The best things to do in
Portimao

Some of the best things to do in Portimão

Beaches

Portimao’s location offers travelers six great beaches. Praia da Rocha is the most popular and largest beach. It is the summer destination for locals and tourists looking for warm ocean waters. Portimao’s other beaches include Praia dos Três Castelos, Praia do Amado, Praia dos Careanos, Praia do Vau, and Praia do Barranco das Canas.

Although there are six great beaches, many people go to Praia da Rocha due to the location. It is near Portimao Marina, and its size is enough to accommodate large groups during the hottest summer days. There are restaurants, cafes, and bars nearby to escape from the sun. Visitors can even tour the 17th century-built Fortaleza da Santa Catarina at the beach’s eastern end.

Museu de Portimão

Museu de Portimão offers visitors a fascinating journey through the area’s rich cultural and industrial heritage. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century sardine canning factory, the museum vividly brings to life the history of Portimão and its close relationship with the sea.

The main exhibition, “Portimão – Territory and Identity,” delves into the town’s transformation from a small fishing village to a bustling port city. Visitors can explore interactive displays and multimedia exhibits that showcase traditional fishing techniques, the sardine canning process, and the everyday lives of the factory workers.

In addition to its permanent exhibitions, the Museu de Portimão hosts temporary exhibits and cultural events highlighting various aspects of regional history and contemporary art. The museum’s location along the banks of the Arade River adds to its charm, offering picturesque views and easy access to the town’s other attractions.

The museum has won several awards for its innovative approach to preserving and presenting cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of the Algarve.

H2O Racing/Powerboats

Portimão is a premier destination for H2O racing and powerboat events, attracting adrenaline junkies and sports enthusiasts from around the globe. The city’s ideal location along the Arade River and the open Atlantic Ocean provides a perfect setting for high-speed water sports.

H2O Racing, known for its exciting powerboat races, has made Portimão a regular stop on its international circuit. The annual F1H2O World Championship Grand Prix is one of the highlights, transforming the waters of Portimão into a high-octane arena where sleek, powerful boats race at breathtaking speeds.

These events draw large crowds, creating a vibrant and electrifying atmosphere along the waterfront as spectators watch skilled pilots navigate challenging courses with precision and speed.

The city also hosts a variety of powerboat competitions, from amateur races to international championships, showcasing a wide range of watercraft, from high-speed racing boats to endurance vessels.

Windsurfing

Portimão is a renowned destination for windsurfing enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of favorable wind conditions and stunning coastal scenery. The area’s prime location along the Atlantic Ocean ensures consistent and reliable winds, making it an ideal spot for novice and experienced windsurfers. The most popular windsurfing locations in Portimão include Praia da Rocha and the Alvor Lagoon.

Praia da Rocha, with its wide sandy beach and consistent swell, provides excellent conditions for high-speed runs and impressive jumps. In contrast, the Alvor Lagoon, with its shallow and flat waters, is perfect for beginners and those looking to practice their maneuvers in a more controlled environment.

The windsurfing community in Portimão is vibrant and welcoming, with several schools and rental shops available to cater to all skill levels. Experienced instructors offer lessons covering everything from basic techniques to advanced tricks, ensuring everyone can enjoy the thrill of windsurfing.

Portimão also hosts various windsurfing events and competitions throughout the year, attracting professionals from around the globe and adding to the area’s dynamic sporting atmosphere.

Benagil Cave

The Benagil Cave, located on the southern coast of Portugal in the Algarve region, is one of Europe's most stunning natural wonders. This breathtaking sea cave, also known as "Algar de Benagil", is renowned for its distinctive dome-like ceiling with a large natural skylight that allows sunlight to stream in, illuminating the cave's golden sands and turquoise waters.

Accessible primarily by boat or kayak, the cave's interior is a hidden beach surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, creating a surreal and serene environment. The dramatic interplay of light and shadow within the cave and the sound of waves gently lapping the shore make it a magical experience for visitors.

The popularity of Benagil Cave has grown exponentially in recent years, drawing tourists from all over the world eager to witness its unique beauty. Various guided tours and boat trips are available from Portimão, allowing visitors to explore the cave and the surrounding coastline. For the more adventurous, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding provide an intimate and active way to get to the cave.

Algarve International Circuit

The Algarve International Circuit is 2.89 miles long with 15 exhilarating corners. Here, car enthusiasts get the chance to get off the beach and behind the wheel of a high-powered sports car. Drivers can choose to test their skills around the race track, go-kart track, or the off-road park.

Visitors who opt for the sports cars will have an experienced professional by their side giving them tips as they make every turn. The circuit offers a variety of driving experiences including individual experiences, hot laps, or a driving course taught by AIA Racing School Instructors.

Along with automobile track days, the circuit offers bike track days for those who want to try their hands at riding a motorbike on a high profile track.

Castelo de São João do Arade

Perched on a rocky promontory between Ferragudo and Portimão, the Castelo de São João do Arade is a striking medieval castle that offers a glimpse into Portugal's rich history. Originally built as a defensive fortress to protect against pirate attacks and military invasions, the castle dates back to the 15th century.

Its strategic location provided a vantage point to oversee the Arade River and the Atlantic Ocean, making it a crucial part of the region's coastal defense system. Over the centuries, the castle underwent various modifications, including significant enhancements during the reign of King John II. Today, its impressive towers and thick stone walls testify to its historical significance and architectural resilience.

In the early 20th century, the renowned Portuguese poet Coelho Carvalho purchased the castle and transformed it into a private residence, blending historical elements with more contemporary comforts. Although it remains privately owned and is not open to the public, the Castelo de São João do Arade continues to capture the imagination of visitors.

The castle's exterior, with its stunning views of the surrounding beaches and waters, is a popular spot for photographs and sightseeing.

Ocean Revival

The Ocean Revival is a unique tourist attraction on the coast of Portimao. The attraction was created when four decommissioned warships were deliberately sunk off the Portugal coast. Over time, they created an artificial reef. The Ocean Revival is about 100 feet below the Atlantic Ocean surface and is home to thousands of fish and underwater plant life.

The tourist attraction organizers allow trained scuba divers and tour operators to plunge into the ocean waters to view the Ocean Revival. Tourists who are not certified can contact local diving schools and centers to gain information about training. Thanks to the region’s beautiful, clear waters and warm weather, diving is possible year-round.

Golfing in the Algarve

The Algarve region of Portugal, particularly the area around Portimão, is renowned as one of Europe's premier golfing destinations. The region is a golfer's dream, boasting over 40 golf courses, many of which are designed by renowned architects and set in breathtaking locations.

With the region's stunning coastline and mild climate, the courses offer an exhilarating experience for golf enthusiasts. Portimão is home to several top-rated golf courses that attract players from around the globe. One of the most notable is the Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course at the Penina Hotel & Golf Resort.

This 18-hole course, designed by Henry Cotton, is known for its challenging layout and beautiful scenery. It offers a true test of skill for golfers of all levels. Additionally, the nearby Morgado and the Alamos golf courses provide diverse golfing experiences against the backdrop of rolling hills and lush landscapes.

Day trip to Vilamoura

The resort town of Vilamoura, is less than an hour away from Portimao. It is one of Europe's most prestigious resorts, offering a blend of upscale amenities, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant social scene. At the heart of Vilamoura is its world-renowned marina (the largest in Portugal), which can accommodate over 1,000 vessels and is surrounded by chic cafes, gourmet restaurants, and high-end boutiques.

The resort's pristine beaches, such as Praia da Falésia and Praia de Vilamoura, provide the perfect backdrop for sunbathing, water sports, and relaxation.

In addition to its beautiful marina and beaches, Vilamoura offers many recreational activities and attractions. For those interested in history and culture, the Cerro da Vila archaeological site offers a fascinating glimpse into the Roman and Moorish past of the region.

The resort also boasts luxurious spas, tennis clubs, and equestrian centers, ensuring that there is something for everyone. With its natural beauty, luxury amenities, and diverse activities, Vilamoura stands out as a top destination for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure in the Algarve.

Monchique Thermal Springs

While the Algarve is known for its golf and stunning beaches, the lesser-known natural springs peppering the rural countryside of Portugal are the ideal spots for those that like to wander off the beaten path. Much of the water funnels into artificial bathing pools with BBQs and picnic benches that let you create a day of it. These are free-to-use attractions, so pack a towel and head to the springs!