This fishing village on the other side of the estuary from Portimao has two areas of interest, the pretty square with a range of cafes (Photo 72.6k) and the fish quay which is about half a mile away. This fishing area is found by following the stream down towards the estuary and is well worth a visit as it appears real rather than tarted up for the tourist. At the far end of the fisherman's paved area, a fort and the long Portimao boom can be seen when looking down the estuary towards the sea.

A drive south, initially following signs for the church, will lead you to roads that will take you down towards the boom and some of the beaches sheltered by it. There is, of course, a lighthouse here. The headland is covered with foot tracks and provides some good interesting walks leading to the smaller secluded sandy beaches. This area is also popular with the boat tours from up and down the coast as when the sea is rough they can't offload their customers into the coves near Carvoeiro and then use these sheltered bays inside the Portimao boom instead.

See also the adjacent areas of Carvoeiro and Portimao.

Accommodation (A-Z)  

• Few Entries - can you help?
   
• Casa Sol - Private villa for rent
   
• Clube Rio Apartments - 2000
  (September) "Superb accommodation with marvelous views across the River Arade, out to sea and to the new marina at Praia da Rocha. Ever-changing scene with large ships, small fishing boats and posh yachts passing by, but very private and secluded apartments and pool/Jacuzzi area.  Our most relaxing Algarve holiday to date". 

Eateries (A-Z)

• Escondidinho- 1997
  "On Praia Grande Beach just below the Praia Grande restaurant. It has a more adventurous menu".
   
• El Paradis - 2003
  (May 03) "It specialises in barbeque. Fresh fish were brought to our table for us to choose from, priced by the kilo, and the whole squid and kebabs of pork and sausages were divine. We were entertained by the lizards that live behind the decorations who pop out to devour the mosquitoes and the children were occupied by a playground where they made several friends".
    
  (1997) "To find it follow the road out to the lighthouse (farol) then go a few hundred yards past the turn-off to the camping site. This place specialises in barbecued food - Kebabs, fish and squid are some of the attractions".
   
• A Lanterna - 1996
  "From the outside this restaurant is not very impressive. This is due to the fact that it is on a busy road but inside the decor, table presentation, service and most of all the food is EXCELLENT".

  "A great selection of fish, speciality seems to be smoked fish starters. Dishes such as pork aletejana (red pepper sauce), roast lamb and in particular the crispy duck is highly recommended. A nice selection of fresh vegetables accompany these dishes and a nice change to the norm is the creamed potato. Decent selection of wines and home made deserts. A little more expensive than usual but well worth the money. Go early or book if you want a later meal. Dress is informal but smart".
  Note:- to find it take the road just before the old bridge into Portimao, just by the turn-off into Ferragudo.
   

• Praia Grande - 1997
  Situated on the main beach just outside Ferragudo. This has a spectacular location halfway down the steps leading down to the beach. With views over the whole majestic beach (at sunset the cliffs are bathed in pink light) it is well worth visiting. Food is standard Portuguese with many locals going there.