Living in Portugal with five kids has given me a deep appreciation for family-friendly destinations, and Portimão is one of those places to which we keep returning. The Algarve draws us back each year and is one of our favorite places in Portugal. Since moving to Lisbon nearly four years ago, we’ve tried to explore a little bit of the Algarve each year.
Portimão draws thousands of visitors, Portuguese and foreigners alike, due to its perfect mix of golden beaches, rich history, adventure, and good food, making travel with kids exciting and manageable. While places like Lagos and Faro get more attention, Portimão is a fantastic spot that deserves to be on every traveling family’s radar. Frankly, it’s my favorite location in that area. If you’re looking for a kid-friendly Algarve experience, Portimão checks all the boxes.
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Why You Should Visit Portimão With Kids
One of the best things about Portimão is its beaches. Praia da Rocha is easily one of the Algarve’s most iconic beaches—and a top pick for families looking for sun, space, and seaside fun. The sand is soft and golden, the waves are usually gentle enough for little ones to splash in, and there are plenty of amenities right on the boardwalk.
All these amenities mean it is SUPER crowded in the summer, but that doesn’t bother me. I’m good to camp out with everyone else and bake in the sun. If that’s not your thing, Portimão offers many other smaller beaches. Praia do Vau is a short distance away and has a more relaxed atmosphere.
The Algarve has lots of amazing sea caves, crystal clear waters, and rock formations to explore, making it feel like a treasure hunt each day. Caution your kids to stay away from climbing the rocks (mine have already done this, to my horror), as these rock cliffs are very slowly breaking down. You’ll find that some beaches don’t want you to lie right underneath them for this reason.
For a more adventurous beach day, you can explore the stunning rock formations at Tres Irmãos Beach, where the kids love scrambling over rocks and discovering hidden coves.
Portimão isn’t just about beaches. There’s a lot of history and culture to uncover, and my kids always love a good hands-on learning experience. Beyond the Algarve’s incredible beaches, I’ve rounded up some of the best kid-friendly activities to keep the whole family entertained.
More Things I Love About Portimão With Kids
One of the things my family loves most about Portimão is how effortlessly you can get out on the water—whether it’s by boat tour, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. With plenty of accommodations just a short walk from the shore, it’s easy to spend your days by the sea. And with so many picture-perfect beaches, you’ll find yourself reaching for your phone to snap photos at every turn.
Getting a family to the beach is not an easy task, but it’s a lot easier when you only have to walk 10-15 minutes and not deal with any parking issues. Sure, we each have to take a bag and some boogie boards, but then we have hours and hours of entertainment.
Guided tours also take you to the famous Benagil Cave, one of the Algarve’s most famous natural wonders. We all did a kayak tour of the sea caves, and it’s just unreal in its beauty.
The locals are friendly, and things like shopping and making dinner are easy-peasy. For me, the perfect vacation day is one where we spend hours at the beach, then come home to relax with a dip in the pool, cook up some dinner, and watch a family movie. And when we’re in the mood for something different, there are waterparks and zoos just a short drive away—making it easy to mix things up
15 Best Things To Do in Portimão With Kids
1. Praia da Rocha. Of course, beach-going is what the Algarve is all about! Thousands flock to the beaches each summer and soak up the Portuguese sun. This beach tops most lists due to its size and amenities, but note that it can be slightly difficult to access and very crowded in the summer.
Parking in Portimão can be a bit of a challenge, so I highly recommend booking accommodations that include a dedicated spot. We travel with our electric van, so finding a place with a nearby charging station is always at the top of our checklist.
Reaching the beach involves a bit of a descent—and heading back up can be a workout, especially when you’re loaded down with everything you need for a full day by the sea (which, trust me, you’ll want to do!). This kind of access is typical for many Algarve beaches, but the stunning views and serene setting make it more than worth the effort.
Enjoy the lively boardwalk, where you’ll find plenty of spots to grab a bite and convenient access to bathrooms.
Other beaches to consider: Praia do Vau (with safe shores and absolutely no pollution), Praia do Carvoeiro (walking distance from the town of Carvoeiro), and Praia dos Caneiros (with small waves so children can safely swim in the sea). We loved having lunch at Praia do Carvoeiro after a beautiful swimming day, but my youngest couldn’t stay awake after so many solid hours of fun in the sun.
2. Portimão Museum. Portugal has a long history dating to well before the Romans. Fishing has always been a way of life, as well as salt harvesting in the Algarve. This little museum is a great way to learn about the town’s fishing heritage and has kid-friendly exhibits.
3. Santa Catarina Fortress. Enjoy a historical landmark offering panoramic views of the coastline. While it’s a small fort, it offers fantastic views of the coastline and is a fun spot to explore.
4. Portimão Educational Farm. If your kids love animals, take a visit on a weekday to this educational farm. You can even join a hands-on workshop where little ones might help collect eggs, bake bread, or learn about farm life up close.
Open Monday through Friday, 10 am – 4 pm
Cost: Entry costs €10 per child
5. Santa Bernarda Pirate Ship. What little boy (or girl) doesn’t love to pretend to be a pirate?! Even I love it as a mom. Take a sail on this ship during your Algarve vacation. We did a similar one in Madeira, and I’d happily do it again!
Days and Hours of Operation: 840 am – 530 pm
Cost: Adults >18 €35pp , Teenagers 11-17 €25 , Child 3-10 €15
6. Alvor Boardwalk. Stroll this beautiful wooden pathway on the Alvor Nature Reserve through wetlands, perfect for a scenic family walk. Try to go early to beat the heat and have a better chance at seeing some wildlife.
Open: 24 hours
7. Benagil Cave. While this is incredibly touristy, it really is a must see. Hundreds of thousands come to see it each year. This sea cave has been shaped over millennia and will eventually collapse. To minimize the time people spend inside—and reduce the risk of harm—the Portuguese government prohibits stepping onto the sand within the cave.
We took a kayak tour and loved it! We were able to explore several sea caves, and our guide showed us some crabs up close.
8. Dolphin Watching Tours. If I ever have to be an animal, I want to be a dolphin. Seriously, they are cool. The thrill of seeing them up close is tough to beat.
Note: You can take a tour with a biologist guide.
9. Go-Karts. The Algarve International Go-kart Track opened in 2010 and is one of the biggest in Europe. There is a kid track for 6 years and up.
Open: Every day, 9 am – 7 pm with a break for lunch
Cost: 29 – 99 €
10. Visit a Local Market. Portimão has various markets ranging from weekly to monthly.
- Portimão Monthly Market: 1st Monday of each month, 8 am to 3 pm
- Portimão Municipal Market. Monday through Saturday, hours vary. This is a market mostly for food (fresh fruits, meats, fish, etc), but includes a florist and cobbler as well.
- Portimão Flea Market. Those into upcycling can visit this flea market on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month from 8:30am to 12:30pm.
11. Hire a Private Boat. For my husband’s birthday a couple of years ago, we hired a private sailboat for the day with a captain and lunch. We loved scouting out the private beaches and then enjoying lunch on the ship, playing in the water, and relaxing. I even swam to the beach with my boys (which was not an easy task), a memory we will always treasure!
Some options are:
- Catamaran Cruise to Benagil Caves with BBQ $83€ pp
- From Lisbon: Private Day Trip to Algarve with Hotel Pick Up $352€
- Private Tour to Lagos, Ponta da Piedade and Sagres $87€ pp
12. Go to a Waterpark. We love the waterparks of the Algarve, and most are easily accessible from Portimão. Slide and Splash is the closest, but our favorite is Zoomarine. Some offer animal experiences, and all offer fun on slides.
Open: Normally, the waterparks open from 10 am – 5 pm
Cost: prices are around 31-40 €, and for the high season, June-August, they can go up to €50
13. Floating Inflatable Waterpark. Jump around in the ocean on inflatables anchored a ways off the shore. Obviously, kids need to be able to swim to this attraction, but what a fun way to burn some energy!
Open: From June to September, every day 10 am – 7 pm
Cost: 30 minutes, 7€. 60 minutes €10
14. Family Fishing. Take the kids to go sea fishing for a couple of hours off the coast of Alvor, a quaint fishing village. You might catch Sea Bass, Stone Bass, squid, or cuttlefish and can take them home to cook for dinner!
Options: You can check Alvor Fishing for different types of tours starting from 2 – 6 hours and prices starting from 240€ per family.
15. 3-D Fun Art Museum Portimão. When you’re ready for a break from the sun and surf, head indoors for some laughs at this playful, interactive museum. Snap mind-bending photos, explore optical illusions, and enjoy a dose of indoor fun!
Open: Monday through Saturday, 10 am to 7 pm
Cost: 9-13€ with family pricing
How To Get to Portimão
Getting to Portimão is straightforward, whether you’re arriving by plane, train, or car. The nearest airport is Faro International Airport, about a 45-minute drive away.
Driving from Lisbon is only 3.5 hours and easy driving. The tolls can add up (about 25€ each way), but otherwise, it’s a lovely drive.
Renting a car is the easiest way to get to Portimão and explore the surrounding Algarve region. I recommend renting a car with Europcar, but be sure to bring your International Driver’s Licence.
If you prefer public transportation, trains and buses run regularly from Faro and Lisbon. The train ride from Lisbon takes about three hours, and the bus ride is roughly the same.
Best Places To Stay in Portimão With Kids
For families, Portimão offers a wide range of accommodations, from beachfront resorts to spacious apartments.
Plaza Real by Atlantichotels *Budget-Friendly
Starting price: ~€60/night (2-bedroom apartment)
This affordable aparthotel is perfect for families who want space and flexibility without breaking the bank. The 2-bedroom units come with a kitchenette (perfect for preparing snacks or quick meals), a pool, and it’s just a 15-minute walk to Praia da Rocha. Great for families who want comfort and convenience at a reasonable price.
Hotel da Rocha *Mid-Range
Starting price: ~€120/night (suite with kitchenette)
Located right on Praia da Rocha beach, this stylish, family-friendly hotel offers spacious suites with kitchenettes and sofa beds. Kids will love the beach right across the street, while parents can appreciate the modern amenities, buffet breakfast, and family-friendly vibe. A fantastic blend of value and location.
Algarve Casino Hotel *Luxury
Starting price: ~€200/night (family room)
If you’re looking for a more upscale stay, the Algarve Casino Hotel offers stunning ocean views, direct beach access, and spacious family rooms. There’s a large outdoor pool, beautiful gardens, and even babysitting services available. Parents can enjoy a bit of relaxation while the kids play — win-win!
What To Eat in Portimão
Portuguese cuisine is full of fresh and delicious flavors that kids can enjoy. Some must-try dishes include grilled sardines, which Portimão is famous for, and cataplana, a seafood stew packed with flavor.
If your kids aren’t big on seafood, there’s always piri-piri chicken, which is mild but tasty. Of course, dessert is a highlight—no visit to Portimão is complete without trying pastel de nata, Portugal’s famous custard tart.
Some popular restaurants for families with kids include:
1. Restaurante À Ravessa . A cozy, casual spot near the marina with a kids’ menu and friendly staff. Parents love the grilled sardines and seafood rice, while kids can enjoy grilled meats, pasta, or fries.
2. Tapa Latina. This colorful, eclectic restaurant offers a mix of Portuguese and Mediterranean flavors in small plates, perfect for picky eaters who like to try a little of everything. The terrace seating is great for families.
3. Hamburgeria da Praia. When your crew needs a break from seafood, this burger joint right by Praia da Rocha hits the spot. With hearty burgers, fries, and milkshakes, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Bonus: the casual vibe and beachside location make it a fun, easy stop after a day in the sun.
4. A Marisqueira – Restaurante O Zizá. A local favorite for fresh seafood with a relaxed atmosphere. While the menu leans heavily into fish and shellfish, they also offer grilled meats and simple sides for less adventurous little eaters.
5. Casa da Tocha. A charming, rustic eatery in the heart of Portimão offering traditional Portuguese dishes with a home-cooked feel. They even have board games on hand to keep the little ones entertained while waiting!
Other Ideas for Portimão With Kids
Beyond the beaches and pool time, Portimão offers plenty of fun activities for families that are easy to book and totally kid-approved. Here are a few other ideas to keep your crew smiling:
1. Algarve Jeep Safari Adventure. Go off the beaten path with a family-friendly jeep safari through the Algarve countryside. These tours explore traditional villages, orange groves, and secret lookout points. Kids will love the bumpy rides and spotting animals along the way, and there are often stops to taste local honey and jams. ~€67 pp
2. Portimão River Cruise on the Arade. A gentle boat cruise along the Arade River is perfect for young kids who might not be ready for the open sea. Cruise past castles, old fishing villages, and lush green scenery while enjoying the calm waters. Some tours include snacks or drinks and even commentary about the region’s history. ~€58 pp
3. Sand Sculpture Park – FIESA (Day Trip to Lagoa). Just a 20-minute drive away, FIESA Sand City is a magical experience for kids and adults alike. Giant, intricate sand sculptures featuring everything from animals to Disney characters are sure to impress. It’s stroller-friendly and ideal for a slower-paced day out.
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Whether you’re planning a quick beach escape or a full Algarve adventure, Portimão has something for every member of the family—from splashing in the waves to exploring museums and savoring fresh seafood by the harbor. We hope this guide helps you fall in love with Portimão just like we did. Happy travels, and don’t forget to share your favorite family moments with us when you visit!
Additional Reading
Ultimate Algarve Guide With Kids: A Family Guide From an Expat Mom of Five
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