Portugal instantly conjures images of iconic landmarks and unforgettable destinations.  The colorful, charming streets of Lisbon.  The sprawling vineyards of the Douro Valley, outside of Porto.  The breathtaking beaches of the Silver Coast, filled with sugar-soft sand.  There are so many places to love in Portugal!  

Top of my list might be the iconic Algarve region in southern Portugal. The cliffside beaches, jaw-dropping caves to explore, and the warmer water combine into a fantastic location to visit.

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Whether you’ve seen the Benagil Cave in some travel magazine or not, I can guarantee this region of Portugal is well worth your visit.  As an American expat mom of five living in Portugal, I’ve taken my family (darling husband included) to the Algarve multiple times.  We fall in love with this region more each time we visit, to the point that we’ve pondered relocating from our Lisbon home to try this area on for size. 

The Algarve is a family paradise with golden beaches, scenic towns, and countless family-friendly activities. It’s also an expat haven, with British and American expats thriving in many cities.  Some tourists and Portuguese don’t love these tourist hot spots, where English is heard more than Portuguese.  

However, I find it all charming.  Sure, it surprises me in a grocery store when I hear English more than Portuguese.  This is a far cry from our local grocery store in Lisbon.  However, tourist spots attract people for a reason!

From beach days to water parks, we’ve seen a lot of it, and I’m excited to share our favorite places and tips to help other families make the most of their Algarve adventure.

Why the Algarve, Portugal, Is Ideal for Families

Boasting fewer people overall than its northern neighbors, the Algarve offers lots of open space.  It can be desert-like, especially in the summer when rainfall is low and the sun is plentiful and scorching.  Spring rains bring vegetation and cooler temperatures.

However, note that in the summer, this may be the top destination in all of Portugal!  Book early for the best deals.  

Warmer Water for Swimming

The Algarve offers warmer water and gorgeous beaches.  Many beaches are only available by boat or kayak, making this region a good place to “treasure hunt” for a private beach picnic.

Overall, its warm climate, safe beaches, and a mix of both bustling and laid-back towns keep the Algarve a family favorite.  If you haven’t been swimming near Lisbon, it’s quite cold (freezing to many).  Anyone who has tried to swim in California can relate, as the climates are quite similar.  

Thankfully, the Algarve boasts slightly warmer ocean waters (by a few degrees) and miles and miles of amazing beaches.  Many of these coastlines are nestled amid sprawling cliffs and sea caves.  Many beaches are not accessible except through a cave hike or by water.  This results in pristine, untouched areas of gorgeous paradise.  One boat tour in Portimão will showcase the romantic alcoves accessed by kayakers and private boats.

My kids are so used to trying to swim in cooler waters that they think the Algarve is downright warm.  It is not, compared to many parts of the world, but it is dreamy for us in the heat of the summer. 

Welcoming Attitude to Tourists

The Algarve has something for families of all sizes and ages. People here are warm and welcoming, for the most part, and our family feels right at home. You’ll find that some locals are tired of the endless stream of tourists, but who can blame them?  Isn’t that the case in all touristy areas?  Overall, the Portuguese are warm and friendly with foreigners and enjoy children.

The language barrier is not a big deal in most of Portugal, as the Portuguese readily speak English.  This barrier diminishes even more in the Algarve.  Entire towns are full of expats from various countries, and English is prevalent.

Lots To Offer Families

Because the Algarve covers a relatively small area, families can easily enjoy various activities and landscapes.  Each part of the Algarve offers a different flavor to visitors, but the entire region is only 3-4 hours across by car. 

There are also many smaller pockets and little towns to explore that are hard not to fall in love with.  There are pockets of expats, such as an entire town that is comprised of nearly all Swedish expats!  Many movie stars from various countries have mansions here to enjoy the endless Portuguese sun and waves.

Major Sections of the Algarve for Families To Visit

The Algarve is divided into several main regions, each with its own distinct charm. We’ve visited some of these in our nearly four years of living in Portugal, but still have many we’d love to explore.

Western Algarve (Barlavento = Windward)

This area is known for its dramatic cliffs, surf beaches, and charming towns.  The wind has carved this region into a stunning landscape over the centuries. This is the most popular area to visit and great for a first visit.

• Lagos – A historic town with stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and access to boat trips to Ponta da Piedade.
• Portimão – Famous for Praia da Rocha, a large beach with golden sands and cliffs, plus a great spot for seafood lovers.  We’ve been here several times, and it is my favorite location in the Algarve.
• Alvor – A quieter fishing village with a beautiful riverfront and great beaches.
• Sagres – The wild, rugged coastline is perfect for surfers and nature lovers. It’s also home to Cabo de São Vicente, the southwesternmost point of Europe.
• Silves – Inland, this historic town has a stunning red-brick Moorish castle and a relaxed, traditional feel.  We love to visit the medieval festivals in Portugal, and this town has a big one.

Central Algarve

This area is the most developed, featuring major tourist hubs, luxury resorts, and some of the best family-friendly attractions.  A lot of Portuguese locals avoid the larger hot spots of this region due to how busy they can get with tourists.  

In fact, I’ve been told Albufeira is like a “mini-London,” with plentiful pubs and nearly all English speaking people.  We’ve eaten lunch there, and I didn’t get this vibe, but I could see it being true in the summer months.

• Albufeira – The most popular tourist town, with a lively nightlife, beautiful beaches, and lots of family-friendly attractions.  Most of the waterparks of Portugal are located here, which are a must-visit on our trips to the Algarve.  I love Zoomarine the most!
• Vilamoura – A high-end resort area with a large marina, golf courses, and luxury accommodations.
• Quarteira – A more local-feeling town with a long beach and great seafood.
• Loulé – A cultural inland town known for its historic market, cobbled streets, and festivals.

Eastern Algarve (Sotavento=Leeward)

This area is more laid-back, with a mix of islands, charming fishing villages, and a strong Portuguese influence.  Faro is a popular destination among Portuguese and expats alike.  This area is also fun, as it borders Spain and has more influence from Spain.  In fact, I stayed with a friend in this beautiful hotel, and we were able to ride our bikes over into Spain for the day!

Spain tends to have even warmer water than Portugal, which is great for long beach days and sitting by the pool.  This area can be hot in the summer.

• Faro – The capital of the Algarve, with a charming old town and access to the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
• Olhão – A traditional fishing town with excellent seafood markets and boat trips to the islands.
• Tavira – One of the most beautiful towns in the Algarve, known for its charming architecture, Roman bridge, and Ilha de Tavira beach.
• Cabanas de Tavira – A quieter beach town with access to a stunning island beach.
• Vila Real de Santo António – The last town before Spain, with a unique layout and a scenic riverside setting.  You’ll hear as much Spanish here as Portuguese!

Top Three Destinations for a First Visit to the Algarve as a Family

Now that we’ve explored the main regions of the Algarve, deciding where to begin your adventure can feel a bit overwhelming.  I’m not against touristy areas (they are touristy for a reason), so I’d recommend starting your first visit with these three towns.  They are relatively close together and can be enjoyed in a week or even a long weekend.

Lagos, Portugal With Kids

Lagos is one of my favorite towns in the Algarve, and it’s great for families. We love the old town’s charm, with its cobblestone streets and friendly cafes. Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo are perfect beaches for kids, with rock formations for them to explore and calm waters for swimming.

Albufeira, Portugal, With Kids

If you’re looking for a livelier atmosphere, Albufeira is a fantastic choice. Though it’s more touristy, it’s also well-developed, offering plenty of activities and entertainment options—especially for families. The old town is colorful and fun to explore with the kids.  

Several of the waterparks in Portugal are close to here, such as Zoomarine—a theme park with dolphins, sea lions, and water slides. We visited Zoomarine last summer and had a fantastic time—so much so that we left with a list of things we still wanted to do but didn’t get the chance to fit in. Zoomarine was the closest thing to an American waterpark I’ve found in Portugal.

Portimão, Portugal, With Kids

Portimão is fantastic for family beach days. Praia da Rocha is huge, so there’s plenty of space to spread out, and the kids can play in the sand and splash in the water for hours. We love to pack a picnic and chairs and stay all day.  One of our kids was invited last year to go with a friend’s family to the Algarve, and that was all they did all day!  Just play, play, and play some more on this amazing beach.

Slide & Splash, one of the Algarve’s top water parks, is nearby, and it’s always a highlight of our trips to the Algarve.

Best Time of Year To Visit the Algarve With Kids

Summer will always take the cake as the busiest time of year in the Algarve, and for good reason: the hot Portuguese sun goes wonderfully with the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic and a perfect beach day.  

However, winter can be a lovely time to visit, too (with less swimming involved).  The water parks are not open, but there is plentiful hiking, kayaking, and more.  Often, the Algarve is going to be sunnier and more beautiful than many other winter locations (many Brits flock here for that reason) and is a great option in the winter.  Bonus: fewer tourists in the winter!

You can also plan a visit to the Algarve around one of the many festivals.  Some include:

• Easter festivals 
  • Festa das Torchas, Sao Brás de Alportel, Procissão do Enterro do Senhor (Loulé), Festa da Mãe Soberana (Loulé) 
• Medieval festivals
  • We loved the ones in Silves that we visited last year!  It was the first time that we heard English at a medieval festival in Portugal.  We loved the castle and the horse show.
• Music festivals
  • Portugal hosts many musical artists and festivals, and the Algarve is no exception. Here are some that you’d love.
    
    • Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival: May 6–11, 2025
      Location: Pine Cliffs Resort, Albufeira
      
      This festival offers a luxurious blend of smooth jazz, soul, and funk, set against the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Held at the award-winning Pine Cliffs Resort, attendees can enjoy performances by top international artists in an intimate and scenic setting.
      
    • Afro Nation Portugal: July 9–11, 2025
      Location: Praia da Rocha, Portimão
      
      Celebrated as the world’s biggest Afrobeats festival, Afro Nation brings together a stellar lineup of artists spanning Afrobeats, Amapiano, hip-hop, and R&B. The beachside venue offers a vibrant atmosphere, combining music with cultural experiences.
      
    • Al-Buhera Festival: Late July 2025
      Location: Fisherman’s Square, Albufeira
      
      This five-day festival celebrates Albufeira’s Moorish heritage with a mix of live music, traditional dance, local crafts, and gastronomy. The event transforms the town’s square into a lively cultural hub, attracting both locals and tourists.
      
    • Festival da Sardinha: August 5–10, 2025
      Location: Riverside area, Portimão
      
      A tribute to the beloved sardine, this festival features an array of sardine dishes, traditional Algarvean sides, and desserts. Complemented by live music performances, it’s a culinary and cultural highlight of the summer.

How To Get to the Algarve Region of Portugal With Kids

I highly recommend renting a car, if you can, to explore the Algarve.  You can take buses from Lisbon for very affordable prices, but this will limit you to just one city.  You are also dependent on the time schedule of the bus.  With kids, it can be more fun to explore by car.  

Parking can still be an issue in the city centers and near the beaches.  We visited Praia da Rocha, one of the most popular beaches in the Algarve, on a busy Friday.  We also have a large Mercedes Van that is difficult to park in the best of times!

My husband had to park so far away that he took an Uber to the beach and back.  This is annoying, but sometimes it is the only option.  Getting accommodation with parking can be very helpful in some of these areas.

By Plane: Faro Airport is the gateway to the Algarve, with flights from major European cities. From there, it’s an easy drive to popular towns like Albufeira and Lagos.

Of course, you can also fly into Lisbon and rent your car from there.  It is an easy drive, about 3-4 hours depending on the part of the Algarve you are going to, with plenty of gas stations and rest stops on the route.  The only downside to this is the tolls.  You’ll pay 20-25€ to go this distance.

By Train: The train journey from Lisbon to Faro is comfortable and scenic; it’s a convenient alternative to driving. Trains depart from Lisbon’s Oriente Station and arrive at Faro Station, covering a distance of approximately 302 km (188 miles). The journey typically takes between 2 hours 52 minutes and 3 hours 30 minutes, depending on the train service chosen.

Train Options:

• Alfa Pendular (AP): This high-speed service is the fastest option, with travel times around 2 hours 52 minutes. It offers modern amenities and greater comfort.​
  
• Intercidades (IC): A slightly slower service, taking approximately 3 hours 16 minutes, but still a reliable and comfortable choice.​
  

Transfers:

While there are direct trains available, some routes may require a transfer at Tunes Station. Tunes is a small station, and the transfer process is straightforward—simply disembark and wait for the connecting train on the same platform. 

Tickets start from approximately €22.15 for Intercidades and €23.50 for Alfa Pendular in second class. First-class options are also available at higher rates.

By Car: We always drive, which gives us the flexibility to stop where we like. Our van is electric, and we can find plenty of charging stations on the route.  These can be busy in the popular summer months, however, and we’ve had to wait in line to charge before.

Best Beaches for Families in the Algarve

Most people flock to the Algarve to get in some amazing beach time.  After all, the Algarve is recognized as one of the best beach destinations in the world.  Algarve recently won the World Travel Award as Europe’s Leading Beach Destination – for the 10th time already! No other destination has ever achieved this.

The number of beaches in the Algarve is nearly endless!  Some can only be accessed by the ocean, others by a steep climb down, and a few are at a level with car parking near the water.  Nearly all are stunning.  What will vary is:

• The number of people that visit the beach
• The amenities of the beach.  Many don’t have any amenities at all (bathrooms, food, etc).
• The accessibility of the beach.  Many require a staircase down to the beach or a similar steep descent.  Bring a baby carrier for the little ones.

Here are a few highly rated beaches to get your started, but honestly, you won’t go wrong with nearly any beach in the Algarve.

Praia de Marinha.  One of the more famous beaches in the area due its proximity to Portimao and Benegil Cave.

Praia Nova & Praia Nossa Senhora da Rocha.  Like many beaches in the Algarve, these two are separated by a rock wall entrance.  Holes in the cliffs allow for exploration between beaches.

Falesia Beach, Olhos de Agua.  This is a beautiful, clean beach with plenty of space.  You can rent chairs, and there is a bathroom.

Praia Da Rocha.  Perhaps the most famous, this beach is difficult to access and park near.  It is very large and gorgeous but can be packed in the summer.  This is reminiscent of Florida or other large, open beaches.  There are several places to eat, bathrooms, and more.

Camilo Beach. Not a strenuous descent, this beach offers a restaurant and is family-friendly.

Praia Maria Luísa.  We stayed at an Airbnb right next to this beach last summer and loved it.  Every day we walked down to the beach and soaked in the sun.  It has a bathroom, watersport rental, and a lovely, rock-free area to swim.

Top Things To Do With Kids in the Algarve

• Visit a waterpark.  The top three include:
  • Zoomarine (our favorite).  This waterpark has many shows to enjoy, animal and butterfly encounters, and water rides.
  • Aquashow.  With tons of slides and pools to dip in, this is a day of fun.
  • Slide and Splash.  You can find some really fun water slides here, but lines can be really long in the summer.

• Visit The Southernmost Part of Europe: Cape St. Vincent

• Sand City.  An entire “city” of sand sculptures.  This places gets very hot, so visit eary or close to closing in the summer.  I also recommend renting a golf cart for the extra cost.

• Parasailing or Watersports. Many of the larger beaches will have watersport equipment for rent, from jetskis to little paddle boats.  They might also have trampoline parks in the water! 

• Fonte Grand de Alte.  This natural-fed spring (river beach, or praia fluvial) in the town of Alte, about 30 minutes from Albufeira, can be a great day trip!  It can get busy in the summer, but it is a refreshing dip on a hot, sunny day.  There is also a waterfall nearby to visit, Queda do Vigário.

• High ropes course.  Consider visiting Parque Aventura in Albufeira for a challenge for both kids and adults.

• Ponta da Piedade. One of Portugal’s most famous and stunning natural landmarks, this coastal walk can lead you to a lighthouse, Farol da Piedade, or you can climb down the beach by way of the staircases.  Located in Lagos.

• Lagos Zoo.  If you love zoos, this is a fun one!

• Krazy World.  This mixture of a small zoo and pool offers a petting zoo, lunch options, and more.

More Family-Friendly Activities in the Algarve

• Beach Days: The Algarve has endless beaches to choose from, and each one has its own charm. Meia Praia in Lagos and Praia da Marinha near Lagoa are two that have worked well for us, with space to spread out and safe areas for swimming.

• Water Parks: We’ve been to almost every water park in the Algarve! Slide & Splash in Lagoa is our favorite, with rides that suit all ages. Aquashow Park in Quarteira and Aqualand in Alcantarilha are also fantastic for a day of family fun.

• Boat Trips: Boat tours are a great way to see the coastline, and we’ve done a few that explore the Benagil Caves and offer dolphin spotting. The kids always love being out on the water, and the caves are a must-see.
  • Tour guides are plentiful, and most are going to do a great job.  Check out some here:
    • Benagil Caves and Dolphins Watching with Biologist ($45-55 USD pp)
    • Benagil Sea Caves Speedboat Adventure Tour ($23-45 USD pp)
    • Boat Cruise to Algar de Benagil from Lagos ($39-45 USD pp)
    • Boat Cruise to Ponta da Piedade ($22-25 USD pp)

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• Sea Caves.  Benegil is the most famous sea cave in Portugal, but there are hundreds of little sea caves to explore.  A kayak tour is a fabulous way to explore with kids.  We just did this last summer and loved it.  The little ones that weren’t paddling got a little bored, but our guide kept it fun by pulling some crabs off the cliffs to show us and racing the kayaks.
  • Note: The winter waves usually make this difficult in the winter.  Summer months are better to attempt this unless you get lucky and come at a time with calm waves.

• Nature Trails: If you’re up for some light hiking, coastal trails like the one at Ponta da Piedade in Lagos are stunning and not too strenuous. We’ve also explored Ria Formosa Natural Park, which has beautiful views and easy walks.
  • One of the most popular (and maybe most gorgeous) is Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.  You can see many highlights, such as Benegil Cave, Praia da Marinha, and more.

• Mini Golf and Go-Karting: The Family Golf Park in Vilamoura and Karting Algarve in Almancil are both favorites of ours, especially for the older kids who love a bit of friendly competition.

• Horseriding.  Who doesn’t love a stroll around with a beautiful animal?

• Golf and Golf Lessons.  While we are not golfers, the Algarve is famous for golfing.  Take the kids for a lesson or enjoy a round of gold together.

• Surf Lessons.  We’ve done surf lessons around the world, including Bali, Hawaii and Costa Rica.  This can be so fun with kids, who are naturally good at surfing.  Most lessons can be ages 6+.

Fun Places To Eat With Kids in the Algarve

Let’s be real: traveling with kids means snacks are never optional, and meal times can make or break the day. Fortunately, the Algarve is packed with family-friendly restaurants that not only welcome little ones with open arms but often go the extra mile with play areas, kids’ menus, and plenty of space to run around. Here are some top picks to make dining out with kids in the Algarve easy and enjoyable!

1. Parrilla Natural (Almancil): A Uruguayan steakhouse. They have a children’s menu and outdoor play area, making it ideal for families. ​

2. Tony’s Pizza (Quinta do Lago): Offers fantastic pizza with a children’s menu, perfect after a day at the beach. 

3. Casa Do Lago (Quinta do Lago): A lakeside restaurant with a relaxed vibe and proximity to a watersports academy, where you can find activities like kayaking and pedalos for kids. 

4. BJs Oceanside (Vale Do Lobo): A quirky restaurant with regular live music, an extensive menu, and even a dress-up box for kids.

5. Dano’s (Quinta do Lago): A sports bar with its own tennis courts, a viewing area to watch popular sporting events on tv, and providing kids’ menus and activity sheets.

6. Kaya’s Restaurant (near AquaShow Waterpark): Offers a kids’ menu and half-portions of the adult menu, along with games to keep children occupied.

7. Fabio’s Roadstop American Café (Almancil): This place brings the American diner vibe straight to the Algarve with juicy burgers, thick milkshakes, and friendly service that kids (and parents) love. 

Tips for Families Visiting the Algarve

• Tours: Be sure to compare the prices of tours, especially when it comes to the price for the kids.  While adult prices tend to be about the same across various tours, childrens prices can vary.

• Sun Safety: The Algarve is sunny almost year-round, so we’re diligent about sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. Many beaches have shaded areas or umbrellas for rent, which is a lifesaver with little ones.

• Eating Out with Kids: Portuguese food is very kid-friendly, and even picky eaters can usually find something they like. My kids love grilled fish, chicken, and, of course, Portuguese pastries. Look out for “menu do dia” options—many restaurants offer set meals that are affordable and filling.  See my post here about food in Portugal.

• Learning Basic Portuguese: While English is widely spoken, especially in the touristy areas, learning a few Portuguese phrases has made it easier for us to connect with locals.  The top few:
  • Bom dia: morning until noon
  • Boa tarde: noon until 9 pm
  • Boa noite: 9 pm and later
  • Obrigada: Thank you
  • Por favor: Please

• Best Times to Visit: Shoulder seasons are best for prices and crowds, but we often visit in July- September and make do with the crowds.  The weather is amazing.  We also love Labor Day Weekend in September.

Best Places To Stay as a Family in the Algarve

Finding the right place to stay can make all the difference on a family trip—and thankfully, the Algarve is full of fantastic options that combine comfort, convenience, and fun for all ages. Whether you’re looking for beachfront access, spacious suites, kid-friendly pools, or a quieter countryside retreat, there’s something here for every kind of traveling crew.

Lagos
This historic town is a favorite for families, thanks to its beautiful beaches and charming old town. Two top family-friendly stays here include:

• Cascade Wellness and Lifestyle Resort: A spacious resort with multiple pools, a kids’ club, and a focus on wellness that adults will love.
  
• Vila Galé Lagos: Just steps from the beach, this modern hotel offers activities for kids and easy access to town for dining and sightseeing.
  

Albufeira
As one of the most central hubs in the Algarve, Albufeira is a great base for exploring the region. Plus, it’s packed with resorts that cater to families:

• Pine Cliffs Resort: A luxury option with stunning cliffs, beach access, a golf course, and an amazing kids’ club.
  
• Salgados Palm Village Apartments and Suites: Ideal for larger families, with all-inclusive dining, multiple pools, and organized entertainment for kids.
  

My Pick: If you’re looking for a solid mid-budget option, we personally enjoyed Alfagar Village. It’s beachfront, offers several pools (some heated), and has great family facilities—perfect for a relaxed beach holiday with little ones.

Portimão
For families wanting to stay near one of the Algarve’s most famous beaches (Praia da Rocha), consider:

• Jupiter Algarve Hotel: Steps from the beach with family-sized rooms and a pool area that’s perfect for kids.
  
• Tivoli Marina Portimão: Located along the marina, this resort combines relaxation with proximity to shops, restaurants, and the beach.
  

Tavira
Looking for something a bit more laid-back and traditional? Tavira offers a quieter, more authentic Algarve experience:

1. Quinta do Caracol: A charming guesthouse with a garden, pool, and cozy apartments ideal for families.
   
2. Tavira House: A small, family-friendly boutique hotel with easy access to Tavira’s historic sites and a peaceful vibe.

7-Day Family Itinerary for the Algarve

Additional Reading

Your Travel Guide For Your Visit To Berlengas Islands, Portugal

23 Hidden Gems Of Portugal For Families + Bonus Spots

Eating Your Way Through Portugal – Traditional Food You Can’t Miss!