems

• Towns to stay in:

  • Lagos – Historic + great beaches

  • Albufeira – Family-friendly and nightlife

  • Faro – Gateway to the region

  • Tavira – Traditional and tranquil

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📌 Quick Facts

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💬 Local Tip

“If you only visit the beaches, you’re missing half the Algarve — explore inland villages, taste local wines, and watch a sunset from the cliffs.”