Things to do in Vale de Santa Maria

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Vale de Santa Maria must see attractions

1. Albufeira Old Town Square

Albufeira Old Town Square (Jardim Público de Albufeira) is the beating heart of the atmospheric Albufeira Old Town. This tree-shaded public space offers superb dining, entertainment, people-watching and shopping experiences. Visit Albufeira Old Town Square at any time of the day to witness a true essence of this ancient fishing village.
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Albufeira Old Town Square showing a sunset and a city

2. Falesia Beach

Falésia Beach comprises a long stretch of golden sand at the foot of tall, colorful cliffs. It is part of a scenic strand running for about 4 miles (6 kilometers), between Vilamoura and Albufeira. Marvel at the dramatic hues of red and orange that stain the white cliff face bordering the beach.
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Falesia Beach showing rocky coastline, a beach and a sunset

3. Vilamoura Marina

With about hundreds of spaces for boats, Vilamoura Marina is a large and busy harbor in the center of the town. All types of yachts and cruisers adorn the picturesque marina, which is bordered by restaurants, bars and clubs. Watch people go by and soak up the lively atmosphere amid the town’s charming waterways.
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Vilamoura Marina which includes a bay or harbor

4. Alvor Beach

Spacious, sandy Alvor Beach is a good choice for those seeking a quieter alternative to nearby Praia da Rocha. Find a peaceful spot somewhere along the lengthy stretch of golden sand and take advantage of the beach’s many facilities.
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Alvor Beach showing a sandy beach, swimming and general coastal views

5. Sao Rafael Beach

São Rafael Beach (Praia de São Rafael) is close enough to Albufeira for a daytrip yet far enough away that it escapes the bustle of the city. São Rafael Beach is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, some of which have been eroded over centuries into curious shapes. The beach sits in a sheltered bay and boasts safe, crystal-clear water and powdery sand that runs gently between your toes.
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Sao Rafael Beach featuring general coastal views, rocky coastline and a beach

6. Rocha Beach

The beautiful Rocha Beach, known as Praia da Rocha in Portuguese, is one of the most well-known on the Algarve. Luckily, thanks to its vast size and length, it has ample room to accommodate sunbathers. Follow the wooden walkway that hugs the length of the beach to find the perfect spot.
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Rocha Beach which includes a beach and general coastal views

What to do in Vale de Santa Maria

Discover the most popular places to visit in Vale de Santa Maria

Albufeira Old Town Square showing a sunset and a city

Albufeira Old Town Square

4.5/5(110 reviews)

Framed by bars, galleries and shops, this leafy plaza is a great starting point for exploring the treasures of Albufeira’s historic center.

Albufeira Old Town Square
Falesia Beach featuring rugged coastline, general coastal views and a sunset

Falesia Beach

4.5/5(77 reviews)

Pine groves crown the scorched red-orange cliffs edging this long and wide beach, complete with comfortable amenities, watersports options and lifeguard patrols.

Falesia Beach
Beach strip in the famous resort area of Portugal - Albufeira

The Strip

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at The Strip during your stay in Albufeira e Olhos de Água. Stroll along the area's beaches or simply enjoy its bars.

The Strip
The new Albufeira Marina in Algarve in Portugal

Albufeira Marina

4/5(33 reviews)

Explore the waterfront of Albufeira Marina and enjoy other activities such as golfing in Albufeira e Olhos de Água. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area, or check out its lively bars.

Albufeira Marina
Commercial center logistics and sales in Portugal Algarve Loule area. Mar Shopping.

Algarve Shopping Mall

5/5(2 reviews)

You can search for that perfect souvenir at Algarve Shopping Mall during your stay in Guia. Make time for the spas and golf courses in this relaxing area.

Algarve Shopping Mall
A summer day in April #bestbeachesintheworld #Portugal

Santa Eulalia Beach

4.5/5(3 reviews)

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Santa Eulalia Beach during your travels in Santa Eulália?

Santa Eulalia Beach
Torrey Pines Cliffs 22ae

Pine Cliffs Golf Course

Enjoy a round of golf in Albufeira e Olhos de Água at Pine Cliffs Golf Course. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

Pine Cliffs Golf Course
Fisherman\'s Beach featuring a sunset, a coastal town and a sandy beach

Peneco Beach

4.5/5(12 reviews)

The eastern side of Albufeira’s main city beach is famous for its fishing boats, seafood restaurants and live entertainment shows.

Peneco Beach
"The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul." Robert Wyland

Arrifes Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Arrifes Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Albufeira e Olhos de Água.

Arrifes Beach

Popular day trips from Vale de Santa Maria

Albufeira which includes a sandy beach and landscape views as well as an individual male

Albufeira

Frequently asked questions

Is Vale de Santa Maria worth visiting?
Whether you want to experience the local charm and cultural attractions or try regional foods and explore in nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Vale de Santa Maria.
How do I spend a day in Vale de Santa Maria?
Start your adventures with a visit to the must-see sights in the area. Then, explore other parts of Vale de Santa Maria for a bite to eat and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Vale de Santa Maria?
From cheap activities for all kinds of travelers to popular attractions and tours, scroll up for a range of unmissable things to do in Vale de Santa Maria.
Is three days enough to stay in Vale de Santa Maria?
Three days is enough for a quick getaway to Vale de Santa Maria — you'll tick off the main attractions and get a good idea of the local vibe. But if you want to really experience it all, stick around for at least seven to ten days to discover some hidden gems too.
What are some activities to do in Vale de Santa Maria with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or playful teenagers, a schedule filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Vale de Santa Maria with kids.

What to do in Vale de Santa Maria for adults?
From fantastic food and cultural highlights to thrilling adventures and one-of-a-kind experiences, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Vale de Santa Maria for adults.
Are there free things to do in Vale de Santa Maria?
There are lots of free things to do in Vale de Santa Maria. Explore the parks or join in on free events and festivals. Vale de Santa Maria offers plenty of budget-friendly experiences that let you experience this area without breaking the bank.