14 ULTIMATE Things to Do in Algarve, Portugal This Summer

For anyone seeking out things to do in the Algarve, I have you covered right here! This is one of my favorite places in the world, and I’m stoked to share it with you…

It’s so gorgeous, and I’m humbled to have actually spent nearly a year collectively in the Algarve! *pinch me*

There are tons of things to do in the Algarve area, and all of them offer up some jaw-dropping scenery as a little bonus. Let’s go!

1. Enjoy the Views as You Trek Along the Coast

Insane cliffside in the Algarve with person at the edge — Photo Credit: whereintheworldisnina.com

The Algarve doesn’t do hiking like other places. I can’t think of too many places in the world where there are miles and miles of coastline hikes above rocky cliff edges that take you to hidden beaches – can you?

2. Sun Your Bums on Some of the Best Beaches in the Entire World

Praia do Carvalho on an Algarve itinerary — Photo Credit: whereintheworldisnina.com

The soft golden sand, clear deep blue water, and sounds of the crests smashing onto the shores… It just doesn’t get old!

Some of my favorites are in the Vila do Bispo area, but I have an entirely different post just on the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches that I absolutely love.

3. Shred Some Waves (It’s a Religion Here!)

Surfing is a must on your Algarve itinerary — Photo Credit: whereintheworldisnina.com

The waves are a bit bigger and rougher than the waves I’ve been on in Ecuador, Morocco, Mexico, and Indonesia…

But there are some areas that are kinder to beginners/fraidy cats, and of course, you can always take a lesson (recommended unless you have experience)!

4. Let Your Jaw Drop at Benagil Cave

Kayaking in Benagil Cave on an Algarve itinerary — Photo Credit: whereintheworldisnina.com

If you’ve ever seen a picture of the Algarve, you’ve probably seen a picture of Benagil Cave.

It’s simply one of the best things to do in the Algarve. You can hike to the top along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, but the best way to see it is from below.

5. Travel to Another World at Ponta da Piedade

Kayaking around rock formations at Ponta da Piedade on an Algarve itinerary — Photo Credit: whereintheworldisnina.com

Ponta da Piedade and the beaches and trails in this area are from another world. This ethereal collection of cliffs, caves, grottos, and delicate arches will blow. your. mind. And it’s easily one of the best things to do in the Algarve.

RECOMMENDED TOURS: Boat tour | Kayak tour

6. Chill Out in Sagres

Overhead view of Martinhal Sagres in the Algarve — Photo Credit: whereintheworldisnina.com

You’ll no doubt realize pretty quickly that the Algarve is an action-packed region. But when you’re ready to chill out in a cool town, there’s no better place than Sagres.

Located on the Algarve’s western tip, Sagres is pretty remote, which is just part of the allure here.

7. Laze on the Laidback Shores of Luz

Beach and town at Praia da Luz, Algarve — Photo Credit: whereintheworldisnina.com

Praia da Luz, or, Beach of Light, is a beautiful beach near Lagos, though it’s definitely a destination in its own right.

The fine, golden sand beach is worth the journey alone, but add in a long, palm-lined esplanade and a selection of charming beach cafes and restaurants, and you’ve got one of the best things to do in the Algarve.

8. Discover the Magic of Carvoeiro

Crowds on Praia de Carvoiero on an Algarve itinerary — Photo Credit: whereintheworldisnina.com

While I recommend seeing every last square inch of the Algarve if you can manage it, I totally get that sometimes you want to just pick a spot and stick there, especially if you’re short on time. If that’s you, check out Carvoeiro.

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9. See What Makes Marinha Beach So Popular

View over Praia da Marinha one of the things to do in the Algarve — Photo Credit: whereintheworldisnina.com

Is this one of the best beaches in the Algarve? Absolutely. Is it one of the most popular beaches in all of Portugal? Possibly! While I usually shy away from attractions that are known as the most popular (read, most touristy), Marinha Beach is actually worth the hype, in my opinion.

10. Have the Experience of a Lifetime on a Dolphin Watching Tour

Try a dolphin watching experience by boat for things to do in Algarve.

One of the best things to do in the Algarve is discover what creatures live off the coast. And one of the coolest specimens is dolphins! Both bottlenose and common dolphins swim in these waters, so why not have the experience of a lifetime and try to spot some of these awesome creatures?

RECOMMENDED TOURS:
Dolphin watching tour from Lagos | Dolphin watching tour from Albufeira